Measure for Measure -Cave Vs. IF-

{(if: $introVisited != "Yes")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div> (set: $iffyComplete to "No")(set: $caveComplete to "No")(set: $iffyScenarioCheckpoint to false)(set: $caveScenarioCheckpoint to false)(set: $introVisited to "Yes")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to false)](else:)[] }(if: $ffLinkClicked is true)["Thank you for your support!" ]Gamindustri is at war! Through a massive chain of convoluted events and strained/torn relationships, the nation of Leanbox has declared war against the other three nations of Planeptune, Lastation, and Lowee. Leanbox has the army and the means to conquer all their foes... and they've begun to do just that, thanks in large part to the sudden drastic shift in Lady Green Heart's (the (link: "CPU")[(set: $termDefinition to "CPU")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] of Leanbox) entire demeanor. After the fall of (link: "Avenir")[(set: $termDefinition to "Avenir")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] by Vert's hands, Leanbox directed its attention to Planeptune and Lastation, which were major allies due to the (link: "impending marriage")[(set: $termDefinition to "Marriage")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] of Lady Purple Heart and Black Heart, and planned to invade. The two CPUs however fled to Lowee, and gained the backing of Lady White Heart. Together, the three other nations thwarted Leanbox's plans... for the moment. Vert refused to give up, and soon began preparing for another impending invasion... The Planeptune/Lastation Alliance has sent IF, a loyal Planeptune citizen, to subtly recover as many (link: "Shares")[(set: $termDefinition to "Shares")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] as possible to combat their enemies... which overtime, translates to them siphoning off strength from both Leanbox AND Lowee. Meanwhile, Lowee has gone strangely quiet, almost as if Blanc was no longer (link: "calling the shots...")[(set: $termDefinition to "Lowee Mystery")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] With both sides unsure of what was happening, Leanbox stages a joint attack on Planeptune and Lowee... The assault on Lowee goes almost-too smoothly, but the attack on Planeptune is quickly called off due to the death of Leanbox's (link: "Oracle")[(set: $termDefinition to "Oracle")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")], and Vert's right-hand woman, Chika. Vert, acting almost-unfazed, orders her star soldier, Cave, to rush back to Leanbox's central (link: "castle/Basilicom")[(set: $termDefinition to "Basilicom")(set:$previousPassage to "The Long Intro of Death")(goto:"Intro Glossary")] and wait for the entire army to return. Cave, disgruntled by her leader's actions thus far, begrugingly complies... ... Right as IF herself heads directly for the Basilicom, hoping to quickly put a stop to Leanbox's plans... and perhaps this entire war itself! (link:"Next")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(goto:"Choose Your Destiny!")]

(if: $iffyComplete is "No" AND $caveComplete is "No")[{(savegame:"A","Choose Your Destiny A")(set: $iffyHealth to 100) (set: $caveHealth to 100)(set: $caveKarma to 0)(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to 0)(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")(set: $livesCounter to 3)}IF: Loyal friend of Neptune, the CPU of Planeptune. She has decided to do whatever it takes to protect her loved ones. She harbors a deep respect for Lady Vert, and also is in a relationship with Leanbox pop idol, Lyrica (AKA, 5pb). However, disgusted by Vert's and Cave's actions, and also threatened with Lyrica's life on the line by the newly-deranged goddess, IF fled Leanbox without any time to explain her actions. Cave: Loyal soldier of Leanbox, determined to fight for her lord to the end. However, even her loyalty has begun to corrode after seeing what Vert has brought upon the land. Still, she has yet to move past her negative feelings towards IF not only abandoning Leanbox, but also Lyrica... so she sticks through the terrible orders. She secretly conceals feelings for Lyrica, and is now in Leanbox with her, determined to safeguard her life at all costs... These two souls are destined to finally reunite on the battlefield! Your actions will determine the outcome of their impending clash... if there even is one. How you respond to the upcoming situations may just keep someone alive... or snuff out hundreds in the blink of an eye. It's all up to you... ... And it all begins with a single choice. Choose whose scenario you wish to play through first!](else:)[{(savegame:"A","Choose Your Destiny B!") (set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(if: $saveHeaderCheck is true)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to false)] <audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}One path is finished... but the final destination has not yet been set. Complete their destiny! (if: $iffyComplete is "Yes")[Decide Cave's fate...](elseif: $caveComplete is "Yes")[Guide IF's hand...]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100 | Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100 (if: $iffyComplete is "No")[[[IF|IF Scenario Start!]] ](if: $caveComplete is "No")[[[Cave|Cave Scenario Start!]]]

{(if: $caveComplete is "Yes")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.pause();" /></div>](else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div>] <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistory.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistory.fade(.6,0);" /></div> }You are now IF, the brunette battle-hardened veteran of Planeptune! ... You claw your way out of the thick trees... and find yourself in the massive stretch of grassy hills that make up the Leanbox Basilicom's yard. It's far off... but you can just see the back of the Basilicom from here. Hard to believe that, barely two weeks ago, you were living in that castle... and now, here you are: finally returning home... to conquer it. You must succeed, not only for Neptune and Compa, not only for your loving girlfriend Lyrica... but for all of Gamindustri itself! You must be the hero that the land deserves AND needs! And perhaps... maybe you can save Lady Vert from what she's become... and what she's turning her army into... Two Weeks Ago... "Cave, IF! Your orders are to clear out those Killachines! Linda, Nepgeo, and Chika are scouting out for Avenir's central supply depot... so hold out until then! Markz will remain by my side, so do not worry about my safety... Just act! Destroy all who dare defy Leanbox!" "Yes, my Lady!" "... Understood, Vert." You and Cave share a nod of acknowledgement, and run towards the monstrous metallic creations. This has been a long night already... but hey, once that supply depot is dealt with and these Killachines stop spawning, this bloody battle will practically be over! Still... you can't help but feel uneasy over everything that's happened. Avenir did try to assassinate Vert AND Nep... but Vert was turning this into a massacre. Was violence the only way? The two of you approach one of the nearby Killachines from behind, and you watch Cave effortlessly leap onto the mech-suit and land a fire-laced kick right to the cockpit. She easily tears a hole through the metal, and reaches in to grab the pilot; the man wiggles madly, fearfully trying to break out of her grasp. His efforts do him no good, and your tough friend throws him to the ground, before backflipping off the unmanned machine and landing right above his head. You both stare down at the man, who can merely look up with large eyes, too horrified to move. Cave lifts her communicator. "Lady Vert: as you suspected, these machines are manned. What do we do with the pilots?" You manage to overhear Vert's voice coming through. "Is that a serious question? They're terrorists, Cave. Kill them." Your spine tenses up at hearing her forceful and bleak words. "But... my Lady, surely we can just imprison them?" "Cave... These traitors tried to kill not only me, but Purple Heart as well. We'd be doing the world a favor by eradicating them all... Imagine what they'd do if they ever got their hands on Lyrica... You wouldn't want that, would you Cave?" Cave pauses... before lowering her radio from her mouth and lacing it back in her belt. She reaches for her weapon... You shoot your friend a pleading look; she can't possibly do this! But Cave simply looks at you with her usual blank expression... before raising one half of her scissors-blade and blasting an energy bullet through the poor man's skull. "... We have our orders, IF. Come, there's a ton more where that came from." [[Next...|IF Intro Page 2]]

{(if: $iffyComplete is "Yes")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.pause();" /></div>](else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div>]<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div>}You are now Cave, the stoic-but-stylish SMD Warrior of Leanbox! ... "Chika's... She's..." "... We're pulling out, Cave. Go! Order your troops to retreat and head back to the castle... I'll regroup with you shortly, along with the rest of the army." You hurry through the pouring rain, your boots making an obnoxious squelching sound everytime you step in the mud. Leanbox's Basilicom isn't far now... "... But Vert... It's a little too late to simply give up!... One of us is dea-" "I've decided that this battle is not worth it yet, Cave. I've changed my mind: we don't need Planeptune. Not today at least." Gotta get to Lyrica and wait... Gotta keep her protected, keep her safe. If you don't, who will? "... What? But we've nearly taken the mountain! If we leave now, then Chika's death will have been for absolutely nothin-" "That was an ORDER, Cave! I can't keep Lyrica alive if you don't follow your orders..." Certainly not IF... That traitor. Abandoning Lyrica the way she did... Abandoning all of Leanbox! She is to blame for everything... Ever since the brunette defected from your side during the assault on Avenir, Lady Vert has become colder, crueler... Almost a different person entirely. ... IF fleeing for no reason must've caused the CPU to snap. Yes, that has to be it... Now, you are the only one left who is able to keep the flawless pop idol alive and well... No more allies, no more friends... Only you alone can keep the goddess in check... No, wait, what are you thinking?! How dare you doubt your Lady this way... No matter how she may act, she only has Gamindustri's best... interests... at heart... ... You have a duty to fulfill: guard Lyrica in the Basilicom... and wait for Lady Vert to return. You must tune out any and all weak emotions concerning Chika, Vert's actions, Chika, IF's betrayal, Chika, Chika's death, Chika is dead, and you couldn't do anything to save her... ... The Leanbox guards that had stayed behind eye you warily as you approach the castle. They are afraid of you... They think you are a monster. ... Maybe they're the wisest ones... Either way, you make your way inside... [[Enter...|Cave Intro Page 2]]

//set: $iffyHealth to 100) //set: $caveHealth to 100) IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100 {<table border="1" align="center"> <tr align="center"> <td>- (link:"A")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "A")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"B")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "B")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"C")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "C")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"D")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "D")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"E")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "E")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"F")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "F")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"G")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "G")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"H")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "H")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"I")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "I")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>- (link:"J")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "J")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"K")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "K")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"L")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "L")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"M")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "M")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"N")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "N")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"O")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "O")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"P")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "P")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"Q")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Q")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"R")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "R")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>- (link:"S")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "S")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"T")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "T")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"U")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "U")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"V")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "V")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"W")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "W")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"X")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "X")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"Y")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Y")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> <td>- (link:"Z")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Z")(goto:"Password Page")] -</td> </tr></table>} <div align="center" style="max-width:600px; margin: auto;"><h4>(link:"Start Game")[(set: $narrationCheck to true)(set: $truePageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div>(goto:"Introduction Passage Page 1")] | (link:"Load game")[(goto:"Load Game Intro")] | (link:"Password")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]</h4></div>

(if: $firstChoicePath is "arrows")[You brush off your wounds, and the game is on! You always prefer to play with a disadvantage anyways... so this shouldn't be too serious. Hopefully. From the very same trees, two men with bows leap out, and point in your direction. Shouts from all sides are heard... but you have no time to worry about your flanks, as a problem is lying right before you! The two archers look extremely hesitant; clearly they were hoping things wouldn't come to this... Still, they must have orders, which explains why they are starting to charge right for you! Don't they realize they have arrows?... Oh well. In the tree, you believe you still see a glint of reflected light; is there another archer hidden between the leaves still? Is he the guy you hit with a Qatar? He's probably pissed... Don't screw up! [[Run and attack!|IF Second Move Max Damage]] [[Throw a more-precise knife at the tree!|IF Second Move Min Damage]] [[Zig-zag and attack!|IF Second Move No Damage]]](else:)[The cat's out of the bag now! Guards seem to appear from all directions! Crap, the main Leanbox army is away; how many soldiers are still stationed here?! What else is there to do but run forward? You don't get to move far before you are quickly approached by five soldiers from the front: three with bayonets close to you, two with drawn bows in the back. The archer on the right looks rather jumpy... The center bayonet wielder opens his mouth: "IF... We're not monsters: we don't want to kill you, no matter what our orders are. Please surrender; it'll be easier on all of us! I'm sure Lady Vert will take mercy if it's you. Maybe this can all get sorted out still..." As expected, even the Leanbox army is afraid of what Lady Vert has become... What a disaster. Still, no use fretting over things like that now: five men with weapons are staring you down! What do you do?! [[Hold out your arms and plow through these guys!|IF Second Move Max Damage]] [[Kick the guard and grab his weapon!|IF Second Move No Damage]] [[Maybe surrendering isn't so bad...|IF Second Move Min Damage]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> (savegame:"B","Iffy Scenario Start") }You march forward, moving over the dark grassy hills warily. The rain from before has turned much of the ground to mud, and the obnoxious sloshing sound of your footsteps does little to sate this ever-growing feeling of paranoia. Still, you move on... There's absolutely no one else in sight. Preferable, granted... but something about this just feels... wrong. Way too suspicious... ...! In the trees! From the corner of your eye, roughly 30 meters away, you see something make a sudden movement! The darkened sky makes it hard to see between the dense trees on the outskirts of the rolling plains... Is it something, or nothing?! [[Proceed on, maybe it's nothing...|IF First Move No Damage]] [[Quickly go prone!|IF First Move Min Damage]] [[Throw Qatar blade at tree!|IF First Move Max Damage]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(set: $dmgCheckIffy(0) to "noDmg") (if: $dmgCheckIffy(0) is "noDmg") [Ship not damaged! (set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth)] (elseif: $dmgCheckIffy(0) is "Min") [Ship damaged! (set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)] (elseif: $dmgCheckIffy(0) is "Max") [Ship very damaged! (set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 10)] (if: $inventory contains "badge")[] (else:) [(link: "Take badge")[(set:$selectedItem to $badge)(set:$inventory to $inventory + (array:"badge"))(goto:"Item Acquired")]](if: $inventory contains "tablet")[] (else:) [(link: "Take tablet")[(set:$selectedItem to $tablet)(set:$inventory to $inventory + (array:"tablet"))(goto:"Item Acquired")]] can i set an "ID" to a choice? /*(set: $originals to (array:)) (set: $list to $originals.slice()) (set: $first to (either:$list)) (set: $dummy to $list.splice($list.indexOf($first), 1)) (set: $second to (either:$list)) (set: $dummy to $list.splice($list.indexOf($second), 1)) (set: $third to (either:$list)) (set: $dummy to $list.splice($list.indexOf($third), 1)) (set: $fourth to (either:$list))*/ Possible attacks: Cave: -(Attack 1) Rushes forward with a chain of slashes from her blades.- Max dmg: 15, Min: 5 -(Attack 2) Performs a somersault kick to send an enemy airborne, then swiftly stabs them to the ground.- Max dmg: 30, Min: 15 (pose): she stares at you, but you notice her knees are slightly bent. she also stands ever-so-slightly hunched over, with her arm draped over her abdomen. Almost as if she's bowing in honor... is she showing her respect and hopeful surrender? defense: quick attack left: slice at her right side with left arm, she blocks you, but you bring up your legs to spinkick her. meanwhile, her right hand makes a motion, and a c-shaped laser appears behind her, blasting you for 20 damage. she takes 10. thrust both arms forward: like omega, lunge both arms (with blades) forward, going under Cave's weapons and hitting her stomach. She retaliates by bashing you to the ground with the hilt of her blades, and kicking you away while she rubs her wound. - (EXE)Black Label (Takes a few steps forward, holds her arms out, and spins like a top, shooting out a ton of energy bullets that surrounds her enemy. Finally, she lifts her right hand up her stomach/chest, and snaps her fingers, eliciting an explosion from all the energy bullets. Not content, she leaps high into the air, and summons two robotic bees. She once again spins rapidly, this time with the bees, and they shoot a hellfire of even more bullets down upon the enemy from above)- Max dmg: 70? Min: 50 (how to avoid? maybe have IF hug her?) - (special)Full Burst Option (She summons five metallic C-shaped guns to circle around in front of her and then shoot lasers out)- Max dmg: 50? Min: 30. She says irradiation. faces forward, then raises her right arm straight out and holds out her palm towards you. IF: - (EXE) Apocalypse Nova (IF crosses her arms in an 'x' shape, leaps high in the air, and immediately appears to scratch at thin air. Cave realizes that IF is actually throwing a ton of energy-infused Qatar blades, and they slice through her like she's nothing. Iffy now soars straight down from the sky, and slams her left-handed Qatar blades into the ground right in front of Cave, creating an enormous shockwave explosion. Cave takes 70 damage. knives home in on you everywhere. (maybe shoot the hell out of the bullets (possible choices): Stand still and fire Run and gun forward Sliding jump and fire Cartwheel and shoot (maybe min damage- you shoot all the knifes, rest for a sec... then IF shockwave explodes the ground) Backstep and shoot (correct if still have energy. Walk backwards and shoot, putting space between you and IF. Her shockwave misses) Circle-strafe and fire (same as backstep, but IF takes 1 dmg) Block Malicious Heaven (Cave special attack. Summon whirlwind to blow blades away. No damage. maybe you take 1 damage? attack drains you) passage opening: the calm before the storm... this is going to be bad. You pull out your twin blades and prepare for the worst... and sure enough, a light-green barrier forms around the brunette, and she soars straight up into the sky. She begins moving her arms at a rapid pace... and you know that the game is on! - (special) LaDephinus (Right hand starts glowing. IF twirls on her left leg once, then reels her right arm back before thrusting it upwards. A large greenish-white power beam emerges from beneath Cave's feet) (attack1): She circles around you superfast, bearhug from behind. She tries to pick you up, you stand too firm though, so she simply manages to twist and push you to the right, before jumping and roundhouse-kicking you. (pose- IF's arms are held out behind her, like she's about to run. Like a bird in flight, her fingers are also extended like feathers. Her blades appear to be retracted in her sleeves, not in her hands like her usual battle stance) (attack2): IF twists her body, then begins spinning like a top on her left leg, holding out both hands in the process (with non-lethal knives protruding out of course). she travels in a zig-zag pattern, before slicing you. (pose- IF draws her blades between her fingers. She twists her upper body and leans forward on her left leg) attack one- boss player good damage: you both grab each other, iffy knees you in chest, but you toss her away instead and kick her. attack two- player min damage: you jump higher than her, she stops and throws 3 Qatar blades at you. boss player good damage: you pretend to kick, but then punch at last minute. she slices your arm, but you catch her. boss max damage: you kick up, knocking Qatars out of IF's hand and staggering her. You then slice at her, like Cave Attack 1 Special- good damage: dash left (right of her), then forward (you side-stepped her). IF cancels her attack, you do Cave attack1 on her. you hit her twice, she brings up her left arm to block, then kicks you in the gut. no damage1: run right for her, halfway through you begin a leaping kick. IF sees this, tries to grab you, but instead just pushes your foot away. She is slightly off-balance, you land. No damage. no damage2: 1 energy. shoot at arm. bullet hits, knocking IF back in surprise. Her attack is cancelled, but she loses no health. Defense- Sweep the leg: she hops over your leg, uses her raised knee to kick you in the face, then a spin slash to knock you away. Ram: You leap towards her, she knees your stomach, you still collide with her hard. Both fall onto ground, IF pushes you off. 5 and 5? Strafe behind: she hits you with impromtu roundhouse kick Rolling kick: roll forward, propel upon upswing, and kick her in the stomach. Charge energy: only make visible after first defense state (so, second time seeing the attack and beyond). Lost 10 health to charge 1 energy Kneebar: you grab her leg, and try to twist her to the ground. You almost succeed, but she jumps with her left leg and kicks you in the side of the head, knocking you both down. She rolls away. She loses 5, you lose 10 Reconnect: like kneebar. You dash forward, feign a roundhouse kick, and when your back is turned to IF, you recombine you blades back to scissors. Then catch IF's leg (her boot) between your blades. You manage to toss her aside, then kick her upwards and slice her a few times in the air, finishing off with an actual roundhouse kick. Cave attacks: implement energy bar for Cave. 5 shots total. IF special: one Max damage choice is to summon Cave's special attack turrets. 5 ammo across all shoot options. Vert + Nepgear fights: make like pokemon? Simple text, no big attack descriptions. commands: - Attack(punch,kick,) - Skill (skills that use energy, including heal.) - Block - Observe (3 uses? I tell you what the random attack will be) block blocks standard attacks, not special skills. Can only use 'Skill' every other turn, so you can't spam. Attacks (Cave): Stab Jump attack Running slash Somersault kick Skills (Cave): Shoot bullet (1 Energy) Heal(20 health) (1 Energy) Malicious Heaven (2 Energy) Full Burst Option (2 Energy) IFFY third skill: Demon Comet Slash ((2 Energy) Glows green, slashes frantically. 7 slashes. Attacks (Vert): Thrust/jab Uppercut with her lance Spin Slash (She spins her lance over her head once, then slices horizontically. A whirlwind shoots out and strikes the player. 15 damage.) Jams lance into the ground, as if setting up for a pole-vault. She propels herself upwards and, while holding onto her weapon, spins 3-4 times. She then rips lance from ground and slashs while throwing herself at the player Skills (Vert): Slash Wave ((1 Energy) Vert uses both hands and swings her spear upwards... and a wave of energy flies out. 10 damage) Heal (20 health) (1 Energy) Sylhet Spear ((2 Energy) She waves her hand and a massive spear emerges from a portal to the right of her. It stabs forward then explodes) Phosphorescence ((2 Energy) She dashes forward, uppercut slash, backhanded slash/slash diagonally downwards. She reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time, which causes an explosion) Attacks (Nepgear): Downward slice Kicks and stabs forward. Holds Gehaburn in both hands, and swings directly up. A kneeling black-tinted ghostly Noire appears. She juts her rapier upwards at a 45 degree angle, knocking the player in the air. Then, a ghostly Blanc appears and bashes them down into the ground with her mallet. Both ghosts then vanish (15 damage) Raises weapon, twists her right hand, and swings perfectly horizontally to the left. From the slash, a black-tinted ghostly Neptune appears and swings at the enemy three times. A black-tinted transparent Uni then follows up by appearing in the air and shooting. Both ghosts then vanish (20 damage) Skills (Nepgear): Slash Wave ((1 Energy) Raises sword (right-handed) high up as she turns a full 180 degrees. A wave of energy shoots forward. Heal (20 health) (1 Energy) Panzer Blade (2 Energy) She air dashes and slashes downwards and hits the ground. She then brings Gehaburn up, it glows, and she horizontally slashes three times. Then, she finishes off by slamming the ground once more. Mirage Dance/Neptune Break (2 Energy) Holds sword out before her, both hands clutching the hilt tight. She charges at the enemy, slashes up, spins... and then she whispers "Neptune..." which causes Gehaburn to glow. Nepgear slashes through the enemy, and moving faster than the eye can see, begins to appear from all directions to repeatedly slash forward. One final dramatic horizontal slash to end it set both attacks on attack page, results on results page. 2 pages. set hooks for each skill. if variable is one of the hooks, set a disabledVariable on result page to yes. if disabledvariable is yes on attack page, show "Charging..." instead of Skills link. If vaiable is not one of the hooks, set disabled variable to no on attack page. do same thing with opponent. for Cave scenario: if you take damage, play 1 of (10?) flashbacks, depending on how many times you've been hurt before. possible Attacks (Neptune Final Boss w/ Croire): - Neptune clenches her fists, the air gets thick, and small pebbles rise up in the air. Tension is at its highest... when she simply whacks you with the hilt of her sword. Croire laughs at you. "Nyeheheh!" - An explosion surrounds Neptune... and suddenly, she is now a RED with empty eyes, surrounded by flames. She pulls out her yo-yo and swings it your way... shooting out a massive swarm of Pixelvaders. They all explode on contact. - Neptune seemingly blinks out of existence... before appearing right in front of you and slicing you away. You fly straight into... Neptune's blade! This repeats a few more times, Neptune instantly-teleporting. Maybe four hits? - An explosion surrounds Neptune... and suddenly, she is now a Lyrica with empty eyes, surrounded by flames. She dashes forward and bashes her guitar down upon you five times. Total beat-down. Skills (Neptune Final Boss w/ Croire): - Iron Maiden (Croire snaps her fingers... and a sarcophagus shaped like the boss target (write only one passage, but print $bossTarget to list both the player and the iron maiden shape) encloses around the player. A moment passes before 10 ghostly blades stab through the player.) - Hopefully this is feasible with the loading: (if Skill 3 targets IF, have Neptune turn into the sniper from IF's scenario. Not a real bullet, but still hurts like hell. "You think you've seen this guy before...")(if Skill 3 targets Cave, have fog envelop Neptune... and suddenly, a mortar shoots out right for you. "Well... this is ringing some uncomfortable bells...") - Neptune holds out her hands... and suddenly, the entire cast of Neptunia mk2 burn into existence. They all hold hands and begin swaying from side to side, almost as if "kumbaya-ing". Only focus on a few names possibly: "Lyrica, Red, Chika, Compa, Mina, Linda appear... and soon, everyone you've ever known stand around you in a circle formation. The sky turns red, the ground quakes... before everything turns to flame and the ground splits in half! Only in your mind, of course. (link:"unfortunate accident")[(gotoURL:"https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10784645/1/The-Witches-Spell-All-s-Well-That-Ends-Well") target="_blank" title="Link to fanfiction.net. Don't worry, it's safe!")]

{(set: $firstChoicePath to "arrows")(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 25)}While approaching the enemy capital, something big suspiciously shifts in the dark trees, accompanied by complete silence... what else would you expect but the enemy? Well, with your prior knowledge of heroic games and manga... it's beyond a certainty that this situation will degrade into a full-blown fight scene soon enough anyways, so you might as well strike the first blow! That's usually worth bonus points in online shooters even, right? You draw three of your Qatar throwing blades from your trademarked extremely-long right-arm sleeve, rear your arm back... and toss a blade into the leaves! A gruff male voice yelps out in pained surprise... Huh, that didn't sound like a scream of someone falling unconscious. It was a hard shot to pull off; you should be impressed you even hit him at all! Before you can even think, you hear several voices shout out incomprehensible orders from the trees... and a hail of arrows launch out from the leaves! You try your best, but not even you can dodge rain. A few arrows catch you in the shoulders and arms. Your jacket absorbs some of the blows, but ouch, that still hurts. Right off the bat, you took 25 damage... Best not to do that again! [["So much for first impressions..."|IF Second Move]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}What if it's a sniper?! This is the enemy's main capital, after-all! Without another thought, you quickly leap through the air a couple feet before crashing down in a prone position. However, in your haste, you neglected to remember the muddy earth below you! You crash down and end up sliding a couple of inches. Furthermore, it feels like you've landed on a freakin' brick. What the frick... O-Oh, crap, yeah, you have a walkie-talkie deep in the pocket of your coat! You landed right on it... Dang, hopefully it's not busted! You'll need that for when you take the castle! For your hastily-made slip-up, you take 5 damage! Wasn't Compa the clumsy one? Oh well, could be worse, right? As you pick yourself up and prepare to wipe the mud from your clothes, you suddenly hear: "H-Hey, I see her! Lady Vert was right, it's IF!" a gruff voice shouts from somewhere a little ways behind you. A ton of other voices sound off from the surrounding area, including the trees from before. Huh, turns out you did see someone in the tree... but he hadn't noticed you yet. Too bad. Oh well, they had been expecting you, and now they knew of your presence. [[Time to get serious...|IF Second Move]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

Figuring either your eyes are playing tricks on you, or it may have just been a hedgehog, you venture on. Maybe everything would be fine afte- "H-Hey, I see her! Lady Vert was right, it's IF!" Oh boy. You hear the gruff voice of a male guard call out from atop a tall hill behind you and a little ways to the right. Rough break, looks like they were expecting you. From the very trees you observed a moment ago, about a half-dozen more guards leap out, bows hastily drawn at the ready. Well, so much for the element of surprise, but at least they seem panicked. Expecting you does not mean they were too prepared... [["Here we go..."|IF Second Move]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.pause('Dynasty_Warriors_5-Gloomy_Shadow.mp3');" /></div> <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (set: $iffyComplete to "Yes")(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyHealth) (if: $caveComplete != "Yes")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) [[There's always another side; another story...|Choose Your Destiny!]]] (elseif: $caveComplete is "Yes" AND $iffyComplete is "Yes")[(link:"Reunite at long last...")[(if: ($iffyHealth is 69 AND $caveHealth is 69) AND ($obedienceSeal is "Open!" OR $chaosSeal is "Open!" OR $atonementSeal is "Open!"))[(set: $endingPath to "Lovers")(set: $loversPageCheck to false)(goto:"Lovers Ending Page 1")] (elseif: $iffyHealth is 4 AND $caveHealth is 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Wyn")(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Wyn Boss Segue")] (else:)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_7-Large_Feather.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Boss Segue")]]]} IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.pause();" /></div> <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (set: $caveComplete to "Yes")(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveHealth) (if: $iffyComplete != "Yes")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)[[There's always another side; another story...|Choose Your Destiny!]]] (elseif: $iffyComplete is "Yes" AND $caveComplete is "Yes")[(link:"Reunite at long last...")[(if: ($iffyHealth is 69 AND $caveHealth is 69) AND ($obedienceSeal is "Open!" OR $chaosSeal is "Open!" OR $atonementSeal is "Open!"))[(set: $endingPath to "Lovers")(set: $loversPageCheck to false)(goto:"Lovers Ending Page 1")] (elseif: $iffyHealth is 4 AND $caveHealth is 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Wyn")(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Wyn Boss Segue")] (else:)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_7-Large_Feather.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Boss Segue")]]]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(savegame: "A", "Reunion") (set: $healthBreakOne to "No")(set: $healthBreakTwo to "No") (if: $iffyShotPath is false AND $iffyShotRoll is false)[(if: $trueEndingUnlock is true AND ($iffyHealth is 100 AND $caveHealth is 100) AND ($caveKarma <= 1))[(set: $endingPath to "True Ending")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Historical")(set: $specificEnding to "Historical A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Historical")(set: $specificEnding to "Historical B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished D")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished E")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway D")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway E")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth > 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending D")]] (else:)[(if: $caveHealth >= 50 AND $caveKarma < 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Door")] (elseif: $CaveHealth < 50 OR $caveKarma >= 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway F")]] }Cave's eyes are firmly trained on IF... and the brunette can't help but gulp. This... isn't the same Cave she knew... In response, the battle-hardened veteran retracts a few trusty Qatars from her long sleeves. The SMD Warrior simply stands and watches... The situation is clear: nothing will be resolved with mere words alone! ... Only one can win. By this duel's conclusion, one shall stand, and one shall fall... Or, perhaps, there is... another way for things to end... Still, as before, it all begins... with a single choice. Choose your character: [[IF|Boss Fight Intro IF]] (link:"Cave")[(if: ($specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished E" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway B") AND ($caveDamageSceneCheck != 7))[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.pause();" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="alternateFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 OST - Heavenly Voice.mp3');" /></div>](goto:"Boss Fight Intro Cave")] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100 | Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{ (savegame:"B","Cave Scenario Start") }But too late! You channel some energy up your arm, aim your scissors at the window... and blast it to smithereens! Your feet are already running before you even think to do so... and you leap out into the dismal world outside! You expertly control your fall, balancing your body so you can run downwards along the walls of the Basilicom. In mid-fall, you grab your trusty weapon with both hands... and pull the halves apart, turning your scissors into a pair of long and devastating twin blades! All you can think about is IF... Such a coward. Such a traitor... Was everything she's ever said a lie? Has she forgotten about Lyrica... or has she never loved her at all? A monster, unworthy of living... Trying to kill the last companion you have left! Killing you, that's fine. Endangering the pop idol, though? A fate worse than death awaits. Find IF... and end her. She is with the rest of her army... Destroy anyone who stands in your way. No sense in holding back; they're all traitors! ALL OF THEM! EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM!!! ... Approaching the ground now... You effortlessly flip off the side of the castle and land on both feet, your boots once again blasting into the mud. A quick glance around tells you all you need to know: Planeptune soldiers have emerged from everywhere, and are flooding the area. The Leanbox guards run to meet them in battle... Can't focus on them, though; IF is with the massive group way down the path! Get her, and the army will surrender. You'll make sure of that... Hold on! Three Planeptune soldiers are already charging for the Basilicom's front entrance... which is right where you're standing! However, perhaps after seeing you run down a vertical building and landing directly in front of them, the men are extremely hesitant. It's not every day they have to fight some superhuman beast... One man directly in front of you, two men behind him to the left and right: a standard triangle formation. They're simply slowing you down. [[Grab the leader...|Cave First Move No Damage]] [[Nonlethally incapacitate the leader...|Cave First Move Min Damage]] [[Stab the leader...|Cave First Move Max Damage]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $firstChoicePath is "arrows")[This day's going from bad to worse... The two running guards, who have forgotten all about their bows in their panicked haste, pull out two daggers as they quickly approach you. You decide not to waste any time and meet their challenge! You are tempted to simply run ahead and tackle them... but let's not forget about that archer in the trees, right? Gotta be smart about this... You run for the two charging soldiers, but instead of meeting them head-long, you start running in a zig-zag-like motion! Left, right, left, right... The archer is confused, but decides to take the shot anyways! The arrow flies out... but luckily, your speed allows you to evade it by a good few feet! By now, you and the guards are about to meet, so you finally take action: you reel your right arm back before punching forward and up... AKA, a picture-perfect uppercut! You catch the closest guard in the chin, causing him to stumble back into his teammate! Both soldiers are now wobbling, desperately trying to regain their balance! You retract another specialty knife from your everlong-sleeve, and hold it tight in your hand... Before using it, however, you finish off the two dagger-users by leaping high and kicking them both into the mud. Both look to be unconscious from the hard fall... Good. The archer in the tree readies another arrow... but you fling your Qatar right at him in one swift motion! A yelp of pained surprise sounds out, and you see a bow fly down to the ground. Direct hit, take that! You survey the two downed guards and sigh. That could've been rough... but you made it out, somehow. The soldiers don't appear to be in too-deep a slumber, and more voices sound off around you... so you decide to run along before anyone else shows up to [[test your luck!|IF Third Move]]](else:)[Surrendering is out of the question! You know that these soldiers most likely mean well... but right now, they are the enemy, standing in your way. You won't use lethal force, of course, but your only option is to dispatch them! You eye the three guys' positions closely; they aren't standing too far apart from each other... Time to make your move! You whisper "Sorry... Gotta do this myself..." right before kicking for the closest guard's stomach! You connect without a problem, and his eyes bulge out in surprise as he can't help but bend over. Knowing you need to act super quick, you use that moment to grab his bayonet by the barrel, and jamming it downwards! This causes the stock to fly up and clonk the poor guard in the chin, knocking him unconscious. One down, four to go, right? The other soldiers are too stunned to move in time, so you have no trouble whacking the two remaining bayonet wielders with the stock of your gun as well! They crumple to the mud... right as the two archers overcome their own shock and fire arrows your way. Hoping to recreate a cool action scene from a manga you read awhile back, you hold your bayonet with both hands horizontally out in front of you. Just in time, too, as the arrows stab into the gun as soon as you create your makeshift shield! Now that was cool! The arrows pierced the gun quite deep (must be weak wood), so you toss it aside; you were never planning to shoot with it anyways. While the archers ready more arrows, you easily run up to the two, slide down, and sweep their legs out from under them! One swift karate chop to their necks later... and all five are out cold! You take a moment to survey all the damage you just caused... You wish it didn't have to come to this, but hopefully the war would all be over soon! Just gotta make it to that Basilicom... and everything will have been worth it! You take a deep breath... and run along! [["Don't worry Nep... I won't fail ya!"|IF Third Move]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

As you hurry along... a drop of water suddenly catches your nose. You look up, and soon, more and more drops fall down upon you. The dark, ominous clouds have finally delivered on their promise of additional rain. All you can do is keep going as the scattered drizzle quickly morphs into a raging downpour. The elements can't keep you from your goal! A ton of guards must've seen your previous exploits... but things have once again gone eerily quiet. Are they afraid to approach you? You are still standing, after-all... Oh well, makes your job a whole lo- "AAAAA-CHOOO!" The heck?! You dart your head around... and your eyes fall upon an awkwardly-placed thick bush, roughly 15 feet ahead of you. It's not necessarily in your way... but you reckon you should deal with it in some form at least. Who knows what could happen if you ignore it... But, what to do? [[Call the obvious trap out!|IF Third Move Min Damage]] [[Examine curiously...|IF Third Move Max Damage]] [[Jump attack the bush!|IF Third Move No Damage]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $firstChoicePath is "arrows")[This day's going from bad to worse... The two running guards, who have forgotten all about their bows in their panicked haste, pull out two daggers as they quickly approach you. You decide not to waste any time and meet their challenge! You run forward yourself, holding your arms way out behind you; it's aero-dynamically sound, after-all! At least, er, you think so... Ah, screw it, who cares?! You make it to the two soldiers and, as they prepare to swing, you shoot your arms forward to grab ahold of their helmeted heads! It happens so fast, but you are still able to see a confused expression grow on their faces right before you clonk their heads together! The blow wasn't lethal- you made sure of that- but the attack was more than enough to incapacitate them both! Aweso- You suddenly feel a sharp pain in your side! You look down... and see an arrow sticking out of your jacket! Your coat is thick, but the arrow hit you where your defenses were the most lax... Nothing life-threatening... you hope, but 40 damage is still not how you envisioned today going. Either way, you direct your attention to the forgotten archer in the trees. You retract another specialty knife from your everlong-sleeve, and hurl it up into the tree! A yelp of pained surprise sounds out, and you see a bow fly down to the ground. Direct hit, take that! You yank out the arrow and toss it to the ground. A little blood, but nothing you're not used to... Time to keep going. Hopefully your injuries will have time to heal; can't risk amassing any more, right? [["I've... been through... worse..."|IF Third Move]]](else:)[Surrendering is out of the question! You know that these soldiers most likely mean well... but right now, they are the enemy, standing in your way. You won't use lethal force, of course, but your only option is to dispatch them! You eye the three guys' positions closely; they aren't standing too far apart from each other... Time to make your move! You hold both your arms straight out and run forward, catching the three bayonet-wielders by complete surprise! You start off by colliding with the front-most guard, knocking him onto the ground. Your right arm cleanly catches the right-most one in the neck, and you quickly leap to the left and overpower the third soldier. "Sorry... Gotta do this myself," you whisper, right before karate-chopping the three downed men into unconsciousness. You wish it didn't have to come to this... but hopefully this'd all be over soon! ... Wait a minute... Oh crap, the archers in back! The trigger-happy soldier on the right fires an arrow first, followed by the stunned left-most archer. Both arrows crash into your chest with little resistance; you simply realized too late! Luckily, your thick jacket protects you from taking some major damage, but damn... You believe you've taken 40 damage right there. ... It's not over yet, though! You bite your tongue and continue running forward, bringing up your right leg to spin-kick the left archer. The right one readies another arrow, but a quick elbow to the gut silences him! You look at the five unconscious guards lying around you, and you wince as you pull out the two arrows. That could've gone a lot smoother... but at least you're [[still alive.|IF Third Move]]] {(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 40)}IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $firstChoicePath is "arrows")[You can't risk getting hit by any more arrows, especially this early on! You reckon that the first Qatar must've at least weakened the guard in the tree, so another one right to his face should be enough to knock him out definitively this time! You retract another specialty knife from your everlong-sleeve, and hurl it up into the tree! Another yelp of pained surprise sounds out, and you see a bow fly down to the ground. Direct hit, take that! You bask in the glory of another job well done! ... Oh wait, what about those two guys rushing you? Crap... Before you are fully prepared, the two confused archers pull out small daggers and swing for you, slicing across your stomach! Thankfully that jacket of yours is thick as all hell, so you only take 20 damage from what could've been a total maiming! With a pained shout of your own now, you crouch down and sweep out your leg, knocking both of your attackers down! One swift karate chop to their heads render them firmly down and out; they shouldn't be a problem for at least a couple hours! Gently carressing your wounds, you hurry on before anyone else can catch up with you... [["Sonuvabitch... I'm better than this..."|IF Third Move]]](else:)[You contemplate the guard's words... Your end goal is simply to end this war by cutting off Leanbox's momentum right at the head... Perhaps if you surrender peacefully, you will be able to have a conference with Lady Vert herself! Your CPU friend may have gone insane... but the majority of her soldiers were simply working for her out of fear or honorable loyalty! They could be trusted, you reckon. "... Sure, I just want everyone to live together in peace again. Get me a meeting with Vert, and ya got a deal," you say, holding up your arms. Four of the guards smile and every lowers their weapons The closest guard nods. "I've always believed in you, Miss IF! Just come with us, and we'll think of a plan together! I know you can snap our Lady back to her senses!" And with that, the other two bayonet-wielding soldiers lightly turn you around and begin to bind your hands together. "Standard procedure, I'm sure you understand," the same man says. You wish they didn't have to go this far, but it'll look less suspicious this way at least. However, the twitchy archer in back suddenly raises his bow back up. "D-Don't trust her! S-She's gonna kill us!" And with that, he pulls back an arrow and fires! The soldiers hoisting you are shocked at their ally's rash decision, and they instinctively let go of you to get to safety. You twist your body as fast as you can... but the arrow still catches you right in the left side of your abdomen! Crap, that hurts... Before you know it, you are running towards the archer and spin-kicking him down to the mud. Having been dealt 20 damage, you now firmly decide that you're going to capture this Basilicom your own way. You are the lone wolf; the solitary wind that blows justice across this barren wasteland of evil! ... That would've sounded cooler if you didn't just get shot after surrendering... [["Off my game today... Heh, always at the perfect time, IF ya nimrod..."|IF Third Move]]] {(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 20)}IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

Is... someone planning a sneak attack? From that suspicious-looking bush? That was clearly a sneeze, perhaps brought on by the sudden influx of heavy rain... Sorry, bub; that sneeze has exposed your plan! However... the bush is still. Whoever is in there must not have figured out that you're on to him... You could try something fancy, but who knows what he may be planning, right? Better deal with this swiftly... You take a deep breath... before dashing for the bush and leaping forward! You extend your foot for the rapidly-approaching bush... and you definitely crash into something solid! You hear a masculine voice grunt in complete surprise, and a body flies out of the thick plant. You manage to land on your feet, and observe the damage: yep, you just brutally kicked a Leanbox guard into unconsciousness. A bit violent, perhaps, but he'll be okay. A bayonet lies at his side, so he was clearly a threat anyways... ... Just a little bit more, and Gamindustri will be whole once again... right? [[Better keep going...|IF Fourth Move]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 35)}The more you stare at it, the more the bush intrigues you. What is it doing here in this already-unnatural hilly field? Why is it so thick that you can't see anything in it? Why did it make such an odd sound just now? Is it alive? Is it some new kind of monster you've yet to face? ... You can't resist; you have to investigate this mysterious beast! You've faced hedgehogs, Pixelvaders, and even those horrifying warp pipes... but you lack a bush notch on your belt. Your heroic and adventurous spirit is taking over your mind again... Cautiously, as not to stir the potentially-slumbering creature, you tip-toe over... "GAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" a voice bellows out, and a Leanbox guard wielding a bayonet suddenly leaps out from the bush and kicks you right in the jaw! Fortunately, you do not lose any teeth... but the man follows up with a mean slash from his blade! The sharp knife cuts you across the stomach, managing to sneak through your thick jacket! Geez, that smarts... Surprised at how cleanly he struck you, the soldier winds up another blow... but this time, you're prepared: you grab his gun and twist it right out of his hands and let go. The man falls over... and you angrily rear back your right leg and kick him in the gut. He'll be down for awhile... ... You lost yourself for a minute there, and it cost you 35 health. Not even Compa or Neptune would space out that much... S-Shut up! You're not a ditz! You just... are under a lot of pressure, right? Yeah, that's all that was... (link: "M-Moving on!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Fourth Move")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

Well, this is obviously a poorly-thought-out trap... Hell, not even that original. You surmise that it'd be preferable to shut down this embarrassing ploy and simply call out the obvious guard! "... Hey! Fight me like a real man, bub! Not a coward!" you shout, a hint of cockiness in your voice. Damn, that felt good; you've always wanted to do that! A moment of nothing passes, but the bush predictably starts rustling... and from it, a Leanbox guard wielding a bayonet does indeed emerge! Trying to look as cool as possible, you strike your best kung-fu pose and challenge him by beckoning him close with your right hand. The guard's nervous brow furrows... and he charges, answering your challenge! Once he gets close enough... you spin on your right leg and kick with your left, attempting a text-book roundhouse kick! Your foot extends... and the guard hops back and slices you with his blade? Crap, that stings! You immediately recoil and cancel your attack due to the 10 damage. Seems you got too cocky... Oh well, this guard seems to have picked up a massive ego-boost, thanks to him drawing light blood... and you use his gleeful distraction to uppercut him straight in the chin! Pow, right in the kisser!... Er, or something like that. The guard falls backwards, and you rub your cut leg. Only a small wound with a slight amount of blood... Nothing to get too worked up over. You gotta be more careful, though... These guys aren't fighting too smart, and that honestly makes them more dangerous. Either way, (link: "better get moving!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Fourth Move")]] {(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 10)}IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

Aaaaaaaaaaand... as soon as you make the conscious effort to walk forward, a sudden restraint tightens itself around your neck. "Gak!" was the only sound that you could muster... The hell?! One muscular arm... some asshole was chokeholding you from behind! Could be one of the soldiers you dealt with earlier, or some new one... Either way, the enemy has you in their clutches! The rain doesn't care, and it falls harder and harder... This could end very very badly. You're not used to being entrapped in an opponent's snare such as this! He is most certainly a powerful gent, and it will take no small amount of strength to shake him off. His grip is like that of an anaconda's... though why he would choose such a disreputable underhanded offensive tactic is anyone's guess. Has all of Gamindustri thrown chivalry right out the window?! Either way, what the hell should you do? [[Fall Backwards!|IF Fourth Move Min Damage]] [[Shake the jerk off!|IF Fourth Move Max Damage]] [[Smash your elbow back!|IF Fourth Move No Damage]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

The guy is tough... but no matter what, you can't let him choke you out like this! If you were ever going to fail, it would have to be spectacularly! You always envisioned some grandiose explosion... B-But that's besides the point! It was futile to try and wiggle free, seeing as how his free arm was more than capable of fending you back to submission... ... Wait, that's it! He has a free arm... and so do you. Two in your case, actually. Using your left arm, you jam back and slam your elbow directly into his abdomen. Any attack he was about to pull off is stifled, and you are able to strike three more times before he finally loosens his grip. That's guaranteed to take the wind right out of his sails!... Er, people still say that, right? Not wanting him to recover his loosened grip, you quickly reach back to grab the man by the collar and... heave!!! You manage to throw him over your head, slamming him on his back right in front of your gaze. The slam was more than enough to knock him out, rendering him moot for now... but you can never be too sure. "... Sorry bout this, fella," you apologize right before punching the downed opponent square in the jaw. There... not the cleanest image of heroism by far, but that was sure to send a message to any other wannabe-ambushers. ... With a sigh, and rubbing your neck to make sure it was still there, you quickly scurry along. Despite your 'bold declaration' to all enemies... you can't help but look back to make sure that no one else had any [[bright ideas.|IF Fifth Move]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 25)}The guy is tough, but you can't just let him choke you out! No matter how tough the grip is, he still won't be able to hold on if you wiggle out! Indeed... while his strength is simply astounding, you still find it in you to shake against your bounds! Just gotta inch your way out and worm yourself free! Easy... right?! However, the soldier probably anticipated this outcome already, and as you fight your way free, he slams his free fist smack-dab into your abdomen! Once, again, again... He can't use all his strength with his blows, naturally, but getting hit like that, along with being choked, is never a forgiving combination. Fight... C'mon, fight! Grunting through the pain, you manage to wriggle your neck free just enough to allow access to the arm choking you... and seeing that the skin is exposed, you sink your teeth in at once! The soldier hollers in pain, releasing you from his clutches! He instinctively attempts another punch... but this time, you are able to counter his shot, and chop him straight in the neck. Even with all the strength in the world, he collapses from this sudden strike... rendering him down for the count (hehe... you hope...)! Not the victory you had hoped for- he did inflict 25 damage upon your 'delicate' form- so you will have to remain far more careful from here on out. (link: "\"... That was embarrassing...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Fifth Move")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 10)}Well, he's not keen on just letting go anytime soon, and simply wiggling out of his grip doesn't appear to be possible. You have to do something fast... or else you won't have to worry about your objective any longer. Gotta think quickly... Hmm, perhaps if you make a sudden move that technically brings you closer to your captor (instead of making an attempt at setting yourself completely free), such as jumping back and using him to cushion the fall, you'll be able to break the hold! "... Screw it!" you shout right as you push yourself off the ground and against the soldier's armored chest. The man does not anticipate this outcome, and thus amateurishly loses his footing, causing both of you to plummet to the soggy ground. With a profound 'CRACK!', the man's grip loosens around you, and you manage to break out. You stand up and anticipate him fighting back... but instead he looks too dazed to be of any use to his team. Just to make sure, you quickly punch his head; not too hard, but enough to render him moot. "That... worked better than expected. Huh..." You begin to walk off... but while you managed to successfully escape, you feel plenty of pain begin to resonate through your body. Not only is your neck soar from where his rugged arm nabbed you... but you remember that these guys wear armor, and landing on it with such a force... well, it wouldn't be a comfy place to rest, that's for sure. It isn't the worst pain- a mere 10 damage most likely- but you have to stay on guard even more now, for it could still bite you in the ass. Any pain only serves to slow you down... and you predict that this wasn't the last threat you'll face today. (link: "\"... Well, what ELSE can go wrong?\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Fifth Move")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $rockGrenadePath to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (savegame:"C","Iffy Scenario Checkpoint") (set: $iffyScenarioCheckpoint to true) }The rain falls at an uncontrollable pace as you walk through the fields, hearing the sounds of battle against the muddy grasslands. From what your ears were telling you, your diversionary force must be well and truly engaged in combat out front... Dammit, you knew Vert would wisely have defenses stationed here despite using full force to attack Planeptune, but there were far too many soldiers actually present! Did she firmly know of your intentions beforehand?! The atmosphere drenched by the heavens is all too surreal... but at least the goal was right before your very eyes. The castle is not too far off, at least in comparison to how far you've walked already, and as long as no more interruptions occur, you should be able to make it in no time! ... Right as you finish that thought, a bullet smashes into the ground by your feet. Rapidly looking up at the Basilicom, you notice a suspicious window open near the top floor... and a man, hard to make out from this distance but clear in his intentions, aiming what must be a rifle directly at you. Your breath stifles as the realization dawns on your petrified mind: you've become nothing more than a horsebird in the wild, your predator ready for the kill. He doesn't even need to reload, it seems, as he quickly aims his rifle once more, his sights on your unfortunate body. There's no telling how devastating that bullet could be... so you need to react fast! Crap, but what can you even do?! [[Scramble for cover like a headless chicken!!!|IF Fifth Move No Damage]] [[Sprint forward in a zig-zag motion. That'll confuse him!!!|IF Fifth Move Shot]] [T-Throw a knife at him. He's done!!!]<throw|{(click:?throw)[(set: $iffyFifthChoice to "Throw")(goto: "IF Fifth Move Shot")]} IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)}You can't just stand there! This guy is ready to fire again... and once his finger pulls the trigger, you're as good as gone! Darting your eyes, you notice what might be a small collection of rocks to your right. It might been the enemy, or perhaps just an illusion, or maybe even just too small to be of any use to you... but it surely beats standing in the open! Thus, you quickly roll to it, a bullet cracking through the dismal air... but luckily missing its mark, blasting up some mud in your face! You land directly in front of the apparent rock, and what hopefully is some nice cover against the sniper. Unfortunately, the size isn't ideal... so you have to crouch in one of the more uncomfortable positions you've ever had to take. Time is definitely NOT on your side... This flimsy barrier will only suffice for so long. That sniper is not going anywhere, and who knows when any other soldiers will show up? You believe you can hear a few more men approaching, their boots sloshing in the wet soiled earth... Things are not looking good. You're pretty much surrounded, and your allies are either on the other side of the massive yard, or in another nation entirely... You're on your own, and death is pretty much guaranteed. (link:"\"Okay, IF... Time to make a miracle...\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"IF Flashback 1")] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyShotPath to true)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 50)}(if: $iffyFifthChoice is "Throw")[You are fast, no doubt about it... but that bullet will certainly cut down even the most agile athlete... so trying for any cover seems entirely pointless. However, after managing to collect yourself, you remember that you are indeed armed, and while it may not prevent him firing, you could at least distress his aim and get out of there. Pulling out a trusty Qatar, you throw it directly at the man! Your aim is pure and true, so this should be a cinch!... Er, but fate can be cruel. Not only is the distance too far for your knife to hit its mark, but the rain around you certainly doesn't aid your senses in the matter... Oh yeah, and can't forget how hard the wind is blowing, disturbing the blade's intended trajectory! Seems the writing is on the wall: this was a terrible idea. Thus, with an opening even bigger than before, the sniper fires! "Ggk!" is the best you can muster... as the bullet blasts out and hits you square in the abdomen! Or, is it the stomach? Stomach, chest, leg, everywhere?! You can't tell; the pain is simply numbing! You attempt a forward step... and fall to the mud, your breaths coming in huffed gasps. Y](else:)[The next bullet the sniper fires will surely end your life. There is no cover as far as you can tell, and even if there was, you wouldn't be able to make it in time; you can't outrun a sniper rifle... Yeah, this just sucks. Still, you have to do something, and fast! Man, haven't said that today... You suddenly remember plenty of films in your time, many involving the hero having to avoid the terrible fate of being shot and one-hit KO'd... Sound familiar? In those films, he- oh, sorry: (x)he- would always run zig-zag towards the guy; it makes them harder to hit, and by closing in, the wannabe-assassin didn't have the time to adjust his- or her- aim. Well, time to showcase your knowledge of all things heroic! Today, this is your story... No, your *LEGEND*! The sniper shall cower before your spry feet! You quickly take a step forward... and after just two steps, you feel a piercing blow in your abdomen... H-Huh? W-Why are you falling forward?! No... T-That's not fair; you hadn't even started running yet! You don't even feel your face crash into the dirt... Hell, you can barely feel anything! Where exactly did he shoot?! Your abdomen, chest, stomach, leg?! How can you even be sure he didn't shoot every inch of your body?! It's all so numb... Either way, y]ou now lie helpless as a result of the sudden 50 damage... And the sniper is still up there, watching you intently. He's not letting you escape his sights... Ha, as if you could even try! (link: "\"Nep... Compa... L-Lyree...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Sniper")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div> (goto:"IF Flashback 1")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false)[The rain seems to stain your very being. Geez, it's getting quite cold... Hopefully this sogginess doesn't slow you down; you're already in a life-threatening predicament. Don't need any handicap perks activated on this mission... ... Soldiers closing in, sniper aiming right for you, the castle still feeling like it's miles and miles away... C-Calm down! Breathe in, breathe out... Think of Lyrica, the woman you love with every fiber of your being. Think of her smiling face... Think of the good old days! If you don't make it out of here... the two of you will make no more memories together. Memories, memories... The sky bears the sight of the beautiful sun radiating its light upon the land; Leanbox is aglow with the splendors of a dazzling day, one that fits perfectly for any grand couple. To you, its quite simply the perfect condition for you and the lovely girl you're sitting beside to bond. With her blue hair so splendid and a smile so captivating, you can't ask for a better day! "Iffy," a tiny, cuddly voice rings from her beautiful lips, her head resting on your shoulder as she licks at a cone of ice cream, "thank you for spending time with me. I... needed this. Being with you always cheers me up!" You feel your face redden; such angelic words! You need to answer in the same, if not better, capacity! You take a deep breath, mustering the strength to speak in the coolest tone ya got; have to keep face, remember? "Heh... I love being with ya too, babe." Not enough? "... You really are awesome, Lyree. I mean it with all my heart!" Add a pound of your chest for good measure... and signed, sealed, delivered! A chuckle from your girl. "'Babe'? Ha, you're so cute, Iffy! I love it when you try to act cool!" Did... D-Did she just make fun of you? But she sure is enjoying herself, and though you feel your pride shattering... you can't help but laugh at yourself. Still, don't misinterpret this! Y-You're cool; always am, always will be! Er, always 'were'... N-No, always 'was'! The frozen dairy product the two of you are sharing finally meets its end as you take one final decisive lick, and silence follows like a crazed stalker. You wrap your arms around Lyrica tight, watching the sun high in the sky start to descend down past the skyscrapers of Leanbox. Such a wonderful moment. You could die right now, and you'd be content! ... Hmm, but Fivey does seem rather *too* quiet. Curious, you turn your head to look down at your girlfriend's face. While definitely happy, she seems to be... lost in thought? Should you pry...? Hmm... W-Well, if something's bothering her, it's your duty to figure out what!. "Hm? What's up, Lyree? Ya seem kinda quieter than usual. Not lactose intolerant, right?" She jumps at your question, looking at you with those beautiful eyes. "Oh, it's... er, not that... I don't know, it's kinda silly! I was just thinking of the past, when we first got together!" "Really? Heh, thinking about how much cooler I was before we moved in together? BEFORE we did each other's laundry?" "Iffy! That's not it... though yeah, once I cleaned your socks and granny panties, the illusion was kinda broken." "G-Granny panties?! Okay, hold on here!" The pop idol teasingly pushes your chest. "Too easy! Anyways, as I was saying... not too long after we got together, there was that... girl you told me about... The one from that game expo, er, thing... Um... Gosh, I can't think of her name... I believe you said she had red hair? Elaborate ponytail?" The little description received is more than enough. "Oh, [[RED?"|IF Flashback 1-2]]](else:)[Rain, stop it... Stop it! Your half-lidded eyes continue to be assaulted by a never-ending hail of naturally-acidic water... How acidic is rain, anyways? If only you paid attention in science class... Ha, as if you cared about science class anyways! ... How did it come to this? Are you... dying? Just like that?... Was this all your fault? Perhaps if you had acted differently not just today, but at least two weeks ago, none of this would be happening... ... You were so afraid of Vert's... *change*... that you left Lyrica on Leanbox. Sure, it was to save her very life... but still, there must've been something you could've done! You could've taken Lyree with you, or maybe smoothed things out with Cave, or who knows, perhaps you might've been able to cure Lady Green Heart of her insanity? Lord knows you want the good old days to return... High above the land of Leanbox, you gaze upon the mighty mountains in the distance, the sun beginning to set behind the impressive peaks. You lean back in your chair, taking a sip from a rather elegant cup provided by the mightiest of craftsworkers. From where you sit, all that is visible is nature itself; it's a rather refreshing sight to take in. You were not even aware of such a building existing until recent. A rather large tower that rested far off from every city in Leanbox... A hidden treasure right in plain view! It had an antique feel, looking more like something out of a High Fantasy Novel than from an industrialized nation. It barely had the very basics in terms of modernization, and even with you here, it feels as if the tower hasn't been touched for centuries. You had to say that it was quite the locale! As you sit and watch the sun set, a maid comes to your side. "Milady, Lady Vert will be back in just a short moment. Would you like more water, by the way?" You look at the kindhearted woman, smiling as you hand her your glass. "Sure, thanks." As she leaves, you slump down in your chair. "Dang, what is she doing? Now that I think about it... where is the bathroom here? Is there even one?" Reflecting on this, your mind wanders back to just an hour or two ago, when Vert suddenly sprang this place on you. She said that she wanted to show you her "Secret spot," to which you only got even more confused... What the heck would anyone think upon hearing those words?! Well... this happened to be the spot she was referring to... but to be honest, the answer only served to perplex you even further! The tower was somewhat regal, in an old-world sense, and was filled with Leanbox maids... but that was it. There were no games, no computers for, er, games, no political chambers, nothing. Honestly, knowing full well what the Goddess was like, you truly wonder what she saw in this place. Still, it was a great travel spot in the end. Aside from the confusion, the scenery is breathtaking, and being away from society helps your mind quite a bit. Regardless of why Vert chose this place, you are glad that you came. Plus, being treated like a Queen did have its advantages, even if you did feel awkward about it. Man, is this how Vert truly got to live each day? It was enough to make you... envious, even. Eventually, you hear the Goddess return to the balcony, as indicated by a maid announcing her arrival. She slowly makes her way to the seat next to you... Knowing how her appearance always makes you flustered, you choose not to eye her until she sits down... though once she's made it to her destination, you wonder if you should have looked. "Sorry for the wait, Iffy," Vert says in a rather... sly(?) tone. Using your nickname today... You can't lie, hearing that brings up warm feelings in the pit of your stomach. "... It took a while to find something nice. Doesn't hurt to get comfortable, right?" Her kind voice informs you of what she was doing... Apparently, once she brought you here, she took the time to change her outfit. Gone was the elegant green dress she is known for, replaced now with an outfit that would fit her Oracle, Chika Hakozaki, a hell of a lot more. The black dress adorning her voluptuous body exaggerates all her, erm, "assets", with begrudgingly-enough clothing to cover herself, and yet still somehow revealing nearly everything. Whether it is the dress allowing a lot of leg or the tiny fabric just barely covering her bosom, it is obvious that it wasn't an outfit to wear in front of kids. You have to admit that she looks quite dashing. But of course; she's the Goddess you devote yourself to! Why wouldn't she look heavenly? She looks out at the horizon with you, and for a while things are quiet. Besides the maid occasionally returning to fill your glass, everything feels so... undisturbed, if a tad bit awkward. Eventually, the Goddess lets out a yawn as she slumps down in her chair. You begin to realize just how close the chairs are. "Ah, a beautiful sunset~! I have to agree with everyone who says Leanbox has the best sunsets... [[Do you, Iffy?"|IF Flashback 1-2]]]

(if: $iffyShotPath is true AND $iffyShotRoll is false)[You are trapped on the ground, coughing as you feel the pain of the blast course through your body. Colors of various shapes dance before your eyes as every sensor in your body screams at the sudden penetration of your abdomen. You try to move any appendage, but every motion feels so weak, as if you were merely piloting a brainless vessel. This might just be the worst thing that could possibly happen... ever. Yeah, ever. You are now in the open, unsure if you were even going to make it. Your chest is on fire, and though you try your best, you just can't feel anything around your stomach area. You know there is blood staining your shirt; there was no way to avoid it. You wanted to look, but not even your neck can move. You were sincerely trapped within yourself... ... With a sniper still set on ending you, and soldiers closing in. Your options are clearly limited... but with a lot of strain, and a lifetime's worth of adrenaline, you manage to just slightly lift your head; so subtle are your movements that it is nearly impossible to make out. Rather than check the wound, you instead try to look at the window far away in the distance... and you catch a cruel glimpse of the sniper. You can't tell what he's doing, but you know that he is still very active. You also hear some soldiers coming to investigate, which only complicates matters further. Alas, you lose the energy and lower your head again, wondering if this was truly the end. "It can't be... I can't give up yet..." Your voice is raspy, but at least is quiet enough for no one to pick up. And hey, at least you can still talk! ... Your mission was on the line; if you die right here, who was going to complete it? How will this war end? Who will save Vert from insanity? Who will protect Nep and Compa? How will Lyrica fare without you? "I'm... not... giving up..." [[Grr... Dammit, roll! Can... you... even...?|IF Sixth Move Min Damage]] [[Play dead... You can't muster much else.|IF Sixth Move No Damage]] [[Stand... up... like a true warrior!|IF Sixth Move Max Damage]]](else:)[You are clearly in a serious jam; (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[ignoring the fact that there's a BULLET INSIDE YOU... ]the sniper is out there, and it is obvious that his focus hasn't left you. The rock is good for cover, but its height isn't the most ideal, forcing you to crouch, your back against it as you manage to hide your whole body. Sadly, this allows you to see just how many soldiers there are, all hell bent on taking you out. You predicted that... But hmm, they all seem rather hesitant to approach you; otherwise, you'd be screwed already! Even they must be wary of how south this went. Still, can't count on them keeping their distance forever. There are several choices that you can think of in order to get out of this nefarious situation, though all have their drawbacks. No matter what, the sniper will have to be either dealt with or evaded; there is no way of ignoring him. "Wow, IF, what a genius you are! The dude can't be ignored?! Such insight..." Yeah, your attitude isn't the best right now. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[How could it be, when a bullet wound was currently causing you to bleed out in the rain?] The other soldiers are dangerously close to cornering you now, and the poacher in the castle is counting the seconds before he gets to silence you for good!(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[ You're also getting weaker by the second; it's a miracle you've even managed to last this long!]... Whatever you decide, it has to be quick. (if: $iffyArmInjury is true)[Well, that didn't help...](else:)[[[No choice... Fake out the sniper and run!|IF Sixth Move Min Damage]]] [[Play dead!|IF Sixth Move Max Damage]] [[Run out with jacket extended!|IF Sixth Move No Damage]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}You're bleeding out... ]Staying here isn't helping you, as soldiers are quickly closing in... and that sniper isn't losing his focus anytime soon. Once more, there are plenty of options for you to persue in order to escape, but they will most certainly lead to certain death. Stay here, and the soldiers end you; run out, and the sniper does the dirty deed. Well... what if you make your own sort of cover, and run forward? Running forward exposed would definitely be a death sentence, but perhaps if you had a shield of sorts... but what could you use?! Looking around yourself offers no help; you have nothing but the clothes on your back! ... That just might be it. Your jacket is clearly bigger than your person... Er, much, much bigger, in fact. Why, your oversized outfit has practically become it's own legend by now! Perhaps, just maybe, you could make a makeshift cover using your trustworthy outfit? Lightbulb going off in your head, you take your jacket off and hold it spreadlike. It isn't the best wall, but it beats being gunned down with no mercy.(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[.. heh, again...] Thus, you quickly stand up with the jacket stretched, and perhaps out of instinct, you run to your left, facing the far-off sniper as you move. The sniper takes two pulse-pounding shots... but your big coat screws with his aiming, and both bullets penetrate the material a few inches in front of your face. Close, but no cigar, buddy... (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[Crap, you can feel your wound pulsating... You won't be able to keep running like this forever! It's taking all the willpower in the world just to keep standing... ]Looking just a little ways foward, you see a giant patch of grass, perfect for hiding away... and most importantly, preventing a good shot from the sniper. With a large grunt, you dive head first in, your jacket lazily falling on your back. You do not hear the sniper fire again. You had better (link: "crawl fast; your life is still on the line!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Seventh Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}You're bleeding out... The sniper has yet to fire a more... conclusive shot, which serves as only temporary relief as pain sears your body. Stay here any longer, and your time in this realm was done... Dammit, do something! Wiggle your toes! Your fingers! Anything?... No dice; nothing's responding! Only the rain provides any insight that you have any feeling in your body at all. You're not paralyzed, thank goodness... but you can't do jack in your weakened state. Well, you're practically dead meat! Better kiss your ass goodbye... Wait... Mr. Sniper hasn't shot you yet, right? No duh... He is probably too proud to waste a bullet on what may just be a lifeless target... No, that couldn't possibly... ... You already feel dead anyways, and no one would find it suspicious were you to die... so why not give the Leanbox forces what they want? The sniper clearly won't shoot if you're already wasted... so if you simply stay still and play dead, you can at least grasp onto the hope that he'll lose interest. After flinching your arms for the last time... you quickly go as limp as possible. Have to make this realistic... not that this requires much acting. You close your eyes for the added effect, and your jacket fortunately serves to mask your subdued breathes. You lay there for what feels like an eternity, the rain blanketing you over and over again as the wind flutters by. The stench of fear doesn't even creep over you; all your emotions wash away as a strange sense of peace takes you over. Wait... Crap, you are afraid! You can't be sure if you're still faking this or not!!! Still, the sniper never shoots... W-Wow, did this seriously work?! For just an instantaneous moment, you raise your head to see if he's still in the window. Though it's hard to make out, you can barely take note of the fact that the window the man once stood in was empty. He's gone... Hallelujah! A bit disconcerting that he just up and left... but hey, you're not complaining. Whether you ever confront him again or not, you can only hope that there'll one day be a special spot in Hell just for him... Sadly, your relief is cut short (wow, what a shock), for as you look back down from the window, you hear two soldiers quickly approaching. Must be the clean-up crew... You outwitted a stupid sniper, so don't you dare flub this one! This ain't over (link: "just yet...")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Seventh Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[The rock is okay, but you know that staying here will only lead to certain death. Soldiers will grab you eventually, and that sniper isn't losing his aim anytime soon. You managed to strike gold in finding this cover, but you don't see luck getting you any further. Somehow, you have to escape this terrible predicament, or everything will have been for naught... Man, you hate thinking negatively like this... You try, but you just can't think of any decent place to run off to. That sniper will not let you pass, so going forward seems to be a waste of your life. Going backwards, likewise, will just present the same problem (no cover, approaching soldiers, you know). The same goes for left or right; no matter how you toss the dice, you were screwed. You have to think of some alternate method; maybe, just maybe, you can escape by... not moving at all. How? Well, it is an abstract thought, but it IS something... and as you muse over it, you began to concoct a plan. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true OR $iffyArmInjury is true)[The sniper did already plow you with a well-placed shot... and you can't lie, it feels like you're about to kick the bucket any second now. Well... who's to say you didn't just bleed out? It's... shockingly close to happening... so now one would be surprised if they found your lifeless body here...](else:)[The sniper fired twice: one where he fired a warning shot at your foot, and a second when you were rolling to where you are now. While it isn't true, perhaps the man would believe that one of those bullets did manage to pierce your hopefully-slim body? Picture this: while rolling, the bullet cut through you... and you were now hanging on to the last lingering bits of your life...] In other words, your brain hatches the brilliant idea to play dead. "Better playing than actual..." Thus, you take a deep breath... and letting out a sigh, you clumsily fall forward, making your body go as limp as possible. You boldly fall in such a way that the sniper can see you, and perhaps that was for the best: at first, you cringe at being in the open, but as the seconds roll by, it seems that the sniper was actually buying it. You continue to lay motionless for what seems like an eternity, and not one bullet screeches past you... or in you. You unfortunately can't see where he is, but as long as he thinks you're dead, he shouldn't do anything drastic; a proud sniper would never waste a bullet, especially on a sad, pathetic corpse. You decide to give it time... but you realize that you don't particular have much of a game-plan after this. Will the soldiers pick you up and throw you into the castle... a perfect gift for Vert? Well, as long as Mr. Sniper was gone, you could easily fight them off... Everything will work out! ... And then a grenade lands at your feet. You can't see it, obviously, but perhaps the texture and the sudden feeling of it hitting your heel was more than enough to alert you; things don't just roll up to you, after all... well, apart from one of your mortal enemies: hedgehogs. You know that moving will probably get you spotted, but you can't let this... thing take you out, either. Thus, you have no choice but to try and quickly kick it! (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 45)}However... your legs are now choosing to simply not respond to your brain signals. C-Crap, this wound is worse than you thought... There's no escape for you here; you're out of luck. The battle-hardened veteran... has finally been thoroughly defeated. The grenade explodes... and the instantaneous 45 damage blasts you (link: "straight awa-")[(set: $iffyDeath to "Grenade")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")]](else:)[{(set: $rockGrenadePath to true)(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 30)}Your stressed-out foot finally connects, and as you hear the explosive roll away through the sludge, you hear a voice shout "Shit!" through the downpour. This prompts you to stand and attempt to leap away. Sadly... you aren't fast enough, and the explosion goes off before you can clear the vicinity. The rock erupts into nothingness, leaving behind the biggest plume of smoke and debris you have ever seen. You aren't hit by the blast directly, but the heat and shrapnel still singe you for 30 damage, and knocks you flat on your stomach. This certainly sucks... and knowing there are now malicious soldiers around you (if they survived, that is) makes this situation rather... depressing. (link: "The smoke... You can't see anything through it at all!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Grenade")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Seventh Move")]]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 50)}Everything goes silent; even the rain makes nary a sound. You are rendered practically immobile... The sniper can finish you off any second, so why hasn't he yet? Perhaps he needs to reload already... Or, mayhap he refuses to waste a bullet on what may already be a lifeless target. Whatever his thought process may be... you are given a merciful brief window of opportunity to muster enough strength to do ANYTHING! You are definitely weak, but with the whole mission resting upon your shoulders, you have to dig down and unearth some hidden pool of emergency willpower residing deep within your soul! Besides... it wasn't like you to just quit, right? "I believe in you, IF." Lyrica?! "Come on, Iffy! Peeeerk yourself up!" Compa too?! "Yeah, um, Iffy... if ya, like, get killed here, I'll be preeeeeeety peeeved y'know..." Even Nep... "Screw it... Grrrrrr.... Crrrrraaaaaaap!" Your voice comes out raspier than you had hoped, but you give it your damndest and struggle. Y-Yes, you are starting to feel your feet again! Your toes manage to wiggle, and your knees push off the ground just a little. You don't even care now at how noticeable your movements may be; you're not freakin' paralyzed! You were shot directly by a flippin' sniper rifle... and you were already recovering! You ARE the ultimate hero of the land! You quickly dart your eyes, and notice what appears to be a tiny rock formation to the right; it definitely isn't the biggest in the world, but if you can somehow get over there, you will at least be out of the sniper's sight! It's a long shot... but then again, you even making it this far can be equated as such. You've been through sticky situations before; this one is just a tad more brutal. "Here we go, then..." Nothing to lose... With a scream, you quickly find yourself somehow springing right up to your feet, every muscle in your body bellowing in beautiful harmony! Shades of blues and yellows and oranges and magentas blur your vision, however; your mind was actively waging war with your physical vessel! Your wound shocks every fiber of your being, making you almost fall back down in that simple instant. Crud, seems the bullet did more damage than you realized... Still, you somehow got up! ... The rocks! Run to them now! You can make i- (link: "*PSHHOOO!!*")[(set: $iffyDeath to "Sniper")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 35)(set: $iffyArmInjury to true)(set: $armInjuryType to "Arrow")}There isn't really anything out on the field that would draw the sniper away from you, so no matter where you move, he'll be on you in no time flat. Thus, if you want to survive, you'll have to make your own distraction. Better that than just sitting here for the rest of your life. Thinking as to what you should do... you decide to sacrifice two precious items: one of your throwing knives, and... your iconic leafy bow. You hate to do this, but... it's perhaps the only way. Godspeed, leafy bow; you'll make your country proud! If you carefully place the bow on the Qatar, and gently raise it so that it's in clear view of the sniper... he may mistake it for you and fire! Thus, he will need to reload, allowing you time to find more cover... or at least get out of his sight. Wherever that may be... Thus, you do this with haste, your heart pounding almost as much as when your relationship with Lyrica first became romantic! As soon as the bow is visible, the sniper does exactly as you intended!... However the force of the bullet is a lot more than you realized; crap, how the hell were you supposed to know?! You're not a rifle wielder... The blade rips out of your hand, catching you completely by surprise and knocking you on your back. Realizing you are exposed, you quickly dart back to the rock... but not before another bullet fires for your back! You fortunately pivot enough so that it misses its desired target... and the projectile instead lodges itself into your forearm! "Shi-!" you silence yourself as your back slams back against the rock. Your arm is bleeding profusely now from the 35 damage... You pull out one of your shoelaces and wrap it around your sleeve, hoping beyond hope that this will slow down the flow. This... isn't working out... Your poor leafy bow lies in the mud, a hole cut cleanly through it... Wearing a sad look, you place it right back where it belongs... and realize that you have accomplished absolutely nothing, and have one ruined Qatar and an aggravated arm wound to show for it. (link: "\"C'mon... Think, IF, think!!!\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Sixth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyShotRoll to true)(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}Everything is devilishly silent as you lay in your own despair. There are nearby soldiers of course, and that sniper definitely didn't leave this quick... but the silence is deafening. The world is asleep, save for you... You can't tell where anyone or anything is... but you must keep a level head about you: if you didn't move, you were dead. What would you achieve then? You will be a failure to everyone who trusted in you, and there'd be nothing else for it. "No..." Your voice comes out raspier than you had hoped, but you give it your damndest and struggle. Y-Yes, you are starting to feel your feet again! Your toes manage to wiggle, and your manage to slightly shift your knees against the ground. You don't even care now at how noticeable your movements may be; you're not freakin' paralyzed! You were shot directly by a flippin' sniper rifle... and you were already recovering! You ARE the battle-hardened veteran! You quickly dart your eyes, and notice what appears to be a tiny rock formation to the right; it definitely isn't the biggest in the world, but if you can somehow get over there, you will at least be out of the sniper's sight! It's a long shot... but then again, you even making it this far can be equated as such. You've been through sticky situations before; this one is just a tad more brutal. However, you know that trying to get up to run will take far too long, meaning you have to think of something else, and fast. That rock is the only way to survive, so somehow you have to get your fatally-wounded body there. The sniper remains quiet... so don't squander this moment! Take everything into consideration... Well, if you can't stand, be it because you'll get murdered or you simply can't muster the strength yet... then the only other thing you can do is roll, right? It might hurt like a mother-klagnon, but it wouldn't require that much with the legs... so what could possibly go wrong? Eh, e-eh? "Let's hope this'll be more 'Lyrica in a bathing suit' and less 'Cave and Chika walking in on us... cosplaying'... God, I'm messed up." Oh, just do it already! Deep breaths, IF, deeeeeeeep breaths... and NOW! Crossing your arms over your chest, you suddenly twist you body enough so that your face is out of the mud and staring up at the rain, a few drops catching you in the eyes. What dicks... Not out of the woods, er, hilly fields yet! Heeeeeeeeeavvvvve!!! Keeping your eyes closed so that no mud joins the water in them, you roll and roll and roll to the right, praying to every possible deity out there (asides from Arfoire, you cynical bastard) that Mr. Sniper will miss. Wait a minute... You don't even hear a single bullet fire from his barrel. The hell? Is he... reloading, you wonder? Huh... He fired once at your feet, and again when... well, you know. What rifle was he using? Uni had some strange guns, such as a triple-barreled shotgun... but a two-round sniper rifle. Eh, maybe it wasn't so strange. Whatever the logistics were, it sure did a number on you. A big number. 50 damage, remember? Speaking of which... You rolling certainly doesn't help matters with your gunshot wound. Blood is desperately trying to gush out of your gut, as if your mortal coil were a high-security prison. You can't take this much longer... You're bleeding out... It feels like an eternity, especially with the idea that, at any second, a bullet may just come crashing hard into your skull... but eventually you are forced to stop rolling as your foot hits the rock. H-Holy crum, y-you made it! The relief energizes you, and the surge of adrenaline allows you to haaaaaauuuuuul yourself up! You waste no time and smash hard against the small rocks, sitting at an awkward angle so that your head is not visible. Damn, these things are smaller than they looked from afar... ... You can't stay here for long. Gotta (link: "get out of this somehow!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Sixth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $rockGrenadePath is true)[The rain continues to fall, staining the land with the disgusting paste of brown as mud envelops the once-peaceful battlefield. The wind howls as a tight breeze whirls by the young sniper, scanning from the top floor of the Leanbox Basilicom... and still dedicated to killing the rogue brunette. As much as he hated needless bloodshed, IF being here was going to screw everything up... yes, even worse than things already were! She had to be stopped... Needs of the many outweigh the needs of a cute girl, right? Besides... in times of warfare, accolades were all that mattered. He would certainly accrue plenty of praise by claiming her head. A gigantic plume of smoke fills the air around where the rock used to be... and the sniper grows anxious. He takes a deep breath, reloading his weapon in a poor attempt to calm his nerves. What jackass threw that grenade?! This was HIS kill, damn it! Although... he suspects that his target still draws breath; if she survived his aim, then a pathetic explosion sure as hell wouldn't do the job! And, in the off-chance she did in fact kick the proverbial bucket... well, he couldn't rest until he at least confirmed the current location of the corpse... or at least what's left of it. He stubbornly leans out the window, his body almost embracing the open air, and his rifle aimed at the grass. His scope can only help so much, as the cloud obscures everything for quite a fair distance... but he must remain vigilant and determined at all costs! This proves quite the inexperienced move, unfortunately, as outside on the other breach of the castle, a rather large shockwave suddenly rocks the regal building's very structure! Must've been some massive horrifying explosion... The castle shakes from the sudden boom's puissance, and the sniper finds himself losing his balance! He desparately tries to hold himself, but his unfortunate pose causes him to fall straight out the window! He lets out a horrified scream as he plummets hard to the ground below. ... Hey, what was that noise? Huh... sounded like a scream... You cough and spit as you find yourself trapped within a cloud of gray and black. Your ears are ringing, muffling any sound that attempts to permeate through. You struggle to get up, feeling shrapnel blanketing your entire being as you try to relocate where the hell you are. No matter where you look, there is just an endless sea of gray; grayer than the sky above... Or, perhaps the sky decided to descend upon you, swallowing everything whole in one merciful gulp. You manage to regain some control of your ears... just in time to hear two voices approaching. They sound... hmm, somewhat desperate in tone. "Can't...mmit, I thin-" Must be searching for you; what else can you assume? It is clear that they want you dead like that sniper, as evidenced by their willingness to toss a frackin' grenade your way... but luckily you are masked by the debris field. Unfortunately, so are they... You try to locate their locations, squinting so hard your very sockets feel sore. Reminds you of the time you read some of Blanc's fanfiction... H-Hey, you think you can see something! Y-Yeah... two silhouettes right outside the fog, both with guns ready but their stances unsure. You have the advantage in this situation... and if you do this right, you can get out unharmed. You don't feel like utter crap, all things considered... so let's not ruin your good fortune so far, eh? The sitution is clear: you must take out these guys to proceed... a grand cliche of videogames if you ever knew one! They'll no doubt open fire if you try to escape or anything... so let's put your action skills to the test! [[Grab the closest guard!|IF Seventh Move Max Damage]] [[Punch one into the other!|IF Seventh Move Min Damage]] [[Sweep their legs!|IF Seventh Move No Damage]]](elseif: ($iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $rockGrenadePath is false)[The rain continues to fall, staining the land with the disgusting paste of brown as mud envelops the once-peaceful battlefield. The wind howls as a tight breeze whirls by the young sniper, scanning from the top floor of the Leanbox Basilicom and still dedicated to killing the rogue brunette. As much as he hated needless bloodshed, IF being here was going to screw everything up... yes, even worse than things already were! She had to be stopped... Needs of the many outweigh the needs of a cute girl, right? He knew that, somehow, she had escaped into the large patch of grass, one that almost stretches about a full quarter of the castle's backyard... a massive security oversight that Lady Green Heart should really get to addressing. The man wasn't ready to lose her; not now. He stubbornly leans out the window, his body almost embracing the open air, and his rifle aimed at the grass. Quite an inexperienced move, unfortunately, as outside on the other breach of the castle, a rather large shockwave suddenly rocks the regal building's very structure! Must've been some massive horrifying explosion... The castle shakes from the sudden boom's puissance, and the sniper finds himself losing his balance! He desparately tries to hold himself, but his unfortunate pose causes him to fall straight out the window! He lets out a horrified scream as he plummets hard to the ground below. ... All the while, you quickly recollect yourself within the tall grass. Keeping your breathing subdued and your mind in check, you allow the rain to fall unobstructed upon your back. It isn't the most ideal feeling... but you prefer it to being out in the open with all the soldiers wandering about. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[Now, if only the waterdrops could remove this bullet from your gut...] Unfortunately, it appears that your trials are not yet over (they never are, eh?), as you soon hear a group of men quickly approaching your hiding spot. The tall grass that conceals you would obscure half your body if you stood upright, so in your prone state you can barely see the lot... but you know that they are the once-hesitant guys who were stalking you near the rock. Soon, you sense they are standing where you entered the grass, their bodies set to a stop just a few meters away. You try to get a look at them, sizing them up... but you soon hear peculiar radio chatter, which causes the soldiers to suddenly begin talking into what you can presume are government-issued walky-talkies. Listening intently, you try to make out what they are saying: "-to the front? Jeez, how di... I knew i-... Yeah, we'll be there soo...old'em off." They were communicating with some unit out front, it seems... Geez, you hope your squad is alright... Anyways, while this was a clear distraction, the soldiers are still focused on the grass, as you are pretty confident they saw you sneak your way in. You escaped one dead-end, and made your way into another... This day keeps getting better and better! Oh well, can't change the past... The rain continues to fall harder and harder, and the wind blows as hectic as an unhinged warp-pipe... disturbing the grass enough to ruffle it all about. You don't want to be in this storm for the rest of your life... but you also don't want to be dead. Yeah, not a big fan of that option... Any wise ideas, cowgirl? [[Lie still! Try not to move!|IF Seventh Move No Damage]] [[Slowly crawl through the grass!|IF Seventh Move Min Damage]] [[Surprise attack!|IF Seventh Move Max Damage]]](else:)[Well, this is not the way you wanted things to play out. The sniper no longer gave a crap as far as you can tell, but unfortunately the ground troops still remain. You can't get a good look at them, and simply continue to lay stiff as they now stand over you, feeling their weighted stares on your back. The rain only falls harder; you sure picked a most appropriate day to get shot in the line of duty. One of them pokes your leg with his gun, hoping to stir a reaction. Memories of ignoring a poking Neptune rush back to you, and your muscles remain calm. The soldiers grow even more restless, judging by their movements; you hear their boots slosh in the mud, indicating that they are pacing about with no particular rhythm. "Dude, just... j-just flip her over! She has to be alive!" "Look, I don't know. She ain't moving, man..." Both sets of eyes are trained on you, and one man lifts your limp left arm before dropping it to the ground once more. "This isn't good, man... Like, NOT good! Vert didn't want her DEAD... did she?" As they mused over your fallen body, you hear the crackle of an incoming radio signal. "D-Damn, what now?!" One guard pulls out his communication device... and a loud voice from the other side booms in his ear. You can't hear exactly what is being said... but it doesn't sound good. Is... this a sign that your squad out front is safe? Whatever is going on, sounds like someone is kicking total Leanbox ass! As soon as the conversation is over, the soldier clicks off his radio and presumably turns to his partner. "... Look, it's not goin' good... We should just leave her! We have other things to do!" "Dude, w-we can't just... W-We gotta bring her with us at least! Either confirm she's dead, or... capture her in case she wakes up! If Vert gets upset... you know whose heads she's coming for..." The two partners take a few steps by the sound of it... and you hazard a look. You turn your head to the right cautiously... and the guards have their backs to you, clearly conflicted over what to do with you. You still feel like utter crap... but if you were ever going to strike, now would be the time! You can't risk them capturing you and leaving you as a prize for Vert's throne... This is gonna blow either way, but it's the only shot you've got! [[Grab the closest guard!|IF Seventh Move Max Damage]] [[Punch one into the other!|IF Seventh Move Min Damage]] [[Sweep their legs!|IF Seventh Move No Damage]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $rockGrenadePath is true)["Where da hell is she?!... Damn, I can't see shit! Why'd you throw that, man?!" "I-I panicked, okay! S-She was clearly faking, s-so... I-I know she survived the blast too, so she has to still be in... there!" "Ya damn idiot! Ugh... The rest of the squad already ran to the front! C'mon, we've bigger fish to fry!" "N-No! W-We gotta find her!" They are arguing amongst themselves, buying you plenty of time. You are literally in front of their eyes, and yet the dark smoke prevents them from seeing you. Strange, and even sorta creepy if you really think about it... but in the end, you can't be happier considering the circumstances. The cloud of physical death is killing your lungs, though, so whatever you do has to be done right now! Charging them seems easy enough... However, in your head, the easiest path usually spells something bad; nothing can be simple, right? A hero must always go out of his or her way to save the universe; shortcuts just lead to 200-episode-long subplots! Gotta restrain yourself from totally going all-out on these jagoffs... but what? ... Weeeeeeeell... the grenade that landed you in this mess would've murdered you outright had you not... kicked it away! Your skilled feet kept you alive... Can you use that expertise once more? Even after the explosion, your legs fortunately still feel to be in working condition... and yeah, these guys won't be expecting a thing. You bet a single good sweep may be enough. "Wish there was a more honorable way... but they did try to turn me to gibs..." Dusting off your leg, you slowly inch towards them, stopping right where the smoke begins to dissipate. The two soldiers are too distracted to see you in full... but one appears to have spotted your hair! "W-What the hell?!" Hearing him stumble before cocking his gun, you let out a scream as you suddenly crouch down low and extend your leg out as you dig your right arm firmly into the ground. The soldiers are not quick enough for your veiled assault, and you propel yourself so that you're now spinning like a top. One, two... Your leg crashes hard right into the two soldiers' own! Both yelp as you sweep 'em off their feet, and fall flat to the ground. Ouch, that's gotta hurt! You grind your momentum to a fast halt, and waste no time: you leap for the downed guards, as there's no way that kick finished them off! The first guy is practically sitting up already, but a nice relaxing chop to the neck brings him to La-La Land! The second guy is much slower to recuperate, and thus offers absolutely no resistance as he follows suit! Heheh, you were once again victorious! Tch, as if that was any doubt... Huh, good timing too, for the smoke cloud finally disperses the vast majority of the smoke cloud, bringing your cover to an unfortunate end. ... Crud, you're completely exposed! Your head snaps towards the window that the sniper fired from... and oh, huh, he's... not there anymore? W-Wait, was that the scream you heard earlier? Did... the clumsy bastard fall? How... hilarious... E-Either way, you can't stand out here like this! Gotta find sumthin'... Man, the Leanbox forces sure cleared out fast; you can't see a swarm of them approaching anymore... though the wind and rain are kinda murdering all semblance of vision. What... was going on in the front of the Basilicom? That's where everyone seems to have gone... ... Hmm? Oh, hey: a large patch of grass is growing several feet from where you're standing! Lady Vert must not have anyone to do her yardwork... for the unkempt section of the lawn sure stretches quite a fair distance! If you crawled along inside of it... you'd wind up basically right outside the back doors! That could come in handy... You thank Chika's laziness over not mowing the grass as you hop in, moving through the tall blades with haste! (link: "Mission target, here you come!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](elseif: ($iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $rockGrenadePath is false)[(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}You're bleeding out... ]It's impossible to tell exactly how many soldiers are watching, as well as how prepared they are to fire. You could try moving, but with how sporadic the wind currently is, one wrong move may completely expose you. Thus, thinking it is your only option left, you decide to lie as still as possible within the tall blades, hoping that your motionless body will be an impossible target to fire at. Time 'flies' by at an unbearably slow rate, among the longest few minutes of your life. You keep your body as still as a statue, to the point that you even feel your eyes freeze. You simply watch as the grass moves about, the rain wetting your vision as you hear the soldiers yelling. "S-She's in here! I know I saw somethin'!" You hear some shuffling of feet, and you begin to fear them coming in; they do that, and you were a goner! However, another sound from their radio device blares out, causing one of the soldiers to grunt. One of them responds... and all that comes out from the voice on the other side is a hearty helping of yelling and screaming... What on bloody Leanbox was happening on the other side of the Basilicom? You find yourself shivering... and you can't exactly be sure why. "Look, we gotta go now, sir! Let's just fire in there! I doubt she'll be able to survive that!" Your heart stops as you hear the cocking of their guns... Still sticking with your gut, you brace for the barrage that was inevitably going to... well, suck. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[You REALLY can't afford to get shot again... ]The shots fire one-by-one, and you flinch like a timid horsebird in the wild as each bullet blazes through the grass like it was tissue. One bullet, much to your horror, soars by right in front of your eyes, stopping just short of impaling your skull. That's a few years off of your lifespan right there... Fortunately, sudden silence permeates as you reel from the pumping adrenaline. Your soul nearly flees your body from the shock... before you hear the soldiers run off, leaving you alone within the grass. Gulping, you find the energy to survive and slowly begin to move, determining that it must be clear by now. You don't know how you managed to get through that one intact, but you most certainly aren't complaining. (link: "\"... I need... a vacation...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}There is barely any sensation of life in your body... NO! Fight it out... You gotta get your motor functions back if you're gonna take these bastards out! Wiggle your toes... Wiggle! WIGGLE!... T-There! You've achieved movement in your lowest of extremities! Now for your foot... H-Hell yeah! Not just your foot, but your entire leg is responding to your rapid brain signals! The sniper bullet, understandably, shook up your system... but now you are slowly getting back in the game! But is it enough? And do you have enough time to muster up the strength to get up and take these jerks down? Wobbly legs are one thing, but you can't defeat them with just... you... ... A tiny smile develops on your face... You need to have more faith in yourself: your legs may be more than enough to buy you a ticket out of here! Er, wait, that sounded kinda wrong... You take another look at the two soldiers. They are still facing away from you, and now they are perfectly side-by-side from one another, still arguing over what to do with you. Heh, just because Leanbox had a vicious army didn't mean that everyone was a winner... C-Crap! One soldier suddenly points a finger at you! C-Can't breathe... Oh, hehe, he, er, doesn't actually turn... He didn't notice you looking... Whew... A-Anyways, on to the show! They're not expecting a thing... Sweep their legs, ya filthy animal! Er, wait, wrong motivational message! With a silent grunt, you manage to lift your body up to a crouch, ignoring the seering pain in your gut. Aye yai yai! Compa is gonna have a field day with your insides!... Gotta work on your phrasing, IF-old-girl... You hold your body up with your enfeebled arms and take a deep breath... Do it! "GRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-" The two soldiers turn upon hearing your scream... but by then, they can only see your body twist in the air as you push off the ground, spinning in a circular motion almost like a breakdancer in front of a loving audience. With tears in your eyes, you feel the intensity in the impassioned swing of your feet so vividly... and feel the satisfying direct impact of their legs against your own. They both scream as they fall helplessly to the ground, stunned at what they believe is a zombie hell-bent on their destruction. Your expert motion comes to a quick stop as your body begs to take a break. However, you know that should you stop now, you'll never be able to make it out, for the two goons are still active and probably PRETTY pissed off right now. Using whatever strength you have left, you quickly pounce (well, more like forcibly fall) on the nearest man and, just as he opens his dazed eyes, punch him out. As for the other soldier, who is more stunned than his ally, you weakly roll right over to him and do the same, knocking him out rather dramatically, if not a bit schmaltzy. Alas, as the two lay unconcious under the heavy rain, you quickly find yourself on your back once again, panting heavily as you look down at your glowing wound. By some miracle, it doesn't look any worse than before... though keeping on this path will no doubt break that good luck streak. Blood is desperately trying to gush out of your gut, as if your mortal coil were a high-security prison. You can't take this much longer... You're bleeding out... You dispatched those two without any extra scrapes or bruises, defying all the odds like some passe professional wrestler... but you aren't going anywhere decent so long as this wound remains unaddressed! (link: "\"What would Compa do?... Think, think!\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $rockGrenadePath is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 30)}"Where da hell is she?!... Damn, I can't see shit! Why'd you throw that, man?!" "I-I panicked, okay! S-She was clearly faking, s-so... I-I know she survived the blast too, so she has to still be in... there!" "Ya damn idiot! Ugh... The rest of the squad already ran to the front! C'mon, we've bigger fish to fry!" "N-No! W-We gotta find her!" They are arguing amongst themselves, buying you plenty of time. You are literally in front of their eyes, and yet the dark smoke prevents them from seeing you. Strange, and even sorta creepy if you really think about it... but in the end, you can't be happier considering the circumstances. The cloud of physical death is killing your lungs, though, so whatever you do has to be done right now! Even when standing smack dab in front of them, the smoke is more than enough to keep you concealed. Perhaps, you hope, this can be your way to safety?... Nah, you can't risk just up and running! Who knows when Mr. Sniper may fire again? The debris field can only spread so far... Besides, these two guys, foolish though they may seem, can't be counted out. They have guns... and that's more than enough to stop you should everything go to hell. They spot anything suspicious, they'll immediately hop up and blast your ass! Can't risk that... You slowly inch towards the end of the cloud, where the guys can be seen in much more vivid detail. This also means that they will be able to see you too... but they're still far too busy yelling at each other; oh, get a room ya two! Ha, what do you care? This just makes things so much easier... Take a deep breath, turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream... You can literally see, with your mind's eye, yourself grabbing the closest man, rendering him absolutely helpless... Holding one hostage for a brief moment before tossing him towards his buddy may just be the best course of action! "This'll either work, or I'll probably die... My kinda odds." They are standing side-by-side, so you determine that you should grab the right-most soldier, and then throw him towards Guard Numero Dos down during the ensuing confusion. Follow your instincts to finish them off... Easy! Flexing your arms, you notice the hellish fog rolling away thanks to the increasing winds. It is time to strike. With a scream, you suddenly leap up and wrap your arms around the nearest guard's neck. He yelps in surprise, and his teammate is a bit slow to turn around. His eyes widen in confusion; he must suspect you're a ghost, or at least an esper. Hehehe... Got this completely under your contro- O-Oh crap, this guy is kinda s-slippery! His armor is all sleek from the drenching downpour, and that's not even counting how much he's wriggling under your grasp! N-No, you hafta hold him tight! You... can't... let... go! You are so distracted with trying to keep this struggling dude in check... that you don't realize his partner already rushing up to you! He reels his gun backs... before bringing it down for your forehea- *WHACK!* Fu...! Everything turns red... and you feel an elbow bashing your chest as you stand delirious from the strike. N-Not like this... Grunting, you ram your knee right into your hostage's tailbone, taking the air outta him by force. That's not the end of it just yet...! You quickly follow up by pushing him towards his friend (as originally intended; better late than never) before that sidearm could graze your forehead again! The two lose their balance by some matter of good fortune... and they collapse like wimps. N-Neh... You nearly lost consciousness there... Feeling returning to your nerves, you wind back your left leg and kick the two bastards square in the jaw... and comforting silence is all that remains. H-H-Ha! Those two aren't going to get up anytime soon. Nighty-night... Geez, if only you could gloat better... but you did kinda lose 30 health. You have to remember you're not invincible... ... Oh criminy, you're out in the open! The debris-field is gone... You quickly look towards the Basilicom's window... and are surprised to find that Mr. Sniper is no longer stationed there. W-Wait, was that the scream you heard earlier? Did... the clumsy bastard fall? How... hilarious... E-Either way, you can't stand out here like this! Gotta find sumthin'... Man, the Leanbox forces sure cleared out fast; you can't see a swarm of them approaching anymore... though the wind and rain are kinda murdering all semblance of vision. What... was going on in the front of the Basilicom? That's where everyone seems to have gone... ... Hmm? Oh, hey: a large patch of grass is growing several feet from where you're standing! Lady Vert must not have anyone to do her yardwork... for the unkempt section of the lawn sure stretches quite a fair distance! If you crawled along inside of it... you'd wind up basically right outside the back doors! That could come in handy... You thank Chika's laziness over not mowing the grass as you hop in, moving through the tall blades with haste! (link: "Mission target, here you come!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](elseif: ($iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $rockGrenadePath is false)[The voices of the soldiers were close, and staying here any longer would probably lead to your discovery. There is no telling how prepared they are to fire at you, and any wrong move will certainly end you. Such a sad place to go, shrouded in shrubbery... and thus you certainly have no intention for this to be your resting place. Let's analyze this... Okay, so moving more than your eyes would be ill-fated, as they'll probably notice your subtle movements within the grass. Staying here will only lead to your death... so what else was there to do? What can possibly save you now in this hour of crisis? ... It sounds stupid in your head, but you begin to come up with a bold move: surprise them, and take them out while they are shocked. The radio message you heard has probably taken some of their attention away, so you'll have a shot at succeeding here. You take a deep breath, wondering how many soldiers there really were. You hope that there are only two, for any more would increase the likelihood of you becoming swiss cheese. And let's not forget Mr. Sniper... er, wherever he is. "Screw it!" You began to hear one of the soldiers mumble how he knew you must be in the grass... Once he stops speaking, you quickly spring up like a monster of the sea, ready to pull an unfortunate creature under and swallow it whole. When you rise up, you are happy to only see two men... though their guns are fully drawn. Upon seeing you, they do jump back in fright, not expecting you to greet them in such a way... clearly. This allows you to get the leg up on the guy to the left, as you quickly grab his gun, punch his face, and then chop his neck to incapacitate him. That worked; simple and effective! Okay, time for soldier numbe- Crap! The second soldier is able to recover after you beat the other up, and he wastes no time. Before you can think of your next signature move, he bashes you at least three times on the back, using his gun as a blunt object. You begin to feel dizzy, but you shake the feeling off and you turn to face the man. He quickly tosses his gun and pulls out a knife from his belt, slashing before you can react; your chest flares with numbing heat... but you remain undeterred! You kick the violent man in the nether-regions... er, accidentally, of course... and as he stumbles in pain, you send him a massive uppercut to the neck, launching him in the air in a physics-defying stunt! He nonchalantly lands hard on his back... Once they are both down, the pain reminds you of its presence. Grimacing, and knowing that more soldiers were probably on their way, you quickly roll back into the grass, assessing your injuries while concealed. The rain continues to fall as you look at the wound on your chest; not the deepest gash, but definitely something you aren't proud of receiving. While physical pain may be temporary, the lingering emotional humiliation may just last you a lifetime... Your back also took a massive pummeling, but you can only hope that you will fare okay. A terrible bout that was, though; about (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 40)}40 health was lost. The blows to your spine definitely didn't help your gunshot wound... Bloody bastards...](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 30)}30 health was lost from that error in judgement.] As you continue to crawl through the grass, you overhear on one of the men's radio some terrified yelling... You wonder what that's about, but right at this moment it's unimportant. (link: "\"... I'm getting too old for this...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 30)}Your body screams in pain (well, not literally, though you have seen that happen) as you wait for them to turn... yet they never do. They continue facing away from you, still arguing over how to handle this situation. Idiots... Guess they think you're dead, but it's common knowledge to never turn your back on the enemy! Granted, you wonder just what the hell you can do in your current state. The bullet was still fresh within your body, and movement feels like an impossible task. Your whole system is too shocked to process your brain waves, even simple ones! Still, by staying here any longer, the men will either finish you off if they ever see through your ruse, or they'll carry you away to a fate which may be even worse than death. You move your feet slightly by bending your knees, and clench a hearty pile of mud in your right hand... Wait, what?! Y-You're moving! How did... Good thing you're a well-fit warrior; otherwise, you'd probably be frozen stiff forever. Perhaps it's the knowledge that your life not only can, but most likely WILL end any second that allows for this sudden boost of energy. You have a lover to rescue, loyal 'sisters' to make proud... and a couple friends to patch some serious things up with... You simply can't fall here. Grievous... wounds... can't... keep... you down!!! Hurry! While your legs don't feel entirely like mush! The first thing that comes to mind is to spring up and grab the closest guy. That way, you can not only surprise them AND render one helpless... but you'll also be able to use him as a crutch of sorts, in case you are still too weak to stand! It may be rough, and you wonder if your body can handle such a fluent motion, but no matter what, you have to get these two out of your hair pronto. Feel the newfound confidence fill your veins with its splendor! Feel it... Can ya feel it? Yeah-ha-ha, that's what yer talking about! Er, ignore the fact that you're struggling to get into a crouching position... Ya got this, girl! Okay, now keep quiet so not to spook these two guys... They're about to be spooked enough as is! ... Teetering, teetering! Don't you dare lose balance! Whew, leveled out... Short, easy breathes... And hey, you're not in as much agonizing pain as you feared! That's always a plus! "... Here goes nothin'..." you mutter, barely whispering to yourself. With a scream, you suddenly leap up and wrap your arms around the nearest guard's neck. He yelps in surprise, and his teammate is a bit slow to turn around. His eyes widen in horror; he must suspect you're a zombie. Okay... Now you... gotta... k-knock this guuuuuuu-... N-No, stay awake, you FOOL! You moved way too fast for your own good, and now everything looks like an odd mix between purble, blue, and red... As if Neptune, Lyrica, and that Red girl had a night far too interesting to fly by the censors... Hmm... what's that? The other dude pulled out something... You can't tell what it is. Maybe it's a connoli or sumthin'? Mmmmm, looks tasty~ Food would be good right about now. Now, chow, chao, nao, pow, sow, cow... Cows, cows, cows... Compa has the most adorable cow impression! You really gotta hear it again~ Why does the word 'ear' make up 'hear'? That had to be intentional, right? Man, linguists are so whac- *WHACK!* You snap out of your... uh... upon getting struck in the head by the other soldier's pistol. The guard in your hands desperately tries to escape, jamming his elbow back into your chest in an attempt to claw his way out of the hold. N-Not like this... Grunting, you ram your knee right into your hostage's tailbone, taking the air outta him by force. That's not the end of it just yet...! You quickly follow up by pushing him towards his buddy, before that sidearm could graze your forehead again! The two lose their balance by some matter of good fortune... and they collapse like wimps. N-Neh... You can feel yerself slippin'... Before your body gives out, you wind back your left leg and kick the two bastards square in the jaw... and comforting silence is all that remains. H-H-Ha! Those two aren't going to get up anytime soon. Nighty-night... You two just got punked by a dying girl! Once you add that victory to your databanks... you nearly collapse once again. You're even more sore than before; both sets of blows dealt at least 30 damage to your enervated frame. It would've taken a miracle to get out of that completely unscathed... but you can't help but bemoan your apparent standing with the gods. ... You stare down at your gut... and your clothes are redder than ever. You're on your last legs, you fear... Ya hafta do something about this wound! You can ignore it no longer, especially if more assholes wanted a shot at the unprepared battle-hardened veteran! (link: "\"Compa... Dammit, I need you! What... can... I even... do?\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $rockGrenadePath is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 15)}"Where da hell is she?!... Damn, I can't see shit! Why'd you throw that, man?!" "I-I panicked, okay! S-She was clearly faking, s-so... I-I know she survived the blast too, so she has to still be in... there!" "Ya damn idiot! Ugh... The rest of the squad already ran to the front! C'mon, we've bigger fish to fry!" "N-No! W-We gotta find her!" They are arguing amongst themselves, buying you plenty of time. You are literally in front of their eyes, and yet the dark smoke prevents them from seeing you. Strange, and even sorta creepy if you really think about it... but in the end, you can't be happier considering the circumstances. The cloud of physical death is killing your lungs, though, so whatever you do has to be done right now! Even when standing smack dab in front of them, the smoke is more than enough to keep you concealed. Perhaps, you hope, this can be your way to safety?... Nah, you can't risk just up and running! Who knows when Mr. Sniper may fire again? The debris field can only spread so far... Besides, these two guys, foolish though they may seem, can't be counted out. They have guns... and that's more than enough to stop you should everything go to hell. They spot anything suspicious, they'll immediately hop up and blast your ass! It may be safer to simply punch the guys out; at least they won't be awake to rear their ugly heads again. You slowly inch towards the end of the cloud, where the guys can be seen in much more vivid detail. This also means that they will be able to see you too... but they're still far too busy yelling at each other; oh, get a room ya two! Ha, what do you care? This just makes things so much easier... Take a deep breath, turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream... Your fist tightens, and you can literally see, in your own mind, yourself uppercutting the closest man. A simple jab to the jaw will silence him immediately! From there... just go with the flow, 'expert warrior'... "GRAAAAAAAAHHHH!" Both turn just in time to see your balled-up appendage rising up like a horsebird outta Virtua Forest (er, are they native there? Dah, who cares)! You punch the right-most guy straight in the chin. Hell yeah! At that angle, maybe he'll even crash right into his fair compadre! See, you know what you're doing! Yeeeeeeeep... he does! Hell to the ye- Oh, but the second guy manages to maintain his standing position. Lucky jerk... At least the first guy seems to be down. Guard #2 instantly retaliates, too shocked to remember he has a gun... You feel a fist not attached to your body connect with your unprepared cheek, leading to stars making love to your clouded eyes! Oooooh, the colors~... S-Snap out of it! You can't falter now! The man's other hand connects with your side, darkening the dancing heavenly bodies! S-Sonuva-...! Two can play at that game... You snap yourself out of the temporary daze and wind back your left arm... and you punch Soldier Numero Dos in the frickin' nose, a bit harder than intended! His eyes roll back until he is staring at you with pure white orbs... and he crumples like a nasty used tissue. Both men lay silent... What, are they made of glass? One punch took both of 'em out... Teh, you're not complaining. Once both are down, the wind and rain waste little time in washing away the smoke cloud, leaving you exposed to the world outside. You can now add two new bruises to your collection... but hey, it could've been worse than 15 Health! Amassing pain seems unavoidable now... Just a way of life in this new Gamindustri. ... Oh criminy! You quickly look towards the Basilicom's window... and are surprised to find that Mr. Sniper is no longer stationed there. W-Wait, was that the scream you heard earlier? Did... the clumsy bastard fall? How... hilarious... E-Either way, you can't stand out here like this! Gotta find sumthin'... Man, the Leanbox forces sure cleared out fast; you can't see a swarm of them approaching anymore... though the wind and rain are kinda murdering all semblance of vision. What... was going on in the front of the Basilicom? That's where everyone seems to have gone... ... Hmm? Oh, hey: a large patch of grass is growing several feet from where you're standing! Lady Vert must not have anyone to do her yardwork... for the unkempt section of the lawn sure stretches quite a fair distance! If you crawled along inside of it... you'd wind up basically right outside the back doors! That could come in handy... You thank Chika's laziness over not mowing the grass as you hop in, moving through the tall blades with haste! (link:"Mission target, here you come!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](elseif: ($iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $rockGrenadePath is false)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 15)}Their voices are way too close for comfort, and if you stay here any longer, there's no doubt that they will walk right to you. They may have their guns drawn, or they may not... but no matter what the circumstances are, you have to begin moving. You thank your lucky stars for this storm onslaught, as the rain makes it harder for everyone to see, and the increasing wind causes random patches of grass to dance about, decreasing the likelihood of the soldiers determining your current locale. Taking a deep breath, you slowly move like a spanworm, going with the motion of the grass as fluent as possible. Any wrong maneuveur will most certainly cost you an arm or a leg, so screwing up was not an option. (if: $iffyArmInjury is true)[They nearly took out one of your arms already... Never again!] As you move, you begin to hear the men again, sounding somewhat more desperate. "She's in here! I know I saw somethin'!" This boosts your confidence, knowing that you were still undetected. Just a little further up, and maybe you can get the drop on them, or perhaps find a quick way out of this mess! You can only hope, right? The Leanbox men move about the grass, and you can actually see the tops of their helmeted heads, all bobbing uncontrollably as they desperately sweep the grass, hoping to find any trace of your person. You fear for their eventual discovery of you, but you can't let that get to you. Thus, you continue to inch your way forward... Man, if you weren't at risk of totally dying, this situation would almost seem comical in a way. More radio chatter, and frightful yells and screams from voices on the other side fill the damp air. The soldiers halt their search, their spines no doubt rattling with unease. "... L-Look, we gotta go now, sir! Let's just fire in here! I doubt she'll be able to survive that!" You gulp as you hear the cocking of guns; you know what's coming. K-Keep your head down... In an instant, you find yourself blinded by lights and sparks and kicked-up dirt. You cover your head as the bullets wiz by, hoping for the hell to quickly dissipate. You feel a sharp pain cross your rugged arm and your delicate thigh, but you are too overwhelmed to even holler out! As with everything, the fiery scene soon comes to an end... You remain silent even as throbbing pain takes over your mind. No more, PLEASE, no more!... Wait, c-can you hear that? The sounds of feet suddenly scuffling away... You give it some time, and realize that the only sounds you can make out now are the always-pleasant mixture of rain and wind that had everso increased. You determine that you are in the clear... for now, so it would be wise to quickly look over your wounds. No piercing of your arm and thigh, it appears; the bullets merely skidded over your pale skin. Only a flesh wound, with the marks they left serving as a nice little reminder of how close to death you truly were. Not a one-hit kill by far... Still hurts like a 'mother', though... but hey, you could've done a whole lot worse than 15 damage! ... You just have to hope that it is smooth sailing from here on out. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[You need to get this actual serious wound addressed... fast!] (link:"\"C'mon, Lady Luck... I thought what we had was special?\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 20)}Your body screams in pain (well, not literally, though you have seen that happen) as you wait for them to turn... yet they never do. They continue facing away from you, still arguing over how to handle this situation. Idiots... Guess they think you're dead, but it's common knowledge to never turn your back on the enemy! Granted, you wonder just what the hell you can do in your current state. The bullet was still fresh within your body, and movement feels like an impossible task. Your whole system is too shocked to process your brain waves, even simple ones! Still, by staying here any longer, the men will either finish you off if they ever see through your ruse, or they'll carry you away to a fate which may be even worse than death. You move your feet slightly by bending your knees, and clench a hearty pile of mud in your right hand... Wait, what?! Y-You're moving! How did... Good thing you're a well-fit warrior; otherwise, you'd probably be frozen stiff forever. Perhaps it's the knowledge that your life not only can, but most likely WILL end any second that allows for this sudden boost of energy. You have a lover to rescue, loyal 'sisters' to make proud... and a couple friends to patch some serious things up with... You simply can't fall here. Grievous... wounds... can't... keep... you down!!! Hurry! While your legs don't feel entirely like mush! The first thing that comes to mind is to spring up and punch the guys out. It may be rough, and you wonder if your body can handle such a motion, but no matter what, you have to get these two out of here pronto. Just get them on the ground and stomp them; simple, right? Er, ignore the fact that you're struggling to get into a crouching position... Ya got this, girl! Okay, now keep quiet so not to spook these two guys... They're about to be spooked enough as is! ... Teetering, teetering! Don't you dare lose balance! Whew, leveled out... Short, easy breathes... And hey, you're not in as much agonizing pain as you feared! That's always a plus! "... Here goes nothin'..." you mutter, barely whispering to yourself. With a scream, you suddenly leap up and charge one of the men with your fist in the air. Both turn just in time to see your balled-up appendage rising up like a horsebird outta Virtua Forest (er, are they native there? Dah, who cares)! You punch the right-most guy straight in the chin. Hell yeah! At that angle, maybe he'll even crash right into his fair compadre! Sure hope so... as now you feel extremely tired. You jumped up way too fast... Yeeeeeeeep... he does! Oh, but the second guy manages to maintain his standing position. Lucky jerk... At least the first guy seems to be down. Guard #2 instantly retaliates, too shocked to remember he has a gun... You feel a fist not attached to your body connect with your unprepared cheek, leading to stars making love to your clouded eyes! Oooooh, the colors~... S-Snap out of it! You can't falter now! The man's other hand connects with your side, sending a bolt of lightning up your wound... S-Stop him! You find the energy to wind back your left arm... and you punch Soldier Numero Dos in the frickin' nose! His eyes roll back until he is staring at you with pure white orbs... and he crumples like a nasty used tissue. Both men lay silent... What, are they made of glass? One punch took both of 'em out... Teh, you're not complaining. "... Not the cleanest... but it'll do..." Your cheek smarts, your side hurts, you've probably blown out your knuckles from the two powerful punches... and you gunshot wound feels like it's physically trying to scoop out your insides. How... pleasant; if only it could help out with spring cleaning, eh, eh?... Geez, you are such a dork... ... You're bleeding out, and you know it. Your new bruises probably amount to 20 damage... but this hole in you can only lead to death. The way to the Basilicom now seems clear amidst the drenching rain... but if you're gonna even make it inside, you need to fix yourself up. (link:"\"Don't... be negative... I-I just gotta think about what Compa would do! E-Easy...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Eighth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[The grass feels like an endless maze of twisted weeds and dirt, smothered together in a mud that blankets your belly. It was perhaps the most uncomfortable sensation you have ever felt (and believe it, you've been through some weird things), but it was far better than walking directly through the line of fire. As the wind and rain, always the horrific partnership, begins to pick up yet again, you continue at a leisurely pace. You still hear the sounds of fighting in the distance, but for some reason it begins to grow a tad more quiet, as if the soldiers on the field all but ran off. Good for you, it seems, but still a tad bit suspicious. Or disconcerting. Or just plain horrifying. Grass, grass, grass... Ooh, a rather-large (if: $characterOneHP != "IF")[[[ant]<jokeendingiffy|]<timer|](else:)[ant] is climbing on a blade right beside your thumb!... Man, nature can be quite dull... At long last, you come to the end of the grassy trail... rather anticlimactly, actually. Not that you're complaining... but still. With a sigh, you realize that, if anyone else was out there, you would have no cover once again. You take a big gulp as you peek out of the grass, scanning the area right outside the Basilicom. You have no idea how long you took to make your way through, but the mighty doors of the holy citadel were finally just a stroll away. You feel a sense of relief run through you as your objective is now within your grasp. This stormy day was about to come to a close... assuming the defenses inside weren't as vicious as out here. You quickly dart your head around everywhere, looking for any sign of another trap. The rain makes it hard to see what was going on, but you think you can see a few soldiers in the distance... though they don't appear to be focused on your location at all. Are they... scrambling? Geez, what the hell is your squad doing?! The yelling coming from the men's radios keeps coming back to you... Something dastardly was afoot. Taking another deep breath, you start to stand, stretching your body after that long trawl through the muck. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true OR $iffyArmInjury is true)[You let out a reluctant grunt of pained effort while doing so; this bullet wound is sapping you of all your energy! Just stay focused... ]As soon as your head raises over the grass and you wipe your eyes, however... you find yourself watching a rather pathetic sight. Thanks to the grass and tiny rise in the land, you weren't able to see at first the rising man near the back door. He is clearly unwell, barely keeping on his feet, and trying to use a gun to keep his stance in check. You lower your head just a tad, and as you study the man, you realize just what you were about to deal with. The weapon he wields is a variation of a rifle with a scope; judging by how he is directly under the window where a man tried his best to end you, you can only assume this injured fellow is Mr. Sniper himself! The man that threw you into this terrible mess was now standing not too far before you, blocking your goal with his weakened stance. After firing so many shots at you, he is now the one exposed! No cover for him, and thus, no good way of protecting himself. An ego-boosting checkmate. You nod to yourself, determined to end this miniature rivalry... but as you do, you suddenly realize that you are a little too high from the grass, exposing yourself way too much! Seems you're both on equal terms... Thus, the sniper easily looks in your direction upon recollecting himself, and with an angry, pained expression, he draws a sidearm from his belt. Your heart beats ever faster... before a rather loud explosion sounds from the other side of the castle, ringing all the way to the dismal clouds. The two of you nearly stumble to the ground as a result of the ensuing shockwave... Jeez, what the hell was THAT?! Your army certainly didn't come equipped with any weapon capable of causing an earth-shattering kaboom! The sniper is thrown off now, causing his lopsided aim to be even more off-the-mark... This should give you a nice opening. You may not have enough time, so choose quickly! Time to prove who's the better soldier. [[Jumpkick him in the FACE!|IF Eighth Move Max Damage]] [[Run and spear him!|IF Eighth Move Min Damage]] [[Throw a Qatar blade!|IF Eighth Move No Damage]]{(click:?jokeendingiffy)[(set: $characterOneHP to "IF")(set:$previousPassage to "IF Eighth Move")(goto:"Joke Ending Passage")](live: 8s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[ant]]}](else:)[Every fiber of your being wishes to shut-down; to give up from all the pain... It's a miracle your insides aren't falling out. You knew that by continuing onwards and ignoring this bullet wound, you were only marching towards certain death. If you want to survive and finish your all-important mission... something drastic has to be done. Shall your legend be that of a fleeting breeze across Gamindustri's soil... or a raging whirlwind that brought forth change to the world at large? Before heading off towards the sniper-less Basilicom, you look down at the fallen soldiers; two souls who still drew breath, but were currently completely harmless. They are merely the product of your survival, their fall symbolizing your continuation on this land. You then dart your head everywhere as fast as you can handle... and notice a few soldiers far off running about. Yet, no one seems interested in the little rebel who opposes their forced ideals... Lucky you. Seeing as how no one is presenting themselves to be an immediate bother, you choose to investigate the fallen enemies. Hopefully this isn't your last decision ever. "They have to have something... anything..." All soldiers should have some kind of emergency aid on them, right? Injuries and would were the name of the game... Perhaps they wouldn't have anything heavy or major or the like, but something would have a better chance at keeping you alive than nothing... H-Heh, if only you heeded Compa's advice and took some medical supplies with you. Got a bit cocky there... but you really didn't want to lug around a backback! You refused to relent and cramp your style... Ah, young and dumb... You look at one of the soldiers and notice a pack on his thigh. Well, since he's not using it... "Don't mind if I do..." You grab the bag and snap it open... and whoops, you accidentally spill the contents right into the mud. Ugh, your hands are so shaky... Aside from strange boxes you can't identify, you notice a small bottle labeled "Reflex." You remember your friend Compa using the stuff, but you sadly never paid too much attention, and thus can't remember how she used it. Did you pour it on wounds? Nah, that can't be it... Hmm, perhaps you are supposed to drink it? It wasn't uncommon for your nurse-in-training best friend to just suddenly pump some unknown liquid down your throat... Don't analyze that sentence too much. You also notice that the sleeves on their uniforms appear easily rippable, yet highly durable. Perhaps you can use them to cover up? Yeah, but will blanketing the wound be enough? Crap, crap, crap, what to do?!... Hell, you can't exactly rule out your throwing knives! Maybe you should attempt to extract the bullet yourself? If it's still in you, it must be doing some massive damage to your innards... Maybe yoink it out and then bandage it? Decisions, decisions... Drinking Reflex, simply covering your wound, or removing the epitome of death itself from your body... You're so close to the end! Don't drop dead here, in the freezing-cold rain! [[Extract the bullet!|IF Eighth Move Max Damage]] [[Rip a sleeve off!|IF Eighth Move No Damage]] [[Use the Reflex!|IF Eighth Move Min Damage]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 5)}You're bleeding out... ]The explosion threw the man off balance, his body barely able to keep up with what his mind and senses were urging him to do. Still, you determine, the distance between him and you was way too far to be safe... and though he was wounded, he still wielded a versatile handgun; he was as dangerous as ever. If you run to him, he'll have time to regain his stance and shoot... You are forced to dispatch him fast. That cruel sidearm; necessary on the battlefield... but y'know what? Screw whoever came up with such a decisive weapon... Why must your honor stay your hand? You would never use a gun, at least one that goes for a killing blow... Wait, that's it! You don't have a gun... but you do have a projectile of your own! Right inside the sleeves of that large coat of yours... Heheh, you got this.(if: $iffyFifthChoice is "Throw")[.. Er, granted, you did try hitting this guy with a knife before... and you remember how well that went for ya... T-This time'll be different! H-Heh, think about it like this: if you botch this, you're probably gonna die... That counts as motivation, right?] With a swift flick of your left hand, you suddenly draw out a throwing knife, one perfect for piercing the air and taking out a distant opponent. The blade is still augmented with enough electricity to render any foe unconscious... You're not a Gamindustri scientist, so you can't claim to know how exactly it works. This guy clearly will be content with ending you... but that is still no excuse to kill him, and these special Qatars are just the thing you need! "Sorry, buddy, but you started it!" Twirling the blade in your hand (damn, that always feels cool!), you quickly throw the blade with just a small amount of gracefulness. Thrown with excellent timing, too, as Mr. Sniper (no longer holding, er, a sniper) points the gun square at you. A definitive quickdraw... His weary body probably doesn't register what you did in time, so he makes no effort to dodge. The knife cuts through who knows how many air molecules... and sticks right to his abdomen, releasing an intense static shock, just as intended! The soldier lets out a scream you swear you've heard before in a movie somewhere... and he falls to the ground hard, his body going limp in the dank mud. You don't move for a long moment, the soaking rain barely registering in your mind... When the moment feels right, and the man remains unmoving, you approach. Yep... he's down. Since his body still remains, he is clearly still alive (the dead poof away, for... some reason that escapes you)... Good, you were kinda concerned for a moment there. You reach down and pull the Qatar from the slumbering dude, and stuff it strategically back into your long sleeve. You did well, Qatey... W-Wait, ignore that! Y-You totally don't name your knives or anything!(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth + 20)} The pain in your abdomen suddenly feels worse than ever... Crap, you can leave it unattended no longer! But... what can you...? Wait, there was an unconscious soldier lying right in front of you! You doubt he has anything too useful in terms of properly healing bullet wounds... but if you can stop the blood flow, that's at least a start! His sleeves look tough enough... "... Got nothin' else to lose..." Using another Qatar, you slice off the sturdy fabric... You don't really have much expertise with, er, stripping men... and after this, you reckon you never want to do it again. ... Anyways, the man's uniform is in shambles, but you have enough of his clothes for a makeshift bandage around your entire stomach! Quick, check his rucksack... Ooh, a small roll of duct-tape! That'll do... Wrap wrap wrap, wrap wrap wrap, bind it all together... and viola! You at least won't bleed out as fast! You realize that, if you were anyone else, you would've died from this wound long ago... But you're the goddamn battle-hardened veteran! Mere sniper rounds can't silence you!... They sure can suck, though.] ... Time to move on. At long last, you finally stand before the Basilicom's back doors! "About damn time... I'm comin', Lyree." No more distractions! (link: "You know what to do...")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth + 15)}You can't remember enough about Reflex-brand Reflex to sooth your concerned mind, and let's face it, you aren't an expert at extracting bullets from your body... and you hate to admit it, but the thought makes you squeamish. Thus, the soldier's sleeve is the way to go; if nothing else, you'll stop the dramatic bleeding... hopefully. That's how it works, right? Manga can only teach you so much... Using your knife, you cut a large dose of fabric clean from the two soldiers' shirts. It isn't the smoothest material... but that may be for the best; it'll provide a lot of pressure to your open wound, and again, prevent your insides from spilling out. Sounds juicy, eh? You next undo the men's long shoelaces from their boots, and use it to carefully wrap the cloth together around your abdomen. All the while, you squint your eyes, trying to see jack anything through the monsoon. No movement... Where did that sniper go? It's a shame you'll never confront him again... but hey, it'll be a victory in its own right when you capture the castle and rub it in his face that you took his very best... and came out laughing! ... Aaaaaaaaaaaand... there ya go! The makeshift bandage is firmly pressed around your wound! Now, your safety wasn't guaranteed by any means... but at least your mental health was improving. The simple fact that you have lived this long must mean that the bullet missed all vital organs in your body... It was still a serious infliction on your body, but you can chalk some of the weakness to simple stress, fear, and everything in between. Nothing professional, but this bandage provides a nice placebo effect; your mind at least THINKS your body is well... and that's half the battle right there! The way to the Basilicom's back door seems vacant... This is your chance! Hurry along! "Almost done... Gotta hand it to ya, Vert; this has been (link: "quite the experience...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Bleed")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 25)}The dazed sniper was thrown off by the unknown explosion, understandably... which provides an easy opening to take him out! His staggered stance will most certainly not last forever, though... so whatever you have to do must be done now. Don't get too cocky, though; even when injured, the man is still a major threat while he's holding that pistol, so running directly at him may not be the best option... but standing here won't help things either! Damn, what to do?! "...Well, he won't expect me to come at him from the air..." Hmmm... yeah, that sounds like an awesome idea! Even when dazed, he may still be able to get a lucky shot in... but if you come at him with a flying kick, he definitely won't have enough time to fire! He'll waste a precious bullet (harmful to any proper sniper's pride), and he'll be out of your hair! "Well, no better time than the present... Sorry, buddy, but you started it!" Kicking your boot off the ground, you let out a tiny yell as you dash towards him, your legs pumping like pistons. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[The drive to survive is the only thing allowing you to sprint this fast; your body refuses to succumb to blood loss without a fight! Hopefully you can finish this before anemia can rear its ugly head... ]Okay, wait for the right moment... waaaaaaaiiiit for it... and JUMP! You suddenly push yourself into the air, twisting your body as you prepare for the ultimate kick! This'll be awesome!!! You begin a full rotation (partially for added pain-inflicting momentum, partially for the visual dynamic), and once the man is out-of-view, you start extending your left leg out. Once you make the journey back around, your boot will meet Mr. Sniper's face... and this day will be closer to ending just the way you wan-! *bang!* "SHI-!" (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[Not again... ]Seems you misjudged your new rival; while you were dazzling absolutely no one with your flair, a bullet fired from his handgun and burned through you somewhere in the side! The stinging is unprecedented, and... nononono, don't... yeah, you just yelped out in pain! You are to NEVER show weakness to the enemy! Oh well, ya can't help some things... Your legs falter and, knowing that kicking was no longer feasible, you manage to control your fall enough to land on one knee. This sucks, well and truly sucks... but ya gotta roll with the punches, look life straight in the eye, and smile as you gleefully utter "Thank you, may I please have another?" ... Er, as your mind is TRYING to say: you may be hurt, but fight it off and win! This guy was going to kill you- if he technically hadn't already- but you refuse to be bested! You quickly dart your head to face him, and it's clear that even he's surprised he struck you. A satisfied grin crosses his lips... Okay, that does it, buddy! Eat fist, ya jerk! The sniper's grin fades quickly as he sees your arm approaching, knowing what his fate was going to be. Maybe he should've capitalized instead of soaking himself in some false sense of glory... Or, maybe he simply should've never crossed with the battle-hardened veteran... The strength of your punch leaves the man in a heap in the mud. Nighty-night, bub... Owowowowowow, this hurts! You stand completely up and feel your fresh new wound... and are surprised that you can't seem to find where exactly the bullet penetrated; perhaps it merely drew blood and bounced off of you? You're not sure if that makes any sense or not... but ah, screw it; this is Gamindustri, the land where horsebirds and *gulp* warp-pipes run amok in sunken pirate ships trapped in ice caves in the desert. Not everything had to have an explanation... Regardless, deadly penetration or not, that bullet inflicted a massive amount of pain unto you; roughly 25 damage worth's! You'll be feeling this whenever a storm rolls in from now on...(if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth + 20)} Holy...!!! The pain in your abdomen from your OTHER horrible wound suddenly feels worse than ever... Crap, you can leave it unattended no longer! But... what can you...? Wait, there was an unconscious soldier lying right in front of you! You doubt he has anything too useful in terms of properly healing bullet wounds... but if you can stop the blood flow, that's at least a start! His sleeves look tough enough... "... Got nothin' else to lose..." Using another Qatar, you slice off the sturdy fabric... You don't really have much expertise with, er, stripping men... and after this, you reckon you never want to do it again. ... Anyways, the man's uniform is in shambles, but you have enough of his clothes for a makeshift bandage around your entire stomach! Quick, check his rucksack... Ooh, a small roll of duct-tape! That'll do... Wrap wrap wrap, wrap wrap wrap, bind it all together... and viola! You at least won't bleed out as fast! You realize that, if you were anyone else, you would've died from this wound long ago... But you're the goddamn battle-hardened veteran! Mere sniper rounds can't silence you!... They sure can suck, though.] ... Time to move on. This kinda sucked, but... you still need to focus on the mission; focus on the OATH! At long last, you finally stand before the Basilicom's back doors! "About damn time... I'm comin', Lyree." Be wary, however: just because you are near your objective doesn't mean you can relax. (link: "\"... This awful day's... almost... over...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 20)}You grab the reflex... but decide against using it, at least yet. You also rip the sleeves off the soldiers, but you likewise put those aside for the time being. Perhaps before you even try and patch up the wound, you will need to get the bullet out first? You unfortunately can't remember if removing the bullet is a good idea or not, and hell, since you seem to be bleeding from both the front AND back, how can you even be sure it's still in you? It could've made a clean sweep of your innards, piercing you before leaving the very next second. Wham, bam, thank you ma'am... ahum, if you will. True confidence in anything was a mere myth... Better to be safe than sorry! You take a Qatar out from your sleeve and look at your reflection against the steel; your face is distorted and soaked... yeah, you look like bloody hell. Are you really ready to do this? Probably not... but when else will this bullet leave your body? Imagine if you drop dead, and your body poofs away with a freakin' bullet still in you. Do you really want to live out your eternal afterlife with a guest taking refuge in your gut? Thought not... You simply have no choice. Breathing out the longest sigh you have ever made, you slowly bring the throwing knife to the small hole in your torso. Gulp... Okay, easy girl... J-Just stick it in... N-No, going gentle is no good! You gotta... j-j-jam it in! Heeeee... GAH! Why's everything suddenly re-"Sorry for the wait, Iffy," Vert says in a rathe-OH GOOD LOR-You have to admit that she looks quite dashing. But of cours-SONUVA-"Oh IF, I'm showing you my most private of locations... I think you can call me Ve-Bite on the sleeve. BITE ON THE SLEE-expression looks childish... and yet, at the same time, so... adult? You can't place your finger on i-Gagging, GAGGING! THIS ISN'T WO-"... Lyrica is such a lucky girl..."-CAN'T TAKE MUCH MORE OF THIS! On your knees now... Head all muddl-miling as you see her face clearly in your head.-FRICKIN' FRACKIN' SHIGUSCH FUGUSCH FU-"It's great, I'll admit... Perfec-W-WHERE IS IT?! COME O-"You know," she starts, "maybe you're right...-You're gonna pass out... Time to cut your losses an-Chika instantly springs to mind-STOP!!! ... ... Er, no dice; you failed to find any bullet... and in all actuality, you couldn't really penetrate deeper than an inch or two, if even that. You've made the immediate wound more bloody, though, and it's safe to say you took 20 damage from that misguided medical operation... You refuse to let that be your last memory in the realm of the living, so without thinking, you pick up the Reflex vial and cautiously sip a few drops. Not too much, but damn, this freakin' hurts... You need anything to dull the pain! That's done... Ah, screw it: you figure you can't screw up any worse than carving your skin, so you pour the rest of the enigmatic healing liquid over your wound! You're not thinking straight anymore... clearly. However... despite the initial sting, the Reflex... honestly kinda feels soothing. Mayhap it's just a placebo effect, but you think it might actually be working! Next, you take the sleeves you previously set aside, and tightly wrap them around your bleeding aperture. No proof of a bullet in you, and you're still breathing... Guess an angel really is on your side! The sniper shot you... and failed to hit anything worthwhile. Hopefully the Reflex fused with the bandage will let you hold on long enough to get actual help. Capture Leanbox, find Lyrica... and you'll be on your way! The way to the Basilicom's back door seems vacant... This is your chance! Hurry along! "Almost done... Gotta hand it to ya, Vert; this has been(link: "... quite the experience...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Medic")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyShotPath is false OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 15)}The dazed sniper was thrown off by the unknown explosion, understandably... which provides an easy opening to take him out! His staggered stance will most certainly not last forever, though... so whatever you have to do must be done now. Looking quickly at the distance between him and you, you figure you can probably make it to his person with relative ease; he may get that gun up, but you'll be able to take him out before a single bullet even leaves its chamber. No time like the present... Kicking your boot off the ground, you let out a tiny yell as you dash towards him, your legs pumping like pistons. (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[The drive to survive is the only thing allowing you to sprint this fast; your body refuses to succumb to blood loss without a fight! Hopefully you can finish this before anemia can rear its ugly head... ]You ready your fist, knowing that a good punch will take him out swiftly. It was kind of a nice thought to see him fall directly by your hand, knowing how much discomfort he caused only moments ago. This was simply divine justice. The sniper, of course, sees you coming... but rather than appearing surprised and afraid, it sorta seems that you're just pissing him off! His movements are still rather sluggish, but that pistol is raised high enough to do some serious damage. By the time this fully sinks in, you are already too close; oh well, bring it on, bub! Luckily, no bullet graces your exhausted body... but instead he swings the gun right for your face! *WHACK!* Your cheek suddenly stings like a bitch, bringing your momentum to a halt! You can't help but clutch your face at the sudden influx of pain! "Blk!" Pain always makes for some colorful language! You brace for further blows... but you notice that the sniper can't continue the assault, as he is barely able to raise his fist again. Seems that melee strike took all the wind out of his gut! Don't dilly-dally now! A swift punch right to the gut should do the trick, and from there, a grab of the left knee, aaaaaaaaand... thrrrrrrrrooooow him over your shoulder to the muddy ground! Whew... He was heavier than he looked! You ready a finishing blow... oh, but uh... it seems that the slam was more than enough to keep him down for the count! That's... er, somewhat disappointing... Oh well, you win! Taking a deep breath, you massage your swollen cheek. He was your enemy, sure, but... even after tumbling who knows how many feet down to the hard ground, Mr. Sniper still had a mean left hook! A weakened opponent stole 15 health from you... Seems your better fighting days are way behind you. After today... maybe it's time to hang up the Qatars... (if: $iffyShotRoll is true)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth + 20)} !!! The pain in your abdomen suddenly feels worse than ever... Crap, you can leave it unattended no longer! But... what can you...? Wait, there was an unconscious soldier lying right in front of you! You doubt he has anything too useful in terms of properly healing bullet wounds... but if you can stop the blood flow, that's at least a start! His sleeves look tough enough... "... Got nothin' else to lose..." Using another Qatar, you slice off the sturdy fabric... You don't really have much expertise with, er, stripping men... and after this, you reckon you never want to do it again. ... Anyways, the man's uniform is in shambles, but you have enough of his clothes for a makeshift bandage around your entire stomach! Quick, check his rucksack... Ooh, a small roll of duct-tape! That'll do... Wrap wrap wrap, wrap wrap wrap, bind it all together... and viola! You at least won't bleed out as fast! You realize that, if you were anyone else, you would've died from this wound long ago... But you're the goddamn battle-hardened veteran! Mere sniper rounds can't silence you!... They sure can suck, though.] ... Time to move on. At long last, you finally stand before the Basilicom's back doors! "About damn time... I'm comin', Lyree." Be wary, however: just because you are near your objective doesn't mean you can relax. (link: "\"... At least it's almost done...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 10)}If your nurse friend talks about it positively, then it must be good for you! Without a second thought, you pick up the reflex and shake it a bit, as if it were a tasty bottle of chocolate milk- Shake well~! Thankfully, it feels filled to the brim too! You unscrew the cap, and start looking for instructions. They are luckily located right on the side of the container. Looking at it with your darkened, rain-and-mud soaked eyes, you see that it says "DRINK WITH CAUTION! ONLY TAKE TINY SIPS AND DO NOT-" Unfortunately, either by fading or whatnot, the rest of the instructions are not present. You barely shrug as your stomach churns, and the urge to curl up into a ball returns. You have no idea how to properly use this... but hey, you're gonna die anyways, so might as well take a chance on this? "... Please be right, Compa..." you mutter, before throwing all caution to the proverbial (but mostly literal) wind and quickly downing at least two full portions of Reflex. Mmhmm... Bitter? No, not really... Kinda sweet, actually. Not the most unpleasant taste, considering it's medicine... but, er, something certainly doesn't... gel with your mouth. For what it's worth, you no longer feel the gunshot wound actively trying to kill you... but you suddenly begin to feel very ill, and you sense your skin actually grow ten times more pale. As if that was even possible... As you try to keep yourself together, you suddenly recall a conversation you had with Compa long ago. Are... you kidding?! NOW you remember... However, your anger quickly morphs into regret as her words come flooding back to you: "Yo, Comps! How does that stuff work, anyhow? Can I chug that bottle and be good as new?" "Well, Iffy, just one vial is far from enough! As Grampa always says: "A visit from Rosie Palms and her five sisters a day keeps the doctor away!" You actually have to distill five vials of Reflex together if you're going to drink it! If you only have one bottle on you, I'd recommend injections from a trained medical practitioner... like me! Consuming a non-distilled dose of Reflex can help, depending on the wound... but drinking it like this may lead to an upset tummy, or even disintegration!" "D-Disintegration? Er, don't ya mean 'indigestion'?" "No!" W-Well, too late now... C-Crap, you're gonna hurl... l-like, right NOW! Y-Yeah, don't look... ... W-Whew... You thought your stomach was about to physically eject itself from your weakened frame... but lo and behold, your body isn't actually in that bad a shape. The bullet must've missed all your vital organs... T-There, ya big worrywort! Still... you do kinda feel like crap. The Reflex, miracle cure that it is, certainly seems to have helped... but your stomach recognizes it as poison, and is actively rejecting it. You feel you've lost 10 Health... but hey, maybe you'll actually survive! An upset stomach isn't that bad a trade... ... Er, oh yeah, you're still bleeding out! Being ever the optimist, you had hoped the potion would sew together your wound, like in the comics... Eh, guess that'd be too good to be true. You can't keep losing blood (though, admittedly, the flow has slowed substantially; just what the hell kind of medicinal fields did Compa dabble in?), so you rip a sleeve off the nearest unconscious soldier, and wrap it tightly around the wound. Not much more you can do... so hopefully this'll be enough! You've been to the brink... and came out swingin'! Nothing can stop you now! The way to the Basilicom's back door seems vacant... This is your chance! Hurry along! "Almost done... Gotta hand it to ya, Vert; this has been (link: "quite the experience...\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyDeath to "Medic")(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

(if: $iffyNinthPage2 != true)[{(set: $iffyNinthPage2 to true)}Every square inch of the Basilicom was made to look lavish... and the back is no exception; the mighty back doors greet you as if they led straight to the front lobby! Such might... So majestic with their mahogony finish and golden detail, looming over you like the final fortress of many a big bad. You take a deep sigh... Finally, FINALLY, after surviving several ungodly trials through dirt, blood, and just straight-up pain... you were finally moments away from succeeding. Always the dramatic one, a tear pierces your cheek as you imagine this dark day finally ending. It was rough, but... you held yourself together. That's what they call 'love' and 'devotion'... You've done good... Your once abode, a calm building set right in the middle of this drenched field of misery and woe, was beckoning out to you; the nation itself was practically begging you to capture it! But let's not get ahead of ourselves... First, time to make a quick inventory check! [Jacket!]<jacket| (click:?jacket)[Snug around your form! The few bullet holes actually give you quite the rugged appearance. If Nep were here, she'd go on and on about how you now would rake in all the chicks... if you weren't already happily taken, that is. Anyways... [Qatars!]<knives|] (click:?knives)[A whole slew of them still inside both your sleeves and your utility belt. Should you find yourself in a close-combat situation, these will definitely come in handy. (if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true OR $iffyArmInjury is true)[Your [wound(if: $iffyShotRoll is true AND $iffyArmInjury is true)[s]?]<wound| (click:?wound)[Patched up to the best of your ability. Does it feel better? HA, not by a long-shot... but it's better than nothing. Once you capture Leanbox, Compa should be just a soothing phone-call away... ... Well, er, that covers the essentials. Simple enough, right? You came here light on supplies... so if you were able to make it through all that, then the inside of the castle should be a breeze! It's not like Vert would take kindly to her Basilicom getting trashed... so you shouldn't meet too much opposition. Only one way to [find out!]<continue|](click:?continue)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]](else:)[... Well, er, that covers the essentials. Simple enough, right? You came here light on supplies... so if you were able to make it through all that, then the inside of the castle should be a breeze! It's not like Vert would take kindly to her Basilicom getting trashed... so you shouldn't meet too much opposition. Only one way to [find out!]<continue| (click:?continue)[(goto:"IF Ninth Move")]]]](else:)[Wait... hold up! You're much smarter than this! After the hellish trek to even get to this point, you downright know that there has to be something else planned in order to ruin your day even more. With a desperate sigh, you slowly back away from the door, reality proving quite the party-pooper. You don't want to risk activating some sudden, one-hit kill trap, right? On that note, what if someone follows you inside?! You dart your eyes to the left, noticing that whatever the soldiers you saw before were nowhere to be found. That's admittedly a strong relief... but before you get your hopes up, you begin to hear what sounds like... shouts in the distance? They sound quite threatening too... Your ears aren't playing tricks on you, are they? The wind is escalating by the second, so it is hard to tell if what you're hearing is real. Either way... there may be hostiles approaching from that direction, but there's no way to be sure. To your right is also an empty scene of grass and mud, with the mighty wall of the Basilicom, gray in its exterior, helping the gloomy image quite a lot. Once more, you want to assume it's safe... but as soon as you turn to look towards the door once more, a faint streak of white dashes from the side of your vision. You quickly look to the right again, focusing towards the thick trees; come on, you know you just saw... SOMETHING crawling around in there! Pure white... an outfit? A flag? Nah, none of those make sense... Damn it, no matter how hard you focus, the *thing* doesn't return... and everything appears to be as quaint as before. Yeah, that does nothing to help you relax. So, flanking around the castle from the left or right seems ill-fated... which just leaves the regal doors. However, now that you're paranoid, you can't help but feel that something crappy awaits you on the other side. Still... does that guarantee it will be dangerous to go through? You came all this way... and now you were developing cold feet? How much of a wimp were you? After all you've been through? Everything that you've done?!... It can't be for nothing. ... Every direction appears equally suspicious... Either way, you have to get inside while the opportunity is presenting itself! But what to do?! ... Your choice is clear! [[Investigate the left!|IF Ninth Move Min Damage]] [[Search the right!|IF Ninth Move No Damage]] [[Sneak through the door!|IF Ninth Move Max Damage]]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

The door is just too obvious, perfect for a trap... and the murmuring to the left side sounds unwelcoming to an unwelcome guest on Leanbox such as yourself. You swear you saw some suspicious flash of white in the trees to the right... but as far as you can tell, it was no longer there; prolly just a speck of rain that happened to fall into your eye during that time. Lord knows there's enough precipitation going around... You could barely see a few feet in front of you! Why was a monsoon flooding Leanbox? Weighing your options, you decide that sneaking around to the right of the Basilicom may just be the way to go. What's the worst that can happen? Death, maiming, dislocations, paralysis, hypothermia, a sexually-transmitted disease, a biting hedgehog, a ride to hell, cowlicks... W-Woah, you need to get some shut-eye soon... "... Not gettin' any younger..." You start to hug the wall, trying to stick as close to the establishment as much as possible. Perhaps, you surmise, Vert or Chika made a secret entrance, and by some miracle you will stumble upon it... How humiliating that you've lived in this castle for so long now, and you still can't determine where all the entrances are! All the while, you keep glancing for the trees, sometimes swearing that another blur of white whizzes by. Hell, at one point, you think you even hear some rustling inside the thick brush... but as the wind picks up, you pass it off as Mother Nature's benevolent doing. Gee, thanks for the hellish wind that is making traveling so much harder than it should be... You finally begin to turn the corner of the regal building, still keeping your eyes trained on the trees. There it is again! Is that... some soldier dressed in white?... Nah, can't be... Whoever- or WHATEVER- it is, they don't appear to be making a million-dollar move... so best not to pay them any heed. The voices behind you are getting louder... You hafta hurry! "Come on... Come on! Shoulda brought a ladder with me." Stepladder... All the damn windows are too high to enter through... What sense did that make?! This castle is so much bigger than it looks on the inside... The bottom floor is basically just a massive house fused with a church, though now that your life depended on the peculiar infrastructure, you can't rule out the castle itself standing on an incline. This was some seriously-hilly terrain after all... and the back doors did immediately open up to a set of stairs that lead to the dining room. Huh... the bottom floor was actually a deceptive few feet above the ground! Vert's basement game-room must be taller than you realized as well... Basic gist is, this building is weird, and now it was actively trying to piss you off! The voices are closer now... Pickin' up the pace! When all else fails... the front door is an option, right? Weirder crap had happened today... Who says you can't just enter through the main lobby and journey to the throne room? Heh, maybe Lyrica will be your personal escort?... [["... I'm gettin' ya back, Lyree..."|IF Flashback 2]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyArmInjury to true)(set: $armInjuryType to "Arrow")(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 35)}Going left or right is simply out of the question; your goal was to infiltrate the back door, and dammit, that's what you're going to do! Besides, hostiles were down the left path, and... who knows what was hiding in the trees to the right. That leaves the simple answer: keep going forward. Sure, the door COULD be booby-trapped... but WOULD it be? So far, you've heard screams and explosions from the other side of the yard... The Leanbox troops, quite frankly, had far worse things to attend to right now than you. Besides, they knew you were coming... but they couldn't have known you'd utterly kick their asses! ... Or, perhaps taking the back door was simply reverse psychology: it was the most obvious and flawed choice... and thus, they wouldn't have accounted for it, assuming you were far too smart for that. Well, at least let's hope so... Taking one last look around the Basilicom, you slowly tip-toe directly towards the door, watching your step for any trap that may be lurking. No landmines, no beartraps, no guard dogoos... Man, your imagination needs priorities! You detect that presence in the trees yet again... but upon looking, yep, nothing there. You're just being paranoid... hurry up! The voices to your left begin to get louder... Yeah, the door is definitely the way to go; you were already too far to change your mind! The knob, glistening gold against the paleness of the rain, rests right within your palm... Before you make the final move and turn the damn thing... you quickly crouch! Better to be safe than... you know by now. You halt all breaths as you turn the knob as quietly as possible... Hmm, you ponder whether anyone will actually be waiting on the other side? While this Basilicom was made to look like a regal castle... the interior, at least on the bottom floor, was anything but: a simple kitchen/dining room awaited right inside these massive doors. The basilicom was still just a house fused with a church; Vert just... preferred a more lavish approach to living. Bigger and fancier... that describes Green Heart fairly well. Can't say you fault her tastes... Damn, imagine what size castle you'd have if money wasn't a factor! ... E-Er, moving on!... Heh, of course, the doorknob refuses to turn, even when you twist with all your might! How... logical: Vert locked her house up. Oh well, you'll just have to get in your own way... What else is new? The voices get louder and louder... Okay, this door is still the only way! Maybe... aha, break it down with force?! Can you even do that quietly? "Why not? It's been a crazy day..." Again, what would the soldiers prioritize: explosions and deathly screaming, or some brunette girl smashing down a large wooden door? Were you to use a chainsaw, could they even hear that?! Thus, you back away from the door and prep your right shoulder as you ready for a slam. You take a deep breath; you're not some burly muscular warrior, so... this is going to suck... ... And suck it did, for as soon as you ram yourself forward, a horrible burning sensation immolates your right forearm. You stifle a shriek as you instinctively reach for the unwelcome feeling, your legs nearly buckling mid-run. When your hand coarses the wound, you discover... well, bad news: a rather elongated slab of metal and wood, angled within your arm, standing out from your jacket like a sore thumb. H-Holy cow, this huuuuurts... Wait, w-where'd it come from?! You turn to face the trees to the right of you... AHA, something moved yet again! A flash of white just sank into the thicket, clearly hiding now! You knew it all along... H-Heh, just a bit too late... Some bastard must've shot you with an arrow from cover, inflicting 35 damage on your tired frame. Coward... but d-damn, he certainly got you good! You can barely feel your arm now... so crashing down the door was no longer an option. Crap crap crap... Enraged now, you snarl as you pull out the arrow, the tip making a most-unpleasant *pop!* sound as it emerges from your jacketed appendage. What the...?! Every nation has its own characteristic weapons and such- even simple swords have unique markings that stand out from one country to another- and this arrow looks... well, nothing like the ones from Leanbox. Doesn't look like Planeptune or Lastation either, so no one on your squad went AWOL, it seems... Huh, why, if you didn't know better... this arrow seemed like a specialized variant of ones common on... Lowee! But... that makes no sense! Why would Lowee even be here?! ... Drop it for now; who knows if Mr. Stranger was going to fire again! You need to find another way... The wind and rain makes seeing a few feet in front of you more impossible than it should be, but you believe you can finally see a few figures approaching your location from the left. Can't go that way... so that just leaves the right, towards the asshole in the trees. Perhaps he won't shoot again if you get too close, especially if you are already being pursued. You presume he does not want to be discovered by anyone, not just you... Groaning, you quickly move to the right, huddling the wall as you try to make yourself as inconspicious as possible. Your hunch seems correct: no more arrows whizz your way! You just gotta keep running... Worst comes to worst, you are simply going to break into the castle from the front! Hopefully whatever was happening in the yard would be the distraction you need! (link: "\"... Heh... How'd it all come to this?\"")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Flashback 2")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 20)(if: $iffyArmInjury != true)[(set: $iffyArmInjury to false)]}The door is just too obvious, perfect for a trap... and whatever that brief blur of white was in the right-most trees gives you a sense of some serious bad mojo. You can't ignore those voices to the left... but perhaps heading towards them would be the wisest move actually! You had to take into account whatever the hell was happening out in the front of the castle... These approaching soldiers may simply be running in fear... Hell, it was doubtful they'd even notice you running by them! Not exactly the most confidence-boosting thought, knowing that something more terrifying than you was wreaking havoc on the battlefield... but hey, you'll deal with it when ya get there. You're an expert at wingin' it! Taking one last look at the door, you proceed to the left, hugging the wall as you try to find an opening. You chuckle silently, pissed at the fact that after all the days you've spent in this building... you still can't remember where the windows are. The basic interior of the basilicom was still a house (a rather large one at that) fused with a church, but Vert went out of her way to... 'spruce' things up quite a bit, and that made navigation... quite annoying at times, especially in cases like this where the whole world is sitting on your shoulders and demanding a cookie... er, a victory. You venture the massive length of the basilicom's backside, and finally- FINALLY- turn the corner... and find yourself making eye-contact with not one, not two, not even three, but four speeding soldiers. Ooh, wait, scratch that: there are many more behind them too. They all look perplexed, no, downright stunned to see you before them... and you are just as surprised, if not ten times moreso. An eternal second passes for all involved... No one has their weapons prepped, and your bodies all remain motionless. A creepy silence overcomes the mighty rainstorm, and even your breaths start to sound irrelevant. You probably would've stood there for the rest of your life had there not been a strange quake behind the soldiers. Perhaps spooked by its sudden cry, one man screams, and his gun is soon drawn for all to see! Crap, here it comes...! One bullet turns to several, as each soldier individually finds the resolve to fire at you, their designated target. However, they clearly do have much more on their mind, for they all begin to run backwards as they shoot, a few guards even stumbling and slipping all about. Conflicting orders, perhaps? Just as you thought... You should be public-enemy number one, yet the front was facing something muuuuuuuch worse. Oh yeah... The bullets are hailing for you! You intuitively back away yourself, before turning around and breaking out into a full-on sprint! Perhaps due to their surprise, many of the life-taking projectiles merely pierce through your jacket as you run. Cotton and all sorts of fabric you can't process escapes into the air, and for a moment, you ponder if you made it out unscathed? "... Gck!" Naw, that'd be too good to be true! A few rogue bullets manage to find a temporary home within the sides of your hips, legs, and arms, passsing through your flesh like you were made of delicious gelatin. Your jacket is still strong, so a few pathetic bullets merely smack into you and fall straight to the ground. "Sonuva-... Dammit!" Rather than fight them, you (wisely) choose to run straight back to the rear doors of the castle... before deciding to travel down the right side of the grand structure, willing to ignore whatever the hell might be in those trees. Voices sound from behind you; crap, a few of them must be chasing you! Gotta go fast... As you run, the full force of the gunshot wounds radiate up your appendages. Fortunately, they mostly just clipped you... but blood is a valuable commodity in your quest to keep living, and every drop lost may just bite you in the finely-toned(w-what?) ass. The shocked men left a 20 damage parting gift, eh? You'll... cope, right? You better; the soldiers are hot (link: "on yer tail!")[(if: $iffyHealth <= 0)[(goto:"IF Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"IF Flashback 2")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(1,1500);" /></div> }Can't stop now... Gotta keep going... Neptune, Compa, Lyrica, Vert, and even Cave... They all depend on you. Everything's riding on this... You're sure you've repeated this basic mantra a thousand times by now, but it's all you can focus on: your friends need you... The world needs you. "M-Miss IF?!" Lady Vert's voice! But... gah, it's no good! The beam impedes your vision; everything is becoming white. You want to run, but your legs...they just aren't working! You're... gonna die! The Basilicom is one of the longest buildings you've ever seen; you STILL can't see where the side rounds to the front. Ah, improbable anime-castle logic; Vert was somethin' else... Of course, you can barely see two feet in front of you anymore. Someone pissed off the rain gods... This long walk in the rain really hammers home how much you regret never really exploring the damn yard. How could you not know where any secret entrances were?! "Move!" What? Your body suddenly begins moving to the left... no, falling to the left! Your eyes catch sight of Cave, who's... headbutting you down?! Just in time... for Adrian's beam passes over both your heads. Cave... Even when death was all but assured, she still risked her neck to save you. How can you... ever repay her? And can you ever be half as strong as her? ... The soldiers are still pursuing you, so pick up the slack! Can't be much farther now... Hmm, but isn't something strange? You're more than halfway (you hope) across the side, but you can't hear any fighting ambience ahead. That's... certainly not what you were expecting. You don't have much confidence in your squad's safety at this point... "You... MONSTER!!!" You look up at the enraged voice and, to your horror, see Vert charging headstrong towards Adrian! Her spear outstretched, his book ready... V-Vert, NO!!! Too quiet... If you've learned one thing during this war, it's that... your work will never be done. No matter how far your go, how much you struggle, how hard you fight... something worse was always right around the corner. Life was never about being easy; you were meant to face trial after trial until the day you die. After that... who can say? 'Vert... She was struck because of... me. If... If I had acted faster, then... maybe she wouldn't... God, I'm such an idiot...' ... But that's why you need to carry on. Get stronger, so you can face anything. So you can protect your family, your friends, your loved ones. When one failure strikes... you pick yourself up and learn to prevent it from ever happening again! You are the battle-hardened veteran! This is who you are. So... when you hear a sudden shouting from above your head, you aren't even surprised. There's not even enough time to process the multitude of soldiers emerging from the higher floors' windows before you are immediately flanked on all sides. Sure enough, the pursuing troops soon catch up to you as well... All avenues are blocked. "Surrender, Miss IF..." a bold soldier requests, an emptiness in his tone. "... There's nowhere left to run... Come with us, or... die." But he already knows your answer... They all do. Guns directed at you everywhere you turn. No escape route in sight. All tricks... exhausted. Only one thing to do... "... I love you, Lyree..." you whisper. [[Feign surrender... then take one hostage!|IF Tenth Move Result]] [[Punch and kick like mad!|IF Tenth Move Result]] [[Throw every single last one of your Qatars!|IF Tenth Move Result]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

You have to be cautious here; one idiotic move, and one of these guys will get a clear shot! There has to be an easy way to safely take down all three of these guys... and without even blinking, your mind is made up! Why attack the closest soldier and leave yourself open... when you can use this initial one to prevent the others from even attacking? You leap like a spring off your acropatic feet, and before all three men even know it, you have your arm around the leader's neck. A little twist here... and he is now blocking you from the other two men's weapons. A human shield, if you will! The other two already-hesitant men are clearly at a loss... This is too easy. Everyone stays silent, the soldier in your arms too frightened to even wriggle... [Now!]<throwtheguy| (click:?throwtheguy)[You toss the hostage at the right-most soldier, causing the two to forcibly collide! They topple over, but remain conscious... The left soldier shouts out in excited shock, and he tries to aim his bayonet at you. His hands are too wobbly... Amateur. You dash within range, lift your right leg, and kick downwards right into the top of his head. Silently, he crumples to the dirt. By now, the two other men have begun to stand back up... but you stop them in their tracks with a running knee to the skull. All three are alive and knocked out... Threats no longer. Ha, as if they ever were... ... Well? What are you waiting for? Get moving already! These were just the warm-ups; IF won't hesitate to kill you when you find her! [[Next|Cave Second Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}Such fools, thinking they can take you. The close one especially is an idiot; he's leaving himself wide open. A rookie mistake... and it'll cost him dearly. Without hesitation, you charge forward and, winding up your right-handed blade, thrust towards the leader of the pack's stomach! You tune out the squishing sound of your sharp blade penetrating his flesh, and simply keep running forward, making sure your weapon is firmly lodged in. As you charge, you glare into the man's shocked eyes; the lights are on, but it's clear that no one is home. Just another casualty in this sad war... You can't be blamed for putting him out of his misery. Don't feel pity for this dying man... He'd kill Lyrica the second he got his hands on her! Or maybe even worse... He deserves to die... They ALL deserve to die. You pass by the other two men and, once you feel the time is right, you prepare to kick the impaled man away. However, the other two soldiers have finally overcome their shock at your cruel tactic, and they fire right for you! You instinctively contort yourself to avoid harm... but the two bullets graze both your left and right sides! The bullets cut quite deep; blood is drawn. You pupils suddenly dilate... Your head begins spinning and spinning and (link: "spinning and spi-")[{(set:$previousPassage to "Cave First Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")}]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 30)}... You channel a dangerous amount of energy up your arm, focusing all of it into the blade in the Planeptune soldier's gut. The man's eyes manage to widen; the first sign of life he's had since getting impaled... He must sense the heat swirling around his insides. Pay no heed no heed no heed. In one fell swoop, you swing your twin blade for one of the soldiers who shot you... sending the man off of your weapon and flying towards him! The two soldiers collide... and a sudden explosion engulfs them, leaving nothing behind but mere ash. The third soldier's jaw hangs open at seeing his allies poof out of existence. Probably regressing back to squeaky-clean childhood memories, he drops his bayonet and runs for the hills. A fool and a coward... but it seems he managed to find at least some morsel of common sense. No use chasing after him; he won't be coming back. ... Your pupils return to normal, and you shake your head a few times. What... just happened? You lost yourself, it seems; the 30 damage you received from the bullets must've given your system a shock... Oh well, get going already! You have to be at full power by the time you find IF... [[Next|Cave Second Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}Such fools, thinking they can take you. The close one especially is an idiot; he's leaving himself wide open. A rookie mistake... Determined to teach him a lesson, you dash forward using your lightning-quick speed and grab his left arm with both of your hands. His eyes widen in surprise as you effortlessly twist him to the ground, mud flying everywhere as he violently crashes down. His half-lidded eyes gaze up just in time to see your approaching fist! The smash knocks him straight into unconsciousness! Before you can stand up and make your next move, however, two loud gunshots ring out in the air. You instinctively duck down... and you feel a scorching heat graze the sides of your legs. The two other soldiers must've taken a shot at you... but a combination of nerves along with not wanting to harm their ally greatly affected their aim. The pain is light... but feeling a twinkle of blood slide down your long, smooth legs... suddenly makes you feel weak. Your eyes blur as they cloud over, and your heart threatens to burst out of your chest with how hard it is beating. Too... weak... So... (link: "helpless...")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave First Move Min Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 15)}Like a demon springing forth from the ether, you snap your head towards the two insolent bayonet-wielders, causing them to freeze. They must be so proud, having dealt only 15 damage with their lethal weaponry... You hop to your feet and, while still in mid-air, pull out your twin blades and fire ten energy bullets their way. The bullets stick to the soldiers' outfits... but they seem fine, and look at each other in confusion. They are no longer worth your time; time to find IF... Without a sound, you simply walk off, your hips swaying victoriously. Step, step, step, step... and by the time your right foot touches the mud again, an explosion sounds off behind you. Those three won't be bothering you again... [[Next|Cave Second Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")}"GRRRAAAAGGGGHHH!" a voice shouts from the side. You snap your head to the right... and a Planeptune guard suddenly tenses up, his charge coming to a violent halt. The fear in his eyes is obvious... and his weapon lowers on pure instinct. You recognize this all too well: the look of sheer terror by simply standing in your mere presence. So many people have given you that same look these past few blood-filled weeks... and rightfully so: only a handful have lived after crossing your path. "S-She's a monster!" "She'll kill us all!" "I think she likes it!" "Die, monster!!!" "Pay them no heed, Cave... Such insolent fools are always afraid of their superiors. They call you a brute... but the second you show a hint of mercy, they'll gladly stain their blades with your blood. With HER blood." Your chest tightens, as do your fists. You can't trust anyone. [[Impale the brute.|Cave Second Move Max Damage]] [Push him aside.]<push| [[Shoot him. END him.|Cave Second Move Min Damage]] [Stare the brute down.]<stare|{(click:?push)[(set: $caveSecondChoice to "Push")(goto: "Cave Second Move No Damage")] (click:?stare)[(set: $caveSecondChoice to "Stare")(goto: "Cave Second Move No Damage")]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveSecondChoice is "Push")[You stare this Planeptune soldier up and down... and you have to say, you are not impressed in the least. This is the best IF's army has to offer?... Without blinking, you reach out with your right hand for the stunned man and grab him by the cloth-like portion of his armor. You hold him up in the air for what has to be an uncomfortably-long moment... and once you are content, you pull back your left hand before forcibly pushing it against his chest! The enemy flies several feet and lands in a mud pile. If he's not unconscious, he'll at least be too petrified to move for a long while.](else:)[He fears you. He loaths you. He abhors your very existence. He knows that you can end him in a single breath... and that you most likely will. His scared eyes meet yours... and you stare back with as much intensity as you can muster. The Planeptune soldier can't bring himself to look away... and after deciding that the Devil herself lives behind your vision, he simply drops his bayonet and runs. He stumbles once, and then is quickly out-of-sight... Smart decision, but that was still unforgivable cowardice. Seems IF has taught her army well.] ... Well, that was simple... How pathetic. (link:"Next...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 1")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}This is a trick, a feint. He wants you to lower your guard... leaving you defenseless for when he unexpectedly strikes. He'll wear a grin as he slits your throat... Show a single second of weakness, and you'll be at everyone's mercy. Everyone you love will be taken from you... and it'll be all your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. You can't trust anyone; look where that has gotten you! The world wants you dead? Well, an eye for an eye, they say... You arm yourself with your twin blades, and slide as close as possible to the petrified soldier. You press your nose hard against his own, your eyes condemning this monster to the deepest pits of hell. Then, when he least expects it, you jab both blades forward, penetrating his gut with ease. He gasps in disgusted pain, and his eyes begin to cloud over... You know that this was the right thing to do, but... you can't help but feel... well, you can't exactly pinpoint it. Some sort of emptiness in your gut... Huh, this guy has the opposite problem. Feeling sick all of a sudden, you remove your knives from his stomach, and you watch the Planeptune soldier helplessly fall to his knees. He sways in the wind for a moment... but it's not long before he fully collapses face-first. Blood mixes in with the mud below... Your ghastly creation is complete. ... No, don't show any weakness, you fool! This man needed to die. Think of what'll happen if you fail... Think of Lyrica, dammit! Don't you love her?! Do you want her to die?! Do you want Vert to kill h- ... Just move on... (link:"Next...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,500);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 1")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}All's fair in love and war... Without another thought, you aim your right-handed blade and fire an energy bullet from the tip. The projectile sears itself into the soldier's stomach... and he quickly falls to the ground. Clean and simple; this has become routine to you by now. ... You don't like this, do you? Killing doesn't sate your hunger, does it?... No! You tell yourself that all of this violence is to save the only friend you have left... The ends justify the means. You must become a monster to save your loved ones from monsters. Yeah, that's it. ... If only you didn't already fail Chika, maybe you'd feel more convinced... (link:"Next...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,500);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 1")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

You try to tune out your thoughts by instead focusing on the sad sounds of the battle raging all around you. IF's army looks to be massive... but you know they are no match for even a diminished Leanbox troop. The way forward seems to be clear... so you better use this time to find the brown-haired traitor. Keep following the path... Don't think about anything else. You have a duty to ful- "Cave! Stand down!" an all-too familiar voice calls out across the bleak field. Shock running through your veins, you instantly turn around... to find Lady Green Heart walking your way! What the... Has she returned already?! [[Respond- "Yes, my Lady!"|Cave Third Move Max Damage]] [[Say- "My Lady, it's much too dangerous here!"|Cave Third Move No Damage]] [[... Shoot her. Shootshootshootshootshoot...|Cave Third Move Min Damage]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

How did she get here so fast? This doesn't seem... right... Well, either way, this is a warzone right now! Vert can't possibly be risking herself like this! "My Lady, it's much too dangerous here!" you shout, concern evident in your voice. You briefly question whether the emotion was sincere or not... but you quickly cast the doubt aside and stare expectantly at your CPU. Vert stares back... but when you next blink, the goddess of Leanbox is no longer standing there. No, there was now a very confused Planeptune soldier looking back at you from where she once stood. What the... Where'd she go?! ... You shake your head to remind yourself that you have a job to do, and you rush over to the enemy and kick him in the stomach, causing his eyes to nearly bulge out of their sockets. With a grunt of effort, you kick upwards, successfully lifting him over your head. He crashes into the mud behind you, relieved to be alive. "Vert?! Lady Vert?!" you yell out over the sounds of the ever-present fighting... but to no avail; the goddess is nowhere to be found. A cold shiver rocks your spine... What is happening to you? Perhaps you need rest... Yeah, maybe that's it. You'll be able to sleep well once you kill IF... [[Next|Cave Fourth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}As confused as you are, an order from your CPU is an order! "Yes, my Lady!" Like a loyal retainer, you run closer to Lady Green Heart before kneeling before her. You keep your head down, as is customary; no one is worthy enough to stand on the same level as a true goddess of Gamindustri! Vert approaches you... but something is suddenly very wrong. Her slow-yet-empowering footsteps have ceased, replaced by... a hurried sprint through the mud?! You lift your head just in time to see a Planeptune guard, uncertainty in his eyes, dashing your way! He brings up the butt of his bayonet and whacks upward, knocking your chin up high! You are too stunned to react in time, and another smack connects with you, and another. 20 damage, just like that... The man swings for a fourth decisive hit, right as a ringing overtakes your head... It's getting louder, (link: "what is THAT?!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Third Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 20)}... You snap your hand up just in time to catch the end of the swinging bayonet. The soldier was clearly not expecting that, and you capitalize on his failure to act by aiming the bayonet blade for his stomach and pushing forward. His eyes bulge out; he's cleanly impaled on his own weapon. How humorous... You channel energy up both of your arms and begin spinning, the man following along with you. Once you gather enough energy-influenced momentum, you swing the gun upwards and let go... and the bayonet- with the helpless man- flies into the air. You waste no time; as your latest victim rises, you pull out both of your twin blades and fire energy bullet after energy bullet towards him. The bullets linger... before the enemy is engulfed in several massive explosions. You won't be seeing him again. ... The ringing finally stops... and you find yourself wondering what happened to Lady Vert. Wasn't she... just here? Where did she go? ... What's going on? What's wrong with you? [[Next|Cave Fourth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}"Cave? Would you be so kind as to pass me the mayonnaise?" You look up in surprise at Lady Green Heart's words... and find the untransformed CPU, along with Chika, Lyrica, and IF, all gleaming at you expectantly. The sky is a phantasmagorical blue... and the air feels lovely and dreamlike, with the clouds only starting to fully cover the sun, though still allowing the light to leak through to the ground below. ... A perfect day. And the perfect reason why the five of you are sitting out in the Basilicom's yard on a tall hill, enjoying a lovely picnic. Chika's eyes raise at your hesitance. "Er, Cavey? Verty-poo asked for some mayo! You feelin' alright? O-Oh no, it's not my sandwich, is it?! Drat, I thought I perfected it this time!" You cheeks tint ever so darker. "N-No! The... sandwich was delicious, Chika! I-I'm sorry, I'm just..." Your head feels all hazy... Must've been up training too long last night. "... feeling fatigued, I suppose. Do not worry about me!" A playful hand slaps your back, and you scout out IF's grinning mug. "Heh, you always work so hard, Cave! Don't burn yourself out; ya might go crazy!" "Oh geez, don't ever snap, Cavey! You might go all crazy and try to spank my chaste little booty! Hmm... Actually, on second thought..." Wise words indeed... Er, IF's; not Chika's... though, the offer does sound... t-terrible, it sounds terrible!!! You shoot your Oracle best friend a sarcastic eyebrow nudge, before nodding to the brunette. "... I... won't ever go crazy. No need to worry about that, IF." You're pretty level-headed, so it shouldn't be hard! Granted, Chika IS liable to drive you insane one day... but that's a risk you're willing to take! ... Oh yeah, the mayonnaise! The cheerful goddess sits patiently as you finally pick up the container of egg/oil-based cream. You wasted her time... and yet, she's smiling all the same. Such a benevolent leader! "... My humblest apologies for the delay, my Lady! Here you go!" You extend your arm... ... and a sudden rain drop smashes into your face. On instinct, you look up at the sky... to find that the sun's light is missing, and the clouds have taken a most sinister turn. Where'd everyone go? Where'd the hopeful day run off to? Where'd... the happiness go? The joy? The youthful innocence of close friends? No, none of this makes sense... You shake your head to get a grip, and you spot pure confusion laying right in front of you. Where Vert once stood is a face-down soldier with a smoking wound in his head, his body contorted. The sights and sounds of the battlefield once again greet you, with the screaming and firing of bullets and skin getting slashed by blade after blade... You blink rapidly, trying to make sense of it all, and you realize you are holding your weapon. You feel how warm it is; it was definitely recently used. ... Your disappointment initially blocks out any sense of fear and confusion... You [[weakling.|Cave Fourth Move]]

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")}You try to walk on as if nothing is wrong... but you find yourself practically stumbling over your own feet. Your head is a mess; what the hell happened back there? Are you finally going insane? Or have you simply been mad from the start? You, quite frankly, fear the answer... Instead of tuning them out, you continue to focus almost-exclusively on the sounds of the battlefield. Your thoughts couldn't be trusted... but gritty reality always could. You journey on a bit further, unopposed... when something catches your eye. Hmm, what is th- What?! Over there to the right! A group of people fighting not too far from you... and a leafy bow just ran into the midst of them, you're sure of it! Your target... You've finally found her. No way out, IF... Better finish this fast. Teach this traitor a lesson! [Call IF out!]<call| [[Run and grab the traitor!|Cave Fourth Move Min Damage]] [[Run and slash IF!|Cave Fourth Move Max Damage]] (link:"Shoot the traitor!")[(set: $caveFourthChoice to "Shoot")(goto:"Cave Fourth Move No Damage")]{(click:?call)[(set: $caveFourthChoice to "Call")(goto:"Cave Fourth Move No Damage")]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveFlashbackView != "Yes")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}(if: $caveFourthChoice is "Call")[If the battle-hardened veteran is a true warrior, she will answer your call honorably! "IF! Stop running like a coward and face me! This ends here!" One side of combatants tense up immediately, and they turn their heads briefly to look at you. The other side, however, uses their momentary distraction to gain the upper hand in the clash, and bayonets begin swinging once more. IF is still hiding in their midst... Damn it, show yourself!!! You are so caught up in your anger, that you don't notice one of the men fall... and a bullet misfires from his weapon. The life-taking projectile pierces the air... and whizzes by your cheek. It misses by a fair distance... but a cold shiver wreaks havoc on your spinal column. How easily that could've ended you! Like a sack of nothing, you could've dropped dead, your mission unfulfilled. Lyrica left without someone to protect her. Vert left without someone to reel her in from the brink of insanity. IF left without judgement. Hopelessness... Helplessness... No hope, no help, (link:"no hope, no help, no-")[(set: $previousPassage to "Cave Fourth Move No Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFourthChoice is "Shoot")[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}You raise both halves of your Scissors, aiming them like twin revolvers. IF was to blame for everything- EVERYTHING-... and now, you finally had her cornered. However, like a true coward, she is hiding from you inside the throng... Get out of THE WAY!!! With a maddened snarl, you channel energy to your blades... and without hesitation, energy bullets pour out with a heated intensity. One man falls, then another, then another, then another another another another (link: "another another another-")[(set: $previousPassage to "Cave Fourth Move No Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[The next thing you know, you are staring at a curiously-large cloud of smoke. Your head hurts like hell... but wait, where did IF go?! You make a mad dash into the smoke, and a sick scene is all-too happy to welcome you: twelve dead men lying motionless in the mud. Six in green armor, and six in purple... Leanbox and Planeptune soldiers. These particular Planeptune men are wearing helmets adorned with a sparkling-green leafy bow insignia... Is that what... you... saw?... You stand in silence as, almost on cue, each lifeless corpse slowly vanishes into thin air, leaving only dust and clothing scraps behind. They went off to wherever the dead now go... Bodies have been vanishing ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, and you still have not a single inkling why. It's like this is all some cruel joke... ... You confused a mere icon, a simple identifying mark, for IF. First Vert, and now this... You're losing it, damn it! What would Lyrica say if she saw you like this? She'd trust you even less than she does now... and that's pretty low. ... What would... Chika say? Chika... (link:"Next...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 2")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}Your blades are already poised in your grip before you even leap off the dirt and dash for the group. Come on out, IF... No need to hide... You had to have known this would happen... Can't run forever... You run headlong into the group, intent on stabbing the hiding brunette... yet, as you push man after man out of the way, you can't find IF anywhere! The hell did she get to? You could've sworn she was here... *Slice!* Your thoughts are interrupted by a bayonet blade slicing straight down your back! Despite your best efforts, you can't help but hiss at the pain. The wound isn't deep fortunately, but you just know blood will be trickling down before long. Your pale skin will soon be red. Your clothes will soon be red. Everything will soon be red. Everyone. The land, the castle, these insolent traitors... (link: "EVERYTHING WILL BE RED!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fourth Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 15)}All you can see is a dark crimson glazing your eyes... but you feel your knives slicing through skin and bone. You... can't... slow down! You can't stop! Maybe... you don't NEED to! Die die die die die! No one came to save Lyrica! No one saved Chika! No one offered you any aid whatsoever... These men clearly didn't help, so what good were they?! END THEM! How dare they side with HER! ... ... The focus returns to your eyes, and you find it hard to breathe. Almost lost yourself completely... That 15 damage is nothing, so how could you let it get to you? You barely remember what happened... A quick look at your hands shows all you need to know, however: your twin blades are soaked with the blood of your enemies. Well, maybe not exactly your "enemies"... You finally take the time to observe the men you just slaughtered: six Planeptune soldiers... and six Leanbox soldiers. It appears in your anger, you killed your own allies... ... Was IF among them, at least?... No, you can't find her anywhere. Instead, you take note of the sparkling-green leafy bow insignia on the Planeptune helmets... Your eyes were simply playing tricks on you... and because of that, you not only murdered twelve men, but committed cold-blooded friendly fire on top of it all. You stand in silence as, almost on cue, each lifeless corpse slowly vanishes into thin air, leaving only dust and clothing scraps behind. They went off to wherever the dead now go... Bodies have been vanishing ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, and you still have not a single inkling why. It's like this is all some cruel joke... ... Oh well. Find IF, and none of this will (link:"matter anyways...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 2")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}IF, you can't escape this time! Gotta get to her... Fish her out from her hiding spot and make her face justice! Without a second thought, you run headlong into the throng, intent on grabbing the brunette by her ridiculously-long coat... yet, as you push man after man out of the way, you can't find IF anywhere! The hell did she get to? You could've sworn she was here... *Slice!* Your thoughts are interrupted by a bayonet blade slicing straight down your back! Despite your best efforts, you can't help but hiss at the pain. The wound isn't deep fortunately, but you just know blood will be trickling down before long. Your pale skin will soon be red. Your clothes will soon be red. Everything will soon be red. Everyone. The land, the castle, these insolent traitors... (link: "EVERYTHING WILL BE RED!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fourth Move Min Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 15)}All you can see is a dark crimson glazing your eyes... but you feel your knives slicing through skin and bone. You... can't... slow down! You can't stop! No, stop it! Why won't your hands stop?! Terrified eyes look at you right before they crumple to the ground. Men in both purple and green armor fall by your hand... even though you have no say in the matter. You are a prisoner in your own body... That's all you are, huh? A prisoner... ... The focus eventually returns to your eyes, and you find yourself panting in a cross between exhaustion and shock. Almost lost yourself completely... That 15 damage is nothing, so how could you let it get to you? You barely remember what happened... A quick look at your hands shows all you need to know, however: your twin blades are soaked with the blood of your enemies. Well, maybe not exactly your "enemies"... You finally take the time to observe the men you just slaughtered: six Planeptune soldiers... and six Leanbox soldiers. You snapped... and ended up killing your own allies. Your eyes soon spot a sparkling-green leafy bow insignia on a Planeptune helmet, and the revelation firmly roots you to the ground: you charged blindly into these squads of warring nations, all because you mistook a logo for IF herself. Your eyes were simply playing tricks on you... and because of that, you not only murdered twelve men, but committed cold-blooded friendly fire on top of it all. You stand in silence as, almost on cue, each lifeless corpse slowly vanishes into thin air, leaving only dust and clothing scraps behind. They went off to wherever the dead now go... Bodies have been vanishing ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, and you still have not a single inkling why. It's like this is all some cruel game... and you appear to be the star player. You suddenly feel very, very sick... (link:"\"Monster! She's a monster!\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 2")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No") (savegame:"C","Cave Scenario Checkpoint") (set: $caveScenarioCheckpoint to true) }Walking, walking... Man, the Leanbox Basilicom's yard sure is massive. It's been a few minutes since you've seen anyone else... It's as if you could fit a small country in this lawn alone. Or, at least a town... But, that's Vert for you: bigger is better. The flowing green hills have never looked so lifeless, though... That's certainly not helped by the rain, nor the mist that is accompanying it. Oh, how things have changed... Well, forget that for now: IF's army should be just down this last stretch! "-cle aro-... -ck... -om-" Hold up... You hear that? That voice... "-e'll storm the cast-... end this!" That is definitely IF's voice you hear. It is muffled over the distance and the deafening rain, but you'd recognize her anywhere! Walk quietly, now... You take refuge in a nearby bush and look out... and there the battle-hardened veteran is, apparently giving orders to a group of about 20 men. At last, you've found the main force... IF's back is to you, and the soldiers stand before her in a typical "Crane" formation... though, Chika would always tell you to simplify things and just compare it to a horseshoe shape. Even in wartime, she never lost that child-like, yet surprisingly competent, air about her... ... Your fingernails dig deeply into your palms. IF is right there, and she hasn't noticed you yet. For the sake of, well, everything... you must finish her. Get to it! Failure shall not be tolerated! [[Because of her, Chika is... Blast her away!|Cave Fifth Move Max Damage]] [[Can't risk her escaping... Knock her out!|Cave Fifth Move Min Damage]] [Capture her, and hold her hostage!]<capture| [[Make her pay for her treachery... Make her SUFFER!|Cave Fifth Move No Damage]]{(click:?capture)[(set: $caveFifthChoice to "Capture")(goto: "Cave Fifth Move No Damage")]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}(if: $caveFifthChoice is "Capture")[She's right where you want her! If you time this all right, you can apprehend the brunette, and force her army's hand; they're not going to shoot at you if you have their commander held hostage! Only one chance to do this right... Go, now! You effortlessly kick off the ground and glide across the last stretch of land, and a few soldiers notice your demonic approach... but it's too late! You cut off IF's orders mid-sentence by viciously grabbing the back of her absurdly-long coat and lifting her off the ground with ease. By now, the rest of the squad notices what is going on, so you boldly shout: "Stand down! This battle is over!" No one dares challenge you; they can only slowly back away. IF's legs wobble in an attempt to break free... Heh, what a cute thought. No one can escape your grasp. You're the hunter, and she's but a mere targe- H-Huh?! You only turned your gaze towards the army for but a mere second, yet upon returning to your captive enemy, long brown hair did not brush against your face! No... instead, your wrist is wrapped firmly around the back of some scruffy man's neck! Where the... In the crowd! IF is standing to the far right of the group now! Did you... grab the wrong target? No matter... make up for your miscalculation now and grab the real IF! You toss the man from your arms into the center of the group, knocking a few soldiers down and staggering the rest. Using their fear to your advantage, you are able to dash on over to the true IF! Grab her by the damn neck... She deserves whatever she gets for tricking you so! Grab her, wring her, dismantle her! Your fingers just about graze the battle-hardened veteran's delicate skin, but a voice renders you motionless: "F-Freeze, Cave!" N-No way! You turn your head in response to the voice, only to see a countless number of IFs running straight for you! G-Get away! Stay AWAY! You're being swarmed... W-What's happening?! (link: "STOOOOOOOOOOPPPPPP!!!!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fifth Move No Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](else:)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}"Everything I do is for Lyree... I'll always keep her safe, Cave!" "... Are you enough?" "I have to be." IF... IF! IF!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You glide forward and thrust your twin blades forward... and they penetrate IF with ease! Mission... accomplished!... Right? You just stabbed the ultimate traitor... so, why don't you feel... proud? Are you... Are you doubting yourself? ... You ignore your weak thoughts, and hoist your enemy up and spin her around to get a good look at her eyes... but when you manage to flip her, it is not the brunette looking back. No, it is just a Planeptune soldier... No, you are not doing this again, IF! How dare you play these pathetic tricks! A grunt escapes your throat as you retract your blades and kick the pierced man towards the rest of the army. A majority of the group falls over; useless filth. You scan the squad for any signs of where the brunette could've gone... and you find her! Er, running straight for you, that is! IF pulls out her Qatars and leaps; you greet her with a boot to the stomach! The battle-hardened veteran lets out a yelp as she flies back, but you get no time to rest: one by one, each soldier fades into another IF clone, and they all charge right for you. Your former friend mobs around you... You're going insane, you're going insane... This can't be real! Stop, p-please! (link: "STOOOOOOOOOOPPPPPP!!!!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fifth Move No Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[Fire consumes everything... You wake up in mid-spin, your arms outstretched, your long legs pressed firmly together... and about a thousand energy balls per secound launching out from all around you. The blasts converge into one... and release a dramatic shockwave that seems to stretch for miles, strong enough to demolish weak buildings. Your entire body feels fuzzy... and yet, you can't even fathom trying to stop. What does 'stop' mean? What does anything mean? It is when the feeling returns to at least your toes that you manage to slow yourself down... and as you land back in the mud, you realize you were floating in the air. Why... do you feel so tired? Once more, your body was seemingly hijacked by madness. ... Ignore all that, and focus on the pressing issue: where is everyone?! Those IFs were trying to... kill... you... ... It happened again... You observe the damage you just caused: the Planeptune soldiers were all beyond dead, utterly annihilated by your frightening energy. Either their bodies were wiped out by your reluctant attack, or they poofed out of existence like all who died before them in this war... Either way, you no doubt killed them all. Crap, you didn't intend to go THAT far... And again, no IF in sight either. But... that doesn't make sense. If the brunette is not with her army... then where IS she? A cough a few feet away quickly snatches your attention. [[Turn around.|Cave Sixth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}You and IF are the only two beings in this massive black abyss. No other sights or sounds reach you; the only source of lumination is the spotlight shining down on the traitor. The nothingness of the surroundings holds its breath as you lift your right-handed blade as a gunslinger's revolver and aim right for the back of the villain's head. Take a deep breath... stay calm... and end this, once and for all. *Crack!* A bullet fires from your makeshift knife... and that's all she wrote; IF falls to her knees before collapsing outright. Justice has bee- No, wait! The spotlight snaps off... and a different beam shines down to the far right, allowing the entire emptiness to see another IF, staring at you with frightened eyes. She's not escaping! Another *CRACK!* of an energy bullet, and she falls as well. Any other takers?! ... Why, yes, it seems there is: that last light fades, but is replaced by two more, and thus, two more brunettes. You fire... and yet more show up. Three, four, eight! You try to hold them off, but to no avail; the swarm of battle-hardened veterans are too much for you to handle, and they begin clobbering you with their fists. No!!! You're stronger than she is! You HAVE to be!!! Not like this! (link: "NOT LIKE THIS!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fifth Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 30)}Fire consumes everything... You wake up in mid-spin, your arms outstretched, your long legs pressed firmly together... and about a thousand energy balls per secound launching out from all around you. The blasts converge into one... and release a dramatic shockwave that seems to stretch for miles, strong enough to demolish weak buildings. Your entire body feels fuzzy... and yet, you can't even fathom trying to stop. What does 'stop' mean? What does anything mean? It is when the feeling returns to at least your toes that you manage to slow yourself down... and as you land back in the mud, you realize you were floating in the air. Why... do you feel so tired? Once more, your body was seemingly hijacked by madness. ... Ignore all that, and focus on the pressing issue: where is everyone?! Those IFs were trying to... kill... you... ... It happened again... You observe the damage you just caused: the Planeptune soldiers were all beyond dead, utterly annihilated by your frightening energy. Either their bodies were wiped out by your reluctant attack, or they poofed out of existence like all who died before them in this war... Either way, you no doubt killed them all. Crap, you didn't intend to go THAT far... And again, no IF in sight either. But... that doesn't make sense. If the brunette is not with her army... then where IS she? A cough a few feet away quickly snatches your attention. [[Turn around.|Cave Sixth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}Capturing IF is all that matters! Forget everything and incapacitate her! IF has a knack for weaseling out of trouble... but strip her of that ability, and she's nothing. Ready your right leg, stand on your left toes... and heave! You slide like a poorly-rendered 3D model towards IF, and her army has enough time to just barely register your existence as you bring forth your right hand and karate chop the brunette hard in the neck. She crumples like a sack of worthless crap... but you doubt she's unconscious just like that. No, she is sadly stronger than this. Far more capable, far more cunning. You mount the downed girl and... a lightning bolt gives a thorough run-through of your system as you realize you are no longer looking at your former friend, but instead a random gruff Planeptune soldier with eyes rolled back in his head. The hell? No... nonononono! This isn't happening; not again! Disturbed beyond even your comprehension, you snap your head up and quickly lay eyes on another IF, standing to the far right of the group. How did she... No bother! Get over here! You bare your teeth as you fly towards the cretin, but two figures step in front of her to impede your path: two... IFs... The confusion stops you dead in your tracks, and more and more IFs begin to surround you. Before you know it, bayonets are whacking you over the head! Pain, so much pain... IF did this to you! They ALL did this to you! Make it stop... Make the world (link: "STOOOOOOOOOOPPPPPP!!!!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Fifth Move Min Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 30)}Fire consumes everything... You wake up in mid-spin, your arms outstretched, your long legs pressed firmly together... and about a thousand energy balls per secound launching out from all around you. The blasts converge into one... and release a dramatic shockwave that seems to stretch for miles, strong enough to demolish weak buildings. Your entire body feels fuzzy... and yet, you can't even fathom trying to stop. What does 'stop' mean? What does anything mean? It is when the feeling returns to at least your toes that you manage to slow yourself down... and as you land back in the mud, you realize you were floating in the air. Why... do you feel so tired? Once more, your body was seemingly hijacked by madness. ... Ignore all that, and focus on the pressing issue: where is everyone?! Those IFs were trying to... kill... you... ... It happened again... You observe the damage you just caused: the Planeptune soldiers were all beyond dead, utterly annihilated by your frightening energy. Either their bodies were wiped out by your reluctant attack, or they poofed out of existence like all who died before them in this war... Either way, you no doubt killed them all. Crap, you didn't intend to go THAT far... And again, no IF in sight either. But... that doesn't make sense. If the brunette is not with her army... then where IS she? A cough a few feet away quickly snatches your attention. [[Turn around.|Cave Sixth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")}It appears that one solitary soldier survived your involuntary wrath... The poor soul. The man sits against a small rock, his arm draped under his armor... presumably clutching some deep stomach wound. His head weakly lifts as you approach. "S-Stay away, you d-devil!" His verbal jab reflects right off your eyelashes. You ponder if this man can be trusted... You decide no, but then again, no one can. Still, he was clearly afraid of you; instead of moping over it, might as well use his fear to your advantage? Just because no one can't be trusted doesn't mean he'll actually try anything foolish. "Where's IF?" you ask, somewhat peacefully. That certainly didn't come out right... You must be drained after snapping those past few times. The soldier's eyes close tight as a sudden wave of pain washes over his body... but he surprisingly responds. "... S-She was never with the rest of us. W-We were the diversion force... and I guess it worked, h-huh? Right now, she's probably already snuck in through the back entrance of the castle... Won't be long til Leanbox is ours..." He shakes his head, dishonorable shame possibly rearing its ugly face. "... There, I already said too much... P-Please, just let me go! T-There's no reinforcements coming, a-and I won't say anything! You have my w-word!" [[Interrogate further. He's hiding something...|Cave Sixth Move Min Damage]] [[Knock him out. Can't be too careful...|Cave Sixth Move No Damage]] [Shoot him. He'd show no mercy to you...]<shoot| [[You got what you needed... Find IF!|Cave Sixth Move Max Damage]]{(click:?shoot)[(set: $caveSixthChoice to "Shoot")(goto: "Cave Sixth Move No Damage")]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

You believe him... After all, you did accidentally murder his entire squad; what can he possibly gain by deceiving you? Even so... you can't shake this suspicion. You want to believe he will give up quietly, you really do! However... this is war. One wrong move... and Lyrica has no one left to protect her. If you fall here, you will have failed everyone you loved... You can't afford any more failures. (if: $caveSixthChoice is "Shoot")[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}"... I'm sorry..." you whisper. The man doesn't hear what you say, and his head cocks questionably... but your raised blade silences him before he can even vocalize his confusion. You focus the usual amount of energy to the right-half of your trademarked Scissors... and BLAST! A bullet catches the injured Planeptune soldier right between the eyes... and the dirty deed is complete. His body slumps further back against the rock, and- you time it this time- after 15 seconds, his body flashes out of existence. Rest well...](else:)["... I'll hold you to that..." you whisper. The man doesn't hear what you say, and his head cocks questionably... but you are already moving before he can vocalize his curiosity. Your simple, yet perfect, fluid movements: wind back your right fist, firmly grasp his shoulder with your left... and crack your steel-like hand against his skull. The soldier's eyes roll back into his head, and he is out... Still alive; you made sure of that... This war doesn't need another casualty. Maybe... Maybe this'll appease his fallen comrades, at least a little. Your sins can't be redeemed, especially from one small action... but every little thing helps... right? At least, that's what Chika would probably say...] Well... no matter what, you now knew IF's plan: she was sneaking up on the Basilicom from behind! Pretty clever, actually... Well, honestly, the plan was stupidly-simple... but sometimes, it's the worst options that actually yield the best results. Get to it, then! You can not allow her to gain entry into the castle, especially while Vert is away! (link:"Return to the castle!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 3")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}You believe him... After all, you did accidentally murder his entire squad; what can he possibly gain by deceiving you? You simply nod and turn your back to begin your return to the Basilicom. Hopefully IF hasn't caused too much damage... You cannot allow her to seize Leanbox's castle! An unusual feeling begins swirling in your gut as you realize, without a doubt, that you're about to come face-to-face with IF again... Why are you feeling so... nervous now? Those deaths aren't getting to you, are they? Buck up, soldier; this is war. Deal with i- GCKK! Your ears don't even register the classic bang of a pistol... and the next moment you blink, you find yourself on your knees, a searing pain in your back. What... the...? You feel blood running down your torso... No, he... he couldn't have! Biting your tongue through the awful pain, you manage to push yourself back to your feet and turn your head just in time to see the soldier brandishing a handgun... which he fires once more. You fortunately stumble out of the trajectory, but the point is clear: this man is trying to kill you, even though you let him be. Just like he asked... "You can't trust anyone, Cave... People are beasts; it's simply human nature. Even IF is guilty of such a cruel sin... Without me, the world would be happy to watch itself burn..." Betrayal... Betrayal!! (link: "BETRAAYAAAALLLL!!!!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Sixth Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 40)}... Your mind is completely hollow as you stare blankly at the soldier, fear returning to his eyes. He fires one more time, but you effortlessly speed out of the way, your feet barely moving. One corner of your mind tells you to stop... but the rest of it wants this man dead. No, beyond dead... Close your eyes, focus on this fiend no longer existing... There you go... Feel the wind rise from beneath him, sense the horror swelling up in the pit of his stomach, smell the fear in his breath... The man doesn't realize he has started floating until he is several feet off of the ground. He tries to scream, but no sound comes out; the sudden air vacuum around him deafens all noise entirely. He silently shouts as he rises higher and higher and higher and higher... It's not long before he has completely vanished above the demonic rain clouds. You snap your fingers, and the wind vortex peters out... The man never falls to the earth. ... The rational side of your brain finally breaks you out of your trance... and yep, there's that guilty feeling in your heart again. However, an equal amount of rage is right there alongside it. You tried trusting someone... and you lost 40 health for it. You hope IF is proud... ... Better get back to it, then. Ignore... this... wound... and stop her advance. (link: "Return to the castle!")[(if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")](else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 3")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}His back is against the wall; of course he'd tell you what you want to hear! He's either leading you into a trap, or simply misdirecting you so that the enemy can get the upper hand... You cannot trust him, it all boils down to. You keep your features calm as you reach for the soldier and pick him up by the front of his outfit. You lift him so that his forehead collides with your own. "What are you hiding?! Where is she?!" Sweat breaks out all over the man's face, and his arm appears to fidget beneath his coat. He opens his mouth to respond... when a muffled *CRACK!* rings throughout the misty air, and a sudden spike of heat tears away at your side, roughly to the left of your breast. Blood begins to stain your outfit... and it all becomes obvious: he just shot you with a concealed weapon, most likely a standard-issue pistol! It doesn't feel too bad, in all honesty: 20 damage perhaps, as the man's wobbly aim forced him to miss all your vitals. Still... you've been dealt a pain worse than any physical trauma: this soldier was hoping to do this the whole time. The moment you turned your back, he would've fired all the same... Your worst fears have become reality: everyone really did want you dead. If you show any sign of mercy, you will die! Lyrica will die! Even Vert will die! The world couldn't be trusted... The only one you can believe in is yourself. The man's arm moves again under his clothes, giving away that he plans to fire yet again. Even after all that... (link: "A foolish mistake.")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Sixth Move Min Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 20)}... Your pupils dilate so far that your eyes are almost entirely black... and your grip tightens around the soldier's shirt. The man grunts and fires another bullet, but you hold him further out and twist yourself so that the bullet flies away undaunted. Not taking a moment's rest, you jab your right knee up into his chest... and feel something solid crunch against your blow; well, found his gun... He's out of tricks now. He pleads with his eyes for you to forgive him; you respond by turning your wrists... and pushing him forward with unparalled might! The soldier flies through the pouring rain, possibly hoping he doesn't break anything upon landing... Well, he won't have to worry about that. You stick your right hand all the way out and point two fingers for the flying man. One of your stylish turrets materializes from the ether and, as directed, fires an instant laser. The Planeptune soldier doesn't even know what hits him when his body gets utterly immolated by the beam. The 'C'-shaped turret explodes after a few short seconds... and not even ash remains of its target. ... Time to go. IF's army is completely defeated, at least here. Perhaps there were still a few stragglers near the castle... but the Leanbox army was more than capable enough to silence them. ... Whether his info could be trusted or not, all you have to go on is that IF herself is attacking the back of the castle. What a true coward; allowing her entire army to die while she acts sneaky... Hopefully her dastardly ways haven't allowed her to capture the Basilicom already! (link: "Return to the castle!")[(if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")](else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 3")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

You slow your sprint as the castle's entrance doors come fully into view. Man, that journey seems to get longer each and every time... Why did Leanbox have to be home to so many long stretches of hills and grass? Well, you've made it back, at least. There seems to be no more fighting, at least out here in the front... and of course, there are no bodies lying around either; they presumably poofed away like the rest. Made cleaning up easier... though, funeral homes must be starving for business. You absentmindedly squeeze tight on your twin blades and proceed. The rain falls ever harder... and a few Leanbox soldiers note your return, and slowly back away. The more things change, the more they stay the same, yadda yadda... But, instead of simply ignoring them like usual and leave them to their fears, you know that they should hear about IF's ploy. Maybe you should ask if they've heard from the unit in the backyard? You walk towards the closest three men and open your mouth... but they back away even further. You note that their hands are clutching their guns tighter than normal... and their fingers are lingering over the triggers. What are they...? Hmm... The front doors to the castle open in the background... and yet another guard wheels out... some unknown device. What is that? Not quite a cannon... Is that one of the machines your army pilfered from the Avenir supply depot? ... Time to confirm what the hell was going on. You take one more solitary step... and the soldiers nervously hoist up their weapons. Their grip is far too shaky to guess where they are hoping to aim... but the important part is that their guns are set on you. Seems they're not alone: a couple windows open up, and two men with sniper rifles look down on you. Seems betrayal isn't exclusive to IF... Confusion clogging your mind, you raise your blades at the nearby soldiers... These insolent wretches! All the things you've done, just to keep them safe... and now they're turning on you?! Brandishing YOU a traitor?! How... DARE they! Not after what you've been through... THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND! NO ONE UNDERSTANDS! [[Demand an explanation!|Cave Seventh Move Min Damage]] [[More traitors... Those snipers need to go.|Cave Seventh Move Max Damage]] [[Please! CALM DOWN!|Cave Seventh Move No Damage]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

CALM DOWN, DAMMIT! Your heart is slamming against your chest again... You don't want to do anything you'd regret, now do you? Sure, your gut instinct is to execute these traitors... but try to look at this rationally, okay? You just went on a rampage that not only killed a ton of Planeptune soldiers (though, presumably some must've escaped or got captured), but also at least six of your own men. You were already feared far and wide... and now you actually dealt friendly fire. Hell, to add to that, you blew up IF's main force with such intensity that the shockwave probably shook the castle's very foundation itself. You then hauled ass back to your squad, weapons drawn to the ready AND huffing and puffing like a maniac. They aren't betraying you; they're simply protecting themselves from the one who vowed to protect THEM. ... It's time to slow down... if not for your health, then for their well-being. All of Leanbox feared you, Lyrica feared you... You need to get yourself together, or you're going to lose absolutely everything. Yes, even more than you already have... "... I'm sorry..." you whisper, catching the tense soldiers off-guard. Slowly, so as not to startle the snipers, you lower your twin blades back to your belt before connecting them back into their proper Scissors-form. Your weapon is now sheathed, and the closest guards lower their bayonets as well. You swallow your pride and breathe deep as you can... before speaking up once more. "... I will pay for my sins later... but right now, we must stop IF. She is flanking the castle from behind... We should pray it's not too late." The nearest man, standing diagonally to your forward/left, cocks a confused eyebrow... before nodding. "... That could explain the confusing radio feedback we've been getting from the squad out back... Men!" The soldier raises his blade above his head to signify a new order. "The enemy is sneaking up right under our nose! To the back, with haste!" The other nearby soldiers grunt in recognition of their new mission... but back at the castle, an unforeseen development has taken place: the guard manning the strange device mistakes the raised gun as an order to attack you. Panicking, he takes out a match and... lights a fuse?! Someone close to him screams, causing the soldiers with you to turn their heads hesitantly. "W-What's goin- N-No, what are you doing, you fool?!" [[See what he's doing...|Cave Eighth Move]]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}So that's how it's going to be... Well, so be it. They're looking to kill you, so you might as well take out the two most dangerous targets first. These ground troops are a threat for sure, but they're too cautious, too nervous, too green. Those snipers, on the other hand... One or two good shots and they could end you. They might also be the ones constantly watching Lyrica... Your choice is clear. Everything stays silent, save for the rushing rain... and using your quickdraw speed, you cross your arms and fire two energy bullets; right blade for the left sniper, and left blade for the right sniper. Simple enough... The blasts catch the snipers completely by surprise, and they drop behind the windows. You assume they won't be aiming their guns again anytime soon... "F-Fire!" the ground soldiers shout as your bullets murder their sniping allies... and at once, three wobbly guns fire three inaccurate bullets. Bring it on!... (link: "Tch!")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Seventh Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 25)} The projectiles tear at your sides, but as expected, the shots weren't lethal. This should hurt more than it does... but perhaps your adrenaline is allowing you to block out the 25 damage. Don't dwell on the pain... Pain is simply meant to remind you that you are still alive. They hit you, and still missed their mark... You won't. You channel up some more energy to blast these demons to Kingdom Come... when a sudden development takes place at the front of the Basilicom: the strange device is activated by a panicked guard. Did he... just light a fuse?! The guards who just shot you notice this tepid little detail... and their features instantly fill with horror. "N-No, w-what is he thinki- STOP!!!" (link: "You can't stop it; no one can.")[(if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"Cave Eighth Move")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}"What blasphemy is this?! Turning on the commandant of all SMD AND Leanbox operations?! Have you gone mad?!" In your fury, you extend your blades even further, pointing them straight for the nearest soldier's head. Probably not the wisest thing you could've done... The men are hesitant to respond at first, but the sudden movement of your blades forces your target to take action: he backs away and pulls hard on his trigger, firing a warning shot... which aptly grazes you above the knee! Brace yourself... Here comes the wave of invigorating pain, shooting up your long bare leg and right into your brain. Shivers, the familiar cold sweat, that awful sickening feeling... (link: "You're ready.")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Seventh Move Min Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 10)} You laugh inside at the pathetic 10 damage. Even if your blood wasn't oozung adrenaline, this wouldn't faze you! You are too strong to submit to petty 'pain'... Still, they fired the first shot... and there was no going back now. You channel up some more energy to blast these demons to Kingdom Come... when a sudden development takes place at the front of the Basilicom: the strange device is activated by a panicked guard, responding to the gunshot. Did he... just light a fuse?! The guards around you sense this development as well... and a sense of dread crushes down on you all. "Y-You fool! We're still-" (link: "Can you feel it? The flames of the end approaching?")[(if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")](else:)[(goto:"Cave Eighth Move")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")}"C-Crap... MORTAR!!!!" On cue, the unknown Avenir device fires what can only be a missile... and it's headed straight for you! It seems the rest of the Leanbox forces DID learn something from you and Vert: there's no kill like overkill. The three closest guards aren't sure how to react; they hadn't planned for this possibility. An error in communication... Huh, that seems to be familiar somehow... One guard trips to the ground, a little ways away to your 1 o'clock. The closest guard tries to fidget his way out of utter frightened paralysis; he stands at your 10 o'clock, within arm's reach. The third guard begins sprinting towards the mortar cannon itself, probably hoping to stop what has already happened (clearly a futile endeavor). The rain falls heavier than ever... This is it. If that thing hits you, you're good as dead, and you can kiss finding IF- and keeping Lyrica alive- goodbye. Hurry! The end is coming! [Dodge left and go prone!]<collide| [[Guard and protect yourself!|Cave Eighth Move Max Damage]] [[Leap backwards and crash down!|Cave Eighth Move No Damage]] [[Shoot the missile!|Cave Eighth Move Min Damage]] [Slide right and go prone!]<slideright| [Take one for the team...]<poordude|{(click:?collide)[(set: $caveEighthChoice to "Collide")(goto: "Cave Eighth Move Max Damage")] (click:?slideright)[(set: $caveEighthChoice to "Right")(goto: "Cave Eighth Move No Damage")] (click:?poordude)[(set: $caveEighthChoice to "Throw")(goto: "Cave Eighth Move Min Damage")]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

Don't think, feel! (if: $caveEighthChoice is "Right")[You are sliding to the right before you even realize you're moving... and you instinctively go prone in the mud and keep your head down.](else:)[You leap backwards before your mind can even process the full severity of the threat approaching you. Your back hits the mud below hard, and you roll over so you are flat on your stomach. Keep your head down... It's coming!] The shell crashes into the ground, a couple feet from where you were originally standing... and the heat from the ensuing explosion is simply amazing! The wave blasts over you, and you simply push your head harder against the dirt. What kind of weapons were Avenir developing? Good thing Leanbox acquired them; the alternative possibilities are far too bothersome to consider... Your ears are ringing, and smoke burns your lungs... but after a few moments, you determine it's time to open your eyes. The first sight that greets you is pure gray everything; the explosion gave birth to a blinding combination of smoke and fog. The rain falls harder than ever, simply adding to the unnerving atmosphere. You wonder how far the debris has spread... Will you ever escape this cloud? Will your eyes ever see the outside world again? Will you see Lyrica again? Vert? IF? ... Chika? ... Your chest and eyes are burning, but you otherwise feel fine... You expertly avoided the blast! Job well done... but no, you're not finished yet. The battle-hardened veteran awaits, provided no more distractions spring up. It'd probably be wise to keep your head down for the time being. For starters, who knows what lethal fumes or debris you may accidentally inhale? Furthermore, if any of the other Leanbox soldiers survived the freak-firing, you can't take the risk of them seeing you through the mist and treating you as a threat. So, crawl on... Right fist, left fist... [["Hah! You crawl just like a slug, Cave! So adorable~"|Cave Ninth Move]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 70)}(if: $caveEighthChoice is "Collide")[Gotta move, now! You lean on your left leg before kicking off the ground, forcing your body to the left... As you do this, the closest guard finally manages to regain some of his motor functions, and his first instinct in to hop backwards... right in your path! The two of you end up smacking right into each other... No! You've lost your balance... Damn it, how can you live with yourself now? Soldiers don't screw up like clumsy bufoons... The two of you crash into the ground, hard.](else:)[When in doubt, you can always trust your uncanny strength! You hastily bring up your blades to cover your face... If your standard blocking pose can't save you, nothing will!] ... The mortar explodes a mere few feet in front of you... and all of your senses are overcome by shrapnel, flames, and just... pain. Lots and lots of pain. You can't even tell if you are facing the sky or the mud; hell, you can't even tell if you're able to walk anymore! Time passes... and you fade in and out of consciousness more times now than you ever have in your life combined. Come on, hang in there... Don't... head... to... the... light... You're... not... done...YET! ... You finally manage to snap open your eyelids... and all you can see is a blinding combination of smoke and fog. Seems the explosion and the rain are making a most unusual pair... You can barely move, but you try your damndest to crawl forward. It is now when you finally realize just how banged up you are: every inch of your body is screaming bloody hell... It'll be a miracle if you manage to survive this unprecedented 70 damage. Ly...rica... I...F... Ve...rt... Chi...ka... (if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(link: "Chika... Lyrica... No...")[(set: $caveDeath to "Mortar")(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")]](else:)[[["You're stronger than this, Cavey... Vert knows it, Lyrica knows it... and I know it!"|Cave Ninth Move]]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 35)}(if: $caveEighthChoice is "Throw")[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}If that mortar shell hits the ground, everyone here (and most importantly, you) are as good as dead... Lacking a better idea, you eye the soldier standing to your 10 o'clock... Yes, this'll work. "Sorry... Prove your loyalty!" you shout as you grab the man by the neck... and before he can even sputter a confused word, you fling his entire body up at the projectile! Direct hi-](else:)[You're not allowing this shell to hit the ground! You quickfire a bolt of energy from your right-handed blade, striking the missile head-on! Direct hi-] ... The mortar explodes in the air a mere few feet in front of you... and all of your senses are overcome by shrapnel, flames, and... pain. Even though it exploded in the air, you feel your body get forced down to the mud below! It's a good thing your body didn't feel so numb, or your fall might've really hurt! You can't even tell if you are facing the sky or the mud; hell, you can't even tell if you're able to walk anymore! You're... not dying, right? You can't open your eyes... It burns... ... Time passes... and you miraculously manage to snap open your eyelids... and all you can see is a blinding combination of smoke and fog. Seems the explosion and the rain are making a most unusual pair... Feeling slowly begins to return to your toes, and works its way up your body from there. Let's see... By your quick estimations, you took 35 damage from that explosion to the face. Fortunately, you dealt with the missile before it hit its exact target; this was terrible, but it could've been much worse. It ALWAYS could be much worse... ... Crawl on. You can make it, right? Don't die like this... Think of what's at stake! Crawl on, crawl on, crawl on, crawl on... (if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(link: "Crawl... on... cra...w...l...")[(set: $caveDeath to "Mortar")(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")]](else:)[[["I'm worried about you, Cavey! You're... working yourself to the bone again..."|Cave Ninth Move]]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

"I know that look, Cave... You're scared, aren't you?" Keep crawling... Look, the fog appears to be thinning! You estimate you're basically at the front of the castle now, perhaps just about to round the left side (well, left if you're facing the front doors, not standing at them). Just a little bit further... "It's alright... I'm scared too..." You crawl over a body; some unfortunate soul who couldn't escape the panicked blast. Hmm... well, he hasn't vanished yet, so he might still be alive at least. However, that is not your concern right now. Keep going. "But... I know everything will be okay... because I have you. That... makes the fear go away for at least a moment." As you crawl, your fist clenches the mud near some oddly-shaped blade of (if: $characterOneHP != "Cave")[[[grass]<jokeendingcave|]<timer|](else:)[grass]... and as you look up, you can finally see outside the plume of suffocating darkness! The outlines of trees become clearer and clearer, as well as the grand Basilicom itself! Trees, the castle, Chika, the falling rain... You can see their outlines through... the... fog... "So... don't be afraid either, Cavey! We got each other's backs, always!... Right?" ... That silhouette, right outside the smoke... It can't be her... No, it just can't!!! ... But what if... What if it is?! She's... She's standing right there, beckoning you to her! Almost as if you two were kids again, and your best friend wanted to play tag... ... T-This is no time for games! That's just like her; screwing around when there was work to be done. However... she always managed to do a good job regardless. She was usually lazy and goofy and often seemed to avoid the issue... but when push came to shove, she knew what was right... and she never let you down. "Always, Cavey! Try as you might, you'll never be able to shake me!~" ... How could you let her down? You LET HER DOWN! Now what are you supposed to do?! [["C-Chika?!... I-I'm coming, hold on!"|Cave Ninth Move No Damage]] [["Stop... messing with me! Get out of my head!"|Cave Ninth Move Min Damage]] [["..." Let it pass...|Cave Ninth Move Max Damage]]{(click:?jokeendingcave)[(set: $characterOneHP to "Cave")(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Ninth Move")(goto:"Joke Ending Passage")] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[grass]]} Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

"Boo!" You nearly leap fifty miles high as a head pops through what you had hoped was a dense bush. Drat, you should've guessed it was too small, even for your tiny frame! "Found you, found you! Heheh, told ya I was a pwo! Didn't take wong to find you!" Hiding your hurt pride, you 'stylishly' turn to face your beaming friend. "... You got wucky, Chika... I-I didn't have enouf time..." Yeah, that's totally it! Your friend, her youthful eyes touting her victory, rubs her thin index finger under her nose. "I'm just super awesome, Cavey! Come on, your turn! I'm not gonna wose!" So immature... One day, she'll have to grow up! You both won't be kids forever! She's the older one, so why doesn't she act like it?... Hmm, but actually, she only claims to be the older one. Neither of you are quite sure, to be frank... A-Anyways, your best friend looks at you expectantly. Better turn her down, maybe scold her! ... N-No, why are you smiling? This is so childish... Wah! You don't have time for fun and games! Don't play along with this, no! "You can't hide fwom me! I know all your twicks, Chika!" "Hehe, we'll see 'bout that!" Her young head exits the bush, and you hear her footsteps clack as they strike the granite. "Count ta 30, and NO PEEKING!" "I-I know how to pway!" you shout back, your cheeks red. She thinks she's so good at hide-and-seek? Well... you must prove your dominance! You refuse to be bested by your best friend in the whole wide world! Okay, follow the rules... Cover your eyes with your arm, look down, and start counting! "1... 2... 3..." 4... 8... 15... 23... "30! Chika, I'm coming!" Time to kick total butt! Seeing your cute pal's grinning face in your mind, you burst right out of the bush... and are instantly two feet taller and drenched by the deluge of rain. You absentmindedly turn around... and once again see the smog cloud you must've just escaped from... You are standing at the left corner of the Leanbox Basilicom now... What just...? No, forget it... Fretting over it will solve nothing. It is best to just... move on... You can take this path to find IF... assuming she's still in the back. The castle is long... but you'll manage; no one else dares stand in your way... ... One last long walk awaits you. Just you... and your thoughts... Just gotta keep moving on, moving on, mov... ing... on... (link:"\"It hurts, doesn't it? You can't do it... You can't stand it...\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

(if: $caveFlashbackView is "No")[{(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to $caveDamageSceneCheck + 1)}Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? You've gone through this already... If you react, Chika will actually turn out to be a helpless soldier, most likely an ally. If you let your guard down, then Chika will turn out to be a soldier looking to end you. ... Face the facts: this isn't your friend. She's not coming back... Damn it, she's not coming back... ... Just keep your head down and let this illusion pass. She's not real, not real, just a dream, just a dream, just a dream... ... Hmm... Is she still there? No... the silhouette is gone. The fake Chika has passed you by... You're safe. "... It can't be for nothing..." you whisper aloud to yourself as you begin to stand... The Oracle must be laughing at you right now; you're going absolutely insane! You've seen fake Verts, fake IFs... and now, a fake outline of your late best friend! She'd be able to find some humor in this situation. Hell, she'd probably elicit a rare laugh out of you... She was always able to do things like that... Make you see the good in the bad. Calm you down in the strangest of ways... "I'm going insane..." "Hmm... H-Hey, Cavey! How bout a nice, relaxing joke?" "... Not now, Chika..." "Come on! You'll like it!... Okay! What did the blue hedgehog say to A. Christin before they got in the boat?" "... Oh lord, what?" "'Get in the boat'!" "... You're an idiot, you know that?" Such a freaking idiot... So s-stupid... Damn it all, why can't she be here now?... Why must you be cursed with this eternal solit- (link: "*crack!*")[(set:$previousPassage to "Cave Ninth Move Max Damage")(set: $caveFlashbackView to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Snap Flashbacks")]](elseif: $caveFlashbackView is "Yes")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 30)}Your back is screaming... and you quickly put the pieces together: someone just shot you! One of the downed soldiers must've woken up, and saw your outline in the fog! Damn... the bullet must've lodged inside you, square in your lower back. Possibly 30 damage... You've taken worse. Ignore the wound and patch it up later... ... You feel tempted to give yourself up to the madness again... but no, you manage to maintain complete control of your mind this time. You are simply too drained to care anymore, it seems... You turn around to see who shot you, and you can briefly detect the shape of a pistol in the smog. "..." He did ask for it... You simply raise your left-handed blade and fire a bullet into the unknown... and the ghostly gun never fires again. ... Time to get out of here. You finally emerge from the noxious smoke cloud, back into the dreary deluge. You're right at the left corner of the castle now; wow, that debris sure covered a large distance! Either way... you can take this path to find IF... assuming she's still in the back. The castle is long... but you'll manage; no one else dares stand in your way... ... One last long walk awaits you. Just you... and your thoughts... (link: "Stay... focused...")[(if: $caveHealth <= 0)[(set: $caveDeath to "Chika")(goto:"Cave Scenario Game Over")](else:)[ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div> (goto:"Cave Flashback 4")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100]

{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}Your hand tightens around your blade; muscle memory is kicking in full-force by now. Chika... This isn't her. No matter how much it eats you up inside... she's not here. She's gone... Thus, this must be a trap. A cruel, horrible, mind-bending trap... You've already gone insane several times today; don't add another mark to that tally! You stand up and find yourself in your best friend's room. Chika turns to you, her eyes pleading for you to accept her. Begging for this to be real! A hand squeezes your right shoulder just as you begin to doubt yourself. Turning your head, IF's snarky gaze greets your confused eyes. "Shoot her, Cave. You can't allow this madness to continue." You turn to the left next, and the second IF agrees. "What's done is done, Cave. Kill the fake before someone else dies!" Two more IFs pat you on the back. "What's one more life on your hands? I've killed Chika anyways; you do it, and we're even!" You raise your blade for your frightened friend... (if: $caveKarma <= 1)[... No... No! You can't do this! You refuse to shoot Chika, illusion or not! "... I'm not you, IF; I don't betray and abandon my friends!" With that bold declaration, you sheathe your twin blades and run to hug your closest companion! Chika sees you approach, and tears well up in her eyes as she extends her warm arms. Closer, closer... You're coming, finally! *bang!* The explosion of a gun goes off right in your ears, disorienting enough to nearly blast you to your knees... But you ignore all that, and instead jerk your head back up to check on the Oracle. Chika sways in the windless air for but a moment... before falling forward! NOOOO!!! Nononononononononono... You make it to her just in time for her to completely fall limp in your arms. Her eyes are lifeless; a mere puppet has more vibrancy behind their orbs to the soul. You... have failed your best friend yet again... You bring your forehead to her cold one... and a weak tear dribbles down your cheek. "C-Chika... I'm sorry... This is all my damn fault!" But... is it? Who shot her? WHO TOOK HER AWAY FROM YOU ONCE AGAIN?! Grinning a few feet away is IF, her brown hair swaying to some unseen wind source. "You're weak, Cave... This is for your own good. You couldn't do crap to save Chika... so what makes you think Lyrica will be safe under your care? Nah... Give her up. She'll be safer without you." IF... That cretin! You once again bring out your makeshift gun to fire at the brunette... but it is not your rival staring back at you when you look up. No... instead, Lady Green Heart has taken her place, wearing the same cruel and all-knowing smirk. IF, Vert. Vert, IF... No, neither of them. The one staring back at you... is yourself! Cave grins as she looks straight through your soul... What is this sickening feeling? What's... going... on?! Why won't Cave stop smiling?! Why did Cave do this?!! HOW COULD YOU LET THIS HAPPEN?!](elseif: $caveKarma >1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)[Come on, shoot! Why are you hesitating?! This clearly can't be Chika! She's dead and gone, never to walk Gamindustri again! ... But... you wish this could be her... You wish this was the real Chika, alive and well... Now you can tell her everything you never got the chance to say! You can make the world right again... You won't have to be alone any longer. She's a fake... but can't you just pretend? Can't you just throw all caution to the wind and embrace this fake anyways? If you're never going to see the real Chika again... then at least there'd be something; some last remaining vestige of your best friend that proves that, yes, she did in fact exist. So long as you had this fake... well, your soul will at least have some comfort... *Bang!* Before you can even process what just happened, Chika sways slightly before falling backwards onto her bed. Blood stains the sheets... before her entire body poofs away. "Tsk tsk tsk... You took too long, Cave! What if this fake had Lyree at gunpoint, eh? You would've locked up under the pressure... and she'd be dead. I thought you loved Lyrica? Guess not as much as I do..." Your eyes too drained to shed a single tear, you simply creep your head to the far right... to see IF aiming a smoking gun. "This is for your own good, Cave... I need to show you just how weak you truly are! Not to spite you; no, to save you from more pain! Your weakness will get Lyrica killed... and then what will you do? You'll have no one... That scares you, doesn't it? The steel-hardened Cave, afraid of being alone. Afraid of losing her friends! Well, news-flash: you're doing that perfectly well on your own! Arfoire can only wish she was as successful at screwing up the world as you!" That... No, none of that is... IF is to blame, for everything! IF... IF!!! She is the weak one... She is the one who has failed you and Chika and Lyrica and Vert and Leanbox and Gamindustri... S-She did, not you! IF ruined your life... She drove Vert insane and abandoned Lyrica in her darkest hours! She drove a rift between Leanbox and the entirety of Gamindustri at large! ... And she killed Chika. She took your closest companion away from you... Well, two can play at that game! She killed your best friend? Well... it's only fair for you to kill her! Eye for an eye... An IF for Chika, death for death! Measure for measure.](else:)["... Forgive me... Please forgive me..." Chika's eyes widen in shock as you aim your gun between your eyes. "D-Don't listen to her, Cave! I-I just want... things to go back to normal again. That's all..." Your heart aches at hearing her soothing voice one last time. "I know... I wish for... the same thing..." *Crack!* You almost catch yourself by surprise as an energy bullet fires from your blade... and Chika falls backwards onto her bed. That... was that... ... Don't you dare cry! This is war... Death means nothing to you! You can die any second on the battlefield, and the same applies to all of your allies... Hell, you'd much prefer death to having your enemies show mercy! What's... one more death... to... you? "Good job, Cave," IF grins. "I knew you could do it... I just hope you never lose control of those blades of yours again! Imagine if Lyrica got in the way... Why, this all would've been for absolutely nothing, am I right?" ... Ignore her. IF's time will come... You were forced to do... all of this because of her insolence... All those lives taken by your hand? Paying penance for HER crimes... Why should you suffer because of her actions? She is the guilty party; the punishment should fall squarely on her! It wasn't your fault at all... No, she killed all those people! She killed Chika, she killed all those Avenir men, she killed a countless amount of your former allies... ... It's time she faced justice. Death for death, measure for measure... Time to pay her back.] ... ... Back in the thinning smoke cloud now... and the silhouette is nowhere to be seen... ... You hear someone stirring behind you; a soldier must be waking up! Hurry along... Refreshing (but damp) air greets your lungs as you emerge from the debris-filled smog. You're right at the left corner of the castle now, so you can take this path to find IF... assuming she's still in the back. The castle is long... but you'll manage; no one else dares stand in your way... ... One last long walk awaits you. Just you... and your thoughts... (link:"Stay... focused...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

You are snapped out of your self-loathing by the sudden sound of many boots splashing in the mud at once. The wind and rain makes seeing and hearing nearly impossible... which makes this odd noise all the more astounding. You simply have to investigate. If it doesn't lead you to your target, then it'll at least... distract your cluttered mind. You find your answer almost-immediately: just a little ways ahead of you stands a plethora of Leanbox forces, all pointing their guns at some unseen target. It can't be... could it? (if: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Good")["You worry too much! Sometimes, ya gotta just ignore the bad stuff, you know?"](elseif: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Bad")["... Cave, you really have to calm down... Please."] IF... Found her at last. (if: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Good")["... I'm not going to lie, Cave: I was more afraid tonight than I've ever been. Afraid about Avenir, afraid about what might happen to me, what might happen to YOU... Afraid of what's happening to Vert..."](elseif: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Bad")["Things... seemed so simple two weeks ago, huh?"] These fools, thinking they can handle her... She's your target, not theirs. (if: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Good")["... But, no matter what happens, I know that I at least have you. Not only me, but Lyrica, Vert... All of us. I can tell that even now you're blaming yourself for something... but just know: without you... I wouldn't be able to handle this."](elseif: $flashbackTwoViewed is "Bad")["Yeah... they did... But that's why we must fight now: to get things back to normal." "... You're right, Cavey..."] Trying to take yet ANOTHER thing from you! (if: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Good")["No! Don't you dare say you're a monster! Sure, you've done some bad things... but dammit, haven't we all?! We're all trapped in the middle of Verty's mad schemes... and without you, I know I'd have given up by now, and I'm sure many others feel the same way!"](elseif: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Neutral")["... Foolish or not, I think I'd do the same. I'd die for Vert, I'd die for Fivey, I'd die for all my friends!... And I'd die for you. I really would."](elseif: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Bad")["Why did you kill them, Cave? Some people were completely helpless... and yet, you killed them anyways. Avenir was one thing, but... Planeptune and Lastation were once our friends..."] Were they following Vert's orders? She's responsible... She wants you to suffer too... But is Lady Green Heart truly the one to blame? (if: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Good")["You're too busy focusing on acting all tough and heroic for Lyrica and Vert and everyone who's watching... but you always forget to actually watch out for yourself! What would we do if... something happened to you?"](elseif: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Neutral")["... I wonder what Vert would do? You know... How would she react if one of us died?"](elseif: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Bad")["Not kill them in cold-blood?! Or, how about, I don't know, act like you're actually trying to fix things, instead of making people fear you!... I saw the way you were looking at IF... Would you... kill her too if the situation arrived?"] No... Everyone you've failed... It's all HER fault!!! SHE changed Vert, SHE changed YOU... SHE changed everything! Because of HER... Chika was gone. You were all alone. Alone, alone, alonealonealonealone... (if: $flashbackFourViewed is "Good")["... I wish you fell in love with me first."](elseif: $flashbackFourViewed is "Neutral")["When I'm with you... I don't feel worthless... You're the only one... I... need..."](elseif: $flashbackFourViewed is "Bad")["You're worse than Vert is! You can't do shit."] An eye for an eye, a life for a life. Measure for measure. ... IF. IS. YOURS!!! [[DIE DIE DIE!!!|Cave Tenth Move Result]] [[Annihilate all who impede you!|Cave Tenth Move Result]] [[Liberate them from their mortal coils!|Cave Tenth Move Result]] (if: $caveKarma <= 1)[[[Try to... r-resist!!!|Cave Tenth Move Result]]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")Cave pulls out her trademark scissors... and pulls the two blades apart, holding each half like an assassin's knife. She means business... (if: $endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "True Ending" OR $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[(if: $caveHealth > 75)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "A")](elseif: $caveHealth <= 75 AND $caveHealth > 50)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "B")](elseif: $caveHealth is 50)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "C")](else:)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "D")] (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[You can't ignore your nasty wound, but you are still determined to get through to your friend!](else:)[Seems fighting is inevitable... You must try to get through to her! Fight if you must, but... what matters is that you win her back to your side!] (if: $specificEnding is "Historical B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished E")["How could you turn your back on Lyrica?!" Cave suddenly shouts, her voice strained... Just what has she gone through today? "You... left her to die! You ABANDONED us!" You were anticipating such accusations. "I left to keep her safe! Vert threatened Lyree if I didn't leave! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Your friend doesn't even bat an eyelash. "You LIE!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" The conversation the two of you had back during the Avenir battle suddenly comes swimming right back. That's when this all broke down... That clearly didn't go too well... but now was your chance to set things right! (link:"Somehow...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]] (else:)[(link: "Meet Cave's Challenge...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")] ] ] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[Your wound... C-Can you really hope to fight her like this?! No... d-don't think like that! You've... been through worse, probably. Maybe. Just tune it all out, and... fight on! The SMD warrior eyes your stomach for a moment... and something about her stance changes, even if by just a tiny bit. Is that... pity, or disappointment? Or, dare you say... respect? ... It doesn't matter; slip up here, and you're as good as dead! [[Meet Cave's Challenge...|Cave Boss Battle]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[You... aren't going to be able to simply talk things out with your friend; that look in her eye is a dead giveaway. Dang it... can't today just be over?! You're soaking, tired out, and just want to take a nice warm bath.(if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true OR $armInjury is true)[ Hell, you got freakin' shot today! That's reason enough for any normal fighter to want to give up!](else:)[.. Any normal fighter would've given up long before now!] ... But you are no normal fighter! This is your last trial, it HAS to be! Show Cave what you're made of... and get your friend back! Together, you'll take the castle, thwart Vert's ambitions... and report a successful mission to your friends back home. Lyrica by both your sides as well... [[Just do this, already!|Cave Boss Battle]]] } Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth) Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)

{(if: $endingPath is "True Ending" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished E" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway B")[(savegame: "A", "ReunionB- Cave")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(if: $saveHeaderCheck is true)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to false)]] (set: $bossFightCharacter to "Cave")(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 5)(set: $defenseCheck to 0)(set: $forwardCheck to "No") (if: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 7)[(set: $endingPath to "Vert")You... can barely stand... B-Both your body AND your head is beyond numb... b-but you can't... falter here! She, like Vert and Markz and the rest of the damn world, serves only to endanger Lyrica... Even if the pop idol hates you, you've already made your choice: you must protect her at (link:"ALL COSTS!")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle")]] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished E" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway B")[(set: $endingPath to "Farewell") (if: $iffyHealth > 75)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "A")](elseif: $iffyHealth <= 75 AND $iffyHealth > 50)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "B")](elseif: $iffyHealth is 50)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "C")](else:)[(set: $quoteHealthFlow to "D")]IF spins a few Qatars between her fingers and nods. Great, she seems to realize what's at stake. This is simply perfect; victory will mean so much more when you defeat this traitor fair and square! Time to punish her for abandoning Lyrica and Leanbox... (if: $quoteHealthFlow is "D")["I don't wanna fight you, Cave!" IF shouts, her cowardice shining through. "I want to help!" "H-Help?!" Now she's just insulting you! "... You turned your back on Lyrica! Am I supposed to believe you helped her?!" you shout, your voice straining... Don't let emotion drag you down! "... You left her to die! You abandoned us!" The brunette closes her eyes, your words giving her reason to think. Great time to start. "... I'm sorry... but I did leave to keep her safe, dammit! Vert threatened Lyree straight to my face... Told me if I stayed any longer, she'd be put in danger! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Excuses!!! "... You LIE! You don't care! You've NEVER cared!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" How insolent! She was a fool back during the Avenir invasion, and she's even more foolish now! What folly... And yet, she has friends to return to! Who care about her... Who rely on her! Why do idiots get all the luck?! ... Well, her luck's (link:"run out today!")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[(link: "For Leanbox, For Lyrica, For...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]]] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Historical A" OR $specificEnding is "Historical B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished A" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished D" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway A" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway C" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending A" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending B")[(set: $endingPath to "Loyalty")IF spins a few Qatars between her fingers and nods. You care not of her condition, nor your own; she's meeting your challenge... and that means this will be a fair fight, regardless of any possible underlying factors. Defeat her, and your mission is complete. Her fate will be in your hands; as it should be! ... When the time comes, what road will you choose? Do you even have a choice? ... Nevermind that. Defeat this... [[traitor already!|IF Boss Battle]]] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished C" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway D" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway E" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending C" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending D" OR $endingPath is "Door")[(set: $endingPath to "Cave Bad Ending")"... You know how this is going to end already, don't you Cavey?" ... Yeah. "Well... okay then! If anyone knows what they're doing, it's you! When have you EVER made a **mistake**, Cavey?!" ... [[Never again.|IF Boss Battle]]] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Runaway F")[(set: $endingPath to "Door")Despite her obvious wound, IF pulls out her Qatar blades and meets your challenge. Stubborn to the end... No, foolishness. The same foolishness that put Lyrica's sacred life in danger... "Aren't you being a bit too rough on her, Cavey? She's only trying to help!" ... This... no... B-But...! ... Chika... What should I do? [[... Fight for... Lyrica's honor...?|IF Boss Battle]]] } Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth) IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)

{(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack1A","Attack1B","Attack2","Attack2A","Defense","Special","SpecialA","EXEattack")) (if: ($iffyBossHealth > 0) AND ($caveBossHealth > 0))[(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No")Cave stands at the ready, leaning forward slightly with her blades held up and behind her. Her eyes are unwavering; the SMD warrior is locked on you like a predator about to maul a helpless bunny rabbit. The air is still, the only movement on her body being the occasional twirl of her blades; she seems to be favoring her right blade, as it is the one she's spinning the most... [Hold up your blades to guard]<guard| [[Leap forward and attempt a right-handed vertical slash|Cave Boss Battle Boss And Player Bad Damage]] [Prepare to roll out of the way]<dodgeroll| [Charge forth]<blindcharge| [Prepare to sidestep to the left and strike!]<sidestep| [[Prepare to sidestep to the right and strike!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [[Throw a Qatar knife at her!|Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [Duck]<duck| [[Try to 'catch' her attack, then kick!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]] [Stand still to throw her off her game]<standstill| (click:?guard)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "Yes")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?dodgeroll)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?blindcharge)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "charge")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?sidestep)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "sidestepleft")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?duck)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "ducking")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?standstill)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "standingstill")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") Cave seems to stare through your very soul, but she makes no sudden movement... Hmm, you notice her knees are slightly bent. She's also standing ever-so-slightly hunched over, with her left arm draped below her chest. Almost as if she's bowing in honor... Is she showing her respect and hopeful surrender? She also seems to be tapping the tip of her right foot on the ground... A nervous tick, or...? [She's gonna slice! Hold up your arms to block!]<blockfail| [[She's gonna charge! Right-hook her chest!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[She's gonna kick! Prepare to duck and sweep!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]] [[She's gonna jab! Left-hook her face!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[She's gonna kick! Prepare to jump and grab her!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [[She's gonna lunge! Prepare to roll to the right!|Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [She's gonna jab! Prepare to kick!]<kickblock| [[She's gonna charge! Lean back and ready a punch!|Cave Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] [She's gonna charge! Prepare to swerve left!]<swerve| [She's gonna kick! Try to bear-hug her!]<bearhug| (click:?kickblock)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "kick")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?swerve)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "swerve")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?blockfail)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "block")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage")] (click:?bearhug)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "bearhug")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") Cave closes her eyes and brings up her left hand to her face. As if she were a glasses-wearing scholar, she touches the bridge of her nose with her index and middle fingers, both clasped together neatly. You can not hear her, but she appears to be muttering something deep beneath her breath... Whatever she's doing, it must require a ton of concentration... [[Throw three Qatar blades!|Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [Bear-hug her!]<bearhug| [Jump up!]<jump| [Baseball slide!]<baseballslide| [Hold up your arms to block!]<block| [Cartwheel!]<cartwheel| [[Jump and throw a knife!|Cave Boss Battle Boss And Player Bad Damage]] [Steamroll ahead!]<steamroll| [Crouch down!]<crouch| [[Flying kick!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] (click:?baseballslide)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "baseballslide")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?cartwheel)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "cartwheel")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?jump)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "jump")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?bearhug)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "bearhug")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?block)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "block")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?steamroll)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "steamroll")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?crouch)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "crouch")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") Cave suddenly stands completely upright and still, staring blankly at you... before you sense a slight... 'demeanor' change in her, if you will. Whereas she normally stands stiff and at the ready, she now seems more loose and relaxed, maybe limp even. What is...? It's faint, but you think you can see a firelike-esque aura around her feet. Almost-seductively, Cave begins slowly sauntering towards you, her hips swaying moreso than you can ever recall seeing. Closer, closer, step, step, step, step... [[Hold up your blades to guard!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Grab her tight!|Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [[Somersault!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Throw three Qatar blades at her!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Hold on to her!|Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage]] [[Leap forward and attempt a right-handed vertical slash!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Stand still to throw her off her game!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [Hold on and whack!]<whack| [[Prepare to duck and sweep!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Baseball slide!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (click:?whack)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "whack")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") Cave leans forward on one knee, bringing her twin blades up in front of her face. She is essentially holding her scissors together once again, and is eyeing you very intently, almost as if scanning for any minute muscle twitch... [Hold up your blades to block!]<blocknothing| [[Quick attack left!|Cave Boss Battle Boss And Player Bad Damage]] [[Horizontal Slash!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [Throw a Qatar knife!]<throwdefense| [[Sweep the leg!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [[Vertical Slash!|Cave Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Jump-kick right at her!|Cave Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]] [Throw knife left, hook right!]<knifehook| [[Somersault! That's a good trick!|Cave Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [[Thrust both arms forward!|Cave Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] (click:?blocknothing)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "blocknothing")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?throwdefense)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "throwdefense")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?knifehook)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "knifehook")(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Boss Min Damage")]]] (elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")You are not feeling too good... You try to keep standing, but your knees buckle, and you fall to the ground... (link:"Continue...")[(goto:"IF Game Over")]] (elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0 AND $iffyBossHealth > 0)[(set: $bossVictory to "IF") (if: $endingPath is "Loyalty" OR $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[](else:)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)]Cave stands tall, preparing to launch another attack... but her legs suddenly give out, and she collapses to a kneeling position. Despite her fighting spirit, it appears that her body has finally agreed to yield! [[Claim victory!|Boss Result]]]}

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[(if: $playerNoDmg is "Yes")[You bring up your long Qatar blades to cover your face and body, anticipating a brutal assault from Cave. Sure enough, the SMD warrior sees the slightest hint of movement, and she hurriedly begins charging towards you, both blades slicing the air horizontally at lightning speed. You push your arms forward, creating some distance between your vital organs and Cave's unrelenting slashes... and she all-too quickly makes contact with your weapons, her blades getting caught in the prongs of your knives! The strength of her swings nearly forces you to drop your knives, but you push back against the pressure. With a strained grunt, you make one last major heave, right as your arms give out... and Cave leaps back, her eyes as unmoving and calculating as before.] (elseif: $playerNoDmg is "No")[Anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, you raise your right hand, feigning an incoming attack of your own. Predictably, your (former?) friend takes action the instant you move a single muscle, and she dashes forward while slashing her blades horizontically through the air at a horrifying rate. Praying inertia is on your side, you wait til the last possible safe moment... before rolling to the right, moving just out of the range of her swipes! Cave is fast, but not impossibly fast; she slices just once at the spot you were originally standing, and quickly halts her attack upon registering your evasive maneuver. She glares in your direction, her eyes locked on your form now more than ever.]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(if: $playerNoDmg is "kick")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You fear she is going to jab at you with her blades, and sure enough, here she is dashing right towards you! Without much time to think, you instinctively kick upwards, perhaps hoping to catch her arm before her devastating slash connects! However, instead of jabbing out, Cave instead also brings her right leg up, and your two legs end up colliding! Huh, judging by her pose, she seemed to have been going for some kind of backwards-somersault kick... Huh, you read that situation completely wrong! Still, Cave leaps back to her original standing position, probably having deemed that particular attack a failure. You screwed up, but somehow, the situation ended without incident!] (elseif: $playerNoDmg is "swerve")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You can't exactly ascertain what the SMD warrior is planning, but you reckon that you do not want to be standing still when she acts! Hmm... well, her right leg is tapping the ground, and if she charges straight towards you and is planning to kick, then it would be a physical improbability that she'd kick directly forwards. There'd probably be a curvature to her strike... Crap, she's charging right now! What do you do?! Sensing it is right, you swerve as fast as you can to the left. Cave predictably kicks her right leg upwards... and sure enough, the arc of her kick goes slightly towards the right. Her viscious long legs just barely miss you, but a miss is a miss! Having struck out, your (former?) friend retreats back to a few feet away from you.]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Just what is Cave planning? You surmise that, based on her pose and actions, she is most likely not preparing for a melee attack; no, she must be channeling enough energy for some sort of special technique straight out of hell. Keeping that in mind, you should probably keep yourself far away, and find a safe place to stand. But what to do...? Cave suddenly stops chanting, turns her upper body, and shouts out what sounds like "Irradiation!" What does that mean...? She raises her right hand as she gives you an ominous glare... and suddenly, five 'C'-shaped turrets appear from thin air in front of her, spinning in the shape of a circle. You must take action now! (if: $playerNoDmg is "baseballslide")[It is safe to assume the turrets have a large range... but they don't have the ground covered in their sights entirely! You get a running start before sliding forward and arching your back to the ground. You are as flat as humanely possible; thank Heaven, Hell, and everything between that you are flexible! The lasers shoot out... and luckily, just miss your face! You feel the intense heat right above you, but you are safe! ] (elseif: $playerNoDmg is "cartwheel")[It is safe to assume the turrets have a large range... but you can only hope that they only shoot straight. They don't seem to be too dynamic... The lasers begin to shoot out, and you quickly cartwheel out of the dead zone. One laser comes dangerously close to striking your leg... but holy crap, that actually worked! The turrets rotate, but they never break formation; they aren't locking on to you! ] Cave stops her attack upon seeing her failure, but hides any disgrace. She will never show any sign of weakness... but at least you know you must be getting to her.] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[There is nothing about this situation that seems good... Cave's seductive walking stops as quickly as it began, and you know that now is the time to act! The tension in the air is at an all-time high, not helped by the pouring rain... Without thinking, you leap forward and grab ahold of the SMD warrior... right as she holds out her hands and begins spinning faster than a top. You have no idea what's happening, but you feel an intense heat surrounding the both of you as you struggle to keep her in a tight clutch. (if: $playerNoDmg is "whack")[Fearing this will last forever, and you can't hold out that long, you begin bashing your right fist against your (former?) friend's back. However, she just keeps spinning; does she even feel you at all? (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] Finally, you sense the spinning slow down... and once it just about stops entirely, you speedily leap away, conveniently right as Cave attempts a damaging uppercut! She glares at you as she pants heavily; seems that attack took a whole lot out of her! Good thing you completely dodged it! Still... you wonder if there wasn't a better way...?] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[(if: $playerNoDmg is "throwdefense")[Not caring what Cave has planned, you decide to rely on your tried-and-true Qatars! Winding your right arm, you fling a knife right at Cave... and her blades completely block it, casting it aside. Well... that was anticlimactic. Cave had nothing planned for a counterattack, so you both stand there in silence for a moment, reading each other's body language.] (elseif: $playerNoDmg is "blocknothing")[ This could all be some ploy for Cave to sneak attack you something fierce! Not keen on getting impaled by her blades, you hold up your Qatar knives in front of your face, mirroring Cave's pose in a way... The two of you stay still... and you realize the SMD warrior is waiting for you to strike. Huh... well, she clearly didn't get what she wanted!]]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[(if: $playerMaxDmg is "charge")[You figure that Cave is planning an attack... so you decide to take the fight to her! Without thinking, you charge blindly ahead, your Qatar blades drawn most clearly. ... Cave simply watches you approach, until you get right to her face; with the speed rivaling that of a ninja, she suddenly appears right behind you! She must've circle-strafed you in the blink of an eye... Uh oh, your rear flank is unguarded! Just as you realize what has happened, Cave propels herself off the ground and begins slicing her two blades horizontally at a murderous pace, and they connect with your torso! You find yourself launched into the air by each blow, then caught back into the swings, then backwards yet again, and so on. Finally, most likely due to her preserving her energy, Cave halts her assault. Your jacket luckily absorbs the potential lethality of her knife swipes, but damn, that smarts. Remind yourself to not charge in without a plan again. You lose 15 health. Cave is simply toying with you.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "sidestepleft")[Anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, you raise your right hand, feigning an incoming attack of your own. Predictably, your (former?) friend takes action the instant you move a single muscle, and she dashes forward while slashing her blades horizontally through the air at a horrifying rate. Praying inertia is on your side, you wait til the last possible safe moment... before sidestepping to the left, moving just out of the range of her swipes!... Er, at least in theory, anyways! You bring up your left arm to strike... but Cave has already outstretched her own right arm, and her blade connects and pulls you right into her range! Your torso is pummeled repeatedly... You find yourself launched into the air by each blow, then caught back into the swings, then backwards yet again, and so on. Finally, most likely due to her preserving her energy, Cave halts her assault. Your jacket luckily absorbs the potential lethality of her knife swipes, but damn, that smarts. Well, that clearly didn't work; have any other bright ideas? You lose 15 health. Cave is simply toying with you.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "ducking")[You are anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, but you are unsure of what exactly she might be planning. You reckon that she usually likes to fight using flashy moves, such as aerial flips and the like... so you randomly decide to duck, figuring the last thing you need is a superkick to the face. You duck down as soon as she begins charging... and she stops briefly. What is she planni- Oh crap, she looks at you for a moment, before shaking her head... and then resuming her planned attack, a sequence of brutally-fast horizontal slashes through the air. You become quite intimate with each blow, as her twin blades thrash you torso! You find yourself launched into the air by each blow, then caught back into the swings, then backwards yet again, and so on. Finally, most likely due to her preserving her energy, Cave halts her assault. Your jacket luckily absorbs the potential lethality of her knife swipes, but damn, that smarts. What the hell were you thinking? Way to misread the situation, battle-hardened veteran... You lose 20 health. Cave is simply toying with you...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "standingstill")[You are anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, but you are unsure of what exactly she might be planning. Without any options to think of, you take a most unconventional turn: stand completely still, like a statue. Maybe you will manage to throw Cave off her game by acting like a complete fool? Makes sense. Well, you stand frozen, and after a few moments, Cave launches herself off the ground and begins slashing horizontally through the air. She gets closer, closer... and the knives eventually crash into your torso! You find yourself launched into the air by each blow, then caught back into the swings, then backwards yet again, and so on. Finally, most likely due to her preserving her energy, Cave halts her assault. Your jacket luckily absorbs the potential lethality of her knife swipes, but damn, that smarts. Now, I could chide you, but hey, I do appreciate your originality! You lose 20 health. Cave is simply toying with you... (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[You decide not to waste any time contemplating! Cave is planning to attack, and you want to stop her! You see her charge for you, and you immediately throw a mean punch! ... That she blocks with her fist. Lacking all hint of emotion on her face, she kicks you away before reeling back and unleashing a backwards-somersault kick, carrying an intensity so deep that fire physically surrounds her feet. Before you know what's happening, her right foot has connected with your chin, and you can't help but yell out as you get tossed up into the air by the superkick... While you are helpless in the air, Cave pulls out her twin blades, leaps up... and slams them right against your chest! You struggle to make a sound as you now find yourself falling fast... and with a loud bang, you crash into the mud below! The SMD warrior quickly somersaults a little ways away, leaving you on the ground. Fortunately, your thick jacket managed to stop the blades from impaling you to Kingdom Come... but you are not well. With a risky move like that, 25 damage is nothing short of a miracle.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 25)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[You've seen enough anime to know where this is going: she's gonna blast you with some sort of special attack, isn't she?! Crap crap crap... What do you do? You're wasting time just thinking about it! (if: $playerMaxDmg is "bearhug" or $playerMaxDmg is "steamroll")[Reckoning that she's going to attack from a distance, you immediately dash towards her, hoping to reach her before the attack is unleashed.](elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "jump")[Well, perhaps she's going to shoot something straight for you? Well then, in an attempt to dodge, you decide that leaping up into the air will work out!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "crouch")[Well, perhaps she's going to shoot something straight for you? Well then, in an attempt to dodge, you decide that crouching down will work out!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "block")[Hmm... well, whatever it is she has planned, nothing can possibly overcome your tried-and-true defensive maneuver of bringing up your blades to guard your face!] Cave stops chanting, turns her upper body, and shouts out what sounds like "Irradiation!" What does that mean...? She raises her right hand as she gives you an ominous glare... and suddenly, five 'C'-shaped turrets appear from thin air in front of her, spinning in the shape of a circle. You take action... but it is hopeless: each turret blasts out a large laser beam, and you get struck by each agonizing one! To cap it all off, Cave herself launches one final massive beam at you, firing from the center empty space between the five guns!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 50) After the rapid succession of energy blasts to your body, you can't help but collapse to the ground. Damn, that nearly fried your insides! How'd you only take 50 damage? Anyways, Cave simply observes you as you slowly stand back up. Aw, how cute; she's showing mercy in not striking you down right here!] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[Your efforts are futile; Cave is invincible! Your rival stops walking seductively just as quickly as she had begun, flips her hair... and begins spinning like the world's fastest top! Before you can even afford any time to think, hundreds upon hundreds of energy bullets shoot out from the space around the skilled woman; you try to dodge, but avoiding the air would be easier. You quickly get blasted by one, and one leads to another, and another, and soon, all you see is violent explosions and all you feel is pain! Your body is ragdolled left and right... but soon, Cave stops spinning! Sure, you're lying helplessly on the ground now, but at least that hell is done, right?... Heh heh, nope! In another act of disturbing sensuality, Cave trails her index finger up her stomach, and right as she reaches her breasts... she snaps her fingers. Oh no... That finger-snap of doom ushers forth one final massive explosion, with you being caught right in the center of it all! You barely register the pain anymore, finding some odd comfort in the warmth of the hellish fire... The smoke clears, and you miraculously open your eyes. Still alive... You groan as you stand back up; calling your legs wobbly would be a gross understatement. Well, at least you can stand... hopefully for longer than a few seconds! That onslaught of demonic preportions inflicted 70 damage to you... Cave is looking at you with a sort of hunger in her eyes; her prey is almost down for the count...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 70)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[(set: $iffyBossHealth to it - 30)Cave keeps standing still... so you decide to go right for her instead! You hop forward and slice your blades right at her... but Cave's sleight of hand is breathtaking! You find your Qatar knives are now caught between Cave's blades and, before you can even struggle, your (former?) friend flings the knives right from your hands! You are too stunned to notice her spin a complete 360 degrees... and she slices you with her twin blades on the return! You kneel over in pain, right as she readies another attack; one blade is jabbed right across your chest, and the other follows suit. Thankfully, your thick jacket prevents any serious impalement from these small weapons; an actual sword, however, would've finished you off right there! As you try to block out the pain, the SMD warrior raises her long leg and kicks you square in the chest, sending you back several feet. From that onslaught, count yourself blessed you only took 30 damage. Her combo could've gone longer, you reckon, but perhaps she figured you'd counter her assault should she have continued... You fear that Cave is overestimating you... You'll prove her wrong, right?!]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, you decide to take immediate action yourself! Your (former?) friend is fast, dangerously so... so it'd be in your best interest to stop her attack before she can even begin. How can you do that? Simple. You clutch three of your trusty Qatar blades in your right hand, keeping your eyes locked on the still Cave. Nothing, nothing, noth- now! In a flash, you fling your arm dramatically from the left to the right, releasing a single knife from your grasp. It goes flying towards the SMD warrior. *thud!* You take 5 damage! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5) What the hell? Something hard just whacked you in the forehead... Huh?! It's your qatar blade! Cave must've swung her blade at the perfect moment, reflecting it hilt-first right back at you! Damn... All the while, Cave stares at you like nothing is awry.] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(if: $playerMaxDmg is "block")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You fear she is going to slice you with her blades, and sure enough, here she is dashing right towards you! Without much time to think, you instinctively bring your blades up to cover your face; a standard defensive pose! However, as soon as she reaches you, Cave's arms do not swing for your blood; no, instead, she reels back... before performing a backwards-somersault, carrying an intensity so deep that fire physically surrounds her feet. Before you know what's happening, her right foot has connected with your chin, simply ignoring your measly block. You yell out as you get tossed up into the air by the superkick... and you hope that the worst is over... Not quite yet. While you are helpless in the air, Cave pulls out her twin blades... and slams them right against your chest! You struggle to make a sound as you now find yourself falling fast... and with a loud bang, you crash into the mud below! The SMD warrior quickly somersaults a little ways away, leaving you on the ground. Fortunately, your thick jacket managed to stop the blades from impaling you to Kingdom Come... but you are not well. Luckily, you only took 20 damage from that disaster! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "bearhug")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You can't exactly ascertain what the SMD warrior is planning, but you reckon that you do not want to be standing still when she acts! Hmm... well, her right leg is tapping the ground... What if she is going to attempt some kind of kick? Crap, here she comes; better decide what to do fast! Sensing it is right... you run up to meet her before throwing your arms around her. Yep, you figure that hugging her will impede whatever it is she has planned! Well, you are kinda right; she can't do exactly what she was planning now that you are clutching tight onto her. Yay!... Oh wai- Cave lifts her knee straight into your gut, and you end up letting go of her. Now she has you right where she wants you! You find yourself kicked up into the air by a heated backwards-somersault... While you are helpless in the air, Cave pulls out her twin blades, leaps up... and slams them right against your chest! You struggle to make a sound as you now find yourself falling fast... and with a loud bang, you crash into the mud below! The SMD warrior quickly somersaults a little ways away, leaving you on the ground. Fortunately, your thick jacket managed to stop the blades from impaling you to Kingdom Come... but you are not well. Worse yet, your gut is burning from the knee-jab. Breathe a sigh of relief you only lost 25 health...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 25)] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "No")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You can't exactly ascertain what the SMD warrior is planning, but you reckon that you do not want to be standing still when she acts! Hmm... well, her right leg is tapping the ground, and if she charges straight towards you and is planning to kick, then it would be a physical improbability that she'd kick directly forwards. There'd probably be a curvature to her strike... Crap, she's charging right now! What do you do?! Sensing it is correct, you quickly roll to the right! Cave predictably kicks her right leg upwards... and sure enough, the arc of her kick does have a curvature to it... Only problem is, it's slightly towards the direction you're rolling. Her viscious long legs manage to clip your behind as you roll, and you let out a yelp of pained surprise. Her kick was scorching hot! Fortunately, though, Cave's full attack must've missed, as you are allowed to finish your roll. Still, you took 10 damage; good thing that kick missed anything vital! You both readjust yourselves and stare down each other some more. (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Just what is Cave planning? You surmise that, based on her pose and actions, she is most likely not preparing for a melee attack; no, she must be channeling enough energy for some sort of special technique straight out of hell. Keeping that in mind, you should probably keep yourself far away, and strike at a range. Hmm... well, you have just the thing for that. Cave suddenly stops chanting and holds her palm out right in your direction, before shouting "Irradiation!" As if on cue, five 'C'-shaped turrents appear in a circle in the space in front of the SMD warrior. Dang, this is gonna blow... But wait, you can still do this! You pull out three of your Qatar blades (the most you can handle accurately at once) and fling them towards your rival. Each blade connects with a target- one of the floating guns. With a mini-explosion, three turrets go down... Yay! ... Oh wait, there are still two left. They fire out instant massive lasers in a straight line, and you can't help but be caught! Finally, Cave herself summons forth another large beam of heated energy, putting the finishing touches on your momentary torture.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 35) You took 35 damage from all that... It could've been much worse, but you refuse to let Cave show you up like that ever again! You hope.] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[There is nothing about this situation that seems good... Cave's seductive walking stops as quickly as it began, and you know that now is the time to act! The tension in the air is at an all-time high, not helped by the pouring rain... Without thinking, you leap forward and grab ahold of the SMD warrior... right as she holds out her hands and begins spinning faster than a top. You have no idea what's happening, but you feel an intense heat surrounding the both of you as you struggle to keep her in a firm clutch. You close your eyes tight, and hold on for dear life so hard... that you fail to sense the spinning slow down... and once it just about stops entirely, you slowly open your eyes to find Cave uppercutting her fist towards your face! You yell out as you fly backwards, and your (former?) friend raises her hand one more time, palm held out... and a large energy beam ushers forth from the SMD warrior and right into you! The heat envelops you, and you can't even muster up the strength to scream!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 40) Once that hell is over, you collapse face-first to the ground, lucky to still be alive. Cave is panting heavily as you agonizingly push yourself back to your aching feet; that attack must've taken a lot out of her! It certainly drained you; you must've lost at least 40 health there!] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[Cave keeps standing still... so you decide to go right for her instead! You hop forward and begin rolling towards your rival, somersault after somersault! Yeah, you must look like such a dominate badass right now, rolling without a care in the world!... Wait, what are you doing again? You reach Cave... and she simply winds back her right leg before kicking outwards, her foot colliding with you mid-roll, propelling you several feet away! You crash to the ground and quickly jump back up, your cheeks red with both pain and embarrassment. You took 5 damage from that ill-advised maneuver... Hmm... alright: life is a rock, but Cave just rolled you!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Anticipating a brutal assault from Cave, you raise your right hand, feigning an incoming attack of your own. Predictably, your (former?) friend takes action the instant you move a single muscle, and she dashes forward while slashing her blades horizontally through the air at a horrifying rate. Praying inertia is on your side, you wait til the last possible safe moment... before sidestepping to the right of the rampaging Cave. With a grunt of emotion, you take your right-handed Qatar blades and swing upwards towards your opponent, bashing her in the side as she flies by. As decisive a hit as you could've hoped for! Cave takes 10 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10) Cave halts her attack and, while clutching right above her hip, glares down death upon you.] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You can't exactly ascertain what the SMD warrior is planning, but you reckon that you do not want to be standing still when she acts! Hmm... well, her right leg is tapping the ground, so perhaps she is intending something crafty with her feet? A deadly kick, perhaps?... Crap, she's charging right now! What do you do?! Never to be one to be upstaged by flashy maneuvers, you decide to try a risky- and somewhat stupid- attack. Cave predictably kicks her right leg upwards... and before she can fully gain momentum, you reach out your hands, push them down against her rising foot, and propel yourself upwards! From straight out of a manga you love so much, you flip yourself in the air and swing your Qatar blades; it is a little hard to orient yourself in mid-air, but you hope for the best. Sure enough, your blades amazingly connect, striking Cave's back, and you land on both feet without incident. Cave recoils in slight pain... but she's a pro at keeping herself together. She returns to glaring at you, completely tuning out the 15 damage you just inflicted on her!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Just what is Cave planning? You surmise that, based on her pose and actions, she is most likely not preparing for a melee attack; no, she must be channeling enough energy for some sort of special technique straight out of hell. Keeping that in mind, you should probably keep yourself far away, and find a safe place to stand... right? No, wait... there has to be a better way. Cave suddenly stops chanting and holds her palm out right in your direction, before shouting "Irradiation!" As if on cue, five 'C'-shaped turrents appear in a circle in the space in front of the SMD warrior. Dang, this is gonna blow... But wait, you can still do this! You take note of the empty space between the gun formation... and figure, 'Ah, what the hell?' Before they can fire, you sprint forward, leap in the air, and direct a flying kick straight through the turret pattern... and catch Cave right in the stomach! She is forced back, and you follow up with a clean uppercut! You go for a leg sweep... but that is where enough is enough; your (former?) friend somersaults to safety, breaking your combo. Still, the point was made: Cave takes 15 damage, and her attack is thwarted! Not bad... but stay on your toes.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[Cave is trying to block whatever it is you may have planned; that much you hope is correct. Perhaps she is expecting you to swipe at her with your knives or fists, hmm? Well... you note how she is blocking her upper body, but any area below her chest leaves a lot to be desired... Er, defense-wise, of course. She is leaning forward, with her legs thusly stretched out behind her... Aha! With a plan firmly in mind, you charge forward, practically into Cave's waiting blades... but instead of swinging, you slide low and speedily slide your right leg towards her feet, effectively sweeping her legs out from right under her! Lacking balance, Cave falls forward, and you follow-up with a strong punch that, if this were an action anime series, would be capable of smashing large boulders! The SMD warrior takes the punch dead-on in the stomach, and rolls herself slightly in the air before hitting the ground hard, landing on her back. She rests for but a moment, before retracting her legs closer to her torso and then kicking outwards, launching herself back to a standing position. You fear you pissed her off even worse now, but hey, she took 20 damage! She won't hesitate to unleash hell on you, though, so don't relent...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[You bring up your long Qatar blades to cover your face and body, anticipating a brutal assault from Cave. Sure enough, the SMD warrior sees the slightest hint of movement, and she hurriedly begins charging towards you, both blades slicing the air horizontally at lightning speed. You push your arms forward, creating some distance between your vital organs and Cave's unrelenting slashes... and she all-too quickly makes contact with your weapons, her blades getting caught in the prongs of your knives! Aha, she appears to be stuck! The strength of her swings nearly forces you to drop your knives, but you push back against the pressure. With a strained grunt, you make one last major heave... and you kick your left leg upwards, connecting with Cave's stomach! The SMD warrior immediately leaps backwards in shock. She's not in too much pain, but she certainly felt that. Her eyes, however, stay as fixed on you as ever.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5) Either way, your kick chipped 5 health from Cave it seems!] (if: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[Gotta move fast; Cave is unpredictable! You can't exactly ascertain what the SMD warrior is planning, but you reckon that you do not want to be standing still when she acts! Hmm... well, her right leg is tapping the ground, so perhaps she is intending something crafty with her feet? A deadly kick, perhaps?... Crap, she's charging right now! What do you do?! Figuring that the most important part of performing a standing kick is to be, well, standing, you quickly take action to change the situation! Right as Cave reaches you and rears back... you duck down and sweep your feet directly into her. Come on, come on... Yes! You manage to knock the SMD warrior off-balance, and she topples over; quite an unusual sight for her. Just the damage to her pride alone probably warrants her taking 5 damage.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5) Cave spins herself back to her feet and hides her face for a moment... before turning back to you. Back to business.] (if: $bossAttack is "Defense")[(if: $playerNoDmg is "knifehook")[Cave is trying to block whatever it is you may have planned; that much you hope is correct. Well, what can you do to trip her up? Why, attack from two fronts! Cave is quick, but she can't always be prepared for everything. You take a silent breath... before quickly tossing a Qatar knife towards Cave's right side (your left)! With a metallic clashing sound, the SMD warrior predictably stops your throwing knife dead... and you instantly sneak attack Cave's exposed left side! You throw a mean right punch, followed by an intense kick, and the SMD warrior flies back a bit in defense. Your surprise combo stole 10 health from her. Cave got a little too cautious there, and it cost her... Don't fall for the same trap yourself, though.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] (else:)[Cave is trying to block whatever it is you may have planned; that much you hope is correct. Perhaps she is expecting you to swipe at her with your knives or fists, hmm? Well... time for you to subvert expectations! You get a running start before jumping high in the air... and as Cave prepares to counter with a possible kick, you go for a much simpler action: you extend your right leg and ram it directly into her scissors! The unexpected pressure catches Cave off-guard, and the dull side of the blades end up whacking her in the face! You, meanwhile, land without incident. Not exactly a clean or honorable attack, but hey, you at least inflicted 5 damage on your (former?) friend! Bet you feel like a badass right now, huh?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)]]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[You decide not to waste any time contemplating! Cave is planning to attack, and you want to stop her! You see her charge for you... and you begin to lean back to avoid what she has planned! Cave rears back and begins a backwards-somersault, using her feet to kick upwards... and her foot just manages to catch your chin as you lean back. Damn, that smarts... but you're still in control! Her attack having failed to draw the desired result, Cave quickly readjusts herself in the air before landing... and you swiftly respond with a direct punch to her abdomen. Your (former?) friend releases a gasp of air, before once again somersaulting backwards. You knowingly leap backwards yourself to avoid her rising feet, and another intense staredown ensues. Your chin burns a bit; despite your overall success, you took 10 damage. Cave, meanwhile, must've at least taken 15 damage, right?(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (if: $bossAttack is "Defense")[Cave is trying to block whatever it is you may have planned; that much you hope is correct. Perhaps she is expecting you to swipe at her with your knives or fists, hmm? Well... you note how she is blocking her upper body, but any area below her chest leaves a lot to be desired... Er, defense-wise, of course. An idea formulates in your head... and fearing time is not on your side, you take action immediately! You sprint towards Cave, and right as she's expecting you to slash, you instead thrust both hands- holding your trusty Qatar blades- forward, right under her scissors! You bash into her stomach, and your rival releases an uncharacteristic gasp! This seems like a true success... until you realize that, with the way you attacked her, your face is now right in front of Cave's weapons. She quickly retaliates, jamming the dull side of her blades right into your awaiting face, and as you recoil in surprise, you find yourself on the wrong end of a devastating spin-kick! Sloppy finish, but you seemed to have made a mark on Cave! She has taken 20 damage, but by leaving yourself wide open, you took 15!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Cave is clearly going to strike... so you decide to take the initiative! Going as fast as you can, you dash towards the SMD warrior and prepare to slice upwards with your right hand! However, Cave is the fastest fighter you've ever known... Before your feet even leave the ground, she has already launched herself towards you, slicing horizontally through the air rapidly. It's too late to stop your attack, so you can only attempt to go through with your swipe! Right before she connects with you, you bring your right-handed Qatar blades and swing upwards and to the right. *Clash!* You catch Cave's arm, thus halting her initial attack. However, before you can even land, your (former?) friend has already continued her combo. The blades catch your chest, and you get pummeled by a few quick slashes. Once the swings come to a halt, you get thrown backwards, now forced into a kneeling position. Cave also leaps backwards herself, clutching her arm momentarily. Cave loses 5 health from your fluke strike! You, meanwhile, lose 10 health... Got pretty lucky there, huh? Interrupting her must've stopped her from using full power!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Just what is Cave planning? You surmise that, based on her pose and actions, she is most likely not preparing for a melee attack; no, she must be channeling enough energy for some sort of special technique straight out of hell. Keeping that in mind, you should probably keep yourself far away, and strike at a range. Hmm... well, you have just the thing for that. Cave suddenly stops chanting and holds her palm out right in your direction, before shouting "Irradiation!" As if on cue, five 'C'-shaped turrents appear in a circle in the space in front of the SMD warrior. Dang, this is gonna blow... But wait, you can still do this! You pull out a single Qatar blade and, taking note of the empty space between the gun formation, leap up and toss it straight up the middle. You manage to catch Cave right in the chest! The blade clearly doesn't penetrate deep, but your Qatar blades are special; any strike from them hurts! Cave reels in slight pain... but still manages to allow her turrets to fire. You are helpless in midair, and you fall right into the range of one particular laser. You are practically engulfed by heat as the energy beams rotate in a circular motion... but soon enough, they stop firing, clearly not at full strength without their master one-hundred percent focused. You manage to land on your feet; you're in deep pain, granted, but you figure that could've gone much crappier, right? Your blade must've been more on target than you thought: Cave pulls out the knife, wobbles a slight bit, and then returns to her usual composed state. She amazingly loses 15 health... while those lasers didn't give you as much leeway: you have taken 25 damage.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 25)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[From appearances alone, you can clearly tell that Cave is preparing to parry whatever you throw at her... so you'll need to be fast! Your feet leave the ground at a frightening pace, and you dash towards your rival at breakneck speed. You draw your left-handed blades and swing... and predictably, she blocks your attack. However, you were expecting this... In retaliation, you swing now with your right-handed blades... and since her weapons are preoccupied already, you connect directly with her abdomen! While reveling in your successful strategy, however, you fail to note Cave's right hand retreating back, and how it contorts in some peculiar fashion. Like a cheating boss in some crappy video game, a solitary 'C'-shaped turret appears right behind Cave... and you can only blink in confusion as a laser beam blasts your face! You next open your eyes to find yourself on the ground, while Cave is checking her wound. It appears the SMD warrior has taken 10 damage, whereas that admittedly half-assed energy beam stole 20 health right out from under ya! Well, that could've gone cleaner, but at least you accomplished something. Too bad your reward was burning...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $caveBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"Cave Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|Cave Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

possible if stuff castle has walls surrounding it. not yet finished. The front doors are open 2nd choice: (if prone or walk on. five guys approach (three bayonets, two in back with bows), tell you to surrender, as they don't want to kill you. They hope Vert will take mercy on you)- - Surrender (min damage. they are about to restrain you, when one archer screams not to trust you, and he fires. The guards let go in shock, you swerve, but arrow hits your arm or something) - Run and plow through (max. You hold out your arms to double-clothesline them, and do knock down the three guys. However, the archers fire and hit you. 40 damage?) - Kick and grab weapon (you kick out towards the closest guy's stomach, he lurches over, and you grab his bayonet. You swing the stock at the other two guys' heads, then hold up the gun to deflect two arrows. You sweep the archers' legs and run) 2nd choice: (if shot by arrows. Two archers jump out of tree, one guy still in tree. Guys run towards you) - Running attack (you run forward, they are going to attack, but you bash their heads together. The guy in the tree shoots you, you retaliate by knocking him out with a knife. Max damage, 40?) - Throw knife at tree (You hit the guy, but the two guys swing and catch you. Min damage, 20 - Zig-zag and attack (you run towards the two charging soldiers. The archer in tree fires, but misses, and you uppercut one into the other. You throw knife into tree before the archer can fire again) 3rd choice: (downpour starts. You hear a sneeze from behind a nearby bush)- - Observe curiously (max. like in a horror film, you investigate... a soldier jumps out and jabs you with a bayonet blade. He's gripping the gun tight, so you grab the gun and throw it to the side, knocking him over. Frustrated, you kick him .) - Call him out ("Fight me like a real man, not a coward!" He runs out, a bit shaken, and charges. You try to roundhouse his gun out of his hands, but he slices your leg. You settle instead with an uppercut. 10 damage) - Jump attack the bush (You leap kick into the bush, knocking the guy out) 4th choice: (one of the guys you knocked out must've gotten up, and he grabs you from behind with both his hands around your neck)- - Jam your elbow backwards (No dmg. you hit his stomach, he gasps and lets go, you reach back and grab his collar, then flip him over (he lands on his back in front of you). You punch his face to knock him out) - Fall backwards (you leap off the ground and you both fall backwards. He releases upon hitting the ground, but his grip hurt you/nearly chokes you. 10-15 health?) - Try to wriggle free (you shake, he begins punching you with his left hand. After about five hits, you bite his arm, he lets go, and you karate chop your neck) 5th choice: (sniper emerges from a castle window) - Throw a rock at him - Run zig-zag - Roll to rock on right. 6th choice: (if shot)- - Play dead - Roll to rock (loop to six rock) - Stand up (insta-kill) 6th choice: (if rock)- - Hold up Leafy bow using the Qatar (get shot in arm variable)(loop right back here, but only with option to play dead or use jacket) - Hold up jacket as wide shield (correct)(if injured, still works, but you stumble a lot more)(leads to tall grass patch) - Play dead (guard calls your bluff, throws grenade. IF kicks away, but still blows up. 50 damage, rock destroyed, sniper can't see through rubble) (if shot): (50 damage, has to kill you) 7th choice: (if play dead, sniper goes away, two guards investigate)- - Sweep the leg (correct?) - Leap up and attempt to grab one guard (other shoots you) - Jump up and punch (hit the first guard, other melees you, but you kick him away 7th choice: (if rock and grass)(sniper leans forward, intent on killing you, rumble (from Cave) shakes the castle, he falls out of window, sniper screams, guards pursuing you are confused, get radioed about (cave) wreaking havoc)- - Crouch through (they notice the grass moving, shoot, grazes your leg, you manage to keep silent) - Jump out and attack (they attack you, but you knock them down) - Stand still and wait. (they cautiously observe the grass, panick, hope you got shot and are dead. They fire a little ways in front of you and leave to investigate the front) 7th choice: (if rock blows up, sniper still falls, guards can't see and approach) - Sweep the leg - Leap up and attempt to grab one guard's weapon - Jump up and punch 8th choice: (if shot and play dead) (have to suit up wound) - Find reflex in pocket, use it (you try to use reflex, but that's not exactly how it works. You need Compa. You lose health) - Search backpack, find tape. Rip off sleeve, use as bandage (correct) - Fish out the bullet with a knife (max damage, you still use bandage afterwards) 8th choice: (if in grass)(you emerge, close to the castle/watchtower. Sniper stands up, sees you. if shot before, you automatically heal using his sleeve/tape) - Throw a Qatar blade - Dash towards him, ram into him (lose min damage. if shot, lose 10 more damage) - Run towards him, try aerial kick (lose max damage) 8th choice: (if rock blew up)(cautious, you run to the nearby patch of grass)(maybe exact same as above) - - - 9th choice: make it to back door, it's locked. Hear voices from the left - Try to push down door - Run left. - Run right. 10th choice: not a real choice. No matter what, you get surrounded. All choices amount to Cave blowing them up. Cave stuff: 1st choice: (you land. three guys are charging. One in front, two behind him. Triangle formation) - Stab and run forward (You run forward, stab him in the stomach, and plow ahead with him still on the blade. The other guys are shocked when you run past them, and they fire at you. You then channel some energy into the blade in the guy's stomach, toss him into one of the other guys, they explode. The third guy drops his weapon and runs. Max damage, 30? Bad karma) - Knockout the leader. (you dash forward and grab the guy in front by the arms and throw him down, and you punch him in the face. The two soldiers fire cautiously, not wanting to hurt their ally, and their shaky aim clips you. Taking damage, you instinctively shoot at them from your blades. You move on and you hear an explosion behind you. Min damage, 15?) - Grab the leader (You grab the guy and quickly throw him at the guy on the right. The left guy tries to aim, but you are too quick and axe kick him to the dirt (lift right leg and kick downwards on his head). You run forward and kick the other two guys unconscious.) 2nd choice: (You move forward, enemy soldier runs up to you from the side. You turn immediately, and he stops in fear. His weapon is slightly lowered) - Impale and toss him away (+1 bad karma) - Shoot him (+1 bad karma) - Stare him down (You glare at him, he drops his weapon and runs away) - Grab him and throw him away (you toss him to the other downed guards from choice 1. Or, just throw him a fair distance away) 3rd choice: (you hear Vert call out to you suddenly. She tells you to back down.) - "Yes, my Lady!" (max damage. You cautiously relax your weapons and approach her... and Vert is revealed to actually be a charging soldier. He whacks you right in the face with the butt of his gun. He jabs you two more times... before you grab the gun from his hands, impale him with the bayonet, and fling him high up in the air. You shoot several bullets at him, and he explodes in the sky. 25 damage?) - "My Lady, it's much too dangerous here! (no damage? You respond to her directly... and she is revealed to be a soldier, who freezes in confusion and terror. You snap out of your own confusion and kick him in the stomach, then lift him over your head with your foot. - Shoot at her (an intense rage fills your mind upon seeing the CPU, and you shoot right at her. She is revealed to be a simple Planeptune soldier, and he falls to the ground. +1 Bad Karma) 4th choice: (you are confused over the hallucination. six IF soldiers are fighting six Leanbox soldiers. You think you see a leafy bow among the group... Your target! Perhaps I only say: "you see a throng of people fighting... Hold on! You see a leafy bow among the crowd!" focus only on IF, gloss over the two sides. For the record, the leafy bow is actually just the emblem on an IF soldier's helmet. You are out of it, haven't slept good in days) - Shoot the traitor! (+1 bad karma. No damage. In a fit of rage, you fire energy bullet after bullet into the crowd. You investigate after the smoke has cleared, and see six men in green and six in purple. No IF... Your head hurts even more and more) - Run and slash at her! (+1 bad karma. Max damage. In a fit of rage, you run headlong into the crowd, intending to slice IF. However, you get struck by the crossfire... and snap. All you see is red... and you come to, everyone dead at your feet. You must've sliced them all up...) - Run and grab her! (Same thing as above, only your intentions were not to murder) - Call IF out! (you call out to IF. Scream at her to stop running like a coward. The soldiers are clashing, and the IF side is alarmed. The Leanbox soldiers take advantage of the distraction, and they whack the guys down... and a bullet discharges from an IF-soldier's gun, whizzing right by your ear! You momentarily snap, blindfiring forward... When you come to, everyone is dead. What have you done?!) 5th choice: (you make it to the main army, and you see IF, who hasn't noticed you yet. No matter what, everyone becomes IF, and you Black Label them. Her back is turned to you, waving her arms; clearly giving orders. The rest of the army, about 20 soldiers, stand before her in a "Crane" formation (a horseshoe shape)) - Shoot the traitor in the back (+1 bad karma. She falls, and you run up to her without thinking. She's no longer IF, but some dead soldier. You look up, the army is confused... and IF is suddenly standing on the right. You shoot her... only for another IF to pop up. By now, the army snaps out of their trance, and begin whacking you. Everyone soon becomes IF... and you snap, and begin spinning. You perform Black Label, and everyone explodes. 30 damage?) - Knock IF out! (You dash forward, chop her to the ground... and suddenly, she's not IF. Now it's similar to the shoot choice. You get whacked by their guns, rage consumes you, Black Label.) - Stab the traitor and knock down the army (+1 bad karma. You need to deal with her AND the 20 soldiers... You dash forward, impale IF, and throw her to the crowd, staggering several of them. However, turns out it's not IF. Another IF is suddenly charging you, and you kick her in the stomach... and it's also not her! Now every soldier is IF, and they charge you... and you snap and perform Black Label. No damage though) - Capture the traitor! (You dash up to IF and grab her from behind, holding her as a human shield. You tell the army to stand down... when suddenly, she is no longer IF, but a standard soldier. The Planeptune army backs away in fright, and you see IF among their ranks. You throw the soldier away, knocking the rest of the crowd down, and dash for the new IF and grab her by the neck... and now, everyone else is IF, and they begin charging. You panic/snap, and Black Label) 6th choice: last remaining soldier is cornered, arm held in his coat like he's holding a wound. You mention IF, he's says she's attacking from behind. you can now: - Turn and walk away (max damage, he shoots you in the back. You then blow him up completely in uncontrollable rage. 40?) - Dash and quickly knock him out (good karma) - Shoot him (bad karma) - Interrogate further (you grab him and demand to know more (passage says that you don't trust him). He shoots you through his coat. The bullet grazes your shoulder. You throw him, summon a turret, it incinerates him completely) 7th choice: (you begin to head back, see your army. As you near them, they tense up and hold their weapons tight. Their fingers are on the trigger. Someone wheels out "something" to the front of the castle (revealed to be the mortar for choice 8). Snipers appear from some castle windows. They seem to be willing and ready to fire.) - More traitors... Shoot both snipers! (+1 bad karma. you shoot the snipers, crossing your guns, and they fall out of the high windows. The Leanbox soldiers are surprised, but they do fire with their shaky aim. A few hit you in the side, but your adrenaline helps you tune out some of the pain. You prepare to murder them all... when suddenly, the mortar is lit! 30 damage?) - Lower your weapons and relax (You try to calm yourself down, telling yourself that you're going down a dark dark path. The guards seem to be surprised at your calmness... and they begin to relax as well. However, in back, one soldier does not get the memo... and uses (lights like a cannon) the mortar.) - Berate the traitors! (You raise your twin blades in full-on battle stance, and angrily demand to know what these fools are thinking. However, before you finish your sentence, the closest guard fires a warning shot... which grazes your leg. You ready to kill him... when suddenly, the guard back at the castle hears the gunshot and panickly lights the mortar. 8th choice: ("MORTAR!!!" The guards all panick, and the closest guard to you stumbles backwards; he's now in front of you and to the left.) - Shoot the mortar (the fire up at the approaching shell, and it explodes. You get blown down by the blast, taking some (min) damage.) - Guard and protect your face (the shell hits not too far from you, you get blasted to the ground. Max, 70 damage) - Grab the soldier and toss him up (+1 karma. You grab the nearby guard and toss him up towards the shell. He collides, and explodes. The blast is still strong enough to blast you down. You take some (min) damage) - Jump left and go prone! (You jump left... right as the nearby guard begins running back. The two of you collide, crash to the ground, and the explosion catches you. 30 damage maybe?) - Slide right and go prone! (You jump right and go prone. The explosion hits nearby, but you miraculously avoid harm. Smoke fills the area, however.) - Leap backwards and crash down! (You hop backwards and fall to the ground. You avoid harm, same as going right.) 9th choice: (Ton of smoke now. Maybe have timed "ant" event here to lose 1 health. If on your back, set hook to simply say you roll over and begin to crawl. Otherwise, you are already prone and crawling forward. You just about make your way out of the smoke... and you see Chika's silhouette approaching not too far away.) - Wait and observe... (This can't be Chika, so you simply stay down and observe. The silhouette eventually walks away... and you stand up. A guard in the smoke recovers, and shoots you for 30 damage. You turn back, shake your head, and simply shoot him. You emerge completely from the smoke, and hear a commotion on the side of the Basilicom) - "C-Chika?!" (You dash out of the smoke and head for your friend. You emerge from the smoke, and she is already walking away, rounding to the side of the castle (you are right at the left edge of the front of the Basilicom now). You follow her... and she's nowhere in sight. A sadness fills your heart... but then, you suddenly see several Leanbox soldiers running towards the backyard.) - That's not... Shoot her. (+1 bad karma. This can't be Chika... Tired of your mind playing cruel tricks on you, you fire a bullet... and the silhouette simply vanishes. You emerge from the smoke, and hear a commotion on the side of the castle.) 10th choice: - - -

**???**: "Failure... but, perhaps it's not meant to end here? Nyeheheh... "Here's a choice for ya! Either you forget this ever happened and try to avenge that hilarious performance you just delivered... or you act like a woman, grow some stones, and stick with what ya got! I mean, you're just gonna get a crappy outcome if ya act all stubborn-like and accept this ass-whooping you just ate... but isn't being a complete idiot worth it? Nyeheheh, stupid skank... "So, yeah, are you a wimpy crybaby who wants to go 'wah wah!' and try again? Or a snobbish warrior with actual dumb honorable chops? Hehe... I think I already know the answer~" (link:"I'm a... crybaby...")[(loadgame:"A")] (link:"I'm not afraid!")[(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")(set: $endingPath to "Cave Bad Ending")(goto:"Boss Result")]

{(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="alternateFarewellBossTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div>] (else:)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.pause();" /></div>] <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $endingPath is "Loyalty" OR $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[](else:)[(savegame: "A","After the Reunion")] (if: ($endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "True Ending" OR $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished") AND $bossFightCharacter is "IF" AND $bossVictory is "IF")[You cautiously approach the kneeling Cave, lowering your weapons to ease the tension. "Cave... Please stop this, Cave. I... I don't want to fight you anymore... That's never been what I wanted," you say with concern clear in your voice. You simply feel awful; you had no idea Cave harbored all this hate and malice for you. How could you not feel guilty? Cave keeps her head down, glaring at her weapons.(if: $endingPath != "Mission Accomplished")[.. when suddenly, she releases a faint sniffle? A lone tear runs down the SMD Warrior's cheek... and you realize that this is the first time you have ever seen her cry. Letting your guard down, you kneel on one knee beside her and place a gentle hand upon her shoulder. She nudges you off at first... but she eventually relents as her sobs become uncontrollable. "Cave... I'm sorry. For everything..." Your friend is silent for a moment, her 'shameful' cries having turned silent... before she opens her mouth. (link:"\"... No, *I* must apologize, Miss IF...\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Historical Ending Page 1")]](else:)[A tense feeling oozes all around you as your friend, calm and collected as always, simply keeps quiet in defeat. It is a sickening silence that makes you wonder if you should say something more; your friend was so full of rage and willing to put her very life on the line just to attack you... Can you even hope to calm her? Perhaps she has every right to be angry with you... You can't help but be angry with yourself, sometimes. "... Um, Cave...? I'm... sorry. (link:"For everything...\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 1")]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door" OR $endingPath is "Runaway" OR ($endingPath is "IF Bad Ending"))[(if: $bossFightCharacter is "Cave")[You are now IF... ]You grip your Qatars tightly as you stare at the kneeling Cave, both your chests heaving in and out. By appearances alone, you've defeated her... but you can already tell that the SMD warrior is not keen on cooperating. She's glaring at the mud beneath her boots, but her fingers still graze her shears. She's not... seriously planning something, is she? You speak. "Cave... It's over! Stand down! I... I don't wish to fight you any longer! Let's talk this out like adults!" A bit harsh, but dammit, you need to put your foot down and talk things out! You can assume why she's so adamant about killing you... and standing idly by will restore absolutely no part of your strained relationship! "Here..." Getting bold now... "Lemme... help you up." You confidently begin to walk forward, arm outstretched for your friend... (if: $endingPath is "Runaway" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[but Cave clearly has other ideas that don't include taking your hand! Faster than the wind, she suddenly leaps back up to her feet... and slices her right-handed blade (link:"for your neck!")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Runaway Ending Page 1")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[But damn, your wound is rearing its ugly ugly head again as you reach! Just a little more exertion, okay? Your pain aside, Cave's dark eyes finally trail upwards to glimpse your approaching figure... and in a flash, the red-haired soldier is already standing! Look out, she's swinging for your neck! "You FOOL!" you shout, hoping to sound freakin' cool, as you quickly uppercut your knives to meet her attack! Your Qatars clash with Cave's blades hard... and amazingly, your rival is blindsided by the intensity! Her stunned grip loosens, and her weapons go flying through the drenched atmosphere! Unarmed and wholeheartedly defeated... the SMD warrior falls to her knees for the second time in the last minute. An angered crimson creeps up to her cheeks, and she looks away in shame. Like a pouting child. You sigh in well-earned relief; that went as smooth as it could've, what with this wound and all! You're amazed you came out on top... but nah, was it ever really in doubt? You open your mouth to speak... but Cave breaks the silence for you. "... You've... (link:"improved.\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 1")]]] (elseif: ($bossFightCharacter is "Cave" AND $bossVictory is "Cave") AND ($endingPath is "Loyalty"))[Your breaths coming out in stinted bursts, you stare down at the defeated brunette. She is too weak to stand; the meager act of lifting her head to meet your gaze while she rests helplessly on her knees is practically too taxing on her energy-starved frame. ... She's defenseless. Here's your chance! (link:"Kill her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $endingPath to "Imprisoned")(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 1")] (link:"Spare her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $loyaltySpareCount to 1)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 1")]] (elseif: ($bossFightCharacter is "Cave" AND $bossVictory is "Cave") AND ($endingPath is "Farewell"))[Your breaths coming out in stinted bursts, you stare down at the defeated brunette. She is too weak to stand; the meager act of lifting her head to meet your gaze while she rests helplessly on her knees is practically too taxing on her energy-starved frame. Got her right where you want her... So, why then... can't you bring yourself to finish her? This is your duty: kill the blasphemous traitor! She's put Lyrica through hell, left Vert to drift further into insanity, and she allowed Chika to... be taken from you. Finish her! "..." No use... Like the weakling you are, you lower your knives back to your belt... and turn your back to your enemy. A foolish action, perhaps... but you weren't afraid: you had cleanly won this fight. You were making a definitive statement; one of pure dominance. "... Pick yourself up." You will not help her... You refuse to go that far, at least. The brunette seems confused, perhaps uncertain whether you're planning to lash out some more... but eventually she lets out an exasperated grunt and pushes herself to her feet. "... Man... You're... h-hella strong, Cave... Feels like I was hit by a bus! H-Hehe, heh..." You make nary a sound, your face simply aimed away and for the Basilicom. A silent moment passes, before a soft hand touches your shoulder. "... Listen, Cave, I... I had no idea you went through so... much... Not just you, either... God, I feel like such an idiot, y'know?" "..." Empty words... EMPTY! So why... can't you put her in her rightful place? You can't possibly... be listening to her, can you?! She continues, her hand squeezing slightly tighter. Why aren't you nudging her off? "... I should never have ran away. I left you and Lyree alone with Vert... and shit, now Chika's gone? I'm... so sorry... I screwed up." You slightly shift your head so that you can see your rival out of the corner of your eye. She is now biting her lip and looking towards her feet. She's not... about to cry, is she? Damn it, anything but that... "I-I... I know that you may never forgive me, but... f-from now on, I... I don't want to be your enemy, Cave! I-I never wanted that, anyways... I wish to fight (link:"by your side!\"")[ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Farewell Ending Page 1")]] (elseif: ($bossFightCharacter is "Cave" AND $bossVictory is "Cave") AND $endingPath is "Vert")[You look down at the defeated brunette, barely able to hold herself up while resting on her hands and knees... How pathetic she looks. She... couldn't even defeat you at your WEAKEST! Ha, and she believed she could protect Lyrica?! ... Unless... s-she was going easy on you? No... That'd be insulting! W-Where's her pride as a warrior?! As you are thinking, she slowly stands right back up, wiping away a strand of blood from her lip. "H-Heh, you're... better than I... remember, Cave... R-Ready for Round Two? I-I can keep goin' all day!" I-Impossible! S-She's defeated, yet... she still wants more?! Haven't you been telling yourself she's... a coward? Would a coward really... willingly accept such a blatant death sentence? Y-You'll kill her in one strike at this rate! S-She... is willing to fight on... Is she repentant for her past actions? Is a woman like her really such a threat to Lyrica's safety, or a boon? "Be mindful of what you do at all times, Cave; you never know who may be watching. Some people have eyes and ears everywhere..." N-No! "I do not wish to soil my hands... Finish this traitor, Cave." I-It's all rushing back! "... Do YOU miss IF, Cave?" "... I miss the simpler days." "... Okay." S-Stop! P-Please! "... You do know that... you can always tell me anything, right... Lyree?" "... Yeah." "... E-ENOUGH!!!" you shout to the heavens... before collapsing to your knees. Your mind is being incinerated by these remembrances of your utter failure... If only you had someone by your side with the drive and resolve of IF... maybe things'd be different. A reassuring hand clasps your shoulder. "... Cave? Here... let me help ya up." "..." You slowly look up at the brunette... and grip your twin blades tight. You know... what (link:"must be done...!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $narrationCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 1")]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending")[(if: $bossFightCharacter is "IF")[You are now Cave... ]You look down at the defeated brunette, barely able to hold herself up while resting on her hands and knees... How pathetic she looks. She honestly thought she was strong enough to protect Lyrica? Hell... were you actually foolish enough to almost believe in her as well? ... So what should you do now? Put her out of her misery?... No, something inside of you is holding you back... ... Perhaps it's the person you see running towards you out of the corner of your eye? She most certainly would object to you killing the battle-hardened veteran... "Lyri- What are you...?!" you stammer as you begin to turn around, too confused to process what was happening. Why was the pop idol outside of the castle?! You told her- no, ORDERED her- to stay away from the battlefield at all times! Yet, here she was, approaching the two of you like a madwoman! What the hell was she thinking?! Lyrica's angry, but determined, face gets ever closer, and you are fully turned towards her by now... ... IF, however, must not have received the memo; her head is kept down in shame... until she senses you have turned your back to her for some unknown reason. The brunette is a fool... but you know what they say about cornered beasts. The defeated girl suddenly pushes off the dirt with her fists before launching herself right for your back with an artistic flying kick. The atmosphere changes behind you... and your body is twisting before you can even process what exactly is going on; the evolutionary need to survive has been kind to you. You dodge just in time to see IF fly straight past you, obviously missing her mark by a fraction of an inch... and her eyes widen in horror right before she crashes into her new incoming target: (link:"Lyrica!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> (goto: "Cave Bad Ending Page 1")]]}

{(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack1A","Attack1B","Attack2","Attack2A","Defense","Special","SpecialA","EXEattack")) (if: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") IF holds her arms out behind her, similar to how you remember her standard running form looks. Like a bird in flight, her fingers are also extended and apart. You note how her blades appear to be retracted deep in her sleeves; not in her hands like her usual battle stance. What is she planning...? [[Prepare to jab at her!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Bad Damage]] [Hold up your twin blades to block!]<blockfail| [[Roundhouse kick!|IF Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [[Duck|IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [Prepare to backflip]<backflip| [[Try to grab her!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] [Roll forward]<rollforward| [Wait and roll left!]<rollleft| (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Shoot energy bullet (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[[Shoot energy bullet (Requires 1 Energy)|IF Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]]] [Stand your ground!]<standstill| (click:?backflip)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "backflip")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?rollleft)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "rollleft")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?blockfail)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "blockfail")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?rollforward)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "rollforward")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?standstill)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "standstill")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") IF draws her insultingly-dulled Qatar blades between her fingers; three per hand. You note her upper body is twisting ever-so-slightly, as if she is charging up something... Furthermore, her stance includes a subtle lean forward on her left leg. Is she planning to run, or...? [Aim to block!]<blockyes| [[Ready a Backflip kick!|IF Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [Prepare stylish butterfly kick!]<butterfly| [[Prepare to jump!|IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [[Fakeout, slide, punch!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] [[Sprinting kick!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [Charge a grounded tornado spin-kick!]<spinkick| (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Shoot at her feet (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[[Shoot at her feet! (Requires 1 Energy)|IF Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]]] [[Running slash!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Shoot right at her! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Shoot right at her! (Requires 1 Energy)]<shootfail|] (click:?blockyes)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "blockyes")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?spinkick)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "spinkick")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?butterfly)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "butterfly")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?shootfail)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "shootfail")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") IF suddenly slams her eyelids shut before raising her right arm up in front of her face. Then, in her obvious show-offish manner, her hand is clenched into the tightest of fists. You can tell that the brunette is whispering something to herself as her fist shakes and shakes... Is she chanting? [Put your scissors back together to block!]<blockfail| [[Brace yourself and counter-slash!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Sidestep and swing rapidly!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] [[Get ready to dodgeroll!|IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [[Leaping kick to the face!|IF Boss Battle Player No Damage]] [[Dash forward and swing rapidly!|IF Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Shoot for her arm! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Shoot for her arm! (Requires 1 Energy)]<armshoot|] [[Wait and counter-kick!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [Prepare to leap high!]<leaphigh| (if: $caveEnergyMeter < 2)[<strike>Full Burst Option (Requires 2 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Full Burst Option (Requires 2 Energy)]<fullburstoption|] (click:?armshoot)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "armshoot")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "fullburstoption")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Boss Max Damage")] (click:?blockfail)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "blockfail")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?leaphigh)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "leaphigh")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No") IF stands with her right arm extended, blades pointed right at you... when suddenly, something about her very being changes. Her pupils dilate, before her lids slowly close shut altogether, and her shoulders slump into a more-relaxed state... almost as if she's forgotten she's in the middle of a battle to the death! The villain raises her arms at such a majestic pace, holding them straight out as if she were a sacrifice offering. Then, after a tense moment of silence, she just-as-calmly brings her jacket-covered arms to her chest, pressing them to her body tight in an 'X' formation. Her eyes remain shut, and you can sense a massive swell of energy in the surrounding area... [[Put your scissors back together to block!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Cartwheel and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[[Cartwheel and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)|IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage]]] [[Leaping kick!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0 AND $forwardCheck is "Yes")[<strike>Run forward and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy?)</strike>](elseif: $caveEnergyMeter > 0 AND $forwardCheck is "Yes")[[[Run forward and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy?)|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]]](elseif: $caveEnergyMeter is 0 AND $forwardCheck is "No")[<strike>Run forward and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Run forward and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)]<forwardshoot|] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Backstep and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[[Backstep and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)|IF Boss Battle Player No Damage]]] [[Charge a grounded tornado spin-kick!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Strafe and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Strafe and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)]<strafeshoot|] [[Dash forward and swing rapidly!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Try to grab her!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[ [Panicking... No, don't panic!]<panic|] (click:?strafeshoot)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "strafeshoot")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?forwardshoot)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "forwardshoot")(set: $forwardCheck to "Yes")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage")] (click:?panic)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "panic")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage")]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[(set: $playerNoDmg to "No")(set: $playerMaxDmg to "No")IF crosses her arms in front of her face, shooting an attentive glare at you all the while. Harking back to classic kung-fu films, her right knee is lifted all the way up to her chest, while her left foot stays firmly planted on the dirt. And still, her eyes stay locked on you... [[Block!|IF Boss Battle Player No Damage]] [[Grab leg with scissors!|IF Boss Battle Boss Max Damage]] [[Ramming takedown!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Good Damage]] [[Strafe behind her and strike!|IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage]] [[Sweep for her leg!|IF Boss Battle Player Max Damage]] [[Rolling kick!|IF Boss Battle Boss Min Damage]] [[Go for a kneebar!|IF Boss Battle Boss And Player Bad Damage]] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Shoot at her foot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Shoot at her foot! (Requires 1 Energy)]<footshoot|] (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Aim high and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)</strike>](else:)[[Aim high and shoot! (Requires 1 Energy)]<highshoot|] (if: $defenseCheck is 0)[(set: $defenseCheck to $defenseCheck + 1)](elseif: $defenseCheck is 1 AND $caveEnergyMeter < 5)[ [Charge up your energy! (Requires 5 Health)]<chargeenergy|] (click:?footshoot)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "footshoot")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player No Damage")] (click:?chargeenergy)[(set: $playerMaxDmg to "chargeenergy")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Player Min Damage")] (click:?highshoot)[(set: $playerNoDmg to "highshoot")(goto:"IF Boss Battle Boss Min Damage")]]] (elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $bossVictory to "IF")You hold your twin blades tight in pure rage and prepare to strike... but your vision grows incredibly blurry, and soon the world is spinning at mach speed. With a growl, you collapse. (link:"Continue...")[(goto:"Cave Game Over")]] (elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")(if: $endingPath is "Door")[IF stumbles back, her footing looking rather sloppy. So, that wound she's trying to hide is finally getting the best of her... It would be understandable if she just suddenly gave up, but... she still insists on fighting! What... DRIVES her?! ... Still, you've already won, no matter what final move she may be planning! Look, she's trying to tornado-spin straight into you! No finesse by this point... You can end this easily! You tap your foot in anticipation of disrupting the brunette's devastating physical strike... when suddenly three metallic gleams of light steal your sight! W-What the...?! W-While spinning, the crafty devil threw three Qatars at you! C-Crap...! You avoid the knives just in time... but your exhaustion finally catches up with you, as you are unable to dodge her extreme assault! Another set of blades between her fingers cut across your torso, shocking your body beat after beat as she spins like the world's fastest top! Shit, she... got you! Once her rapid whirlwind motion comes to a merciful end, you fly backwards... and crumple to your knees. In one fell swoop... you are finished! No... She's good, you'll give her that... but like hell you're (link:"giving up here!")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(goto:"Boss Result")]] (else:)[(if: $endingPath is "Loyalty" OR $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[](else:)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)]IF pulls out three Qatar blades from her sleeve and readies a shot. She rears her arm back and then throws forward... only, her knives stay in her hand. She looks at her blades in confusion, before her knees buckle and she slips to the ground. The battle-hardened veteran is defeated! [[Confront her...|Boss Result]]]]}

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. Simply blasting or slicing this traitor would be too easy; you want to completely demoralize her before finishing her off. Punching her swift in the face would certainly do the trick! You wait for IF to make her predictable charge right towards you... and suddenly, she is no longer there! What the hell, where did she go?! Before you snap out of your momentary confusion, you feel two arms grab you tight from behind! The crafty brunette has snuck up on you, and is now wrapped around your waist! Since you were already preparing for a punch, you instinctively jab your right elbow backwards, which crashes into her stomach! The battle-hardened veteran gasps in pain... but still maintains her grasp. You go for a second jab... but IF suddenly pulls you down to the right and pushes you away! You fall to the ground, and prepare to steady yourself out... but before you even collide with the mud, your enemy leaps after you and brings her foot around, effectively roundhouse-kicking you! Her foot feels like fire, and you get propelled even faster into the dirt below. IF rubs her stomach, the pain already mostly-gone from your jab. She has taken 5 damage in any case. You, however, take 15 damage from both the superkick and crashing into the cruel earth. Guess this traitor isn't as foolish as you thought. If only she used her cognitive side to help Lyrica.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[You suspect that IF is choosing to go the defensive route, instead of taking the initiative herself... But, what if that's simply what she wants you to believe? She could be planning some devasting parry... What to do, what to do... Well... if she wants you to attack... why don't you give her exactly what she wants?! That lone leg touching the ground seems like an obvious spot to exploit... but then you surmise that perhaps the crafty traitor is betting you'll aim for that. What about her raised leg, then? Bent like she's readying a crane kick or something... Use that, perhaps? Yeah... Yeah, that could work! You run straight forward and, once within range, reach out and grab IF's raised leg, holding as tight as possible. IF yells out in surprise, and she struggles to break free from your hold. You, meanwhile, try twisting her leg enough to knock her to the ground, where you will maintain the hold with even more leverage... You summon forth all your strength, and it soon appears as though you're about to succeed! IF senses this, however, and she hops off her left leg and brings it up to kick you square in the side of the head! You can't help but let go and fall to the mud below, and the brunette follows suit due to both her feet leaving the ground entirely. The two of you lay in the wet grass for a moment in reflection. The kick to your skull sure smarts... You are sure you lost 15 health, and luckily nothing more. IF, meanwhile, may have a sore leg now, as well as an aching back from her landing... Still, she seems to have only taken 5 damage. That... let's be honest, completely sucked. Perhaps a little better planning would have done you both some good...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. However, surely she must be smarter than to just dash straight for you, right? While a treacherous fool, she is quick... She could be luring you into a false sense of security or something. What if she swerves? Yes, she must definitely be planning to sidestep you at the very last second! You'll need an attack that can encompass every angle around you, not just your front! IF begins dashing, as you suspected, and right as she gets close to you, you leap into the air and perform a beautiful roundhouse kick, your powerful leg swinging in a circular motion! You read your enemy well: instead of attacking you head-on, she had begun to circle-strafe... clearly ready to assault you from behind! Fortunately, your foot manages to catch her unsuspecting face, and she flies to the ground a few feet away! That kick was all-in-all pretty intense, so IF is lucky she only lost 10 health. It won't be long now before sweet, sweet vengeance is yours...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[Something seems incredibly fishy here... IF isn't simply planning to run straight for you, is she? Not even she'd be that stupid... Besides, that curve to her stance is giving you odd signals. However, she must be intending to lash out at you with her blades at least. Should be easy enough to deal with, right? IF suddenly leaps off the ground, and begins spinning on her left leg like the fastest top you've ever seen! Her arms are extended out, blades drawn... What a peculiar attack... and suddenly, a peculiar idea of your own hatches inside your mind! You watch IF's movement and prepare to knock the blades straight out of her hands! The brunette spins incredibly-fast to the far left, then all the way to the far right; she's trying to trip you up! However, you maintain your focus, until you sense that she's now heading your way... and you jump and perform a sleek backflip, bringing your feet up; a perfect backwards-somersault kick! IF's fast arms spin right your way the very second you launch your attack, and as predicted, your boots uppercut the brunette's arms and chin... thus knocking the Qatar blades away AND launching her helplessly into the air! Not wasting any time, you hold your twin blades firm and slice forward rapidly, catching your enemy in a loop of slices, her being flung backwards, then once again catching her. After a few decisive stabs, she is launched a few more feet away and crashes hard into the mud. You can't help but smirk; you brutally dealt 20 damage to this poser. Soon, Lyrica. Soon...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Nothing about this situation screams 'good' to you. IF's weird stance, despite being somewhat-hilarious in appearance, must serve some kind of fiendish purpose... but what? Well... perhaps it is best not to find out, and instead simply launch an attack first! Sure, there's a risk... but just imagine what she could be planning otherwise... IF's arm begins glowing... and you know that the time for thinking is done!(if: $playerNoDmg is "fullburstoption")[ You close your eyes and bring your left hand up to your face, touching the bridge of your nose with your index and middle fingers. You focus all of your energy, and in your mind's eye, you envision five guns magically appearing around you... and when the perfect moment arrives, you raise your right hand and shout out "Irradiation!" Instantly, those five 'C'-shaped turrets become reality! IF spins once on her left leg... and when she stops, her eyes widen in shock at your summoned creations. On cue, each gun fires out a nifty power laser, scorching the battle-hardened veteran with intense heat. When that is through, all she can do is collapse. Hmm... only 30 damage. Something prevented you from going all-out on that one... You can't be getting soft! Not when the love of your life is at stake! Not when... everything is...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)] (else:)[ You throw yourself straight for your enemy, bringing your long twin knives up and pointed her way. She starts to spin on her left leg... but upon seeing your sudden close proximity, her eyes widen in surprise, and the glow dissipates from her arm. You must've broken her concentration... Excellent. As soon as you reach the vile brunette, you slash with your right blade, followed by your left, then right, propelling her forward all the while. Left, right, left... you hit her a few good times before she manages to break free from your knife-juggling trap and rolls to the side. Damn her thick clothing; even after all that, IF still only took 20 damage! Oh well, you're one step closer to sweet, sweet retribution... and yet, something just feels... wrong...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[You suspect that IF is choosing to go the defensive route, instead of taking the initiative herself... But, what if that's simply what she wants you to believe? She could be planning some devasting parry... What to do, what to do... Well... if she wants you to attack... why don't you give her exactly what she wants?! That lone leg touching the ground seems like an obvious spot to exploit... but then you surmise that perhaps the crafty traitor is betting you'll aim for that. What about her raised leg, then? Bent like she's readying a crane kick or something... Use that, perhaps? First, though, you'll have to mislead her... You run directly for IF, and right about when you're in range, you begin spinning with your leg raised, as if signifying you're about to roundhouse kick her. However, in mid-spin, you rejoin your twin knives, bringing them back into their standard long scissors form... and you finish your rotation and catch IF's boot between both blades! The brunette is too surprised at first to react... and her momentary hesitation is all you need! You twist her leg to the right, offsetting her balance and causing her to fall over. However, you don't simply stop there: you jump and perform a backwards-somersault kick, sending the villain high up in the air! You next dash after her and, separating your blades once more, slice through her jacket a few times before you can defy physics no longer... and you both begin falling. You land expertly on you feet, whilst the foolish traitor crashes down hard face-first. You hope she's getting a good taste of the mud, and you reckon you've unleashed a good 20 damage upon her. Just... stay down already! Give up, IF, like you gave up on Leanbox! On Lyrica! On Vert! On... Chika! On... **YOU**...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. However, you can't deny that this cruel brunette knows how to kick, and kick hard... so, you certainly do not want to deal with a massive blow to your skull. Heh, an idea hatches in your brain; one that will not only leave this cretin humiliated, but also wide open to a monstrous finishing maneuver! You wait for her to begin running towards you... and sure enough, here she comes! Right as she's about to reach you... you duck down, well out of the way of any kind of roundhouse kick or anything else you could figure. However... you do not see any kick. No, in fact, IF is not standing in front of you at all! You sense a presence directly behind you... Did that bitch circle around you completely?! As you sit confused, IF looks down at you, and you surmise that her planned attack was in fact ruined... but unluckily for you, she can improvise well: She takes a few steps back before sprinting forward and punt-kicking you right in the back! Your face hits the mud... and with a grimace, you push yourself back up before wiping the dirt from your person. You both once again stare at each other, while you try to hide the 5 damage she inflicted on you. Crafty little urchin... She won't be smiling for long.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[Well, with her slightly leaning on her left leg, and seeing as her blades are drawn, it's obvious that IF is going to charge right for you. Perhaps she'll run, perhaps she'll leap, perhaps she'll even spin; it's the same principle either way. You decide to sit and wait for her to make the first move... and sure enough, she quickly takes action! She raises her right leg and bends it as she now stands solely on her left leg... and before you realize what is happening, the villain is spinning like never before! Her arms are straight in the air, the Qatar blades pointed as far out as possible... You most definitely do not want to be caught in this whirlwind of knives! You anticipate her dashing right for you, but she instead swerves to the far left of the area. She's toying with you... There she goes, ever closer to you, but then suddenly to the right! Tricky bitch... Still spinning much like a top, she begins to move again... and this must be it! Not wanting to get struck, you focus your strength and leap high into the air... and yes, right over IF! Heh, showed her... ... IF, however, notices your clever dodge, and flings her right arm upwards, releasing her hold on three Qatar knives. The blades fly upwards and strike you clean in the stomach before you can even land from your jump. You nearly gasp in pained surprise, but you manage to straighten yourself out and land on your feet. A mild shock emanates from the dulled tips of the blades, and you whack the knives off of you. You hide any emotion from plain sight, but those augmented Qatars inflicted 10 damage on you. You can't lose to this imbecile...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[It doesn't take a genius to know that IF is planning something unconventional, and you're pretty bright. With that ominous chanting, she must be channeling energy for some sort of special attack... but what? Perhaps superpowered Qatars? Some laser beam from her fists? With all the manga she reads, who the hell knows what she's added to her arsenal since the fight against Arfoire? You reckon that the best course of action to take is to simply not stay standing, but instead roll to safety... but where will that be?! IF's right hand suddenly begins to glow an off-aquamarine color, and she lifts up her right leg before twirling solely on her left in a complete circle. The battle-hardened veteran next reels her right arm back behind her... before dramatically thrusting it upwards! Silence permeates the air for a few moments as nothing seems to happen... You are tempted to chuckle and assume that this fool failed... but you suspect things are about to go south fast. Sure enough, a massive greenish-white sigil appears directly beneath your feet... and the sudden realization dawns on you: everything inside this massive arcane symbol is about to be decimated! All you can do is leap forward and roll as far as you can, your feet propelling you off the ground at an insane speed! You've almost made it! Almost, almost... and right as you make it to the end up the sigil, a grand beam of pure energy rises from the marking! You almost escaped... but your feet were still within range, and the heat briefly engulfs your bottom appendages. Immense pain flows up your body for the quick moment, but thankfully, your boots are there to prevent any permanent injury/immolation, and you fall to the ground outside of the target zone. Still, the massive swell of energy did some damage: you lost 20 health, just from getting your feet caught in the blast. A foolish mistep on your part... Who is going to protect Lyrica if you get fried?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[The entire world seems to stop, and even the rain seems to freeze entirely... This is clearly the calm before the storm... Every instinct you have is screaming that this is going to be bad. You pull out your twin blades and prepare for the worst... and sure enough, a light-green barrier forms around the brunette, and she soars straight up into the sky. She begins moving her arms at a rapid pace... and you know that the game is on. Sensing the swell of energy in the area, you focus all your power into the two blades in your hand...(if: $playerNoDmg is "panic")[ but a cold sweat overtakes you as you realize you have... absolutely nothing left. You must've made a miscalculation somewhere! You have no way to protect yourself! No... No no no no no no! What is this feeling swelling up in the pit of your stomach? Is this... is this fear? N-No! You will never fear anything! Still, what can you do?! From IF's insanely-fast swiping hands, a swarm of energy-infused Qatars come homing in for you... and you have nothing! You've never been cornered like this... You are frozen to the spot, despite your best attempts to move a single muscle... so all you can do is close your eyes shut and wait for what looks to be the end. You silently ask for Chika's forgiveness for letting things get this far... and then your mind goes right to Lyrica... How you wish you could tell her everything. Tell her how you've felt all this time... You clench your fists, thinking of the wasted opportunities. The blades just about reach you... when suddenly, something most unexpected happens: your arms begin glowing, and an otherworldly gust of wind bursts forth from parts unknown! Every single blade gets knocked around, a few soaring back towards the battle-hardened veteran herself! IF keeps throwing, and the wind keeps sending them away... and soon, the traitor realizes that going any further would be futile. She softly floats back down to the earth... You feel a little lightheaded, but at least you survived. What... was that? The combination of facing your mortality as well as thinking of Lyrica and your late friend must've been the catalyst for... well, you can't even begin to describe it. That feeling of fear remains inside you... but for a slightly-different reason: had IF rendered you so completely helpless that you were able to unleash a special ability? Is IF... truly better? Has your weakness led Gamindustri to this sad state? Maybe if you were stronger... Vert wouldn't have gone so insane... Stop thinking like that!!!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 3)(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 1)] (else:)[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1) and begin firing like mad up at the otherworldly brunette. You note your energy bullets are exploding prematurely... and that is when you realize that IF is not just waving her arms for no reason; she's actually throwing three energy-infused Qatars with each swipe of the hand! The blades are moving incredibly fast... Will your shooting be enough?! You have got to stay moving, that's for sure! You keep firing energy bullet after bullet, but instead of standing still, you immediately start rolling and cartwheeling as you shoot, showing off the stylish moves you are capable of! It's a bit taxing to roll as you keep firing rapid bullets at the speedily-approaching exploding knives, but because you're you, you get the job done. As always... The barrage continues and continues, and you realize that the only reason you're dodging this is thanks to the swell of energy that IF herself created, allowing you to shoot so much without wasting every last ounce of your strength! In a way, you feel both insulted and ashamed... but no! Your technique is keeping you alive, not IF's energy! IF has nothing to do with this!!! ... Eventually, the assault comes to a stop, and you yourself stop moving and struggle to take in enough air. You hate to admit it... but those cartwheels really tired you out. It has been quite some time since you exerted yourself like that... Well at least you came out on to- Oh crap, IF is still in the air! She pulls out three more Qatar knives and grasps them tight in her left hand... before soaring straight down towards you! You are too exhausted to realize this before it's too late... and her knives slam into the ground, releasing one final explosion; the massive shockwave consumes everything in its path, including you! The intense heat assaults you from all directions, and you can only stand there helplessly as the pain becomes too much to bear! ... You eyes open, and you find yourself kneeling. You're still alive it seems... Hopefully that lasts. That shockwave was extremely powerful, knocking away 35 health right from you! Why her?! WHY HER?! She's not stronger than you, is she?! She can't be... Then why does Vert want only her?! Why does Lyrica?! And why... why couldn't IF use her strength to be there to stop Chika from...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 35)]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[You suspect that IF is choosing to go the defensive route, instead of taking the initiative herself... But, what if that's simply what she wants you to believe? She could be planning some devasting parry... What to do, what to do... (if: $playerMaxDmg is "chargeenergy")[Wait, you're smarter than this: IF is definitely planning to block your attack... so why attack at all? Instead... maybe you can use this momentary reprieve to recharge your strength? You never know when you may need it... You close your eyes and channel as much power as possible... and since the brunette remains stationary, you succeed and regain 1 full burst of energy! You feel slightly light-headed afterwards, however; you certainly don't want to overdo that process. Hopefully you won't need to ever again... right?(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter + 1)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] (else:)[Well, with that defensive pose... IF must clearly be anticipating an attack from the front! So... the answer is simple: strafe behind her and attack! Outsmarted again, Iffy... You blast into action, charging towards the stationary brunette... before sliding around her right side. Now facing her rear flank, you prepare to slash out with your twin blades... when suddenly, your enemy spins on her left foot and clocks you in the head with her extended right leg! You can't help but get launched to the mud, and you instantly leap back up to a standing position. From that botch, you took an insulting 10 damage... She's trying to hide it, but IF is clearly repressing a smirk... She's the last person who gets to laugh at your expense!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)]]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. However, foolish or not, the battle-hardened veteran can indeed be a crafty one... Why should you take chances with whatever she may be scheming in that twisted mind of hers? You pull out the right-half of your scissors blades, channel energy up your arm and into the hilt... and fire a powerful energy bullet straight for IF. The brunette's eyes widen at the shot, and stops whatever it is she is planning to bring up her arms to try to cushion the projectile. Your bullet hits her square in the arms, and she is pushed back a slight bit by the raw power. You grin inside at the job well done. Sure, you had to use up one portion of your precious weakened energy, but you inflicted 10 damage upon the vile traitor. Was it worth it? You certainly don't care either way...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)Something seems incredibly fishy here... IF isn't simply planning to run straight for you, is she? Not even she'd be that stupid... Besides, that curve to her stance is giving you odd signals... Ah, screw it! You lift up your right scissors-blade, channel up enough energy, and fire out a damaging energy bullet, deliberately aiming low ... right as IF begins spinning like a tornado on her left leg, her arms holding her blades straight out! Your energy bullet charges forth... and catches the villain clean in the leg! The battle-hardened veteran yells out as she falls to the ground. IF took 10 damage from your well-placed energy shot. Seeing her on the ground is a welcome sight... or at least, it should be. Something about this, though, leaves you feeling somewhat... empty. Come on, you're not getting soft, are you? Think about what's at stake here!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[You suspect that IF is choosing to go the defensive route, instead of taking the initiative herself... But, what if that's simply what she wants you to believe? She could be planning some devasting parry... What to do, what to do... (if: $playerNoDmg is "highshoot")[Well... if she wants you to attack... why don't you give her exactly what she wants?! That lone leg touching the ground seems like an obvious spot to exploit... but then you surmise that perhaps the crafty traitor is betting you'll aim for that. So... why not be more direct? You hold out your right blade, channel up some energy, take aim at her chest... and fire an energy bullet! The projectile zooms towards IF... and blasts her arms! Her jacket seems to absorb most of the blow, but she staggers back a little. Furthermore, she is clearly in pain at least, as that was a direct burst of energy to her person! Even with her defending, your overwhelming strength ate 10 health! Why is she even still fighting? She gave up on Leanbox... so why isn't she giving up here?!(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)] (else:)[Well, with that defensive pose... IF must clearly be anticipating an attack from the front! But... how fast can she react if you do just that? Like a daredevil, you leap formard and begin a quick forward somersault... but when you just about spin a clean 200 degrees, you push yourself off the ground with your hands and fly towards IF feet first! The brunette is surprised by the speed of your sudden kick, and she instinctively moves her arms to hold you back... but she misaims and you end up connecting right with her stomach! The shocked traitor flies back a few inches before falling down, while you use the energy of the kick to flip yourself in the air and land in a stylish kneeling position. You did well, as expected: IF took 15 damage! This is why Vert needs you; why Leanbox needs you! The world doesn't need weaklings like IF...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)]]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[(if: $playerMaxDmg is "blockfail")[Well, IF's blades are not drawn, but she is clearly preparing to run... Is she trying to lure you into a false sense of security, while she is secretly planning to stab at you anyways? Well, you're too smart to fall for her pathetic little game. She may be a decent fighter, but her strength is nothing compared to yours! You decide to simply use your blades to block her impending slash attack, figuring you could halt any of her strikes with ease. It looks like a great plan, as IF predictably begins running right towards you! Here she comes, get ready... Wait, what?! Where did she go?!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "rollforward")[Well, IF's blades are not drawn... so she must be preparing to kick at you! She tends to use aerial kicks most of the time... so you figure that going under her will stop her plan dead! IF suddenly begins charging, blades still in her sleeves, and you take action: you dodge-roll forwards, under her predicted aerial kick!... that never comes. No, you finish your roll, and can not find that villainous brunette anywhere! Where is she...?!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "standstill")[Well, IF's blades are not drawn, thus rendering most of her usual attacks impossible. What is she up to? Is she... toying with you? Perhaps she is testing your resolve? She wants you to overthink her strategy... when she secretly has nothing planned! Crafty bitch... No wonder Lyrica isn't safe with her. To prove your dominance... you decide to meet her challenge! You decide to stand completely still, even as IF begins charging towards you. Your frozen state will serve to throw her completely off!... Wait, where did she go?!] Before you snap out of your momentary confusion, you feel two arms grab you tight from behind! The crafty brunette has snuck up on you, and is now wrapped around your waist! You try to struggle free from the unexpected grasp, but the battle-hardened veteran persists! Suddenly, you feel IF pull you down to the right... and before you know it, you are being pushed away! You fall towards the ground, and prepare to steady yourself out... but before you can even collide with the mud, your enemy leaps after you and brings her foot around, effectively roundhouse-kicking you! Her foot feels like fire, and you get propelled even faster into the dirt below. You lay there for a moment, feeling heat rise up to your cheeks, before hopping back up, angrier than before. This cretin stole 15 health from you! A true pathetic waste... How could 5pb. fall in love with her?!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[(if: $playerMaxDmg is "butterfly")[Well, with her slightly leaning on her left leg, and seeing as her blades are drawn, it's obvious that IF is going to charge right for you. Perhaps she'll run, perhaps she'll leap, perhaps she'll even spin; it's the same principle either way. You prepare what will be a beautiful butterfly kick, and sure enough, IF begins... spinning like a tornado? Weird... but she must be heading your way, so no time to waste! She spins at an intense velocity, and you leap up and perform an incredibly-stylish move... and connect with nothing. Huh? But, at the rate she was moving, she should've been right there! Unless... Oh crap, she zigged to the side instead of forward, and now here she comes, right as you helplessly pick yourself up!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "shootfail")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)Something seems incredibly fishy here... IF isn't simply planning to run straight for you, is she? Not even she'd be that stupid... Besides, that curve to her stance is giving you odd signals... Ah, screw it! You lift up your right scissors-blade, channel up enough energy, and fire out a damaging energy bullet... right as IF begins spinning like a tornado on her left leg, her arms holding her blades straight out! Your energy bullet charges forth... and simply bounces off of her as she zigs to the left... Crap! IF's makeshift twister bursts towards you unimpeded.] (else:)[What IF is planning is irrelevant; you can dish out anything she does tenfold! You run straight for the brunette... and she soon speeds into action, spinning like a top on her nimble left leg, with her two arms (and thus, knives) held all the way out!] You can't help but get struck head-on, and you find yourself locked in a seemingly-endless chain of knife blows, followed by being launched a few inches, then back to the blows. If these blades were going for lethal shots, you most likely would be completely torn to shreds! Luckily, the barrage soon ends, and you find yourself face-down in the mud. You took 25 damage from that hell, and you now agonizingly pick yourself back up. What are you doing, making a mistake like that?! Don't you love Lyrica? Make this bitch pay!!!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 25)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[(if: $playerMaxDmg is "blockfail")[What is this, some kind of war dance? A mating call? Whatever it is, you certainly don't trust it; she's probably trying to lull you into some overconfident state, before completely lashing out. Well, sometimes it's best not to take any chances: you reconnect your twin blades back into their original scissors form, and hold your unconventional weapon up to block your face. Heh, no way she's hitting you now!] (elseif: $playerMaxDmg is "leaphigh")[It doesn't take a genius to know that IF is planning something unconventional, and you're pretty bright. With that ominous chanting, she must be channeling energy for some sort of special attack... but what? Perhaps superpowered Qatars? Some laser beam from her fists? With all the manga she reads, who the hell knows what she's added to her arsenal since the fight against Arfoire? You reckon that the best course of action to take is to simply not stay standing, but instead jump high into the air; odds are, you'll be safe there.] (else:)[This is the girl Lyrica's heart swoons for? What the hell is IF even doing? Well... the way her fist is moving, perhaps this pathetic traitor is planning to unleash some sort of super punch on you? It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that the only clear choice is to wait for her to approach, and then quickly counter her move! Even if she doesn't punch, you can surely parry even the most devilish of melee strikes!] IF's right hand suddenly begins to glow an off-aquamarine color, and she lifts up her right leg before twirling solely on her left in a complete circle. The battle-hardened veteran next reels her right arm back behind her... before dramatically thrusting it upwards! Silence permeates the air for a few moments as nothing seems to happen... Ha! What a weak foo- Unbeknowmst to your immediate conscience, a massive greenish-white sigil appears directly beneath your feet... and before you know it, you are engulfed by a grand beam of pure energy! As far as you can see, the whole world appears to be burning; there'd be no way to escape, even if you could move! You take the full brunt of the hellish heat... and mercifully, the makeshift oven soon vanishes, and you collapse face-first. That went south fast... By what has to be some sheer miracle, you only took 40 damage from that utter incineration. Thank heaven for your intensive SMD training, right?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 40)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[Damn it, all of your efforts are in vain; IF can't be stopped! The battle-hardened veteran leaps high into the rainy sky in a single bound, and immediately appears to be scratching at thin air... What is that supposed to be? Wait a minute... Crap, she's actually throwing something! Each time she swipes one of her hands, three energy-infused Qatars come soaring down at highspeed towards you! You swerve out of the way of one... but it swoops back and blasts you! Homing attacks, seriously?! That first knife blasts you upwards helplessly, and now you're trapped; one by one, each laser-Qatar explodes into you, and you can only twist and contort in midair as you try to tune out the pain! Eventually, the assault comes to a stop, and you embrace the mud that greets your face after you crash down. Thank God that's over... Wait, IF's still floating in the sky! When is she gon- IF pulls out three more Qatars and holds them tight in her left hand... before she soars straight into the ground a couple of feet away from your near-lifeless body. Her knives slam into the ground, releasing one final explosion; the massive shockwave consumes everything in its path, including you! Please, just make it end!!! ... You open your eyes and find you are still among the living, at least temporarily. You can barely stand, but you grit your teeth and lift yourself back to your feet. You took 70 damage from that hellish nightmare... You've never experienced power like that before. Could IF... be stronger than you?... NO! She'll never be stronger! NEVER!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 70)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[Seeing IF in this pathetic pose, you don't give a crap about what she's planning; you just want to make her repent for every sin she's ever committed! You observe how her entire stance hinges on her left foot staying rooted to the ground... so you decide to sweep her leg out from right under her! You run forward and drop down to slide your leg towards her... and the brunette hops over your incoming foot, just like that! Crap! You immediately start to stand back up... and are rewarded with a knee straight to the face! You recoil back, right as the traitor twists her upper torso back... and she unleashes a quick spin, slicing you with six Qatars as her arms pass you by! You fly backwards, but still manage to keep your balance and land on your knees. You hate to admit it, but you lost a clean 20 health! That... was a mistake... Can you really be trusted to protect Lyrica... if you can't even defeat a treacherous coward?!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. However, surely she must be smarter than to just dash straight for you, right? While a treacherous fool, she is quick... She could be luring you into a false sense of security or something. What if she swerves? Yes, she must definitely be planning to sidestep you at the very last second! You'll need to stay on your toes, and pinpoint exactly where she is going to strike! IF begins dashing, as you suspected, and right as she gets close to you, you feign an uppercut from your right-handed blade. You read your enemy well: instead of attacking you head-on, IF sees your pose and immediately slides to your side, and further on to your backside; Aha! A complete circle-strafe... clearly ready to assault you from behind! Fortunately, you were prepared for this kind of outcome by staying light on your feet, and you instantly turn around and reach your arms out to grab the sly brunette! However, IF also apparently had the same idea in mind, for her arms also wrap around you. The two of you growl as you both clutch to one another... and this villain manages to bring her knee up to crash right into your stomach. You clench your teeth and fight through the pain... before hauling the smaller girl up and pushing her off you. Then, to add an exlamation point to your strength, you leap off the ground and spinkick right into her back! Iffy crashes into the mud, and you can tell she took 10 damage. You, meanwhile, simply try to tune out the 5 damage from the blow to your midsection...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[What IF is planning is irrelevant; you can dish out anything she does tenfold! You run straight for the brunette... and she soon speeds into action, spinning like a top on her nimble left leg, with her two arms (and thus, knives) held all the way out! Upon seeing this, you instinctively baseball slide forward, under the tornado blades' trajectory, and punch upwards right into the brunette's stomach! IF releases a gasp of air, and her upper body instantly recoils from your strong blow!... Unfortunately, that means she suddenly bends down, and her blades consequently jut downwards towards you, scratching your cheek. Still, you finish your slide and stand up, while your enemy gets over her pain. You feel your cheek, and a drop of red adorns your glove; dull blades, sure, but they drew blood. Your punch left IF with 10 less health, but the augmented Qatar blades snuck 5 damage right by you!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Nothing about this situation screams 'good' to you. IF's weird stance, despite being somewhat-hilarious in appearance, must serve some kind of fiendish purpose... but what? Well... perhaps it is best not to find out, and instead simply launch an attack first! Sure, there's a risk... but just imagine what she could be planning otherwise... IF's arm begins glowing... and you know that the time for thinking is done! You throw yourself straight towards your enemy, but instead of heading right for her front, you slide to the left in an attempt to assault her right side. Your target had begun to spin on her left leg right when you dashed... but upon seeing your sudden movement, her eyes widen in surprise, and she immediately stops mid-spin to face you. Too late, as you've already reached her, and you slash with your right blade, followed by your left, then right- Wait! IF brings up her glowing arm to block your third harmful stab, and you can sense the strength of the energy she's channeling. Good thing you disrupted her plans... IF's energy-infused arm holds back your blades... and suddenly, she brings up her right knee and jams it directly into your gut! Ouch! Your concentration thrashed, IF hops away to safety, nursing her wounds. You sense that she's taken 10 damage from your strikes, whereas you only took 5... Still, you shouldn't have taken anything at all. Maintain your focus...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[Seeing IF in this pathetic pose, you don't give a crap about what she's planning; you just want to make her repent for every sin she's ever committed! You are unsure whether she's defending, or charging some obscene special attack, or merely trying to embarrass you... but you decide you don't care and simply charge straight for her! You aim to spear her down to the ground... so you leap up and hold out your arms! IF's eyes widen at your apparent flying bearhug, and she uses her lifted leg to knee you right in the stomach... Son of a bitch! Still, her jab was not enough to halt your progress, and your arms go around her as your shoulder smashes into her chest... and you both crash into the ground! The knee to your stomach chipped 5 health from you, and you likewise stole 5 health from IF through sheer force of your ramming tackle. You currently lay on top of the brunette, trying to recover the wind that was sucked right out of you... and IF pushes you off and rolls away to stand back up. You follow suit, and prepare for what's next...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1A" OR $bossAttack is "Attack1B")[Seeing as her blades are foolishly retracted, IF must be planning to either grab or kick you... An ill-fated endeavor. However, surely she must be smarter than to just dash straight for you, right? While a treacherous fool, she is quick... She could be luring you into a false sense of security or something. What if she swerves? Yes, she must definitely be planning to sidestep you at the very last second! You can't determine which angle she'll attack you from... so, you decide that the best course of action is to simply not remain standing here! (if: $playerNoDmg is "backflip")[IF begins dashing, as you suspected, and right as she gets close to you, you leap high into the air and perform a beautiful backflip, leaving your previous standing position in style! You read your enemy well: instead of attacking you head-on, she had begun to circle-strafe... clearly ready to assault you from behind! Fortunately, your sudden jump catches her off-guard, and she can only watch as you land right out of her range!](elseif: $playerNoDmg is "rollleft")[IF begins dashing, as you suspected, and right as she gets close to you, you quickly dodge roll to the left! You read your enemy well: instead of attacking you head-on, she had begun to circle-strafe... clearly ready to assault you from behind! Fortunately, your sudden roll catches her off-guard, and she can only watch as you stand back up right out of her range!] You both turn back to face each other, and a momentary pause ensues. You certainly showed her this time... but who is going to make the next move?] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2" OR $bossAttack is "Attack2A")[Something seems incredibly fishy here... IF isn't simply planning to run straight for you, is she? Not even she'd be that stupid... Besides, that curve to her stance is giving you odd signals. However, she must be intending to lash out at you with her blades at least. Should be easy enough to deal with, right? (if: $playerNoDmg is "blockyes")[IF's foot suddenly shifts, and you quickly hold out your blades in a standard defensive pose. The brunette begins spinning faster than a top on her left foot, while holding out her arms straight out; she's attempting some tornado spin-slash! She zigs to the left, then all the way to the right, before finally spinning directly for you! You reinforce your guard, and soon enough, her blades collide with your own, crashing metal against metal repeatedly! Schiing! Schiing! Schiing!... until finally, she stops.] (elseif: $playerNoDmg is "spinkick")[IF suddenly leaps off the ground, and begins spinning on her left leg like the fastest top you've ever seen! Her arms are extended out, blades drawn... What a peculiar attack... and suddenly, a peculiar idea of your own hatches inside your mind! You watch IF's movement and prepare to pull off a spinning-kick, to counter her own twirling motion. The brunette spins incredibly-fast to the far left, then all the way to the far right; she's trying to trip you up! However, you maintain your focus, until you sense that she's now heading your way... and you spin a full 360 degrees and kick your foot all the way out! Your boot collides with IF's arms, and your power manages to cancel her move out completely! The brunette looks stunned for a second, before hopping away.] Heh, seems her 'spectacular' move wasn't even enough to match your strength at its tamest. Such a weakling does not deserve the affections of an angel like Lyrica... Why did it have to be her?!] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Special" OR $bossAttack is "SpecialA")[Nothing about this situation screams 'good' to you. IF's unusual stance, despite being somewhat-hilarious in appearance, must serve some kind of fiendish purpose... but what? Well... perhaps it is best not to find out, and instead simply launch an attack first! Sure, there's a risk... but just imagine what she could be planning otherwise... IF's arm begins glowing... and you know that the time for thinking is done! (if: $playerNoDmg is "armshoot")[That arm must be the key to whatever it is she has planned... You decide that targeting it is your best bet! You channel some energy up your arms and right into your right blade, which you raise before firing off a laser shot from it as if it were a gun. Your energy bullet speeds to IF's glowing arm... and the glow instantly shatters like glass! The brunette is taken aback, her plan obviously foiled, but she seems to be completely healthy otherwise. She was able to make her arm completely invincible by summoning a sort of energy barrier, which cancelled itself out upon you shooting your own blast... Why is she so powerful? Who gave her the right?!(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)] (else:)[You throw yourself straight for your enemy, and when you get to a close enough range, you leap in the air and perform a jumping kick right towards the focusing brunette. Her eyes widen in surprise, and she moves her glowing arm to block your incoming boot... and your foot crashes right into her peculiar appendage, which feels like a brick wall. The energy barrier shatters as if it were glass, and IF staggers back briefly while you also land awkwardly. None of you appear to have taken any harm from that; no, you just know now that the battle-hardened veteran is capable of summoning enough energy to match your great strength! The undeserving ones always get the immense power... Why can't she use it to fight for Leanbox? To help snap Lady Vert out of... No, stop thinking like that! Vert is your lord...]] (elseif: $bossAttack is "EXEattack")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)The entire world seems to stop, and even the rain seems to freeze entirely... This is clearly the calm before the storm... Every instinct you have is screaming that this is going to be bad. You pull out your twin blades and prepare for the worst... and sure enough, a light-green barrier forms around the brunette, and she soars straight up into the sky. She begins moving her arms at a rapid pace... and you know that the game is on. Sensing the swell of energy in the area, you focus all your power into the two blades in your hand... and begin firing like mad up at the otherworldly brunette. You note your energy bullets are exploding prematurely... and that is when you realize that IF is not just waving her arms for no reason; she's actually throwing three energy-infused Qatars with each swipe of the hand! The blades are moving incredibly fast... Will your shooting be enough?! You have got to stay moving, that's for sure! You keep firing energy bullet after bullet, but instead of standing still, you immediately start(if: $playerNoDmg is "strafeshoot")[ sidestepping to the right, quickly circle-strafing the floating IF. The blades home in on you, but your barrage of bullets manages to destroy them in midair before any damage can be done! In fact, due to your strafing, some of your bullets are even able to come pretty close to the battle-hardened veteran herself! If only these satanic knives weren't practically moving at the speed of sound, you'd be able to hit her more directly... but with that glowing barrier around her, you reckon she's invincible anyways.(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 1)](else:)[ running backwards, creating as much distance from the brunette and her quickly-approaching knives as possible. The blades manage to get very close to you... but you are luckily able to blast everything just in the nick of time! The barrage continues and continues, and you realize that the only reason you're dodging this is thanks to the swell of energy that IF herself created, allowing you to shoot so much without wasting every last ounce of your strength! In a way, you feel both insulted and ashamed...] Eventually, the assault comes to a stop, and you breathe in a sigh of relief... before realizing that IF is still in the air, and she is pulling out three more Qatar knives and grasping them tight in her left hand! She soars straight down... and you perform a dashing leap backwards, right as the blades strike the ground. A massive explosion emerges from the collision, and the shockwave absorbs everything in its path... but fortunately for you, you are able to escape the dead-zone just in time! That was too close... Where did she learn such a maneuver? What right does she have to harbor such power? Traitors... deserve... nothing...] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Defense")[You suspect that IF is choosing to go the defensive route, instead of taking the initiative herself... But, what if that's simply what she wants you to believe? She could be planning some devasting parry... What to do, what to do... (if: $playerNoDmg is "footshoot")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)Well... if she wants you to attack... why don't you give her exactly what she wants?! You hold out your right blade, channel up some energy, take aim at her left leg (the only part of her touching the ground)... and fire an energy bullet! The projectile zooms towards IF... and she hops over the blast, just like that. Huh, it seems she was expecting that... Damn her! Always so "perfect" at everything...](else:)[Not wanting to take a chance that may bite you in the ass, you reconnect your scissors and hold them up in front of your face; a cliche defensive pose! You wait for IF to come charging... and, well, she never does. You both stand there in silence, no one making a move against the other. You feel the rain continue to drench your skimpy outfit... This is pathetic!]]} (if: $quoteHealthFlow != "D")[(if: $healthBreakOne is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](elseif: $healthBreakOne is "Yes" AND $healthBreakTwo is "No" AND ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20))[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]](else:)[(if: ($healthBreakOne is "Yes" and $healthBreakTwo is "No") AND $iffyBossHealth <= 10)[(link: "Next...")[(goto:"IF Boss Battle Quotes")]](else:)[[[Next...|IF Boss Battle]]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/5 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

**???**: "Failure... but, perhaps it's not meant to end here? Nyeheheh... "Here's a choice for ya! Either you forget this ever happened and try to avenge that hilarious performance you just delivered... or you act like a woman, grow some stones, and stick with what ya got! I mean, you're just gonna get a crappy outcome if ya act all stubborn-like and accept this ass-whooping you just ate... but isn't being a complete idiot worth it? Nyeheheh, stupid skank... "So, yeah, are you a wimpy crybaby who wants to go 'wah wah!' and try again? Or a snobbish warrior with actual dumb honorable chops? Hehe... I think I already know the answer~" (link:"I'm a... crybaby...")[(loadgame:"A")] (link:"I fear nothing!")[(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="alternateFarewellBossTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div>](set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(goto:"Boss Result")]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter >= 2)[(if: $endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "Alive")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Defense"))](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack3","Attack4","Attack5","Attack6","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Skill5","Defense"))]](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($vertSkillsUsage is true OR $vertEnergyMeter is 0))[(if: $endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "Alive")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack3","Attack4","Attack5","Attack6","Defense"))]](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter is 1)[(if: $endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "Alive")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack3","Attack4","Attack5","Attack6","Skill2","Defense"))]](else:)[]}(if: $caveBossHealth > 0 AND $vertBossHealth > 0)[{(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"You disappoint me, Cave... I thought you wouldn't turn out like the other fools, but... I guess even I can be wrong occasionally.\"","\"Oh, is this some kind of impromptu sparring session? It must be, with such weak and sloppy moves like that...\"","\"I had such high hopes for you... but even I can't tame a raging beast like you.\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth >= 45 AND $vertBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Don't you care about Lyrica? You seriously believe that I was the one to worry about? HA! You sent her out into the dark, cruel world... all alone. Not even IF is around to watch over her... Oh, right: because you killed her. What a heartless witch you are, Cave...\"","\"Everything I've done was for the sake of my glorious nation! You may not see it now... but everyone will understand in due time!\"","\"How long have you thought of betraying me, Cave? From the very beginning? Not even a week ago? Just remember: all the spilt blood? That blood is on your hands, not mine.\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth < 45)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Do you think you can defeat me? You'll have to kill me... and I know you can't do that. You're loyal to a fault... You're too WEAK to kill me.\"","\"You are hereby relieved of your services, Cave! You are now free to die like all the other scum plaguing Gamindustri!\"","\"I just want... a better world! And yet, here you are, trying to take that from me! DIE!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I'm the violent one? I'm the wrongdoer? Take a look in the mirror.\"","\"You may have been my star soldier for a long time, Cave... but I can still run circles around you with my fighting prowess!\" \"Heh, yeah! Your time is up, so step aside for a true warrior, ya bitch!\"","\"I feel so sorry for the others... They put all their trust in you, didn't they? Why did you lead them astray?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth >= 60 AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Don't blame ME for what happened to Lyrica.\" \"I never liked her music anyways! Not a good musician... but what a damn fine target she made, eh?\"","\"Everything I've done was for the sake of my glorious nation! You may not see it now... but everyone will understand in due time! With... or without you.\"","\"Such a pathetic display! You're far too weak to defeat me, Cave. I can see it, clear as day!\" \"Why don'tcha just lay down and let us get this over with real quick! I promise I'll be gentle, heeheehee!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth < 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Do you think you can defeat me? You'll have to kill me... and I know you can't do that. If you kill me... won't you be just as bad as you accuse us of being?\" \"You bastards who always go on and on about that 'morality' and 'political correctness' shit make me wanna hurl!\"","\"If you are so bothered by Chika's death... then why didn't you do anything to stop it? All roads lead back to you, Cave.\" \"How the hell did you ever become a warrior? Laziest bitch I've ever met... I need to hear you scream!\"","\"I just want... a better world! And yet, here you are, trying to take that from me! DIE!\" \"Everyone who'd miss you are already eating dirt! Let's not keep 'em waiting...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]] ] (elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I'm the violent one? I'm the wrongdoer? Take a look in the mirror.\"","\"You may have been my star soldier for a long time, Cave... but I can still run circles around you with my fighting prowess!\"","\"Poor, poor Lyrica... She didn't deserve such a fate. If only she hadn't trusted a monster...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth >= 60 AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Don't blame ME for what happened to Lyrica! You should've stayed in line!\"","\"What did you THINK would happen to Lyrica? Were you expecting a miracle to appear and make up for your shortcomings? Such a fool...\"","\"Why are you angry? I did exactly as I promised... You, meanwhile, barely followed even the simplest of instructions!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth < 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Do you think you can defeat me? You'll have to kill me... and I know you can't do that. You are already responsible for Chika's and Lyrica's deaths; do you really want to add MY name to the tally?\"","\"Do you... seriously believe this will change anything?... Why drag an entire nation into your violence, Cave?\"","\"I can... not... fall here! DIE!!! Join Chika and Lyrica... and BEGONE!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]]} What do you do? {(if: $caveObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack5" OR $vertChoice is "Attack6")[Markz spins his machine gun with one finger around the trigger. Pretty impressive strength... None-too-subtle, though.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill5")[Lady Green Heart looks at Markz from the corner of her eye... Is she looking to hand the reigns to him? You fear you don't have the means to combat whatever they are planning...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[The goddess appears to be eyeing you more closely than usual... Perhaps she is trying to read your movements in order to defend herself?]]](else:)[(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack5" OR $vertChoice is "Attack6")[Markz spins his machine gun with one finger around the trigger. Pretty impressive strength... None-too-subtle, though.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill5")[Lady Green Heart looks at Markz from the corner of her eye... Is she looking to hand the reigns to him? You fear you don't have the means to combat whatever they are planning...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[The goddess appears to be eyeing you more closely than usual... Perhaps she is trying to read your movements in order to defend herself?]]} (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$caveObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave")] (click:?defend)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Stab]<stab| | [Jump attack]<jumpattack| [Running slash]<runningslash| | [Somersault kick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?stab)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "stab")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "jumpattack")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "runningslash")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "somersaultkick")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Malicious Heaven]<malicious|](else:)[<strike>Malicious Heaven</strike>] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Full Burst Option]<fullburstoption|](else:)[<strike>Full Burst Option</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "shootbullet")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?heal)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?malicious)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "malicious")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "fullburstoption")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave")]}]](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(if: $endingPath is "Historical" OR $endingPath is "Alive")[Your vision grows dim... As you suspected, Lady Vert is too much for you to handle... (link:"Proceed")[(goto:"Cave Vert Boss Game Over")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[Your vision blurs... You can barely make out Vert's passive expression and Markz's shit-eating grin through the haze. You... lost... (link:"\"Forgive... me...\"")[(goto:"Cave Vert Boss Game Over")]] ](elseif: $vertBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[Vert glares at you... but she can not bring her weapon up to prepare another attack. Even a CPU is destined to fall eventually... (link:"Confront your lord...")[(set: $historicalVictory to true)(goto:"Historical Ending Page 11")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[Vert shoots you a major glare... before desperately charging forward! Her stance is far too sloppy, however... allowing you to wind up your right-handed blade and catch her clean in the stomach with a perfect uppercut! Her energy completely sapped from the fight, the goddess actually collapses! "S-Shit!" Markz shouts. He tosses away his machine gun and pulls out a magnum, aiming between your eyes. "B-Bitches deserve to be put down!" (link:"And he fires!")[(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 14")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")["D-Damn it..." Vert hisses as she falls to one knee. You... defeated her? If only you felt any better having done so... ... Perhaps this is your chance? Lady Green Heart has never been in such a vulnerable state before! Maybe... you can snap her out of her insanity?! At least then, Lyrica's death wouldn't have been for (link:"absolutely nothing...")[(goto:"Alive Ending Page 1")]]] <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10</div>

{(set: $vertAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2" OR $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4" OR $vertChoice is "Skill5")[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4" OR $vertChoice is "Skill5")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false)](if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $vertChoice != "Skill1")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... (if: $caveAttackChance > 95 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[and it veers just off-course. You missed... How embarrassing.](else:)[and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)10] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 50)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]50](else:)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 25)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]25] health!] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $vertChoice != "Skill3")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[and it fails. Your mind must be elsewhere...](else:)[and it connects with the CPU! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 40)40](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $vertChoice != "Skill4")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You charge up some energy to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... (if: $caveAttackChance > 60 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is...](else:)[and they fire on the CPU! The lasers deal a (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 60)devastating 60](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)nifty 30] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 90 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[You try to stab outwards with your twin blades... but Vert swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[You run forward and jab your twin blades towards Vert... and you manage to connect! You've dealt (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)10](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 5)5] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 85 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[You leap in the air and kick... but Vert dodges using her HDD's insane speed!](else:)[You leap in the air and kick towards Vert... and you bash her in the face! You've dealt (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)15](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)10] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You dash forward and slice through the air using your twin blades... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you catch Vert in a short three-hit combo! You've dealt (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)15] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You run up to the goddess and perform a backwards-somersault kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 65 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert sidesteps your incoming foot!](else:)[and you manage to kick her up into the air! You leap after her and, using one of your blades, stab her back into the ground! She's taken a nasty (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25](else:)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20] damage!]](if: $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $vertBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert holds her spear tight in both hands and swings upwards, releasing a deadly wave of energy!... (if: $vertAttackChance > 80)[which veers just far enough away from you... (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance > 95)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and fire a shot from your makeshift blade-gun... and it veers just off-course. Well, this was a failure all around...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance <= 95)[You, however, channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 95)[You charge up some energy yourself to fire a bullet from your twin blades! You shoot... but it veers just off-course to avoid the CPU. Damn it! Her attack hits you, and you take 10 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)](else:)[You charge up some energy yourself to fire a bullet from your twin blades! You both attack at the same time... and the intensity of your attacks cancel each other out!]](else:)[It is too fast for you to react, and it singes you for 10 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert closes her eyes in concentration... and by using the unparalled powers of her HDD form, heals 20 health! (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth + 20)(if: $vertBossHealth > $vertMaxHealth)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertMaxHealth)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert waves her hand... and suddenly, a massive spear emerges from a portal to the right of her! It stabs forward... (if: $vertAttackChance > 65)[but just misses you! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance > 75)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and try to unleash Malicious Heaven... but it fails due to your diminished concentration. Well, don't you both feel like winners?...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance <= 75)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... and it connects with the CPU! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting 20 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 75)[and you charge up some energy yourself to unleash devastating wind upon her! The orbs begin to form... before subsiding completely. Seems your concentration wasn't up to par... However, the giant lance quickly approaches you and explodes on contact, and you take 20 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)](else:)[and you charge a ton of energy yourself to unleash your Malicious Heaven skill! You both attack at the same time... and your orbs of wind collide with the giant lance, causing it to explode. You cancelled her skill out!]](else:)[and effortlessly collides with you square in the chest, before exploding! You are lucky to have only taken 20 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert begins glowing before she dashes forward, attempting an uppercut slash! (if: $vertAttackChance > 45)[However, she horribly miscalculates and misses! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance > 60)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and summon forth five 'C'-shaped turrets... which are aiming the wrong way when they fire their lasers. Come on, focus!!!](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance <= 60)[You focus all of your energy and unleash Full Burst Option... and the turrets fire on the CPU! The lasers deal a nifty 30 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 60)[You charge up some energy yourself to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is... Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken 30 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)](else:)[You charge a ton of energy yourself to summon five 'C'-shaped turrets! You both attack at the same time... and your lasers blast the fast-approaching CPU, breaking the energy barrier surrounding her! You've successfully cancelled her attack!]](else:)[Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken 30 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill5")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]"Markz! It's time..." Lady Green Heart shouts, before bowing out of the way. The grizzled veteran grunts his approval... and suddenly pulls out a most-peculiar gun! Or... is it a gun? It looks more like a... pointing device... Wait, damn; is this yet another recovered Avenir device?! He aims for the monstrously-high ceiling, and black clouds appear above. Almost as if the storm from outside is seeping into the Basilicom... This can't be good! Markz Phenix guffaws, and the device emits a high-pitched beep! "Time to make it rain, bitch! Hope you're ready to get wet!" The clouds part... (if: $vertAttackChance > 45)[before fizzling out into simple plumes of gray smoke. "... Sonuva... That Jade kid really needs to up his game! Wait... Heh, we blew his head off already, nevermind!"](else:)[before five red-orange lights gleam through the darkness. You recognize the color... and your shoulders immediately sink. That device summoned forth storm clouds, using a severe amount of energy: energy that is about to blast you to Kingdom Come! Five mid-sized lasers shoot down from the heavens, and all you feel is heat scorching your being. Chika, Lyrica, and IF must be shaking their heads as they watch Markz eradicate 50 health from your being. Don't... let... them... down... Hell eventually takes its leave of Leanbox... and you try to maintain a standing position. You've never been worse off... but if you have to die, at least wait until this is over, and these two fiends are defeated. Don't show them... any weakness!!!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 50)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack1")[Vert thrusts her lance right for you... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 90 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and she connects with you right in the stomach! You take a basic 5 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert swings her lance high for a mean uppercut... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 85 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and you get sliced for 10 damage! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3")[Vert spins her spear over her head once, then slices horizontically. A whirlwind shoots out from her weapon... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and luckily even the elements themselves are not enough to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 75 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[but you manage to dart out of the way by the skin of your teeth!](else:)[and you get sliced by the razor-sharp wind! You lose 15 health!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] She's so strong in this form that manipulating the wind *counts as a melee attack!* ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack4")[Vert jams her lance into the ground, as if setting up for a pole-vault... However, she propels herself upwards and, while holding onto the now-stationary weapon, spins 3-4 times. She then rips the lance from the ground and leaps right for you, using her momentum to slash you with a dramatic intensity! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend... and your block stops her dead. All that effort...](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 60 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[However, you are attentive and quick enough to sidestep her before the damage can be done!](else:)[You can't help but get caught... and you lose 20 health right then and there! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack5")[Vert nods at Markz... before teleporting to your face in the blink of an eye! S-So fast! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[N-No, snap out of it! You manage to move your arms... and successfully clash your blades with her upswinging lance! The fake CPU smirks... before relenting and speeding back to a safe position. Markz groans. "Dah! And I was getting excited too..."](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 45 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[N-No, snap out of it! In your rage-fueled state, you can be just as fast as her! She swings upwards... but you are nowhere to be found, having sidestepped her in a most-humiliating fashion! Markz chuckles, before firing a few machine gun rounds your way... but you easily block his bullets with your scissors! Have to be quicker than that! "... Oh yeah, we're gonna have a LOT of fun with you!"](else:)[She swings her lance upwards... and, with the strength expected of a goddess, launches you into the air! Before you can even yelp, Markz releases a sickly-perverted laugh... and fires three bullets your way! Defenseless, the rounds eat at your torso... and you fall to the ground, landing with a trmendous crash! You survey the damage to your body. Strange; the direct hits didn't utterly murder you like most would expect! They still hurt, but... Markz must be using some form of plastic rounds, just to toy with you. He wants this to last... You must avenge this 25 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 25)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack6")["Lemme handle this!" Markz gloats as he loads up his custom machine gun with some kind of ammo you've never seen before. Instantly, the 'chainsaw' attachment of his trusty weapon begins shining with... green energy? You can already tell where this is going... Markz suddenly lauches himself for you, his bulky frame barreling down with reckless abandon. With his energy-infused chainsaw revved up, he swings for your exposed chest! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Barely responding in the nick of time, you hold up your blades to defend... and the two of you engage in a short weapon clash! "Tough... skank... You'll give in soon, though!" he snarls, before hopping back to his original subservient position. Green Heart simply looks on, her face showing no signs of caring. Or life, for that matter.](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 40 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[However, before he can wreck your body, the otherworldly field surrounding the attachment suddenly discharges! In other words... this translates to a mild explosion to the face! Markz is immediately blown a few feet away... but quickly recovers his grin and gets back into his proper position. "Heh heh... Technical, er, difficulties... It happens to everyone!"](else:)[You let out a weak, pathetic, wimpy "Eep!" as the magic blade tears into your flesh. It feels more like a branding iron than a cutting tool... but the damage is still done; 30 damage to be exact! Markz soon leaps away and, with a sleight of hand befitting a star soldier, removes the ammunition stock. "Not so tough now, eh? Shoulda let me protect them girlies... I would've kept 'em warm!"(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" OR $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" OR $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" OR $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick")[Vert holds up her lance to block... and she successfully fends off your pathetic attack!(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[ Markz claps, clearly having fun. "Come on already! Kitty better show her claws!"]](elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your blades to block. Vert, meanwhile, also holds up her lance to block... Great minds think alike, they say... (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[ Markz chuckles. "Graspin' at straws here! Getting tired?"]]]](else:)[]} {(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)}Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10 [[Next|Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave]]

{(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(savegame: "A", "Historical- Vert")](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(savegame: "A", "Vert and Markz")](elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")[(savegame: "A", "Avenging Lyrica")] (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false) (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 5)(set: $vertBossHealth to 200)(set: $vertMaxHealth to 200)(set: $caveObserve to 10)] (else:)[(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(set: $caveBossHealth to 50)](else:)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)](set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $vertBossHealth to 100)(set: $vertMaxHealth to 100)(set: $caveObserve to 6)] (set: $vertEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false) }(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[Vert, using the blinding speed that comes with her infinite-HDD form, leaps out of the way of your energy bullet. The goddess pulls out her lance... and frowns. "... Is this some sort of game, Cave? I'm not in the mood right now... so I'll just forget that happened." She expects you to back down... and you ready your twin blades to strike. "Just like the rest of them... I'm disappointed in you, Cave." With that, [[the game is on!|Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave]]](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell")[Energy once again flows up your arms... Not perfect, but... you once again have at least some control over your arcane arts. More than enough to finish them. Your vision reddens as an anger stronger than you've ever felt swells within your entire body. You've never gone this far deep... Before, you've been held back by the knowledge that your allies still needed you in some way. You are all that remains now... so using up whatever life force you have left is no longer an issue for your exhausted mind. Do whatever... it takes... to make these fiends... see justice! Before you know it, you are firing a shot of energy straight for Markz's sick mug. He grins as certain death bears down on him... and as he anticipated, Lady Green Heart teleports to his defense and strikes away the bullet with ease. Figures; you can't kill Markz so long as Vert still stands. Ha, as if you weren't prepared to take on both at the [[same time!|Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave]]](elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")[Your cheeks burn with despairing anger, and your fists clench on pure instinct. IF sits motionless, her eyes as empty as a doll's; she will be of no use to you in the next few fateful minutes. Whatever. As if you haven't been fighting alone your entire life! Fuming through your nose, you hoist up your scissors and aim for the now-standing Vert's neck. No words need to be said; let your actions do the talking! Put this tyrant in her place!!! Lady Green Heart shakes her head. "We're really going to do this?... Ugh, fine; maybe you'll finally [["learn something!"|Vert Boss Fight Action- Cave]]]

(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[???: "Failure... but, perhaps it's not meant to end here? Nyeheheh... Here's a choice for ya! Either you forget this ever happened and try to avenge that hilarious performance you just delivered... or you act like a woman, grow some stones, and stick with what ya got! Are you a crybaby who wants to go 'wah wah!' and try again? Or a warrior with actual honorable chops? Hehe... I think I already know the answer~" (link:"I'm a... crybaby...")[(loadgame:"A")] (link:"I fear nothing!")[(goto:"Historical Ending Page 11")] ](elseif: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Alive")[You have failed... (link:"No... You refuse to go down like that!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>]

{(savegame: "A", "Cleansing the Blood of Many") (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to false)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveBossHealth to 100) (if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(set: $nepgearBossHealth to 200)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 200)(set: $caveObserve to 6)(set: $guardBreakOne to false)(set: $guardBreakTwo to false)](else:)[(set: $nepgearBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 100)(set: $caveObserve to 3)] (set: $caveObserveCheck to false) }(if: $endingPath is "True Ending")["Chika..." Once again... you are a fool, while your 'goofball' friend has had everything figured out from the beginning. Everyone has a story. Earlier, however, you refused to accept IF's. You were determined to kill IF no more than twenty-or-so minutes ago... and that desire proved to be foolish. How is this Nepgear any different? Sure, she's a threat... but she's not an irredeemable monster; killing her... would be just as much a mistake. "F-Face me, Arfoire! I-I have Gehaburn's strength at my disposal, a-and N-Neptune's soul guiding my hand! I-I CAN'T lose!" Still... saying all that does nothing to solve this immediate crisis. You MUST find out her story... and somehow calm her down. Defeat her in combat if that's truly what she's determined to do... but above all, you can NOT kill her unless there's no other choice. ... Time to make Chika proud. "... Fine, I will PROVE I am no mere fake! (link:"En garde, Miss Nepgear!\"")[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]]

{(set: $nepgearAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill2" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to true)(if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to $nepgearEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to $nepgearEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to false)](if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill1")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... (if: $caveAttackChance > 95 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[and it veers just off-course. You missed... How embarrassing.](else:)[and it connects with the CPU Candidate head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal 25 health! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 25)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill3")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[and it fails. Your mind appears to be elsewhere...](else:)[and it connects with the CPU Candidate! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting 20 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)]] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill4")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You charge up some energy to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... (if: $caveAttackChance > 60 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is...](else:)[and they fire on the Planeptune Candidate! The lasers deal a nifty 30 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 30)]] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 90 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[You try to stab outwards with your twin blades... but Nepgear swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[You run forward and jab your twin blades towards Nepgear... and you manage to connect! You've dealt 5 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 5)]] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 85 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[You leap in the air and kick... but Nepgear dodges using an almost-otherworldly quickness!](else:)[You leap in the air and kick towards Nepgear... and you kick her in the face! You've dealt 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You dash forward and slice through the air using your twin blades... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but Nepgear swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you catch Nepgear in a short three-hit combo! You've dealt 15 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 15)]] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You run up to the imposter and perform a backwards-somersault kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 65 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but Nepgear sidesteps your incoming foot!](else:)[and you manage to kick her up into the air! You leap after her and, using one of your blades, stab her back into the ground! She's taken a nasty 20 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)]](if: $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $nepgearBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Nepgear glares at you, and an almost-greenish glow emanates from her eyes! With her right hand, she raises Gehaburn high up... and immediately turns a full 180 degrees! A wave of heated energy shoots from her heels... (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 80)[but you are able to sidestep the special attack! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance > 95)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and fire a shot from your makeshift blade-gun... and it veers just off-course. Well, this was a failure all around...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance <= 95)[You, however, channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... and it connects with the CPU Candidate head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 95)[and you charge up some energy yourself to fire a bullet from your twin blades! You shoot... but it veers just off-course to avoid the imposter. Damn it! Her beam of fire hits you, and you take 10 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)](else:)[and you charge up some energy yourself to fire a desperate bullet from your twin blades! You both attack at the same time... and your energy bullet just happens to be strong enough to cancel the entire wave out!]](else:)[and you can't help but get hit directly. You were singed for 10 damage!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Nepgear closes her eyes in concentration... and by using some otherworldly power, heals 20 health!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth + 20)(if: $nepgearBossHealth > $nepgearMaxHealth)[(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearMaxHealth)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]A whitish-aura surrounds Nepgear(?)... and she air dashes right towards you and slashes downwards. (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 65)[However, you are quick on your feet and leap backwards just in time! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance > 75)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and try to unleash Malicious Heaven... but it fails due to your diminished concentration. Well, don't you both feel like winners?...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance <= 75)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... and it connects with the CPU Candidate! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting 20 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 75)[Meanwhile, you charge up some energy yourself to unleash devastating wind! The orbs begin to form... before subsiding completely. Seems your concentration wasn't up to par... Gehaburn slams into the ground, which swiftly knocks you off your feet! The imposter Candidate then brings Gehaburn right back up, and you can barely tell that the blade is glowing... before she slashes at you horizontally three times! After that onslaught, she finishes off by slamming her cursed sword down once more, blasting you back into the hard ground! That was only 20 damage?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)](else:)[Meanwhile, you charge a ton of energy yourself to unleash your Malicious Heaven skill! You both attack at the same time... and the sheer intensity of your orbs of wind thrashes Nepgear's apparent white barrier! She is unharmed, but hey, so are you!]](else:)[Gehaburn slams into the ground, which swiftly knocks you off your feet! She then brings Gehaburn right back up, and you can barely tell that the blade is glowing... before she slashes at you horizontally three times. After that onslaught, she finishes off by slamming her cursed sword down once more, blasting you back into the hard ground! That was only 20 damage?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Nepgear closes her eyes and holds Gehaburn out before her, both hands clutching the hilt tight. A tense moment passes... before she charges straight for you! (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 45)[She slashes upwards... but you swerve out of the way, the blade nearly slicing your face! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance > 60)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and summon forth five 'C'-shaped turrets... which are aiming the wrong way when they fire their lasers. Come on, focus!!!](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance <= 60)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash Full Burst Option... and the turrets fire on the imposter Nepgear! The lasers deal a nifty 30 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 30)] ](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 60)[You, meanwhile, charge up some energy yourself to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is... You are helpless as she slashes you up and spins a full 360 degrees. "Neptune..." you hear her whisper... and you note that Gehaburn has begun to glow. Nepgear wastes no time and slashes right through you... and now she's gone! Huh?... Wait, no! Moving faster than the eye can see, the imposter CPU Candidate begins to appear from all directions to repeatedly slash forward, and you are pummelled each and every time. One final dramatic horizontal slash ends it... and you simply fall to the ground! Her supernatural strength just ate 30 health from you!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)](else:)[You, meanwhile, charge a ton of energy yourself to summon five 'C'-shaped turrets! You both attack at the same time... and the insanely-powerful lasers knock Nepgear back! Odd... She does not appear to have taken any damage! Who... No, WHAT is she?] ] (else:)[You are helpless as she slashes you up and spins a full 360 degrees. "Neptune, lend me your strength..." you hear her whisper... and you note that Gehaburn has begun to glow. Nepgear wastes no time and slashes right through you... and now she's gone! Huh?... Wait, no! Moving faster than the eye can see, the imposter CPU Candidate begins to appear from all directions to repeatedly slash forward, and you are pummelled each and every time. One final dramatic horizontal slash ends it... and you simply fall to the ground! Her supernatural strength just ate 30 health from you!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1")[Nepgear runs forward and slices downward with her demonic blade... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 90 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[but you slide out of harm's way!](else:)[and you get caught by her basic attack for 5 damage! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear slides towards you and kicks for your stomach... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 85 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[but you catch her foot and spin her away, halting her planned attack!](else:)[She connects clean and, as you recoil, lunges her cursed sword forward! Instead of impaling you, however, she instead opts to bash you in the face with the dull side! The humiliating strike steals 10 health! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3")[Nepgear is still as she holds Gehaburn in both hands... when suddenly, she swings directly upwards! Before you know it... Lady Noire?! No, it can't be... But who or what is it then? Kneeling before you is a black-tinted transparent Noire, her rapier pointed up! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend... She juts her rapier right at you...and she is unable to break through your guard and instead poofs away. How odd; that didn't quite feel like a blade that struck you...](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 75 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[You brace yourself for what's to come... but the fake Black Heart shakes her head for some reason, and poofs out of existence. Nepgear's brows furrow, and she mutters something in anger beneath her breath...](else:)[Stunned, you can only look on as she juts her ghostly blade upwards at a 45 degree angle, knocking you high in the air! At the height of your painful ascent, a similar-looking Blanc appears, brandishing a phantasmagoric rendition of her usual hammer weapon. In a flash, she bashes her mallet down into you, blasting you with full-force to the earth below. You pick yourself up, your confused mind nearly tuning out the 15 damage. As if it were all a dream, both ghosts have already vanished... (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")["You will never leave me... and I shall never leave you! Help me eradicate all evil from this nightmare!" Nepgear suddenly shouts as she tightly clutches Gehaburn in her right hand. On cue, she raises her glowing weapon, twists her hand as far as it will go, and swings perfectly horizontally to the left. From the slash... a black-tinted transparent Neptune appears?! The hell is this?... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You can only hold up your twin blades to block... The ghostly Lady Purple Heart slices for you at the speed of sound... but she is fortunately unable to break through your guard! You can almost swear that the phantom smirks at you before vanishing altogether...](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 60 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[You are so stunned that you can only watch as the ghostly Lady Purple Heart charges towards you... before stopping and wagging her finger, almost in a toying manner. Without a sound, she disappears... A saddened expression overtakes Nepgear's features...](else:)[Trying to wrap your mind around this turn of events, you are helpless as the fake Purple Heart slices you once, then twice, then thrice, with the last blow sending you off your feet! What appears to be a black-tinted transparent Uni appears in the air, and her ghostly gun shoots you back to the ground. Your head hurts from both confusion and the 20 damage the mysterious attack inflicted. Meanwhile, both phantoms have vanished without a trace...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" OR $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" OR $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" OR $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... and she successfully fends off your basic attack! Gehaburn sure is strong...](elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your blades to block. Nepgear, meanwhile, also holds up her blade to block... (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[Vert's murderer is easily matching wits with you...]]]] (else:)[]} {(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false) }Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Nepgear's Health: (print: $nepgearBossHealth)/$nepgearMaxHealth| Nepgear's Energy: (print: $nepgearEnergyMeter)/10 (link: "Next...")[(if: $guardBreakOne is false AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakOne to true)(goto:"True Ending Nepgear Quotes 1")]](elseif: ($guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false) AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 60)[(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakTwo to true)(goto:"True Ending Nepgear Quotes 2")]](else:)[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $nepgearSkillsUsage is false AND $nepgearEnergyMeter >= 2)[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($nepgearSkillsUsage is true OR $nepgearEnergyMeter is 0))[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $nepgearSkillsUsage is false AND $nepgearEnergyMeter is 1)[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](else:)[]}(if: $caveBossHealth > 0 AND $nepgearBossHealth > 0)[{ (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[(if: $nepgearBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I... N-Neptune told me to! My sister has never led me astray... so YOU must be the one at fault here!\"","\"I watched you kill that fake IF... Y-You will not have the same luck with me!\"","\"This has to be a joke... I have too much resting on my shoulders to simply fall to the likes of you!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth >= 45 AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"It's you, isn't it, Arfoire? Another trick... Neptune, what do I do?!... You're right, I must kill any imposter who stands in our way!\"","\"Gehaburn defeated you once before... and we've gotten stronger since then. Far stronger...\"","\"Uni, Neptune, e-everyone... Can I really do this?... Y-You're right! I'm sorry...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth < 45)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Arfoire, stop this charade! You've already taken my family from me... Why must you bring Cave into this as well? Why must you fill my head with LIES?!\"","\"Please... No more bloodshed! My world is already doomed... I just want my friends back. My FAMILY!\"","\"... B-Back in my world... you made me kill the real Vert... Why must I... relive these awful memories...? How cruel are you...?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(if: $nepgearBossHealth > 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I... I won't back down! I know all your weaknesses, Arfoire! I-In the name of my sister, I shall not let you escape!\"","\"You've taken so much from me... and you still mock me by not caring! H-How dare you!\"","\"All the problems in my life, all the friends I've lost... It's all thanks to you! But no longer... Today, you meet your end!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth > 60 AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"It... IS you, isn't it, Arfoire? T-This HAS to be a-another trick... Neptune, what do I do?!... You're right, s-she can't be real! I-I must kill any imposter who stands in our way!\"","\"Perhaps, maybe...?... N-No! I won't listen to your filth!\"","\"Uni, Neptune, e-everyone... Can I really do this?... Y-You're right! I'm sorry...\"","\"No... No, you're lying!!! Neptune... S-She knows you're lying, and she has never led me astray!\"","\"... Cave? You look, sound, and move... so much like her. H-How..?!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth <= 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"You... a-aren't... Arfoire?... N-No, you have to be! B-But... N-No! I... AGH!\"","\"N-Neptune, s-she's too real to be a p-puppet! C-Cave's m-my friend!... I-I'm sorry... but...\"","\"G-Goodness... I-I think you're Cave, but... I-I can't stop!!!\"","\"U-Uni, Neptune! W-Why are you... y-yelling at me?! P-Please, I can't take it!!!\"","\"I... I-I miss them! I m-miss them so much!!!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] } What do you do? {(if: $caveObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(if: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Nepgear is preparing for a painful melee attack with that sword of hers... (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[Vert's blood is still fresh on the blade...]](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[It appears Nepgear may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[Nepgear closes her eyes and whispers "Neptune..."... Is she asking for help?](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[The rain (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[patters against the Basilicom, wetting the castle's marble floors through the open window in the lobby outside](else:)[pours down as everything gets eerily quiet]... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some frightful skill!] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[The rain (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[patters against the Basilicom, wetting the castle's marble floors through the open window in the lobby outside](else:)[pours down as everything gets eerily quiet]... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some horrible special attack!](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")["Guide me, Neptune..." Nepgear(?) whispers as she holds up her demonic sword to guard her face...]]](else:)[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Nepgear is preparing for a painful melee attack with that sword of hers... (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[Vert's blood is still fresh on the blade...]](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[It appears Nepgear may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[Nepgear closes her eyes and whispers "Neptune..."... Is she asking for help?](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily quiet... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some frightful skill!] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily silent... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some horrible special attack!](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")["Guide me, Neptune..." Nepgear(?) whispers as she holds up her demonic sword to guard her face...]]} (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$caveObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")] (click:?defend)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Stab]<stab| | [Jump attack]<jumpattack| [Running slash]<runningslash| | [Somersault kick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?stab)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "stab")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "jumpattack")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "runningslash")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "somersaultkick")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Malicious Heaven]<malicious|](else:)[<strike>Malicious Heaven</strike>] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Full Burst Option]<fullburstoption|](else:)[<strike>Full Burst Option</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "shootbullet")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?heal)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?malicious)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "malicious")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "fullburstoption")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- Cave")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]}]](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[Nepgear suddenly turns into four Nepgears... Wait, no, your vision is blurring, and your legs grow weak! You can't... let this murderer... (link:"beat... you...")[(set: $caveDeath to "Nepgear")(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")["D-Die!" Nepgear shouts, before lunging her cursed sword for your stomach. Too weak! You effortlessly kick upwards and knock the deadly weapon from her hands! The blade's cold steel lands not too far from where you're standing. "N-Neptune... I-I'm..." Nepgear can stand no longer, and she collapses to her knees. Her head is held down low. ... Time to deal with this (link:"murderous imposter...")[(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 4")]](elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")["N-No... S-She can't be a... fake! S-She's... too strong... S-She feels real, N-Neptune!" Nepgear shouts as she collapses to her knees. Gehaburn drops from her grasp and imbeds itself in the mud beside her; you've clearly won... but her mind hasn't yet! "No! Neptune, she... I can't kill her!!!... D-Don't yell at me, big sister!" Her hands immediately press against the side of her own head. "W-What's happening?! N-Noire? Blanc? Vert?! U-UNI?! Stop shouting! P-Please, q-quiet down! I-I can't t-take it!" She's fighting back! "Miss Nepgear, you must overcome this! These phantoms are not your friends; that voice is NOT your SISTER!" "G-GRAH!!!" She's in so much agony! It pains you to see this! An innocent girl, forced to endure such unbearable suffering! If she's not careful, this entity in the sword will rip her apart! Be her guiding light! After all, she's... your friend. "... T-Think of Falcom, Miss Nepgear! Think of her face, her smile, her laughter, her touch, her warmth... She needs you to pull through, understand?! She's waiting for your safe return!" "F-Falcom...?" the CPU Candidate sputters out. Her eyes wince at the screaming in her ears, at her 'family' urging her to succumb to madness. "F-Falcom...! H-Hold on, I... m-must... ssssseeeee hhhhheeeeeeeer!" Nepgear's eyes roll back in her head, and you are already (link:"dashing forward!")[(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearTrueBossTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 6")]]] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Nepgear's Health: (print: $nepgearBossHealth)/$nepgearMaxHealth| Nepgear's Energy: (print: $nepgearEnergyMeter)/10

You have failed... (link:"No... You refuse to go down like that!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

Double-click this passage to edit it.

{(if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(savegame: "A", "Exorcising the CPU")](elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway")[(savegame: "A", "Defeat Equals Friendship!")] (set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false)(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $vertEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false) (if: $endingPath is "Runaway")[(set: $vertBossHealth to 100)(set: $vertMaxHealth to 100)(if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 50)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)](set: $iffyObserve to 5)] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(set: $vertBossHealth to 200)(set: $vertMaxHealth to 200)(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $iffyObserve to 10)(set: $guardBreakOne to false)(set: $guardBreakTwo to false)] }(if: $endingPath is "Runaway")[... Okay, so that's how she wants it?! Fine, you'll just have to kick her ass! It worked with Cave, didn't it? Defeat... equals friendship! Yeah, that NEVER fails! You draw you Qatars and prepare a fighting stance. "... Alright, then. Bring it on, Vert! I'll beat this insanity crap outta you!" However, before you can charge, Cave suddenly shouts out! "IF, give me my weapon! I can... f-fight!" She's motioning her hand for you... but her legs are already wobbling. She looks like she's about to collapse. "You, fight ME?" Green Heart laughs, utterly bemused by the 'preposterous' concept. "Please, Cave, you look like shit. Sit aside before you humiliate yourself!" "N-No! I-" "Need I remind you of Lyrica's little... 'predicament' should you act out of line?" That did it; Cave's shoulders sink... and she slowly sinks to the ground, sitting right in a mud puddle. You nod at your friend. "Don't worry 'bout it, Cave; I can handle this myself! Besides, I-" Now it's YOU who swings your knives in the air, cutting up a few droplets of the pouring rain. Yeah, that looked pretty sweet! "- need to make it up to you! I gotta prove to you I'm trustworthy; that you can count on me!" The CPU shakes her ponytailed-head, rain splashing around thanks to the movements. "Touching... But your 'friendship' shall be (link:"your downfall!\"")[(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]](elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[... This is quickly becoming hopeless. Your current approach is getting you absolutely nowhere! For lack of a better word, Vert is being... a total and complete dick! You'll have to change up your game... or you're going to continue being played like one. "... Dammit Vert... Fine, it's clear I won't be able to talk this out with ya! In that case... I challenge you to a duel! No more jokes, no more... r-reading my lines wrong; j-just stand and face me fair and square! There's only two ways this can end: you finish me... or I get my friend back!" Whispers of stunned confusion rumble through the crowd, and the goddess crosses her arms beneath her breasts. Her ample, buoyant breasts. "... A duel? Out here, I presume? How bothersome... but all right, I'm feeling pretty hot right now, so this should be rather fun!" Haha, who's the predictable one now?! You ready your Qatars to confirm her challenge... but a rugged, unsatisfied grunt catches your attention. Markz, clearly unimpressed by your bravado, lights a cigar, takes a puff, then quickly tosses it aside. "... 'My Lady', what the hell are ya doin'?!" Ah, seems he's not too keen on letting the two of you fight mano a mano. "Can't we just shoot the bitch and be done with it?! Here, I got this!" Neh?! He lines up his rifle... only for the CPU to push the barrel down. "No, no... I can handle this myself! Besides, none of you can possibly help: who else will keep score?!" With dramatic flair, Vert's otherworldly lance appears in her hold. "... Score?" Even now, this is all still a joke to her... Goddamnit, it's all a freaking joke! Here you are, despairing as you see what your once-favored goddess has become... and she's treating this like one of her MMOs! No, LESS than that; she knows you won't be dropping any rare items upon defeat! So, say she defeats you... which in all honestly is a very realistic proposition... What will she do? Will she... kill you, or take you prisoner? Which one's worse?... N-Nah, d-don't let that frighten you! If she believes she's in full control, she'll be more liable to slip up! "... Well, whatever! I'm gettin' ya back, Vert!" Lady Green Heart 'Hmphs!', before slicing the rain with her long weapon. Don't... let that thing cut you in half, okay? "Fine, Iffy: a simple spar in the rain may provide our relationship with the spark it truly needs!" "Yeah, let's see about that!" you snarl, before finally raising six Qatars up to your face. Provoking the goddess is an... unusual tactic for you... but even you can see that you'll have to weaken her a bit before you can get anywhere! The only reason she's acting so sly is because the demon inside her has complete control; it's easy for her to cast your words aside! But... if you poke and prod hard enough, perhaps you can reach the REAL Vert that still lies deep within? The evil presence may be winning... but that doesn't mean that the goddess you adore is dead! Fight her, stretch her HDD-enabled form to its limits, and then try again with the conversing! Maybe then... your friend will begin to (link:"show through!")[(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter >= 2)[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($vertSkillsUsage is true OR $vertEnergyMeter is 0))[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter is 1)[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](else:)[]}(if: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $vertBossHealth > 0)[{ (if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Iffy, please! It's been a long day... Let's stop this tomfoolery and get warm together~! I'll let you hold my hand~!\"","\"Please don't hold back, Iffy. If we must do this, I at least expect to be entertained!\"","\"Got a lot of heart; always have. Still... sometimes your 'limited' intelligence shows through in your actions.\"","\"Let's make this quick, IF. I really do have things to do... Want to become one of them?~\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth > 60 AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Okay, you've gone and spoiled the fun... You know you can't win, so stop this foolishness before I kill you!\"","\"Such a sharp tongue... Can it withstand my LANCE?!\"","\"This has dragged on long enough, IF! I gave you a chance to play nice... so now, prepare to be reduced to ash!\"","\"To play like that... To *DARE* mention Chika's name?! How low will your 'honor' stoop, Miss IF?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth <= 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I-I-I will e-emerge vic-victorious... I... I can't fail...\"","\"Just... need to r-rest... NO! I... I-I have to k-kill you...\"","\"I-I... d-don't want to... f-fight you! N-No... N-NO, YOU WILL DIE, IF! YOU WILL... I can't... NGH!\"","\"You are so pat-pathetic... t-t-thinking there was a-anything y-you could do! Y-You can't CHANGE me! I-I am the STRONGER Vert!!! Why would... you want the... OLD ONE BACK?!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"It saddens me that it's all come down to this, Iffy... Before, I believed I wanted nothing more than for you to be my Queen. However... I can now see the foolishness in my ways...\"","\"Running away... Such a good look for you, Miss IF!\"","\"... Aren't you forgetting someone? Do you REALLY entrust *her* ALL ALONE in my care? Why don't you fetch her; I'm certain my *army* would be more than happy to see you!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth >= 45 AND $vertBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I suppose as one last act of generosity to you, Miss IF, I will not harm Lyrica once you lay broken and defeated at my very feet. Call it... sentimentality for the weak feelings I once so deeply felt for you.\"","\"I loved you... but you pushed me away. I loved Chika, but then she became corrupted with Cave's *LIES*... and thus, became nothing more than a hindrance. Friends only serve to make you WEAK, 'Iffy'...\"","\"Do you really think *Cave* is the best ally you could ask for?! That *she's* your ticket to ending this war should I continue my efforts?! HA! She's a rabid dog that needs to be put down! I should've done it myself a long time ago...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth < 45)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"... You would have turned on me! They ALL would have! I saw it when I 'died'; I saw *EVERYTHING*! I will not be betrayed by the likes of my 'friends'! I will FORCE them to see how powerful I truly AM!\"","\"You and Cave... are perfect for each other: two fools who can't save anyone! Hey, CAVE: How's Chika doing?!\"","\"... Your skills are laudable, I'll give you that. Such strength... If only your loyalty matched your fighting prowess! But alas... I must be the one to end your reign of terror. Why must you do this to me?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] } What do you do? {(if: $iffyObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $iffyObserve to $iffyObserve - 1)(set: $iffyObserveCheck to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[The goddess appears to be eyeing you more closely than usual... Perhaps she is trying to read your movements in order to defend herself?]]](else:)[(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[The goddess appears to be eyeing you more closely than usual... Perhaps she is trying to read your movements in order to defend herself?]]} (if: $iffyAttackOptions is false AND $iffySkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $iffySkillsUsage is true AND $iffyEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $iffyObserveCheck is true OR $iffyObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$iffyObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")] (click:?skills)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")] (click:?defend)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")]}](elseif: $iffyAttackOptions is true)[[Punch]<punch| | [Slice]<slice| [Grab and kick!]<grabkick| | [Tornado Spin!]<tornadospin| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?punch)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "punch")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?slice)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "slice")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?grabkick)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "grabkick")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?tornadospin)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "tornadospin")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]}](elseif: $iffySkillsOptions is true)[[Throw knife]<throwknife| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Demon Comet Slash]<demon|](else:)[<strike>Demon Comet Slash</strike>] | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[LeDelphinus]<ledelphinus|](else:)[<strike>LeDelphinus</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?throwknife)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "throwknife")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?heal)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?demon)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "demon")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?ledelphinus)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "ledelphinus")(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]}]](elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[You pull out your Qatars to further combat your possessed friend... but you can ignore your wounds no longer. You fall to your knees. [[Proceed...|IF Vert Boss Game Over]]](elseif: $vertBossHealth <= 0 AND $iffyBossHealth > 0)[(if: $endingPath is "Runaway")[Vert glares at you... but she can not bring her weapon up to prepare another attack, and instead falls to one knee. Did... Did you win? (link:"Get your friend back!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossIffyTrack.pause();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Runaway Ending Page 5")]](elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")["I... IF...?" Vert mutters, before falling to one knee. Her fingers clench the mud as her lance falls from her grasp. "I... I don't... W-What is... N-NO?! You can't... win... H-Help me! I-It's so... d-dark..." She's mumbling scrambled nonsense; almost as if she's... talking to herself! Is she... defeated?! "Last straw, bitch! Roast in hell!" Markz shouts, bringing up his rifle again. He takes aim... and you fling a Qatar right for his stomach! The grizzled veteran shakes violently as an electric shock rocks his body! A few strands of saliva dribble from his mouth as he tries to yell out... but he quickly passes out from the trauma and falls back. A nearby Leanbox soldier, some schlub you believe is named Hank, catches him. Night night, 'maggot'! Hopefully a few hours of sleep will cool his jets! With that out of the way, you quickly slide over to your sobbing friend and lift her chin to look straight in her eyes. One pure blue, one pure purple. Her eyebrows furrow in fright. "M-Miss IF...! D-Don't... I-I'm afraid I m-might... NO! GET AWAY FROM ME! N-No, h-help me... P-Please! I-It hurts...!" What do you do, what do you do?! H-Her mind looks like it's completely collapsing! Her tears begin pouring onto your hand, flowing like a waterfall. She screams in pain again... and your brain hatches the only idea it can manage: you wrap your arms around the crazed CPU... and pull her in for a tight hug, positioning her chin on your shoulder. "Lady Vert, it's me, I-IF! I-It's okay... I'm here with you, alright? I'm never leavin' ya... You'll always be my friend." You pat her back lovingly, struggling to keep your own cries bottled. "Come back to me, okay? You can do this... I love you! We ALL love you! So please... p-please overcome this!" Another scream! D-Dammit! "Head towards my voice, Vert! C'mon, I'm right here! (link:"Vert? VERT?!\"")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertTrueBossTrack.stop();" /></div>(goto:"True Ending Page 9")]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10

You have failed... (link:"No... You refuse to go down like that!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

Double-click this passage to edit it.

{(set: $vertAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $iffyAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2" OR $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false)](if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to true)(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)] (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $vertChoice != "Skill1")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You channel some energy up your arm and throw an augmented Qatar... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 95 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[and it veers just off-course. You missed... How embarrassing.](else:)[and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal 25 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth + 25)(if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)]] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $vertChoice != "Skill3")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[Lady Green Heart, however, reads your movements and jumps to safety. "I know all of your moves, Iffy..."](else:)[Your first slash is fast enough to catch the CPU off-guard, and you hit her again, and again, and again! You pull off a total of seven hits before your power aura disappears. Job well done; you've dealt 20 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)]] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $vertChoice != "Skill4")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You charge up some energy to summon forth a massive burst of fire from beneath Vert's feet... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[but only a tiny bit of smoke appears. You must be tired after this long day...](else:)[and the flames rise up to scorch the CPU for 30 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)]] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "punch" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You throw back your arm before launching a mean punch... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 90 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you manage to connect! You've dealt 5 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 5)]] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "slice" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You leap forward and slice with your knives... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 85 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert dodges using her HDD's insane speed!](else:)[and you catch her in the side! You've dealt 10 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You strafe behind Vert and reach out to grab her... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but the CPU swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you succeed at clutching her! With a grunt of effort, you toss her to the side and follow up with a devastating roundhouse kick, inflicting 15 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)]] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "tornadospin" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You begin spinning rapidly on your left leg and hold out both hands to slice through the air with your Qatars! You dash towards Vert... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but she sidesteps your unconventional attack!](else:)[and your blades luckily connect, catching her in a decent 5-hit combo. You've dealt a swift 20 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)]](if: $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $vertBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Vert holds her spear tight in both hands and swings upwards, releasing a deadly wave of energy!... (if: $vertAttackChance > 80)[which veers just far enough away from you... (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $iffyAttackChance > 95)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and throw an energy-infused Qatar blade... and it veers just off-course. Even in failure, the two of you are in-tune...](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 95)[You, however, charge up some energy and throw an energy-infused Qatar blade... and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife")[(if: $iffyAttackChance > 95)[You charge up some energy yourself to throw an energy-infused knife! You shoot... but it veers just off-course to avoid the CPU. Damn it! Her attack hits you, and you take 10 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)](else:)[You charge up some energy yourself to throw a powerful Qatar blade! You both attack at the same time... and your knife somehow cancels out the flames! "Evenly matched, dearest Iffy..."]](else:)[It is too fast for you to react, and it singes you for 10 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)]]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Vert closes her eyes in concentration... and by using the unparalled powers of her HDD form, heals 20 health! (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth + 20)(if: $vertBossHealth > $vertMaxHealth)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertMaxHealth)]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Vert waves her hand... and suddenly, a massive spear emerges from a portal to the right of her! It stabs forward... (if: $vertAttackChance > 65)[but just misses you! (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $iffyAttackChance > 75)[You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! Lady Green Heart, however, reads your movements and jumps to safety. "I know all of your moves, Iffy..."](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 75)[You, however, focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! You hit the CPU seven times before the aura dissipates. You've inflicted 20 damage just like that!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon")[(if: $iffyAttackChance > 75)[You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... but then your aura suddenly dissipates prematurely! Perhaps you are too weak to fight your former idol... The giant lance quickly approaches you and explodes on contact, and you take 20 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)](else:)[You, however, focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! You both attack at the same time... and the lance explodes upon touching you, destroying your super-powered aura! Luckily, you were miraculously unharmed. "I'd much rather have your strength by my side, Iffy..."]](else:)[and effortlessly collides with you square in the chest, before exploding! You are lucky to have only taken 20 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Vert begins glowing before she dashes forward, attempting an uppercut slash! (if: $vertAttackChance > 45)[However, she horribly miscalculates and misses! (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $iffyAttackChance > 60)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and summon forth a burst of hellish fire from beneath Vert's feet!... only for some light smoke to appear instead. You need to save your friend; you can't afford to make slip-ups like this!!!](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 60)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash LeDelphinus... and a burst of hellish fire rises from beneath Vert's feet! The fire consumes the CPU, dealing a hearty 30 damage!(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(if: $iffyAttackChance > 60)[You charge up some energy yourself to summon forth a burst of hellish fire from beneath Vert's feet! However, only a tiny bit of smoke appears. You must be tired after this long day... Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken 30 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)](else:)[You charge a ton of energy yourself to summon forth a burst of hellish fire from beneath Vert's feet! You both attack at the same time... and the sheer intensity of your hellfire destroys her barrier and forces her back! You both seem unharmed...]](else:)[Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken 30 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)]]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack1")[Vert thrusts her lance right for you... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 90 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[and you roll out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and she connects with you right in the stomach! You take a basic 5 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert swings her lance high for a mean uppercut... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 85 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[and you roll out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and you get sliced for 10 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3")[Vert spins her spear over her head once, then slices horizontically. A whirlwind shoots out from her weapon... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend! The whirlwind clashes with you, and you are nearly overwhelmed... but you succeed at blocking the unexpected attack!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 75 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[but you manage to jump high (and flashy) enough to avoid the wind!](else:)[and you get sliced by the razor-sharp wind! You lose 15 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)] Geez, she's so strong in this form that manipulating the wind *counts as a melee attack!*] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack4")[Vert jams her lance into the ground, as if setting up for a pole-vault... However, she propels herself upwards and, while holding onto the now-stationary weapon, spins 3-4 times. She then rips the lance from the ground and leaps right for you, using her momentum to slash you with a dramatic intensity! (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend... and your block stops her dead. "Impressive, IF... I see your strength has not left you with your loyalty..."](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 60 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[However, you know Lady Vert well; you perform a well-timed roll before the damage can be done!](else:)[You can't help but get caught... and you lose 20 health right then and there! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "punch" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "slice" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "tornadospin")[Vert holds up her lance to block... and she successfully fends off your pathetic attack!](elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your Qatars to block. Vert, meanwhile, also holds up her lance to block... Seems Vert really can tell what you are thinking...]]] (else:)[]} {(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false)} Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10 (link: "Next...")[(if: $guardBreakOne is false AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakOne to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 1-1")]](elseif: ($guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false) AND $vertBossHealth <= 60)[(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakTwo to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 2-1")]](else:)[(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]]

{(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(savegame: "A", "Protecting Cave!")](elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[(savegame: "A", "Ticking Clock")](elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[(savegame: "A", "The Murderous Nepgear?")] (set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to false) (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 7)(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearBossHealth to 200)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 200)(set: $iffyObserve to 10)] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[(if: $bossFightCharacter is "IF")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)](else:)[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 5)](set: $iffyBossHealth to 50)(set: $nepgearBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 100)(set: $iffyObserve to 10)(set: $bossTurns to 0)] (else:)[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 100)(set: $iffyObserve to 3)] (set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false)}(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(You are now IF...) "G-Gear! W-What the hell d'ya think you're doing?!" you shout, grunting through the effort of holding off the monstrous sword with your much smaller throwing knives. You just called this familiar-looking girl 'Gear'... but it's clear that the person trying to kill your friend is anyone but. An imposter? You vaguely remember Nepgeo... but this clearly isn't her either! Who the hell then...? The fake CPU Candidate grimaces at you, her teeth clenched sickeningly. You never thought your innocent friend could ever look so much like a demon. "I-I will not fall for your vile tricks! The real IF would never walk a cursed land such as this! She is back in the true world... and I must rid this illusion of you if I am to ever return to her." ... What is she talking about? Like, at all? Great, a crazed psychopath who happens to look like- and share the same vocal chords as- Nepgear. This day keeps getting better and better... ... But can't fret about stuff like this! Not only was your life in danger, but this lunatic was intent on killing Cave just to get to you! The SMD Warrior needs your help... Now's your chance to mend several broken bridges at once, right? Nah, probably won't be that easy... but that's not the important part. No, whether Cave eventually forgives you, or hates you for the rest of your days... you refuse to let any more pain fall upon her! You strain as hard as you can... and somehow puuuuush Nepgear away from the weapon lock. Her eyes darken, rage building high and fast. In response... you simply smirk. "... Give me your [[best shot, 'Gear'!"|Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF]]](elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,100);" /></div>You try to speak... but she continues without you. "... N-No, of course I d-do! I-I just... w-why would she bring Miss IF AND Cave into this?" A saddened glance, a slump of the shoulders... then a nod of her innocent head. "... I guess not... W-Well, i-if you insist!" The blade, smelling like Cave's insides, now points right between your eyes. "A-Arfoire! With this puppet vanquished, I will become one step closer to defeating you once and for all! T-Throw everything you have at me; w-with Gehaburn's strength, I shall destroy every proxy you send forth!" Arfoire?! Puppet?! Gehaburn?! Proxy?! Uh oh... Think fast! The insane Candidate hops for you and swings her cursed sword downwards... but you manage to bring up your Qatars just in time to block her violent finishing maneuver. A speck of undried blood flies off the steel and splashes your cheek; a good reminder of what exactly's at stake. You have more questions than answers (one question is already more than the answers you have), and you are not quite sure who the hell this demonic imposter attacking you is. Hell, you'll NEVER understand why Cave gave her life for you... ... But one thing is certain: you must win to honor your poor friend. Nepgear or not, this murderer must be stopped... before she can claim the life of any other unfortunate 'puppet'... "Grrrr... I-I ain't goin' out (link:"that easy!\"")[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[She... kinda looks like a... ghost?! Y-You've always believed in ghosts of all kinds, but... L-Linda's still very much alive! A-And, annoying as she can be, s-she didn't look like the freakin' DEVIL! One moment, she's standing still... and the next, she's swinging the pipe, knocking the green-hat-wearing soldier into the air. L-Look at him fly! The man soars a tremendous distance... before crashing down to the mud face-first. He's down for the count. Underling winks at Nepgear before vanishing like your confidence with each passing second. The Candidate nods. "With that distraction out of the way... Prepare yourself!" ... What have you gotten yourself into?... No, don't waver now; you have to do this... and quick! The clock's very much ticking... and this time, there are no continues, my friend. "... Right back at ya! Hang in (link:"there, Cave!\"")[(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")]]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $nepgearSkillsUsage is false AND $nepgearEnergyMeter >= 2)[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($nepgearSkillsUsage is true OR $nepgearEnergyMeter is 0))[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $nepgearSkillsUsage is false AND $nepgearEnergyMeter is 1)[(set: $nepgearChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](else:)[]}(if: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $nepgearBossHealth > 0)[{(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(if: $nepgearBossHealth > 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"W-Who are you?! You are not IF... You can't be! No, this whole world is a lie! Die along with the rest of it!\"","\"The real Cave and IF are much more capable in combat than you two... Is she even trying? The Deity can't even make worthwhile puppets...\"","\"This has to be a joke... I have too much resting on my shoulders to simply fall to the likes of you!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth >= 60 AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"It's you, isn't it, Arfoire? Another trick... Neptune, what do I do?!... You're right, I must kill any imposter who stands in our way!\"","\"Gehaburn defeated you once before... and we've gotten stronger since then. Far stronger...\"","\"Uni, Neptune... Can I really do this?... Y-You're right! I'm sorry...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth < 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Arfoire, stop this charade! You've already taken my family from me... Why must you bring Cave and IF into this as well? Why must you fill my head with LIES?!\"","\"Please... No more bloodshed! My world is already doomed... I just want my friends back. My FAMILY!\"","\"... B-Burn! By the power of Neptune, I banish thee from this illusion, Arfoire!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[(if: $nepgearBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I... N-Neptune told me to! My sister has never led me astray... so YOU must be the one at fault here!\"","\"Why do you look... saddened? P-Puppets can't have feelings! T-That Cave wasn't real! YOU aren't real!\"","\"You can not defeat me! Your form is too sloppy; the real IF would've stood a chance... but not YOU!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth >= 45 AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Why must you constantly hide from me, Arfoire? A-And behind fakes of my friends?! What's next, you'll bring Falcom into this as well?!\"","\"Can you feel fear? Your soul shall be sealed within Gehaburn for the rest of eternity! Y-You and all the other Arfoire fragments!\"","\"Uni, Neptune, e-everyone... Can I really do this?... Y-You're right! I'm sorry...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth < 45)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"A-Arfoire... W-What do you fight for?! D-Don't make me kill IF too! S-She should've been spared from this curse!\"","\"Please... No more bloodshed! My world is already doomed... I just want my friends back. My FAMILY!\"","\"... Why did you make me kill all my friends? T-That was supposed to defeat you, yet... you still live! G-Give me my SISTER BACK!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[(if: $nepgearBossHealth > 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Fighting to protect a fake?! Ridiculous! You puppets make me laugh!\"","\"Take a good look, men, for you are witnessing history: this is the fight that will mark Arfoire's demise!\"","\"You can not defeat me! Your form is too sloppy; the real IF would've stood a chance... but not YOU!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth >= 45 AND $nepgearBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Why must you constantly hide from me, Arfoire? And behind fakes of my friends on top of it all?! What's next, you'll bring Falcom into this?! Spare her from your madness!\"","\"Persistent, aren't you? You're trying to make me look bad in front of my army! Yeah... I'll enjoy sealing you inside Gehaburn!\"","\"Is that the best you have, Arfoire?! Well... t-too bad, I haven't even started yet!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth < 45)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"A-Arfoire... W-What do you fight for?! I-I know the truth of this realm... I'm not afraid to kill any fake you send out, even if they ALL look like IF!\"","\"... That fake Cave is dying... Do you... care for her? Why would a puppet... care for anything?\"","\"... N-No, I-I'm not afraid of you! For my family, for my world, for Falcom... I must end your reign of terror!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]]} (if: $endingPath is "Door")[(if: $bossTurns < 7)[Cave can barely move! She needs your help!](elseif: $bossTurns >= 7 AND $bossTurns < 15)[Cave's breathing is becoming more erratic...](else:)[Cave is slumping over against the door; she can barely hold herself up!] ]What do you do? {(if: $iffyObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $iffyObserve to $iffyObserve - 1)(set: $iffyObserveCheck to true)(if: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Nepgear is preparing for a painful melee attack with that sword of hers... (if: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Door")[She's looking to stain her blade with your blood.](elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[Cave's blood, still fresh, paints her blade...]](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[It appears Nepgear may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[Nepgear closes her eyes and whispers "Neptune..."... Is she asking for help?](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily quiet... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some frightful skill!] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily silent... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some horrible special attack!](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")["Guide me, Neptune..." Nepgear(?) whispers as she holds up her demonic sword to guard her face...]]](else:)[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear appears to be planning a basic attack...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Nepgear is preparing for a painful melee attack with that sword of hers... (if: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Door")[She's looking to stain her blade with your blood.](elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[Cave's blood, still fresh, paints her blade...]](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[It appears Nepgear may be channeling a small amount of energy...](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[Nepgear closes her eyes and whispers "Neptune..."... Is she asking for help?](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily quiet... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some frightful skill!] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[The rain pours down as everything gets eerily silent... The imposter Nepgear must be preparing to unleash some horrible special attack!](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")["Guide me, Neptune..." Nepgear(?) whispers as she holds up her demonic sword to guard her face...]]} (if: $iffyAttackOptions is false AND $iffySkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $iffySkillsUsage is true AND $iffyEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $iffyObserveCheck is true OR $iffyObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$iffyObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")] (click:?skills)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")] (click:?defend)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")]}](elseif: $iffyAttackOptions is true)[[Punch]<punch| | [Slice]<slice| [Grab and kick!]<grabkick| | [Tornado Spin!]<tornadospin| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?punch)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "punch")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?slice)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "slice")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?grabkick)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "grabkick")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?tornadospin)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "tornadospin")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")]}](elseif: $iffySkillsOptions is true)[[Throw knife]<throwknife| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Demon Comet Slash]<demon|](else:)[<strike>Demon Comet Slash</strike>] | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[LeDelphinus]<ledelphinus|](else:)[<strike>LeDelphinus</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?throwknife)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "throwknife")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?heal)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?demon)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "demon")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?ledelphinus)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "ledelphinus")(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Result- IF")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF")]}]](elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[Nepgear suddenly turns into four Nepgears... Wait, no, your vision is blurring, and your legs grow weak! You can't... let this (if: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Door")[imposter](else:)[murderer]... beat... you... [[Lose...|IF Nepgear Boss Game Over]]](elseif: $nepgearBossHealth <= 0 AND $iffyBossHealth > 0)[(if: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Door")["N-Neptune..." Gehaburn drops from Nepgear's hands, and she collapses to her knees. (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[Time to deal with this (link:"imposter...")[(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 6")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[Whew... Hopefully that should do it! Get to Cave, (link:"you fool!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="doorEndingTrack.fade(0, 1500);" /></div>(goto:"Door Ending Page 4")]]](elseif: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")["N-Neptune..." Nepgear falls to her knees, overcome by your superior skills. Is... it finally over? Since you defeated her, maybe you can now actually get some proper answers! You begin to lower your Qatars... but she suddenly leaps to her feet! "G-Good try, Arfoire... but I-I'm better! I-I can (link:"still fight!\"")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 3")]]] Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Nepgear's Health: (print: $nepgearBossHealth)/$nepgearMaxHealth| Nepgear's Energy: (print: $nepgearEnergyMeter)/10

You have failed... (if: $endingPath is "Farewell" OR $endingPath is "Door")[(link:"You must... protect... Cave!")[(loadgame:"A")]](else:)[(link:"No... N-Not like this!")[(loadgame:"A")]] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

Double-click this passage to edit it.

{(set: $nepgearAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $iffyAttackChance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill2" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to true)(if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to $nepgearEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3" OR $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to $nepgearEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to true)(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)] (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill1")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You channel some energy up your arm and throw an augmented Qatar... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 95 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[and it veers just off-course. Confusion is no excuse for sloppiness!](else:)[and it connects with the CPU Candidate head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal 25 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth + 25)(if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill3")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[This imposter Nepgear, however, reads your movements and jumps to safety. "What kind of fake are you? You move just like IF..."](else:)[Your first slash is fast enough to catch the Candidate off-guard, and you hit her again, and again, and again! You pull off a total of seven hits before your power aura disappears. You've dealt 20 damage to this faker... and still have no answers...(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill4")[(if: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block... ]You charge up some energy to summon forth a massive burst of fire from beneath this enigmatic Nepgear's feet... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60 AND ($nepgearChoice != "Defense" AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2"))[but only a tiny bit of smoke appears. You must be tired after this long day...](else:)[and the flames rise up to scorch the CPU for 30 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 30)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "punch" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You throw back your arm before launching a mean punch... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 90 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but the Candidate hovers out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you manage to connect! You've dealt 5 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "slice" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You leap forward and slice with your knives... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 85 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but Nepgear dodges using an almost-otherworldly quickness!](else:)[and you catch the Candidate in the side! You've dealt 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You strafe behind Nepgear and reach out to grab her... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but the eerie Candidate hovers out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you succeed at clutching her! With a grunt of effort, you toss her to the side and follow up with a devastating roundhouse kick, inflicting 15 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "tornadospin" AND $nepgearChoice != "Defense")[You begin spinning rapidly on your left leg and hold out both hands to slice through the air with your Qatars! You dash towards Planeptune's Candidate... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60 AND $nepgearChoice != "Skill2")[but Nepgear sidesteps your incoming foot, wearing an attentive glare all the while!](else:)[and your blades luckily connect, catching her in a decent 5-hit combo. You've dealt a swift 20 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)] ](if: $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $nepgearBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $nepgearChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Nepgear glares at you, and an almost-greenish glow emanates from her eyes! With her right hand, she raises Gehaburn high up... and immediately turns a full 180 degrees! A wave of heated energy shoots from her heels... (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 80)[but you are able to roll out of the way! (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $iffyAttackChance > 95)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and throw an energy-infused Qatar blade... and it veers just off-course. Everything is at stake here; try harder, dammit!](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 95)[You, however, charge up some energy and throw an energy-infused Qatar blade... and it connects with the CPU Candidate head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 10)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife")[You charge up some energy yourself to throw an energy-infused knife! (if: $iffyAttackChance > 95)[You throw... but it veers just off-course to avoid the imposter. Damn it! Her beam of fire hits you, and you take 10 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)](else:)[You both attack at the same time... and your augmented knife just happens to be strong enough to cancel the entire wave out! "Curse you, faker! You insult IF by simply existing!"]](else:)[and you can't help but get hit directly, thus scalding you for 10 damage!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Nepgear closes her eyes in concentration... and by using some otherworldly power, heals 20 health! (set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth + 20)(if: $nepgearBossHealth > $nepgearMaxHealth)[(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearMaxHealth)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]A whitish-aura surrounds Nepgear(?)... and she air dashes right towards you and slashes downwards. (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 65)[However, you are quick on your feet and roll backwards just in time! (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $iffyAttackChance > 75)[You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! Nepgear, however, reads your movements and jumps to safety. "You can't trick me, Arfoire! Neptune is right here with me!"](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 75)[You, however, focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! You hit the imposter Candidate seven times before the aura dissipates. You've inflicted 20 damage just like that!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 20)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon")[You focus all your energy... and a green aura surrounds you. You take a quick breath... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75)[but then your aura suddenly dissipates prematurely! Are you truly too weak to protect Lyrica? (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[Cave? ]Neptune? Compa? Gamindustri?... Gehaburn slams into the ground, which swiftly knocks you off your feet! The imposter Candidate then brings Gehaburn right back up, and you can barely tell that the blade is glowing... before she slashes at you horizontally three times! After that onslaught, she finishes off by slamming her cursed sword down once more, blasting you back into the hard ground! That was only 20 damage?(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)](else:)[before dashing forward, slashing frantically! You both attack at the same time... and the sheer strength of you slashes destroys Nepgear's apparent white barrier and sends you both backwards! She is unharmed, but hey, so are you!]](else:)[Gehaburn slams into the ground, which swiftly knocks you off your feet! She then brings Gehaburn right back up, and you can barely tell that the blade is glowing... before she slashes at you horizontally three times. After that onslaught, she finishes off by slamming her cursed sword down once more, blasting you back into the hard ground! That was only 20 damage?(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to block... ]Nepgear closes her eyes and holds Gehaburn out before her, both hands clutching the hilt tight. A tense moment passes... before she charges straight for you! (if: $nepgearAttackChance > 45)[She slashes upwards... but you roll out of the way, the blade nearly slicing your side! (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $iffyAttackChance > 60)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and summon forth a burst of hellish fire from beneath Nepgear's feet!... only for some light smoke to appear instead. What happened...? Are your hands shaking?!](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus" AND $iffyAttackChance <= 60)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash LeDelphinus... and a burst of hellish fire rises from beneath Nepgear's feet! The fire consumes the imposter CPU Candidate, dealing a hearty 30 damage!(set: $nepgearBossHealth to $nepgearBossHealth - 30)]](else:)[(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[You charge up some energy to summon forth a massive burst of fire from beneath this enigmatic Nepgear's feet... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60)[However, only a tiny bit of smoke appears. You must be tired after this long day... You are helpless as she slashes you up and spins a full 360 degrees. "Neptune..." you hear her whisper... and you note that Gehaburn has begun to glow. Nepgear wastes no time and slashes right through you... and now she's gone! Huh?... Wait, no! Moving faster than the eye can see, the imposter CPU Candidate begins to appear from all directions to repeatedly slash forward, and you are pummelled each and every time. One final dramatic horizontal slash ends it... and you simply fall to the ground! Her supernatural strength just stole 30 health from you!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)](else:)[You both attack at the same time... and your geyser of hell-fire consumes Nepgear entirely!... However, when the flames clear, the imposter Candidate does not appear to be any worse for wear! "My sister guides me through hell itself!"]](else:)[You are helpless as she slashes you up and spins a full 360 degrees. "Neptune, lend me your strength..." you hear her whisper... and you note that Gehaburn has begun to glow. Nepgear wastes no time and slashes right through you... and now she's gone! Huh?... Wait, no! Moving faster than the eye can see, the imposter CPU Candidate begins to appear from all directions to repeatedly slash forward, and you are pummelled each and every time. One final dramatic horizontal slash ends it... and you simply fall to the ground! Her supernatural strength just stole 30 health from you!(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)] ] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack1")[Nepgear runs forward and slices downward with her demonic blade... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 90 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[but you roll out of harm's way!](else:)[and you get caught by her basic attack for 5 damage! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack2")[Nepgear slides towards you and kicks for your stomach... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your Qatars to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 85 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[but you duck under her foot and slide away, disrupting her plans!](else:)[She connects clean and, as you recoil, lunges her cursed sword forward! Instead of impaling you, however, she instead opts to bash you in the face with the dull side! The humiliating strike steals 10 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack3")[Nepgear is still as she holds Gehaburn in both hands... when suddenly, she swings directly upwards! Before you know it... Noire?! No, it can't be... But who or what is it then? Kneeling before you is a black-tinted transparent Noire, her rapier pointed up! (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Flabbergasted, you can barely hold up your Qatars to defend... She juts her rapier right at you...and she is unable to break through your guard and instead poofs away. How odd; that didn't quite feel like a blade...](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 75 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[You brace yourself for what's to come... but the fake tsundere shakes her head for some reason, and poofs out of existence. Nepgear's brows furrow, and she mutters something in anger beneath her breath...](else:)[Stunned, you can only look on as she juts her ghostly blade upwards at a 45 degree angle, knocking you high in the air! At the height of your painful ascent, a similar-looking Blanc appears, brandishing a phantasmagoric rendition of her usual hammer weapon. In a flash, she bashes her mallet down into you, blasting you with full-force to the earth below. You pick yourself up, your confused mind nearly tuning out the 15 damage. As if it were all a dream, both ghosts have already vanished... (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Attack4")["You will never leave me... and I shall never leave you! Help me eradicate all evil from this nightmare!" Nepgear suddenly shouts as she tightly clutches Gehaburn in her right hand. On cue, she raises her glowing weapon, twists her hand as far as it will go, and swings perfectly horizontally to the left. From the slash... a black-tinted transparent Neptune appears?! The heck is this?... (if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Dread swelling in your stomach, you quickly hold up your Qatars to block... The ghostly Nep slices for you at the speed of sound... but she is fortunately unable to break through your guard! You can almost swear that the phantom smirks at you before vanishing altogether...](elseif: $nepgearAttackChance > 60 AND $iffyAttackChoice != "defend")[You are so stunned that you can only watch as the ghostly Nep charges towards you... before stopping and wagging her finger, almost in a toying manner. Without a sound, she disappears... A saddened expression overtakes Nepgear's features...](else:)[Trying to wrap your mind around this turn of events, you are helpless as the fake Purple Heart slices you once, then twice, then thrice, with the last blow sending you off your feet! What appears to be a black-tinted transparent Uni appears in the air, and her ghostly gun shoots you back to the ground. Your head hurts from both confusion and the 20 damage the mysterious attack inflicted. Why did you see Uni and... Nep?... Meanwhile, both phantoms have vanished without a trace...(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $nepgearChoice is "Defense")[(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "punch" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "slice" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick" OR $iffyAttackChoice is "tornadospin")[Nepgear holds up her sword to block.(if: $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick")[ You strafe behind her and attempt a serious grab... but you find your way impeded by some watery invisible wall? Some kind of barrier, perhaps? Just what the hell is going on?!](else:)[.. and she successfully fends off your pathetic attack! (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[This](else:)[Gehaburn] must be a powerful sword... and she's looking to impale you with it, so don't slip up!]](elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your Qatars to block. Nepgear, meanwhile, also holds up her blade to block. "Stop toying with me, Arfoire!!!"]]](else:)[]} {(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false)(if: $endingPath is "Door")[(set: $bossTurns to it + 1)]}Your Health (IF): (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Nepgear's Health: (print: $nepgearBossHealth)/$nepgearMaxHealth| Nepgear's Energy: (print: $nepgearEnergyMeter)/10 [[Next|Nepgear Boss Fight Action- IF]]

"I have been such a damn fool all this time," Cave continues, avoiding your gaze. "I would never admit it, but... I was... afraid. Afraid of Vert, afraid of losing Lyrica... Afraid of myself... Above all else, I was determined to keep Lyrica safe... and when Vert threatened me with her life, I had nowhere to turn... When you left, I felt trapped. Step out of line, and Lyrica dies... and I'd gladly accept my own death than have harm fall upon her. So, I had to stay and do everything she said... because I was too afraid to fight against her orders. Too weak, too useless... And because of that, Chika is..." You don't know what to say, but you keep your comforting hand on her tense shoulder. "... None of this is your fault, Cave... I left out of fear too, honestly. Lady Vert... told me that if I didn't leave, she'd put Lyrica in danger... If only I had acted right then instead of fleeing, maybe things wouldn't have gotten this far!" Another moment of silence persists... and Cave finally turns to look you straight in the eye. "... I thought I hated you, Miss IF... I blamed you for everything... I hated you for abandoning Lyrica, when her heart yearns for you more than I can even imagine. I honestly believed you didn't care... I believed you didn't DESERVE her... But, truth is, you hold her closer to your heart than even I do... So, for that..." Cave suddenly turns to bow at your feet... It's kinda uncomfortable... "I beg for your forgiveness! If not that, then at least your mercy for this wretchid soul!" The warrior has never looked even remotely close to this vulnerable... [[There's only one thing you can say.|Historical Ending Page 2]]

"... Please stand up, Cave. You don't need to do this..." You hold out your hand and smile softly. "I don't care about throwing around apologies or tears or any of that stuff... I just want to be friends again." Cave looks at your extended appendage, not quite comprehending what it meant. "... M-Miss IF..." "Come on, drop the 'Miss'... We've known each other for years! We've taken baths together, geez!" you joke. The SMD Warrior stares blankly at you for a few more seconds, but eventually she breaks through her stubbornness and clasps your hand. You pull her back up to her feet... and instantly grab her in an unexpected hug! "... You really love Lyrica, huh? You were willing to kill me... Hell, yourself... because you thought it'd save her from danger... That's pretty extreme, but that's definitely the Cave I know. When you care about something... yer gonna fight the world if ya have to." You are tempted to bring up the red-haired's similar affections for the Oracle... but no, that would be a mistake. Now's... not the time... Either way, your anti-social friend tightens the hug, and takes a deep breath. "... I've always loved her, yes... but that does not excuse my petty actions. Besides, none of that matters now: Lyrica is in love with you, Mi- er, IF, and if you are the one who makes her happier beyond all compare... then I will support the two of you wholeheartedly." Her coarse hand runs through your hair, almost as a lover's would... It's more, uh, passionate than the situation should call for... but Cave is out of her element right now, so you simply find her unconventional show of emotion charming. "You two are... perfect together. It would be wrong of me to interfere any longer..." [["..."|Historical Ending Page 3]]

"... Thanks Cave... That means more to me than you could ever imagine..." The two of you separate, and you grin from ear to ear. Cave blushes at your corny appearance. "Still... I think the two of you need a heart-to-heart. Ya can't have this hanging over your head any longer!... How about we head back and talk to her together?" The SMD Warrior closes her eyes and simply nods in response to your proposition. "... You are a better woman than I, IF... Thank you, I won't forget this for as long as I live!" Man, she looks pretty cool when she's determined, eh? "Let's go." And with that, the two of you turn and begin heading back for the castle. All is quiet, almost eerily-so; all the soldiers have either been... dealt with, or have gone into hiding. The fight you two just had must've scared the remnants off... Oh well, soon this war would be over entirely! "Ya know, Cave... You can call me 'Iffy' instead. Everyone else does, no need to be so formal." "I-I couldn't possibly do that!" "Heh heh, as expected!" For the first time in awhile, everything seems to be finally getting back to normal. Things have gotten bad... horrible, even... but you and the rest of the survivors will be all right. You make your way around the side of the grand Leanbox Basilicom, about to turn into the front lawn... when suddenly, a familiar voice calls out from not too far behind you. "IF! IF, wait for me!" Upon hearing your name, you turn around and see... Nepgear? [[What the hell is she doing here?!|Historical Ending Page 4]]

Seeing Planeptune's CPU Candidate running over to you, you run up to greet her without hesitation! "Gear, what the hell are you doing here?! It's way too dangerous! And does Nep even know about this?!" Unbeknownst to you, Cave eyes the CPU Candidate suspiciously, seemingly connecting dots in her mind. Nepgear... in Leanbox? Odd... Vert ordered her troops to pull out of Planeptune unexpectedly, and SHE wasn't even back yet. On top of that... Cave knew that Nepgear was among the enemy ranks when Chika got... H-How could she have made it here so fast? As you stand before the Candidate, you too begin to have uncomfortable doubts rise up in your head. You and your small squad should have been the only people from the Planeptune/Lastation Alliance attacking Leanbox. More than that, Histoire would never have allowed Purple Sister to leave the capital anyways! And then, upon seeing the peculiar sword she is hiding behind her back... you remember the rumors you've been hearing as of late: those about Lowee secretly falling under 'new management'... Words of a Nepgear-lookalike deposing Blanc and seizing the land for herself. You chalked it up to some creepy paranoia, or perhaps a misunderstanding even with the Leanbox soldier Nepgeo... but now, everything comes flooding back to you at once! Nepgear looks at you with concern in her eyes... and her free hand fidgets more and more. She looks extremely uncomfortable... almost as if someone unseen was speaking in her ear right this very second! "G-Gear?" you utter out against your better judgement. What is going on? Who is this? She looks exactly like the Nepgear you know... but there's something wrong with her gaze. It looks... almost empty. She's looking at you, but... no, nothing about this feels natural at all... Behind you, Cave reaches the same unsettling assumption as you... but she comes up with one extra little detail you forgot to take into account. "... I-IF, RUN!" You hear Cave and instinctively turn your head... and Nepgear nods to herself as she reels her arm back... before suddenly (link:"lunging her blade forward!")[ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.stop();" /></div> (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(goto:"Chase Sequence Segue")](elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 1")]]

{<audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Dynasty Warriors 8 OST - Solo HQ.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}[IF slowly lowers her gaze to where Nepgear's hands are meeting her stomach... and she instantly sees the sickening shade of red painting the Candidate's light skin.]<timerspace1| []<timer1a| []<timer1b| []<timer1c| []<timerspace2| []<timer2a| []<timer2b| []<timer2c| []<timerspace3| []<timer3a| []<timer3b| []<timer3c| []<timerspace4| []<timer4a| []<timer4b| []<timer4c| []<timerspace5|{ (live: 4.4s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[If she hadn't pieced it together right away, she now most certainly knew what your own eyes could attest: Nepgear had firmly impaled IF on her demonic-looking sword.]] (live: 9.99s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[Nothing makes sense anymore... IF looking up. Confusion, disappointment. Nepgear's pale skin; paler than even yours'. Her eyes: Uncertainty, sadness, regret... fear? Taking orders from some unseen specter...]] (live: 15.7s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[Rain patters, patters, patters... Nepgear's scared eyes replaced with rage. Bloody hilt held tight, right leg raising... Kicking IF's midsection! The battle-hardened veteran flies backwards off the blade!]] (live: 24s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[IF flying backwards, eyes closed peacefully. So peaceful, peaceful, peaceful, peaceful... No, snap out of it!!! ](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[](replace: ?timerspace4)[]] (live: 30.8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[Your legs are suddenly moving faster than you can process! The battle-hardened veteran falls into your awaiting arms... and you are off, determined to escape this battlefield with both of your lives!]] (live: 38.99s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[Nepgear watches, still as a statue... ]] (live: 42.1s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2a)[before suddenly shaking her head and raising her bloody sword to the sky. ]] (live: 46s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2b)["... A-Attack! Eliminate these imposters!"]] (live: 52s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timer1a)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timer2b)[]] (live: 53.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[Running... ]] (live: 54.4s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[Running... ]] (live: 55.2s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1b)[Focus, now! ](replace: ?timerspace2)[IF mutters: ](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 56s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2a)[ "Compa... ]] (live: 57s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2b)[Nep... ]] (live: 58s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2c)[Lyree..." ]] (live: 61s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[Wait! Rain blowing to the left. Eight soldiers in white?! Arrows drawn!](replace: ?timerspace2)[You gotta move!](replace: ?timer1a)[](replace: ?timer1b)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timer2b)[](replace: ?timer2c)[]] (live: 62.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[ [Go left!]<goleft| &nbsp&nbsp [Continue forward!]<goforward| &nbsp&nbsp [Go right!]<goright| (click:?goleft)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going left!]](click:?goright)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going right!]](click:?goforward)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going forward!]]]] (live: 63s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[5]] (live: 64s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[4]] (live: 65s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[3]] (live: 66s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[2]] (live: 67s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[1]] (live: 68s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[](replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 68.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[You swerve right, dodging the arrows. Keep going...(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[The arrows hit you! Still, you move on, tuning out any and all pain...(set: $caveMistakes to $caveMistakes + 1)]](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 70.3s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[IF mutters: ]] (live: 72s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[You can barely see... Where are you going?](replace: ?timer2a)["I'm sorry... ]] (live: 74s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[Do you even have a clue?](replace: ?timer2b)[I screwed up..."]] (live: 76s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[Damn! Similar situation: line of soldiers in white, guns aiming straight. Lowee soldiers...?!](replace: ?timerspace2)[Don't delay!](replace: ?timer1a)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timer2b)[]] (live: 77.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[ [Go left!]<goleft| &nbsp&nbsp [Continue forward!]<goforward| &nbsp&nbsp [Go right!]<goright| (click:?goleft)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going left!]](click:?goright)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going right!]](click:?goforward)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going forward!]]]] (live: 78.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[5]] (live: 79.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[4]] (live: 80.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[3]] (live: 81.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[2]] (live: 82.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[1]] (live: 83.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[](replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 83.8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[You quickly drift left, the bullets just missing you. Too close...(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[The bullets are too fast, catching you in the side. Could've been worse at least...(set: $caveMistakes to $caveMistakes + 1)]](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 87.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[Where now, where now?!](replace: ?timerspace2)[IF mutters: "I... I let ya down..."]] (live: 89.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[The trees! Escape through the thick forest!]] (live: 91s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)["Hang in there, IF... Hang in there..."]] (live: 92s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[... What the?! A soldier reaches into his back pocket... ]] (live: 93s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2a)[and throws something?!]] (live: 95s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[Hang *tight*, grenade?!](replace: ?timer1a)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 96s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[ [Go left!]<goleft| &nbsp&nbsp [Continue forward!]<goforward| &nbsp&nbsp [Go right!]<goright| (click:?goleft)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going left!]](click:?goright)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going right!]](click:?goforward)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going forward!]]](replace: ?timerspace4)[4]] (live: 97s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[3]] (live: 98s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[2]] (live: 99s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[1]] (live: 99.8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[](replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 100.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[You can't help but yell out as you dodge right, and the grenade misses you and explodes safely. You're at the trees now!(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[The grenade bounces off of you, rolls a bit, then explodes. Some shrapnel strikes you... but ignore it, ignore it! You rush into the trees...(set: $caveMistakes to $caveMistakes + 1)]](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 102.7s)[(stop:)(if: $caveMistakes is 3)[(goto: "Chase Sequence Failure Ending")](else:)[(replace: ?timerspace2)[Voices all around. "She's in the trees, find her!"]]] (live: 104s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[You detect Lowee soldiers on all *sides*.]] (live: 106s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[Where now?! IF's blood covers your arms...]] (live: 107s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[ [Go left!]<goleft| &nbsp&nbsp [Continue forward!]<goforward| &nbsp&nbsp [Go right!]<goright| (click:?goleft)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going left!]](click:?goright)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going right!]](click:?goforward)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going forward!]]](replace: ?timerspace4)[3]] (live: 108s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[2]] (live: 109s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[1]] (live: 110s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[](replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timer1a)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 110.1s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[You clutch IF as tight as possible and plow through the trees. Arrows and bayonet blades whiz by, but they fortunately miss you...(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[In your haste, you run head-long into a soldier's awaiting bayonet blade. You quickly turn, but the weapon inflicts a nasty wound on your back!(set: $caveMistakes to $caveMistakes + 1)]](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 112s)[(stop:)(if: $caveMistakes is 3)[(goto: "Chase Sequence Failure Ending")](else:)[(replace: ?timerspace3)[Runrunrun]](replace: ?timerspace2)[IF mutters: ]] (live: 114s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[The clearing... You can see it!](replace: ?timer2a)["It's not... your fault...]] (live: 116s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[Almost free from this hell... ](replace: ?timer2b)[or... Vert's..."](append: ?timerspace3)[runrunyoullnevermakeit!]] (live: 118s)[(stop:)(append: ?timerspace4)[You're out! Bring IF somewhere sa-]] (live: 119.8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[What?! ARROW!](replace: ?timer1a)[]] (live: 120.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[ [Go left!]<goleft| &nbsp&nbsp [Continue forward!]<goforward| &nbsp&nbsp [Go right!]<goright| (click:?goleft)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going left!]](click:?goright)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going right!]](click:?goforward)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?timerspace3)[Going forward!]]](replace: ?timerspace4)[3]] (live: 121.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[2]] (live: 122.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[1]] (live: 123.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)[](replace: ?timerspace1)[](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timer2b)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[]] (live: 125.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[The arrow is too fast; you barely slide out of harm's way in time... only to find that you are on the edge of a muddy slope! Helplessly, you slip, sending you crashing into the wet dirt...(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[The arrow is too fast to avoid, and it stabs you directly in the stomach! In shock, you make one major misstep... and find yourself slipping down a muddy slope, gravity taking its toll as you crash into the wet dirt...(set: $caveMistakes to $caveMistakes + 1)]](replace: ?timerspace5)[Mistakes: (print: $caveMistakes)/3]] (live: 128s)[(stop:)(if: $caveMistakes is 3)[(goto: "Chase Sequence Failure Ending")](else:)[(replace: ?timerspace2)[... IF flies out of your arms... and crashes down as well!]]] (live: 131.9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)["I-IF!" you shout, as you speedily crawl to your downed friend. ]] (live: 132.9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[Her wound... is beyond help now... You can only place a comforting hand on her shoulder...]] (live: 134.3s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2a)[With clouded eyes, the brunette mumbles: ]] (live: 136.7s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer2b)["I can't... Not yet..."]] (live: 138s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[Her eyes drift slowly to you.]] (live: 140.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer3a)["Cave... No matter what happens...]] (live: 143.4s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer3b)[no matter what it takes...]] (live: 147.9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer3c)[make sure Lyrica is safe...]] (live: 149.8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace4)["... See ya."]] (live: 151.9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace1)[IF closes her eyes... ](replace: ?timerspace2)[](replace: ?timer2a)[](replace: ?timer2b)[](replace: ?timerspace3)[](replace: ?timer3a)[](replace: ?timer3b)[](replace: ?timer3c)[](replace: ?timerspace4)[]] (live: 153.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timer1a)[and her entire body goes limp.]] (live: 157.5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace2)[A sight familiar to all after this pathetic war...]] (live: 161.2s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[Vert's war.]] (live: 166.9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?timerspace3)[[[Vert's war.|Historical Ending Page 5]]]] }

{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>(set: $caveMistakes to 0)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong") (savegame:"A","The Chase")}You are now Cave... Everything comes to a screeching halt as your face turns pale, the rain moving in slow motion now... You can barely comprehend the scene before you! No... No, no, no, no, no, no... Get ready... Things will move much faster now. Stay alert and, above all, think fast; there is no more rest for you. [[Begin|Chase Sequence Intro]]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> }It's not long before IF's body poofs away, much as everyone else who had died in this war did. Why? For what purpose... Well, it matters not... IF is dead, and there's nothing you can do to change that. You are unsure where that last arrow came from, but you hear a group of soldiers approaching from the forest you just escaped from. You can't stand around for long... Best to regroup and sneak back to the castle, assuming this mysterious force hasn't already laid siege... ... You successfully sneak by the Lowee soldiers, and from simply hearing their talk among themselves, it seems that they are pretty much as confused as you are. Are the rumors true? Has Blanc really been deposed from ruling Lowee? Is an imposter Nepgear truly the one in charge now? You are determined to get answers from the main source herself... but when you return to the castle grounds, you find that the CPU Candidate is nowhere to be found. Time passes, and still no sign from her... almost as if she were a phantom. You are tempted to run right into the Basilicom now and find Lyrica... but something stops you from proceeding. What can you possibly say to her? The love of her life was dead... and you were mostly to blame in the first place... Conflicted, you simply hide in a bush, waiting for your "Lady" [[to return...|Historical Ending Page 6]]

You have failed... (link:"No... You refuse to go down like that!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

Waiting, waiting... Images of Chika and IF fill your head... Hopefully they were both in a better place right now. A world far away from this travesty... A world that would rightfully never allow you in. ... At long last, there it is: a tell-tale high-pitched whistle... and Vert's banner! The main Leanbox army had finally returned! You emerge from the bush upon seeing Lady Green Heart... and calmly walk up to her. Her eyes look at your face, but it's almost as if she is looking straight through you instead. "Why, hello Cave... You look simply terrible. I hear we were attacked... What became of that? The issue has been..." the CPU looks down at your tattered and muddy clothes, "... dealt with accordingly, I take it?" You hesitate for a moment... before silently clenching your fists. "... Lady Vert, IF launched a sneak attack on the Basilicom. She led a small battalion... and they stood no match for our army." Vert nods, no sign of emotion on her face. "Hmm... I see. What of IF then?" You look down at your feet, reluctantly showing more emotion to your goddess than intended. "... She is dead, my Lady. I defeated her in battle... and ended her..." The CPU pauses for a moment... then begins walking once again. "Okay... Job well done, Cave. You have done your nation proud. We'll have much less to worry about from now on!" She turns her head to a random soldier in back. "Get Markz and the others on cleaning duty. The yard looks to be a mess..." And with that, she simply marches into the castle. The soldiers tailing her make sure to stay out of your way, fear evident on all their features. [["..."|Historical Ending Page 7]]

"That's it?... 'Job well done'?!" you can't help but whisper to yourself. Vert loved IF; that much, even the blind could see! On top of that, Chika had always been like a sister to the CPU! Now, both of them are gone... and that's all she had to say?! She couldn't even throw out a simple "what a pity" or "I don't know what to say" or something, anything?! ... She doesn't care. She doesn't care about Chika, or IF, or Lyrica, or you, or Leanbox, or Gamindustri... She simply doesn't care about anything! If she ever did, she sure didn't now... ... That's when you fully realize that, much like Chika and IF... the Lady Vert you know is well and truly dead. Hell, she must've died on that mountaintop during the Yellow Bandana Rebellion. Whatever that Adrian punk did to her killed her... and replaced her with a mere shadow of herself. A creature spawned from Hell itself... ... And she dragged you into Hell with her. She corrupted your soul, making you do each and every single horrible deed... Well, no more... ... With dark determination in your eyes, you stare up at the shattered window at the top of the Basilicom... and a perfect plan is hatched in your mind. First thing's first: [[find Lyrica...|Historical Ending Page 8]]

You storm into the Basilicom, the Leanbox soldiers flinching in horror at the mere sight of you. You ignore them and dash to Lyrica's chambers, where the flawless pop idol is hiding under her bed, as you commanded. Upon seeing you, she climbs back up as her eyes light up in relief; a welcome sight after so many sad looks she's shot you. "C-Cave! Thank goodness, I was so worried! It... sounded awful out there not too long ago..." The urge to pick up this angel and give her the warmest hug of her life swells through your veins... but no, that simply is not meant to happen. You have a job to do... The pop idol looks at your thrashed appearance, and tilts her head curiously. "... W-What happened?... D-Did you find IF? That wasn't her who shot, was it?!" Here it comes, the moment of truth... Ha, as if you had any other choice. You avoid Lyrica's gaze... and open your mouth. "... IF... was a traitor, Lyrica... So, I did what I had to do: I killed her. I ran my blades straight through her chest, and looked into her eyes as she withered away." The blunette raises her hand to her wide-open mouth; complete shock... and you have only just begun. "And you know what? I'm glad I did it, too... In fact, it felt good. Best I've felt my entire life. Not just killing IF: no, I enjoyed burning Avenir to the ground, I enjoyed instilling fear in those Lastation peasants... Hell, I even enjoyed slicing the throats of those insolent fools who tried to assassinate our Lady..." You tighten your fists, and take a big gulp. No going back now. "... I'm a monster, Lyrica... and I would love nothing more than to see everything burn. I hate IF, I hate Planeptune, I hate Lastation, I hate Lowee, I hate anyone who dares stand in our way! But, (link:"more than all that...\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Historical Ending Page 9")]

"... I hate you, Lyrica. I hate how weak you make me. I hate everything you've ever done or said. Everything about you... makes me sick!" 5pb.'s shoulders sink, heartbreak completely wrecking her mind... You tune out your own thoughts, telling you to stop this. "Leave! Get the hell out of my sight! All of Vert's guards are busy cleaning up the mess I made, so you'll be able to run free! So... get out of Leanbox, before... I kill you myself!!!" There, it's all out in the open now... You turn your back completely and cross your arms. Tears well up in the pop idol's eyes... but she quickly suppresses the urge to sob and angrily storms towards the door. "... Fine... You'll never see me again!" she shouts, the raw emotion cutting your heart like a... Qatar. Entirely by accident... a near-silent sniffle escapes from you, causing the stunned girl to turn one last time in your direction. Her eyes bore into your back with a hint of confused curiosity... and in a hint of weakness, a single teardrop sneaks out of your right eye and trails down your cheek. Dammit! Lyrica sees you crying... and in a flash, everything from these past few weeks come crashing down in her mind! How cold you've acted towards her lately, why you followed Vert's orders so willingly, you trying to scare her away from Leanbox this very moment... Everything made sense to her now! All this time... you've been trying to keep her safe from the suddenly-deranged Vert! She knew that you had willingly sacrificed your soul... all for her. This war had eaten her up inside... and whatever you were planning now was all for the purpose of letting her [[escape...|Historical Ending Page 10]]

She sees right through your lies... She sees you are not a monster, even when you can't see it yourself... and she knows- outright knows- that you did not kill IF. A sparkle suddenly returns to her eyes... and a feeling of love and affection she's only ever felt from the brunette fills her heart... At least, that's what you hope she's feeling. You sense that the secret love of your life is about to say something... and you quickly turn your head and motion for her to stay quiet. Her beautiful eyes look deep into yours, and you shoot her one last smile... before quickly dashing past her and out the door! Lyrica stands still for a long moment, reflecting on everything... She determines that she does not want to let you and IF down, and she makes her way out of the Basilicom... and eventually, off of Leanbox entirely. You pray for her safety as you run through the halls... and soon, you find yourself right outside of Lady Green Heart's throne room. You know exactly what you must do... You slam open the massive regal doors, and find Vert predictably sitting cross-legged on her throne, reading what you presume to be some report of the damages the Leanbox army took on Planeptune. Without even looking up, she opens her mouth. "Why, hello again, Cave... Can you come back at a later time? I am needing of rest..." You run one hand through your hair, and place the other one at your belt. You take a deep breath... but otherwise keep silent. The CPU now takes the time to direct her full attention to you. "... You know, I was just alerted that Lyrica was seen leaving the grounds. Seems you've finally succeeded, Cave: my guards couldn't reach her in time, and now she's off, all alone in that cold, cruel world that lies beyond these walls. I didn't know you hated her that much... Do you hate her as much as you hated IF?" Heat rises up your body and paints your cheeks red... You glare towards your goddess and, while thinking of Lyrica, IF, and Chika... pull out your scissors, instantly separate the blades, and fire a blast of energy right for Green Heart. You've made your choice... Vert wanted a monster out of you? Well, (link:"she's got one!")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossCaveTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends OST - Vanish.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- Cave")]

{(set: $quotePercentage to (random: 1,100)) (if: $quotePercentage is 13)[Arlecchino: "Master Lia... Yet another unfortunate wanderer has decorated... I mean, dirtied your doorstep with her presence." Metallia: "Another one?! Dammit, the hell's going on?! That's like, what, the fifth one this week? Hmm... and this one is flatter than a cutting board." Visco: "That's just rude, Metallia!... And she's not that flat..." Metallia: "Yeah, yeah... Well, is she dead?" Arlecchino: "It appears to be so, Master Lia... But, she doesn't have to be for very long. Yes..." Metallia: "There ya go, sounding like a creep again..." Visco: "Takes one to know one..."](else:)[ (if: $iffyDeath is "Sniper")[(either:"From the window, Mr. Sniper lowers his firearm and breathes a sigh of relief. Mission... accomplished.","MR. SNIPER: \"Idiot, why did you make me do that?! No one can best me and my sniper! Still... I'll always remember you for the person you were before you left... and not as my latest target.\"","MR. SNIPER: \"Tragic... Don't fret, IF. Your bow comes with me. I'll cherish it like my own child...\"","Gotta give it to the sniper. It's windy and rainy like nothing else, and yet he STILL got a direct shot!")] (elseif: $iffyDeath is "Grenade")[(either:"SOLDIER: \"Ugh... W-Well, look at it this way! It... must've been quick! A-At least she didn't suffer... E-Er, unless she did... Shit...\"","GENERAL: \"Not the most... honorable way to go... but trust me, IF, it's better than whatever Vert would've done...\"","MEEK SOLDIER: \"... Well, on one hand, little cleanup. On the other, psychological scarring... Forever.\"","MARKZ: \"Wait, so she died by a grenade?! Why didn't any of you maggots record that?!\"")] (elseif: $iffyDeath is "Bleed")[... Why is everything... turning... blue? No, wait... Red?... No... Now there's a lot of colors! You clutch your stomach, but feel nothing. Your wound gone? Maybe... Maybe... resting... will be... ... Nice...] (elseif: $iffyDeath is "Medic")[(either:"COMPA?: \"Oh, Iffy! You didn't listen to me again! Aw, you really can't live without me~! That's so adorable!... Oh, in a twisted sort of way!\"","COMPA?: \"Iffy... You didn't... forget to read the instructions again, did you? DID YOU? Grr, I always knew you'd go out by not reading something! My grandpa will be SO MAD when I tell him about this!\"","NEPTUNE?: \"Ouch, Iffy, that looked like it stung! Well... When ya get 'up there', save some pudding for me, will ya, darlin~? Ohhhhhh... unless you're going to that... 'other place'...? Yeah, don't save me a seat if you're goin' downstairs, 'kay?\"")] (else:)[(either:"SOLDIER: \"Get Green Heart on the line. Planeptune tried to infiltrate the Basilicom... and they *failed.*\"","SOLDIER: \"Had to be done, IF. CPU's orders. No hard feelings...\"","GENERAL: \"Damn... C-Couldn't we have, I dunno... captured her instead?!\"","MEEK SOLDIER: \"Ouch, guys... I-I think we got her! Yeah... Yeah, she's dead all right.\"","HANK EAST: \"How poetic! It's raining, there's bullets, arrows, mud, and a dead hot chick... Uh, yeah, no idea where I'm going with this.\"","GENERAL: \"Miss IF... S-So young and full of hope... Your death will not be in vain! I'll make sure of it...\"","VERT: \"... Farewell, Miss IF. If only you had... chosen Leanbox instead...\"","LYRICA: \"Iffy?! IFFY?! W-Where are you?!\"")] ]} You have failed... (if: $iffyScenarioCheckpoint is true)[(link:"Load Last Checkpoint...")[(loadgame:"C")] ](link:"Restart IF's Path!")[(loadgame:"B")] <a HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

(if: $termDefinition is "CPU")[{(set: $definitionCPU to true)}A CPU, which is shorthand for Console Patron Unit, is basically a fancy/technical term to refer to the four goddesses of Gamindustri. Thusly, there are four major landmasses/continents! These CPUs are Lady Purple Heart, AKA Neptune, who rules over Planeptune; Lady Black Heart, AKA Noire, who rules over Lastation; Lady White Heart, AKA Blanc, who rules over Lowee; and last but certainly not least, Lady Green Heart, AKA Vert, who rules over Leanbox. These goddesses are forever competing with each other... but after several fights against the ultimate evil, they each share a deep bond beyond mere human comprehension! Some more than others, that is... A CPU's most identifying trait, perhaps, is their ability to transform called "HDD"... which stands for "Hard Drive Divinity". In short, HDD is practically God-mode; their true form as goddesses unleashed as the ultimate fighting machine! Not many people or even demonic entities can survive a fight against an HDD-enabled CPU... which is why it's preferable for Gamindustri to be at peace. Things get ugly when two CPUs wage war on each other...](else-if: $termDefinition is "Avenir")[{(set: $definitionAvenir to true)}Ah, yes: Avenir... What was once among the largest business juggernauts in all of Lastation! Primarily the developers of unique and innovative weaponry, they also dabbled in just about any aspect of life a typical Gamindustri citizen could experience. Avenir's head is none other than a man named Singe... er, or should I say 'was'?... Singe deeply resented mankind, preferring robots by far. Hell, he probably believed that humans were due to be outsourced... With that in mind, however... he oddly took in a young orphan boy many years ago by the name of Jade. If he hated humans so much... why did he adopt a child? I guess we'll never know now... Jade helped lead Avenir by his adopted father's side, and for the longest time, not much was known about this wannabe-aristocratic boy. Just prior to this whole war breaking out, though, our CPUs found out the truth: Jade's older sister Cerise was coldly murdered years ago in Lastation by a man named Markz Phenix: an infamous figure of Leanbox's army. Since that day, Jade harbored a deep thirst for vengeance on the evil man... as well as the woman who gave him the order to kill his sister, Lady Vert herself! Jade bided his time for so long... eventually striking a deal with the Deity of Sin, Arfoire... Yeah, he made an actual deal with the Devil. Tough cat... or he was just plain insane. Who can say? Anyways, that deal led to the "birth" of Adrian, Almaz, and Alex, who you may know as the leaders of the Yellow Bandanas... If not, don't worry; that's ancient history by now. Just know, that pathetic little rebellion of theirs sparked into the raging fire of a war we have on our hands now. It's always the small things, eh? Tl;dr- Jade eventually made his move and tried to kill Vert for good, waging war on Leanbox... It didn't even take a full night for Vert to order Cave to destroy all of Avenir's main weapon and supply depots, surround Jade, and penetrate his skull with a super-powered lance. In one awful night, Jade failed about as hard as you can when looking for total revenge, Singe literally exploded, and Avenir as a whole ceased to exist... You can probably see why the other nations were wary of Leanbox immediately after, right?](elseif: $termDefinition is "Marriage")[{(set: $definitionMarriage to true)}Isn't marriage such a wonderful thing? Heh, yeah, not when it leads to a world-wide war spurred on by a total nutcase... Lady Neptune and Lady Noire, two goddesses of opposing nations, made "merry" together one majestic night over a year ago, and since that day, they've been Gamindustri's star couple... Er, well, actually, they kept their relationship a total secret to everyone but a select few close friends and family. Always a setup for complete understanding... Soon, the time came for the two to finally tie the knot— Gamindustri is a VERY progressive place— and the two ladies came out together on national television, announcing a permanent alliance between Planeptune and Lastation. Seeing as their Oracles are Histoire and Kei... the best name they came up with was "Nepstation"... but I digress. The announcement was met with... a mixed response to say the least. Some loved it, some hated it, some simply said 'meh'... Sounds like the internet to me. It was because of these split opinions between the people of Gamindustri that a certain male clone of Arfoire, named Adrian- you know Adrian, right? Course you do... Right?- was able to gather an army of disgruntled citizens and start a grand rebellion in Planeptune! The group captured several small cities before all four nations united to stop them... and long story short, Adrian was squashed and imprisoned in a high-security prison on Leanbox. The rebellion was quelled... but from there, things started to spiral downhill... And it's all thanks to a wonderful engagement of two goddesses. Make of that what you will.](elseif: $termDefinition is "Shares")[{(set: $definitionShares to true)}Money makes the world go round; hate to say it, kids, but that's the truth. As much as some may hate to admit it, simple currency is mandatory when it comes to surviving. You know what else makes living possible? Oxygen. Can't live if ya can't breathe. Shares can be thought of as a cross between money and oxygen... only, strictly for the CPUs. For each goddess to remain at full power, they require a hearty helping of Share energy, be it metaphysical or manifested in crystal form, commonly referred to as "Sharicite." No Shares, no healthy goddess... Capiche? Shares can be acquired in more ways that I can simply list, but it basically all amounts to how much faith the people have in their particular CPU. If life in their nation is good, Shares are usually in the green. Monsters or warfare ravaging the cities? Yeah, things won't be looking too good... A CPU can engage HDD only when they have enough energy; DUH! However, stay in the form too long, and it's as if you're running the air conditioning non-stop throughout the hot summer: your wallet gets drained in the blink of an eye! A goddess can't afford to use up those life-giving Shares... ... However... ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, where Vert almost met her end with one sudden and unexpected attack... Green Heart has maintained a constant HDD form (along with an ever-growing evil personality, but I digress). You can hopefully see why this is a terrible- no, GODAWFUL- thing: her Shares drain and drain by the second, but whatever is going on with her corrupted mind, she refuses to disengage the form. Thus, she needs more shares... which any Einstein could predict would lead to war: Vert has set out to not only prove her dominance over all of Gamindustri, but also to siphon away the other nations' Shares! If only she was, eh, not so evil right now, maybe she'd actually be able to earn her own Shares without punching dogs and killing babies. I'm sure there is a pack of dogoos running around that she could defeat or something... Or, you know, maybe send a sandwich to a homeless shelter. It's the small stuff.](elseif: $termDefinition is "Lowee Mystery")[{(set: $definitionLowee to true)}Shhhhh... I don't usually do this, but I'm willing to share with you a little secret I've heard making rounds recently... You know Lady White Heart rules Lowee, right? If you don't, go back and read about it, or whatever. Well... about a few days ago, a really disturbing story showed up in the Lowee tabloids: Lady Blanc was apparently the target of an assassination attempt! Yeah, I know: Everyone loves Blanc! Who the hell would try to kill her? The alleged attack isn't even the crazy part! No... You wanna know who is rumored to have tried to kill her? Purple Sister of Planeptune!... Oh, there is no "Sister" entry for you to read? Crap... Well, basic rundown: of the four goddesses, three have little sisters: Neptune has Nepgear, Noire has Uni, and Blanc has Ram AND Rom. No love for Vert... Probably explains a few things. Anyways, these little sisters are called the CPU Candidates. That's really all you need to know for today... Anyways, Neptune's innocent and pure (very very pure, I must iterate) sister, Nepgear, was rumored to have assaulted Blanc in her own Basilicom... Now THAT makes no sense. Again, this is just a rumor... so there's probably no merit to it. I mean, Blanc even made a public appearance two days ago, dismissing any such occurence! ... Though... she did look rather sweaty and uncomfortable. Usually, she simply looks like she doesn't give a crap... B-But yeah, I'm sure it is just a creepy tale! Totally!](elseif: $termDefinition is "Oracle")[{(set: $definitionOracle to true)}Wow, you actually want to know about the Oracles? Man, you must have a lot of free time... Well, each nation has an Oracle, who is basically the CPU's right-hand woman. They pretty much ensure the nation stays afloat, be it by monitoring Share intake, overseeing the Basilicom's activities, and recruiting strong adventurers for important quests/busy work/errands. How does one become an Oracle? Well... really, no one is quite sure. For the longest time, recruiting a new one hasn't been an issue. That was until... this WAR happened! I figure this is all you need to know: the four Oracles <strike>are</strike>... *ahum* WERE: Histoire, on Planeptune- An all-knowing tome fairy, although it may take her some time to know it. Kei Jinguji, on Lastation- a boyish stoic woman who takes her work serious... Recently, however, her workrate has suffered... and she has been visiting Lady White Heart nearly every day... Mina Nishizawa, on Lowee- a scholarly woman, she also served as a mother-figure for Blanc's two younger sisters, Ram and Rom. Her best friend was Histoire, even if her depressed mind couldn't always see that. An... <a title="Link to fanfiction.net. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10784645/1/The-Witches-Spell-All-s-Well-That-Ends-Well" target="_blank">[unfortunate accident]<external|(click:?external)[(set: $ffLinkClicked to true)]</a> befell Mina two weeks ago... Chika Hakozaki, on Leanbox- an energetic and smart, yet somewhat childish, woman. She was Vert's self-proclaimed "sister"... which to her, means a whole lot more than you may be comfortable with. Or, you're completely okay with that. More than that, she is surprisingly one of the stoic Cave's closest friends... which by itself is completely amazing. As with Mina... Chika is sadly no longer with us...](elseif: $termDefinition is "Basilicom")[{(set: $definitionBasilicom to true)}What is a Basilicom? Whatever the hell you want it to be; I can't do everything for you, can I? ... Sorry, it's just been a rough past few weeks. All four nations have one central Basilicom, which is basically where the CPUs reside and rule over the nation, along with gathering shares and the like. The most cliche example of how a Basilicom looks is an old church schoolhouse, such as the one I had to go to every Saturday for "Sunday School"... True story, this is complete shoot. A church is a great descriptor: they are GODDESSES after all. A church fused with your childhood home fused with Congress fused with a war room fused with... stuff. However, as time progressed, the Hearts- I'mma call 'em the 'Hearts' today, sue me- decided to spruce up their own holy buildings to better match their temperaments... er, or something like that; frankly, I have no idea what goes on in the omniscient minds of theirs... Neptune, ever the lazy dope, never got around to customizing her residence, so it remains looking like a run-down church fused with a standard ranch house. You hate house centipedes? Those just LOVE ranch houses... but I digress. Lady Black Heart, despite protests from the always-professional Kei, slowly transformed her Basilicom into a rather-large residential home. How strange; that seemed to coincide with her and Neptune becoming... intimate. Perhaps she decided that a more homely feel to the central hub of the nation's government would attract more followers... You think being a Grade-A tsundere would be more than enough. Lady White Heart opted for a more... 'traditional' structure, resembling a traditional Japanese pagoda. After an incident with dragons last year, however, she ordered Lowee's finest craftsmen to construct a massive wall around her home. Still no word on how she expected that to work, especially considering dragons helped topple it down about a month ago. All in an effort to stop the assholes who captured the Basilicom while everyone else was distracted by the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, granted, but still. And, perhaps most... intriguing by far, was Lady Vert's Basilicom: a massive castle, bigger than what you're imagining in your head. You know the tale of the king dude who executed his entire construction crew because they made his castle so big, he had to walk a few miles to get from his bedroom to his throne? Well, this Basilicom is bigger than that. Vert LOVES anime and big things... I'd say she was over-compensating for something, but... have you SEEN her? If anything, she's simply bragging. Why is the castle so damn big? I can only assume that the outside is secretly MUCH bigger than the inside; like, half of the building is actually just a thick wall to confuse or deter any potential thieves or assassins. Considering Lady Green Heart has taken a ride on the lunatic-stick (I'm tryin' here, sorry), that's not a far-off worry. ... So, to sum up, how shocking: buildings in anime that don't make a lick of sense at all! Fancy that...] [Back]<back|{(click:?back)[(goto: $previousPassage)]}

You race up to the highest floor of the Basilicom, and are relieved to see Lyrica sitting on her bed, appearing tired and confused. She turns to look at you... and her eyes become even more exhausted. "Cave, you're back early, aren't you? Is... Vert back too?" You avert your gaze, your resolve wavering as soon as you see the saddened girl who has unknowingly taken residence deep within your heart. Long gone are the days where she seemed happy to see you... Now, she just fears you like everyone else... You blurt out the only thing you can muster. "... We are to wait for Vert to return... She ordered the entire army to retreat." The pop idol cocks her head curiously. "... Vert only retreats when something terrible has happened..." Her apathy quickly turns to spine-tingling dread. "... Oh God, what happened?" Here comes the moment you've been dreading... With your head still turned away, and with a slight clench of your fists, you reply: "... Chika... Chika is..." Lyrica looks expectantly at you after your long pause, momentarily waiting for the mysterious conclusion to that sentence. However, 5pb. is a smart girl; she pieces everything together, acknowledging your not-so-subtle discomfort. Her face is blank for the first few moments, but her eyes eventually widen, and a cold sweat runs down her back and forehead. ... Always the bearer of bad news, you are... The two of you sit in silence after that, every second that passes feeling like a knife digging into your heart. Eventually, you have had enough, and you motion for Lyrica to stand up and follow you. The pop idol has nothing better to do than obey... [[Wait for Vert...|Cave Intro Page 3]]

The two of you stand in the grand hall right outside of the throne room, and you look out of the massive hastily-repaired window. Even something as simple as this causes you to bite your lip; this window is the very same that sent Mina to her death... One by one, your friends were falling. Who is next, you can't help but wonder... The rain outside appears to have stopped, but the looming clouds seem to promise otherwise. You think of so many things to say to try to comfort Lyrica as you wait... but none of them leave your lips. The both of you simply stand and watch the bleak horizon... ... Many minutes pass... when suddenly, flags appear right at the start of the front walkway to the castle; the entire massive hilly yard is encircled by trees on all sides save for the very front. "That better be her..." you whisper, before starting to turn and leave to greet her. Lyrica squints her eyes, hoping to get a better look. "I-I don't think that's Vert..." She watches closely... and suddenly exclaims in what somewhat resembles joy! "... I-IF?! C-Cave, i-it's IF! Look at the flag! M-Maybe it's a peace treaty! IF is going to help us!" Indeed, the approaching army was not holding a Leanbox flag... but instead, a stark black flag adorned with a green leaf: IF's calling-card in the Lastation/Planeptune army. But... why were they here? If this was a full-out assault, they were foolish. If this was some sneak attack, they were idiots. A major sense of unease fills your heart... but you can't tell if that's just severe paranoia or not. Any case, Lyrica runs closer to the massive window to get a better look, thrilled at the prospect of seeing her lover again. Seeing that traitor again... "W-We have to go greet them! We have to-" *CRASH!* The world grinds to a halt as you helplessly watch an arrow penetrate the flimsy glass... and fly straight for the pop idol! You desperately try to move, but it's as if you're frozen! Come on, legs, move!!! Lyrica's eyes widen at the confusing sight before her, her mind not yet fully realizing what's happening. The arrow flies and flies... and grazes her right cheek before lodging itself in the back wall. The arrow just barely missed her... but it was enough to leave one more everlasting scar on your mind. IF. Army. Arrow. Lyrica. Danger. Traitor. Death. You stare out the sole window in your room of the Basilicom, gazing up at the clear blue sky. What a peaceful day... What a lonely day. Your eyes trail down to the flowing green hills that are part of what makes Leanbox famous... and you find, predictably, the 'star couple' of Gamindustri: IF and Lyrica, sitting together not too far from the castle. IF's face is one of pure bliss... and Lyrica's is one of love and devotion. She loved this woman more than life itself... No matter what happened... these two would be together forever, even though it ate you up inside day-by-day. Lyrica would always find hope and comfort in IF's arms... and likewise, IF would love and take care of the pop idol for the rest of her days, and perhaps even longer. While you may never have the happiness you desperately seek, at least you could eternally live in comfort, knowing that the battle-hardened veteran always had 5pb's best interests at heart... She'd always keep her safe. You stand frozen... and Lyrica slowly turns to look at you. "... C-Cave?" You hear her, but the words don't register in your mind. You glare at the window, the arrow mark still fresh... and pull out your weapon- best described as a long and elegant pair of scissors. With your right hand, you gesture towards the girl you love: two full rotations with your fingers clenched. A pre-rehearsed command for the pop idol to hide until you return. Lyrica sees the look in your eye; one even you can't comprehend perhaps. "... C-Cave, n-no! Don't-" (link:"Snap.")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_7-Theme_of_Wei_-_Finale_Battle_of_Fan_Castle_.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Cave First Move")]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> }Immediately, regret fills your heart... but you can't turn back now. Vert showed her true colors there: she'll kill Lyrica if you stayed, and you have every reason to believe her. You can only pray for your girlfriend's safety... Well, at least Cave will be there. Maybe the SMD Warrior WAS right: you can't protect Lyrica... but you know that she can. Still... as you head back to Planeptune to regroup with your 'sworn sisters'... you can't help but think of ways to rescue your loving girlfriend, who was practically being held hostage over in Leanbox... Present Day... You haven't heard from Lyrica since before those events... but you know she's alright. Despite your differences, you still trust Cave, at least when it came to the pop idol's safety... The Leanbox army has been running rampant in the short time since the fall of Avenir and the unexpected death of Mina... so you've taken it upon yourself to siphon away as many shares from the corrupted nation as possible. Less shares for Leanbox weakened them, and equally powered up the Lastation/Planeptune alliance; simple stuff! Along the way, Histoire may have coaxed you into taking a small amount of shares from Lowee as well... but it was all for the greater good, and once this war was over, all the shares would be equally distributed back to where they belonged! It's disconcerting how Blanc has gone completely silent... but hopefully she will see your reasoning after Vert's Basilicom fell! ... The plan is simple: you've told your troops to approach the Leanbox Basilicom from the front, drawing the attention of what (hopefully) little forces they have on duty. Meanwhile, it is up to you to flank the castle from the back, sneak into the holy structure, and capture the nation's capital, just like that! The main army should be away, fighting in Planeptune... so the time was right! You pray that Lyrica is in the castle and is safe. It was finally time for you to reunite with your true love... and put a stop to this terrible conflict. With a free hand, you pat one of your deep pockets... and feel your transceiver tucked away inside. You couldn't risk your cellphones being tracked by any possible security mechanism... so you took this along for when you need to report your successful capture of the castle. Good thing you didn't forget it! Next, you hold up your right arm to get a better look at your weapons: altered variations of your typical Qatars. Reliable throwing knives... Yeah, not the most accurate name for 'em, but doesn't it sound so freakin' cool?! The edges are dulled so as not to dish out too-lethal strikes. Instead of sharpness, the 'blades' are infused with enough energy to give off light electrical shocks. That should be enough to incapacitate any foe who may happen to stand in your way, without the worry of killing them in cold blood. Gotta keep some sense of your honor in this cruel war... The ground is already wet from an earlier rainfall, and more dark clouds loom overhead, threatening an even worse downpour in the very near future. Well, it's too late to turn back now! (link:"March out!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistory.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_5-Gloomy_Shadow.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"IF First Move")] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

For the next half hour, the battle rages on... but it's clear that Avenir is no match for Leanbox. This is a bloody farce... Cave destroys yet another machine, drags out the pilot... and stabs him through the chest. Not just her, either: Markz's men are sniping Avenir guards left-and-right, almost seeming to enjoy it to. Hell, you highly suspect they're keeping score! All this violence around you... Your ears start ringing, and soon, that's all you can hear. No gunshots, no explosions, no screams, no raging flames... just ringing. You look at Cave, following Vert's deranged orders so willingly... and you realize that you've had enough. Avenir has done terrible things... but spilt blood does not warrant more spilt blood. This is no longer your battle. Leanbox... is no longer your home. You think of Lyrica, ordered to stay behind in the Basilicom for this battle... and you come to a sudden decision: you will wait in the Leanbox airship for this battle to conclude, head back with the army until you can get Lyrica, and then return to Planeptune to be with your best friends Neptune and Compa. After finishing off her latest victim, Cave turns to you... and sees the uncertainty in your eyes. "IF, what's the matter? We have a job to do, don't falter!" You lightly close your eyes before responding. "... I can't do this anymore... I'm heading back." You turn around and simply begin walking away, a dizzying headache forming in your temples. "You're WHAT?" You knew this wouldn't go well. "... I can't support this, Cave! We're killing all these people... Don't you see that Vert's gone mad?! If that's how she's going to do things, then... I don't belong here. I'll meet with ya back at the ship... I'd recommend you return soon, too; I'm worried about ya." The SMD Warrior stares at you with what you can only describe as disgust. "... YOU, worried about ME? I'm not the one doubting our Lady! We're doing this to make the land a better place!" "NO! What we're doing is cruel! This will only serve to make everyone else fear us!" you shout, louder than intended. Your friend's eyes keep staring, rage building slowly and slowly... "... Well, Avenir clearly didn't fear us, and they tried to kill two CPUs! Whether we agree with all of Vert's decisions or not, this is the only possible outcome! I'm helping her to keep everyone safe!" You shake your head, but lift your legs to continue walking. "... Whatever you call it, I don't like it. You guys don't need my help here anyways, so I'm heading back. I'm gonna get Lyrica far away from Ver-" A blast of energy suddenly explodes a few inches by your right foot, and you quickly turn around. Cave is aiming one of her makeshift twin blades at you. "Leave Lyrica out of your foolishness! Vert is the only one keeping her safe, and I serve as our Lady's loyal enforcer. No harm shall fall upon Lyrica so long as she remains on Leanbox... I will see to that. Now... rid your mind of these delusions and aid us in finishing this fight! I'm willing to forgive you for the momentary weakness..." You can feel boiling blood rise to your cheeks. "Are you saying... that I can't protect Lyrica?" "... I'm saying that Vert and I have the power to." That was all you needed to hear... Without another word, you turn back around and head off the battlefield. Cave does not fire again; you simply feel her glare burning your back. Vert radios in on your communicators... and you pull it out of your pocket and toss it to the ground. You make your way back to the docked airship... [[Next...|IF Intro Page 3]]

You wait in your cabin... and it's not too long before you hear the sound of footsteps; the army was returning! You are unsure if you should apologize to Cave- if you are even ready- so you simply sit on your bed, letting your tension slowly fade. You focus on thinking about Lyrica's beautiful face... You want what's best for her... and Leanbox isn't it. Time passes, and the ship still remains docked... when suddenly, someone knocks on your door. Your ears perk up... and a nervous dread fills your stomach. You did kinda go AWOL back there... Either way, you were never one to avoid the passing of justice, so you open the door... to find Lady Vert standing right outside! As everyone has come to expect, the goddess is still in her HDD form... but she is wearing some rather... unusual clothes. Much more revealing, if that was even possible. She speaks. "Hello, Miss IF... I hear you were not pleased with the proceedings that went on today... May I come in? I desire to speak with you about that." Against your better judgement, you nervously nod. Damn it, focus! Insane or not... your heart still holds a place for Lady Green Heart. You feel your courageous resolve wavering as she sits on your bed... and slowly lays back. "I... am deeply sorry for the brutality I've displayed today... Iffy..." she gently coos, motioning for you to lay beside her. You reluctantly comply, leaning back right next to her. "... I fear I've gone much too far... and I am already beginning to regret it. It's just... seeing my life flash before my eyes, seeing Neptune paralyzed, seeing those hail of arrows and bullets raining down as I tried to escape... That assassination attempt changed me, Iffy-darling." A finger trails across her stomach... and her elbow lightly grazes your arm. "... I never wanted to feel that weak again... so, I had Avenir destroyed in my blind fury... No, fear. I was afraid..." You don't know what to say... Vert hasn't been this open to you in quite awhile. Ever since before the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, honestly. Feeling unsure about yourself, you bring up a comforting hand to the CPU's cheek. "... Lady Vert... I'm sorry. I... never considered all that... You always seem so invincible, I... sometimes forget you can feel afraid too... Er, sorry, that sounded wron-" But before you can finish, you feel something soft grace your lips... Vert is kissing you! Wait wait wait wait wait! You meekly manage to separate yourself from the lovely goddess. "L-Lady Vert! T-This is very inappropriate!" As if she doesn't hear you, she kisses you again... but you promptly pull out. "I-I'm dating Lyrica! W-We can't jus-" But she tries to pull you in yet again. You manage to hold her back. Vert lovingly stares into your eyes. "Lyrica will never need to know... I need you, IF! I'm so afraid... but you can-" She roughly grabs your hand and places it on her breast. "- make it all better~..." W-What the hell is happening?!!! Cornered, you roll away and jump to your feet. "V-Vert, what the hell are ya thinking?!" The deranged goddess frowns up at you. "All I want is you by my side, Miss IF... but that annoying pop idol keeps getting in the way. What does she have that I don't?!" The HDD-enabled CPU is suddenly standing right before you; damn, she's fast! "I just want to make you happy! Let me in!" You've never felt this frightened! You end up pushing the woman's chest, sending her back a few inches. Angered surprise paints her face. "You... dare push me? You don't want me?!" You defensively pull out your Qatars and stumble back. "Y-You're not normal, Lady Vert! Please... stay away!" Vert frowns some more... before hatred is all you see in her expression. "... So that's how it's going to be, hmm? Well then... Get off my airship. Leave my sight! If I ever see you again, then..." The goddess looks down at her rustled skimpy clothing. "... Lyrica dies. You hear me?! I'll make sure she suffers, just like any insolent fool who dares stand in the way of my perfect world!" Your eyes widen... but you're in no mood to fight her. Besides, she's just made herself perfectly clear... She wants you to leave? Well, you'll give her exactly what she wants!!! Screw Leanbox! You grunt as you leave the room... and you storm out of the ship. [[Next...|IF Intro Page 4]]

The wind begins to pick up... and you are already once again on the move. You feel your mind start to wander as Leanbox and Planeptune wage war around you... No, maintain focus at all costs! Get distracted, and... you'll let everyone down again. The entire country is relying on you... If you fail, who else will they have? "You two are practically inseparable... I wonder how you'll fare on your own?" Weakening thoughts win out over your resolve to ignore them... Your brisk steps slow to a crawl as a flood of the past washes over you... (if: $caveKarma < 1)[{(set: $flashbackOneViewed to "Good")}There's only so much training one warrior can take... You put your blades away and walk back to the Basilicom. Lyrica was off with IF... again. But that's no surprise; why wouldn't two lovers spend time together? Still... that meant you were once again alone. What else is new... Without really thinking, you eventually find yourself laying beneath the covers of your plain bed, feeling the cool breeze roll in from your wide-open window... and soon, sleep claims your exhausted mind... ... The next thing you know... something cool is touching your lips... What the hell is that? It feels wet... Very unnatural... Okay, cut it out! Your eyes snap open... and you see Chika's guilty grin beaming right at you, only her right eye open. She is laying right beside you... and her right hand is clutching a tube of neon-green lipstick! "Wakey wakey, Cavey~ Dah, why do you get to look so adorable when you sleep? Vert says I slobber too much. Oh yeah, and kick... I kick a lot." You playfully push Chika aside and jump towards the nearest mirror... and the painful truth is revealed: your lips are a sickening shade of glow-in-the-dark green! You bring up your arms to hastily wipe away the cosmetic... before snapping your head towards the Oracle. "Chika, w-what the hell?!" Chika can only laugh, and she begins rolling in your bed. Well, you were going to have to make your sheets again anyways... Wait, no, this is unacceptable! "... Y-You will be punished for this, you know that, right?!" you yell out, your face bright red. Your friend simply grins like a deviant ne'er-do-well... before hopping off the mattress and grabbing you in a tight hug. "I was only having some fun with you, Cavey... Besides, I needed to grab yer attention! Lookit what I got!" The Oracle separates from you to turn and reach down into her bag at the foot of the bed... S-She calls herself a lady, yet she's bending down right in front of you! You are reminded of how she barely wears pants... H-Hold on, what the hell are you thinking?! She fishes around her pocket book for an... 'uncomfortable' amount of time... when suddenly, she gleefully exclaims: "AHA! There ya are!" "... W-What?" Chika spins a full 180 degrees... and you find yourself staring face-to-face with some typical anime male protagonist wielding a fancy-yet-impractical spear. It's a colorful design for a box, you'll give it that. "Tada!!! 'Shin Megami Musou: Ultimate Xtreme Empires-2'! Finally got the new game, and I hear it has a ton of Accolade Points! We gotta get my Playerscore up to impress Verty-poo, remember?!" You are tempted to snap at her... but the cheerful way she's hugging the video game makes it hard to get annoyed. So, instead of asking if the Oracle of Leanbox had better things to do... you reply: "... Does it offer cooperative gameplay?" Chika winks in your direction. "Of course! I hear it reduces 50 hours of grinding time to boot! I don't need to be anywhere today... so, wanna do it?" You think, trying not to let an embarrassed smile cross your lips... and you quickly find yourself nodding. "... Let's kick ass."](else:)[{(set: $flashbackOneViewed to "Bad")}The back door of the Basilicom slams open, startling you as you are making fruit juice in the kitchen. You immediately rush over to investigate... and you sigh as a sadly-predictable scene plays out before you: Chika stumbling inside, her clothes ragged, her hair frazzled, and a bottle in her hand. You speak, concern for your friend showing on your face. "Chika... Don't tell me you went out drinking again." The Oracle, face flushed, smiles up at you as she leans against the nearby wall. "Drinking, me? Nahhhhhhh..." A hiccup escapes her. "... Okay, maybe jush a little..." She starts to fall over, but you leap forward and catch her. The woman's eyes are closed, but she smiles as she relaxes in your arms. "Can you tuck me in, Cavey?" A sudden rational thought crosses your mind. "Wait, where's Vert? Weren't the two of you going to that new diner tonight?" Her eyes remain closed... but your friend's brows furrow slightly. As best friends, the two of you can sense when something's wrong... and right now, your radar was blaring big time. A feeling of sad understanding fills your heart. "... Oh, she said she was too busy tonight... She should be in her room, probably... strategizing, or sumthin'..." Chika's left eye opens to wink up at you. "Since I spent a while putting this outfit together, I... stopped by the local bar. Only had two drinks, don't worry... Er, or was it three? No more than five, promise!" You sigh once again. It pains you to see your best friend like this. Ever since coming back from both the Yellow Bandana Rebellion AND the small conflict on Lowee immediately afterwards, Vert just hasn't been the same. She's been more emotionally-distant than ever, and it had everyone on edge. That was just a week ago... Hopefully it will all blow over soon. Still, Chika loved Vert more than anything... and she couldn't help Vert deal with whatever was plaguing her. The CPU was just pushing her further and further away, it seemed... and that was completely eating her up inside. With no better idea on how to console her, you firmly scoop the Oracle off her feet and turn to carry her upstairs. "Here... I'll get you to bed." "Teehee... You're the best, Cavey~" She rests her head, a little too heavily, upon your bosom. "Y'know, there was a cute new bartender tonight. Her name was Cerise... I think you should talk to her sometime~" You just roll your eyes as you carry her up, a light smile trying to force itself onto your face. Before you even make it to her room, she has already fallen asleep. She looks so peaceful... yet, all you can feel is anger. "... I'll get stronger, I promise. For you."] ... ... Just forget about it. Let it go... DAMN IT ALL, let it GO! Clench your fists if you must, grit your teeth if need be... but you can't go back now. Only the weak dwell on the past! (link:"Proceed...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(1,1000);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Third Move")]

You were finally going mad; that much seemed obvious. You're seeing Vert AND IF in places they aren't... What's going to happen to you? No, now you're starting to panic... Maintain a level head. You'll get through this... If you're going to lose your mind, at least finish the mission first. Lyrica awaits for your success... ... But how can you stay calm? Here you are, chasing after IF for betraying Leanbox... when you just killed six of your own men. You can't shut out the screams of the enemies of the past... The Yellow Bandana rebels, the Avenir soldiers, the Lastation peasants, the Lowee forces... They all had one nifty term to coin you: monster. Certainly seemed accurate enough... As your thoughts begin a sad cresendo... a raindrop hits your nose. Next, your hair, then your shoulder, then your cheek, then several spots on you all at once... The rain had returned, just as the sky had warned. No drizzle to ease the world into it, either; the water falls in a mad downpour, and looks to pour on and on and on. No end in sight... "... Just a little more..." you whisper to yourself, and it's true: just walk a little bit more, and you'll soon make it to IF's main force. The same cruel squad that had shot the arrow that nearly stole Lyrica away from you. ... Too much has been stolen already... (if: $caveKarma <= 1)[{(set: $flashbackTwoViewed to "Good")}"Damn her... What the hell is she thinking?!" You pace back and forth in your cabin aboard the airship heading back for Leanbox, IF the only thing on your mind. Your army was ultimately successful against the inferior Avenir force... but the brunette up and betrayed you, just like that! How could she... Didn't she even care about Lyrica? Not only did she abandon her post, but you've been told that she's left the Leanbox army altogether! What insolence! "She's a traitor... She's always been a damn traitor!" A voice filled with awkwardness coughs loudly... and you turn around to find Chika sitting on your bed, sweatdrop prevalent. "Cavey, do you always blab on like that?" While your blood stays boiled, a slight embarrassed blush paints your cheeks. "This is serious, Chika! This is desertion!" The Oracle rubs the back of her head, before patting the empty spot of the bed beside her. You pace a few more times, but it doesn't take long for you to comply and take the seat. "Hey, hey... believe me, I know. But..." Chika suddenly moves her hand up to rub your hair, rather roughly at that. "... I dunno, she must have her reasons. It sucks, it really really sucks... but it won't help anything to obsess over it. We just gotta believe she's going down a right path for her, and we gotta do the same for ourselves!" You are taken aback for a moment. It's not like Chika to... well, give a rational pep-talk. Still, it's pretty hard to simply calm down. "... I hope you're right..." The peppy woman slaps you on the back, eliciting a yelp from your throat. "You worry too much! Sometimes, ya gotta just ignore the bad stuff, you know?" A soft smile lights up her face... That always manages to cheer you up. "... Still... you only worry so much because you care... and I can't even begin to explain how awesome I think that is." An unusual tenderness resonates in your best friend's words... and for at least the moment, you don't feel as if the world is sitting on your shoulders. You are practically at a loss for words, and she continues. "... I'm not going to lie, Cave: I was more afraid tonight than I've ever been. Afraid about Avenir, afraid about what might happen to me, what might happen to YOU... Afraid of what's happening to Vert..." She pauses, trying to ignore the pained feelings swelling up... "... But, no matter what happens, I know that I at least have you. Not only me, but Lyrica, Vert... All of us. I can tell that even now you're blaming yourself for something... but just know: without you... I wouldn't be able to handle this." Another momentary pause, and a corny grin adorns her face. "Heh... you're my rock I guess!" This almost doesn't feel real... You and Chika never had a heart-to-heart to this degree! You gaze back at your friend, all semblance of language glued to your tongue. Come on, say something! Anything! However, Chika takes the chance from you. "Teehee... So what are ya waiting for? Now's the part where you kiss me, cowboy~" That blindsides you for sure! "K-Kissing?! W-W-Wha?! N-No, I couldn-" A friendly dismissive wave of her hand. "Wow, you really are so fun to tease~" And before you know it, the two of you are sharing a tight hug. What tomorrow may bring, you have no clue... but at least right now, you can forget all about Vert's mental slippage, Lyrica's endangered life, IF's insufferable betrayal... All of it. For tonight... just be happy... "... Don't change on me Cave, alright? Doctor's orders!" "... 'Doctor'?"](else:)[{(set: $flashbackTwoViewed to "Bad")}"Cave... Are you okay? Things got... well, pretty rough out there..." You barely lift your head up to address Chika's concerned voice, and instead glare down at your bedroom floor. All you can think about is IF... How smug she looked as she walked off the battlefield, abandoning not only you, but all of Leanbox in your struggle against Avenir. "... She'll pay... IF will pay..." Chika's brows furrow, and she hesitantly takes a seat beside you. "... Cave, you really have to calm down... Please." It pains you to hear the exhaustion in your best friend's voice. She should be more cheerful than this... That'd suit her much better. "... You went through a lot tonight. I'm worried about you..." She says that, wording it as if you were a victim in this battle... but you know what she really means: she's afraid for you... no, OF you. You were in no danger at all... In fact, you WERE the danger! You killed any Avenir guard who stood before you, without a moment's hesitation. They quite simply didn't stand a chance... ... You did some terrible things... but what else could you have done? Vert gave you those orders... and if you didn't comply with everything she said, what would happen to Lyrica? What would happen to everyone? Vert... needed you to keep her in check. "... I'm sorry to have worried you... I'm fine, Chika," you lie, looking the Oracle square in the eye. Your friend frowns slightly... but does not say another word as she leans her head against your shoulder. "Things... seemed so simple two weeks ago, huh?" "Yeah... they did... But that's why we must fight now: to get things back to normal." "... You're right, Cavey..."] ... You're doing it again... You know you shouldn't... no, you CAN'T... but why does it have to be so hard? Why can't you just... let it all go? At least for one goddamn second... why can't you push everything away and focus on what needs to be done? Why aren't you strong enough to move on...? (link:"Get a hold of yourself...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(1,1000);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Fifth Move")]

(if: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 1)["Cave... I'd like a word with you. This way..." "Hmm?... Yes, my Lady. Of course." You are rather surprised at Vert's sudden appearance at your chamber's door... but you try to hide it as best you can. She is your Lord; you must do whatever it takes to appease her! You expertly maneuver off your bed and follow the CPU out... and she leads you to an upper-floor balcony, overlooking the Basilicom's central garden. Lady Green Heart's right-hand man, Markz Phenix, stands to the far left, and he winks as you enter the area. His eyes give you the creeps. "Hey, Legs! Lookin' fine! Glad to see the blood's already washed off yer uniform too! Those suckers bled like stuffed pigs, am I right?!" the mad soldier cackles. There's a reason he was toiling away in a high-security prison for years when your Lady plucked him up. A man such as this is not fit for human interaction. Hell, the Devil would reject this monster... but enough about him. You and the goddess turn to stare down at the flowers... and hey, Lyrica is down there! Watering the plants, showing them as much love and affection as you wish she... would show you... Vert suddenly speaks up, startling your system! "... Be honest with me, Cave: is it true that you've been... doubting your orders as of late?" The hell? Where did she... Who could've told her? Chika would never reveal anything the two of you shared, and you doubt Linda or that Nepgeo girl would even care... Was it Markz? There's no way to trust that bastard, or any of his squad for that matter... Still, you didn't make it a habit to question Vert's orders! It's just... when you are told to murder presumably-innocent or just plain misled individuals, such as the Avenir militia... you can't help but delay for but a second. "... Of course not, my Lady! I've never doubted you at all! I believe in you with all my heart and soul! I believe in your strength, your dominance, and your vision for the land!" You gesture towards Lyrica far down below. "You have the strength to keep Lyrica safe from the cruel anarchists plaguing the world... I will do whatever it is that you ask of me to ensure that remains the case forever." The CPU smiles at your pandering. "Good, good. I know I can count on you, Cave..." The goddess looks down at Lyrica as well, keeping quiet; something important must be swimming around her mind. A cold sensation begins to creep up your stomach... and she continues! "... But, if there's one thing I've learned, it's that trust is an ever-fleeting thing. Don't take this personal, but... I must guarantee your loyalty to me. You are a strong warrior, Cave... and I need you by my side for my vision to be complete." You can't really tell where she is going with this, but you can't shake this major feeling of unease. "My Lady, I would never turn my back on-" Before you can finish, Green Heart snaps her fingers high above her head... and right that instant, five red laser-sights dot the back of Lyrica's head. The beautiful pop idol remains blissfully unaware, smiling as she continues to tend to the garden. Your eyes widen in horror, although your mind hasn't fully caught up with what's happening. Vert turns to look back your way, but you can't muster the strength to address her, nor the grinning Markz to the left. All you see are the red dots painting 5pb's flawless blue hair. "Be mindful of what you do at all times, Cave; you never know who may be watching. Some people have eyes and ears everywhere..."](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 2)[Here you and Lyrica are, sitting in silence as you gaze with empty eyes at the television screen. You can't even tell what's on... You both are simply lost in your own thoughts. You both are trapped here... Lyrica doesn't know about the threat Vert gave to you, but you suspect the pop idol knows that she is unable to leave if she tried. All you can do is be by her side... Now, if only you could find the right words to say... You turn to look at the wide-open window that offers a clear view of the couch from anywhere outside... when CRASH! What the hell was that? Just down the hall, it sounded like a bunch of bodies hit the ground! Lyrica jumps in surprise, and looks at you for comfort. You simply nod at her, and leap off the couch to investigate. You creak open the lounge door and peek into the hall... and a peculiar scene graces your vision: Lady Vert is being held down face-first to the ground, three Leanbox guards forcibly pressing their knees against the CPU's back! Furthermore, four more men are aiming their bayonets down at her. You doubt they plan to shoot, as they'd easily hit more than just the downed goddess... but still, the situation quickly becomes clear! The goddess doesn't seem to be struggling; her face is turned completely down. Come on, show some urgency here, Vert! Panic fit for a weak, insolent fool begins to flow through your veins. Ignore it... You are a soldier, a member of the Leanbox Special Missions Department! You have no time to worry... You swiftly dash towards the scene, your fingers grazing your Scissors. One of the bayonet-wielders with remarkably-curly hair acknowledges you, and nods. "Cave... Join us! We're putting an end to Vert's tyranny before it escalates even further! It's obvious that she's gone mad... so we're reclaiming the glorious land of Leanbox for ourselves." He holds out his hand to you. "I know you are her loyal vassal... but even you must see the truth. Put your faith in me on this one, fair Cave; these men already have." You stare at his outstretched hand, a thousand thoughts racing around your cluttered head. Your eyes dart to the downed Lady Green Heart... and upon closer inspection, you notice how her jaw appears to be moving ever-so-subtly. Is she... whispering to herself? No... what if she is whispering into some hidden communicator on her body? It's not entirely out-of-the-question for a mic to be hidden between her... ample bosom. Your thoughts next flash back to the lounge, where Lyrica still sat... Alone, unaware of the proceedings currently at play. That open window right next to her, providing an excellent view of her beauty to anyone who may be happening to look through it... Eyes and ears everywhere... "..." Your only option is clear... As the seven turncoat Leanbox guards anticipate your next move, your hand continues to hover over your Scissors-blade... before you lace your fingers around the handle and unsheathe it from your belt. You raise your fear-inducing weapon... and the traitors' eyes widen in frightful understanding.](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 3)[Vert points nonchalantly at a dilapidated hut on the side of the dirt path. If your eyes served you correctly, you believe you saw your former ally Gust sneak in there not too long ago. "Cave, I want you to investigate that cabin and capture anyone inside. We can't take any risks." Capture them? Why? You were busy pursuing the fleeing Planeptune/Lastation army... Couldn't you leave the bystanders alone? "My Lady... surely there are only peasants in there? They are of no concern to us." Lady Green Heart stares at you as she brings her finger to her chin. "No concern? Hmm... Yes, I do believe you are right." The goddess nods to herself, mulling over your words... and she suddenly brings out her lance and aims it for the cabin. You don't even have time to register the heavenly power beam shooting from the spear's tip... and before you know it, the cabin explodes. The structure- and everyone inside- has been reduced to dust in a mere second. A grim horror finally registers in your mind, and you tense up. The smoke dances in the midday air; whimsical, intoxicating, all-consuming smoke. The goddess turns immediately and begins walking off, not even taking the time to admire her work. "How was that for you?... Come, let's move on."](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 4)["This is for Mina, Thunder Tits!!!" Just keep running like a helpless milksop... You can fight no longer. All you can do is hope that Lady Green Heart and Chika stay alive. You can't even guarantee your own safety. Lady White Heart destroys the Leanbox fleet with nary an issue, smashing the airships like they were weaker than tissue paper... Delay, and you're dead. Weak, so weak... You can't do anything! You've never been on the defensive like this! Helpless, weak, so weak! Flames chase you, and all you can do is run! WHY?! YOU NEED TO BE STRONGER! GET STRONGER!!!](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 5)["D-Die, tyrant!!!" To your right, two murderous spears swing for blood: one aiming for Lady Green Heart, and the other for her right-hand man, Markz Phenix. The mad soldier smirks as he sidesteps the treacherous fool, the would-be assassin falling flat on his face. Without any hesitation, Markz pulls out a side-arm and shoots the downed man in the back of the head. Lyrica shrieks beside you, and you hold out your arm to guard her. Hah, as if you could even do a thing. Vert, meanwhile, has already pinned the other ruffian under her knee. "Cave!" she suddenly calls, and you hop to attention, Lyrica still hanging onto your shoulder. "Y-Yes, my Lady!" Everything happened so fast... It is most fortunate that things didn't end much worse. Still... why didn't you react fast enough?! You remember what's at stake... The CPU turns her head to you, a satisfied look on her face. "I do not wish to soil my hands... Finish this traitor, Cave," she says, motioning for the young soldier beneath her. Markz also turns his attention to you, a sickening grin sucking in the rest of his face. Cornered... You stare down at the helpless man, a sense of familiarity coming over you; how many people have tried murdering Leanbox's sole goddess the past week alone? However... this time, there was a key difference: Lyrica was right by your side. Nowhere to run off to... The pop idol looks at you with so much concern she could light the very air on fire. What do you suppose she's thinking? That you can't possibly do this? If only she knew the truth... If only you could show her; tell her everything. Like a good lapdog, you raise your right-handed blade like a laser pistol, taking careful aim for your target's skull. Lyrica's shoulders sink... Don't focus on that, though; all you need to care about is your duty. Just gotta stick with it, stick with it, stick with it... ... She may not see it now... but this energy bullet will serve to keep her safe.](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 6)["Cave..." Lyrica whispers as she sits next to you, looking out over the massive Leanbox fleet. "... I miss IF... Do you think she'll be... fighting us tomorrow?" "... I'm not sure... If she knows what's good for her, she'll... steer clear." Don't show your anger to her! That will help nothing... "... I'm sure everything will work out." "... Do YOU miss IF, Cave?" You are silent for but a moment... but you regret even a single millisecond of doubt that crosses the pop idol's mind. "... I miss the simpler days." "... Okay."](elseif: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 7)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}"Cave... Our Lady would like a word with you..." Hank, just another of Vert's bodyguards, says meekly through the newly-opened crease in your door. Hm? It's quite late... What could the problem be? You don't verbally respond; you simply leap off your mattress (you've forsaken any covers tonight), pull your uniform on over your head, and make your way to the throne room, ignoring the photographer's presence altogether. You push open the regal doors... and find Lyrica restrained with her arms behind her back by one Mark Phenix! Lady Green Heart nods at your arrival, your confusion going unheeded. "Ah, you've finally arrived, Cave! I felt this situation would be of... interest to you." Why is she motioning towards Lyrica? What's going on?! No... must maintain as stoic and professional a face as possible. "Yes, my Lady..." Avoid 5pb's gaze... Gah, no use! "... What has happened? Are you alright, Lyr-" Markz rudely chimes in suddenly. "Seems this little rat was trying to pussyfoot her way out of here... Heh, even though it's past her curfew! I say that..." He sleezily grins at the pouting pop idol. "... warrants some in-depth punishment indeed." Vert shakes her head. "Leanbox does not take kindly to deserters... so the 'people' will expect admonition of some sort." Your fists involuntarily tighten. The CPU is still talking, but you can only see that grinning asshole in your head... Curse Markz and any who side with him! He may be an ally... but you wouldn't exactly rue the day he never wakes up. While people like IF may be vile traitors, Markz represents the other type of pure scum living in this world. Why Green Heart took him out of prison to become her second-in-command is beyond yo- "Is that understood, Cave?" H-Huh, what? You tuned everything out... Shit, what did she say? Your blank eyes raise to look straight at her... and the goddess chuckles lightly. "I believe I just explained how I was willing to waive Lyrica's punishment... for this offense only. This was but a minor transgression, seeing how she didn't get too far... so I'm willing to let her off with a warning." Yet another omniscient grin: first to you, then to the blue-haired girl with the puffed cheek... Why do you feel so sick to your stomach? "BUT, I do not believe in three strikes; if she steps out of line again... I must unfortunately subject her to the full extent of the Leanbox judicial system... I certainly do not want that. Do you, Lyrica?" Your dear pop idol avoids the goddess's gaze, her eyes looking quite mad. How unusual... Fivey never acts like this, especially around Vert! What caused this to happen? The CPU laughs again. "I'll never understand musicians; they are the most peculiar of artists, save for game designers! Well... be a proper white knight and escort the princess back to her room, Cave. We're done here." You simply nod, and hold out your hand for Lyrica to grab. She simply walks past you... How rather cold. She... must not be feeling well. As you turn to follow her, you head Markz call out "Nighty-night! Maybe we can play some other time! ... "Lyrica, is there anything you would like to talk about? Why were you trying to sneak out?" you ask. You aren't quite sure what answer to expect... but you are expecting something at least. Seems the pop idol disagrees, as she stays more silent than ever. What's... wrong? Not more than a couple days ago, she was grasping your arm for comfort! Now she's... acting like she simply doesn't care. Soon, you arrive at her room, and you open the door like a true gentlewoman. "... You do know that... you can always tell me anything, right... Lyree?" Why can't you shake this damn hesitance? Why does this angel make you too nervous to speak? The quiet girl once again walks straight past you, before coming to a stop in the doorway. "... Yeah." And with that, she simply nods before shutting the door in your face. Not quite slamming it... but anyone else might consider it rude. A lump refuses to leave your throat... Lyrica doesn't trust you anymore. Everything you do is to keep her safe... but she doesn't see it that way. She's heard your promises, your vows... and she must've figured that taking her fate into her own hands and hazard the risk of escaping this war-mongering nation was safer than relying on you. All this time, you thought Vert, Markz, and anyone else with a gun was a threat to the pop idol you love... but in her heart, you were just as dangerous as all of them put together. Her supposed guardian angel only served to make her live in fear... ... Everyday, you ask yourself if it was all worth it... Well, was it? After all this damn time... what is the ANSWER?! Was it WORTH IT?!] [Snap.]<proceed|{(click:?proceed)[(goto: $previousPassage)]}

{(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")}You blaze back to the castle... but a nagging cramp in your chest forces you to come to a screeching halt. It appears you need to take a breather... Well, it is understandable; everyone gets exhausted, especially after what just happened to you... NO! It is not understandable! The very fate of Leanbox is hanging in the balance... Fate does not 'take a breather'... "..." You shame yourself as you sit to rest on a small rock. Weakling... You're supposed to be an invincible soldier... ... You have to calm down. You're getting nowhere beating yourself up like this. You've already snapped several times today... and you can't afford any more than that. If you lose your mind again and unleash some draining ultimate skill, you may wind up killing yourself... and no one will benefit from that. ... Or would they? Would the world be a better place without you?... STOP THAT! Calm down... calm down... Think of Lyrica, the one you love more than anything. Think of the helpless people you yearn to protect. Think of... No, not her! (if: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 3)[{(set: $flashbackThreeViewed to "Neutral")}Nisa swings her Prinny Gun for your neck, but you meet her odd blade with your own. "Get out of my way! Vert shall pay!!!" You've never seen the heroine of justice this deranged before. She's always been about honor; murderous intent certainly never guided her every move! You glare at your former ally as your weapons clash. Her strength, no matter how much she wishes otherwise, is no match for yours... You'd like for this to not escalate further... but friend or not, she is now the enemy, and you will do whatever you must. If she is seriously looking to kill... then you must match her drive. Quid pro quo, in a way. The blue-haired crimefighter snarls back at you, and she suddenly drives her blade back as she ducks, clearly winding up for another strike. A foolish mistake, one brought on by pure blinding rage... Nisa slashes upwards at you, and you quickly jab with your twin blades to violently parry her attack. Her beam sword goes flying... She is defeated. The crazed girl falls to her knees, and you put your weapons away. You... can't bring yourself to finish her off, even if that's what Vert would expect. It takes you a moment, but the idea to extend a helpful hand strikes your mind... and you attempt to aid her to her feet. The heroine slowly inches her head up to look at your appendage... but instead of accepting your support, she leaps up and blindsides you with a roundhouse kick to the gut! You lose your balance and fall to one knee... Damn it, she's gotten the better of you, just like that! Nisa, fire in her eyes, contemplates what finishing move to use... when suddenly, a bullet fires from behind you and just narrowly misses her. You check for the culprit's identity and, sure enough, it's Markz Phenix, the former war criminal-turned-Leanbox-general, brandishing a magnum. He doesn't even address you; his mouth instead twists into an insane grin, and he aims for the vengeance-seeking heroine. "This'll be fun! Been waiting to bag a 'blue-hair' for a week now!" Gamindustri's heroine of justice has no other choice but to flee; she took out many soldiers already, but her luck was set to run out. She no longer had any advantage whatsoever... A tear rolling down her cheek, you manage to hear her whimper "Gust... I'm sorry..." before she tucks tail and runs. Markz and his squad chases her a fair distance... but ultimately, she escapes into the fog. ... Later that night, you find that you are unable to sleep; many uncomfortable thoughts fill your mind. A thousand voices screaming in your ear, demanding to be heard! Fed up, you hop out of bed and decide to check up on Lyrica. One glimpse through her unlocked door, and the pop idol seems to be sound asleep. You'd best not disturb her... You pray she is having a pleasant dream, and you make your way to Chika's room. Her door is slightly open, and the light is clearly on... and against your better judgement, you push it and step inside. The first thing you see is Chika's bare breasts staring right back at you. "AAAAAAAAH!" a feminine voice cries out... and as soon as your mind realizes what is happening, your face turns red and you cover your eyes with your palms. Embarrassed apologies swirl around your head, but the voice speaks up again before anything can be said. "Oh... it's just you, Cave. Sorry, been watching out for Hank all day." You hear some clothes rustling... and once they stop, you figure it's safe to unblock your eyes. "... Er, I am truly sorry... I-" But when you open your eyes, Chika is laying back on her bed with her eyes closed, naked as the day she was born. Much more developed, of course... W-What are you thinking?! What is SHE thinking?! "A-Ah! Chika, where are your clothes?!" The Oracle opens her left eye to look at you. "Meh, it's too hot in here... Besides, I've got nothing to hide from you. What do I have to lose?" "Your dignity?" you sigh. You've learned by now to never expect an answer for Chika's antics. Her nude form sure is distracting... However, even that is unable to block out the thoughts plaguing your mind after today's events. Tuning out your embarrassment, you take the spot next to your best friend and lay your head against the pillow. "... Chika, all this aside... can I... ask you a question?" Sensing the air of seriousness in your voice, the Oracle opens both her eyes and shifts her body so that she is looking directly at you. "Hmm? Sure, what's up? You sound more tense than usual. Somethin' [[the matter?"|Cave Flashback 3 Page 2]]](else:)[You and Chika lead the battered Leanbox army through the cliff pass, soldiers on both sides screaming all around you. Keep going, keep going... You must keep your Lady alive, no matter how many arrows strike you. Death is for the weak. "The pass ends up ahead... Let's move!" Vert shouts, and the surviving soldiers all nod in unison. You and Chika share a nod; this night wasn't over yet, but at least there was still hope. Vert declared war on Planeptune, Lastation, AND Lowee... and it turned out that Leanbox was no match for the collective might of all three united nations. Now you were all paying the price... If only you were stronger, maybe this fight would've gone much differently... (if: $caveKarma <= 1)[{(set: $flashbackThreeViewed to "Good")}"Die, tyrants!" a voice calls from atop the cliff, and you look up just in time to see an archer pull back an arrow and fire! The projectile travels right for... Chika! Not like this! Without thinking, you leap in front of your surprised friend, and you instantly feel the arrow lodge itself right above your hip. The wound is somewhat deep... but damn it, you're too strong to fall now. The archer on top of the cliff must either be satisfied or out of arrows, as he is nowhere to be found. Chika acknowledges your potential sacrifice, and she immediately reaches out to grab you. "C-Cave! Holy... W-Why did you do that?! You could've been killed!" You don't answer; instead, you grab hold of the arrow and pull... it... out... with your bare hands! Your vision reddens for the first few seconds, but you hold firm. The arrowhead is entirely painted with your dark blood... At least it is yours, and not Chika's or Lyrica's. Still... your best friend clearly doesn't agree. "D-Don't do that, crap! Hold still, lemme check that out!" "I'm... fine... Chika... We're almost out... We can mend our wounds once we escape Lowee," you say, attempting a small smile to go along with your tough attitude. The Oracle doesn't buy it, but she realizes there's not much she can do right now. You and the rest of the army continue on, Chika staring daggers at you all the while...](elseif: $caveKarma > 3)[{(set: $flashbackThreeViewed to "Bad")}"D-Die, M-Monster!" a sudden voice calls out from an inconspicuous set of bushes, and before you know it, an arrow has fimrly lodged itself deep in your side, right above the hip. Damn, that hurts... No! Pain means nothing to you! You grimace for but a second, before your cold exterior returns. Chika screams out upon seeing your injury, but you tune her out... You spot the archer, looking at you with bulged-out eyes as you remain standing. Such a fool, thinking he can hurt you. Thinking he can end you. He is nothing; you raise your right blade and fire a simple bullet of energy, catching him in the skull and silencing him just like that. "Y-You'll pay for that!" Another voice yells out, and upon hearing Chika gasp in horror, you instantly pull a fast 180 and swing your left blade upwards. As you anticipated, a soldier was attempting to stab you from behind... but your unexpected movement disarms him and sends him to his knees. The failure of a fighter stares up at you, fear all that looks out from his eyes... and without hesitation, you slice him with your twin blades, ending his insolence. Vert smiles to herself. "No quarter, Cave... As expected of my star retainer." You wish you could take pride in her words... but you know she is toying with you. Your eyes meet Chika's, and you sense something wrong with the way she looks at you. Something seems caught in her throat, perhaps... It's gone in a matter of seconds, and she speedily rushes over to you. "... C-Cave, are... you alright? That wound looks... er, pretty nasty." "I'm fine, Chika..." you puff out. Huh, seems the arrow has taken more out of you than you thought; it's getting somewhat hard to breathe. Frustrated all of a sudden, you grab the end of the arrow and yank... it... out...! Your head feels light, but you manage to stay awake... Your best friend gasps aloud again, but you shake your head dismissively. "... It's nothing... Let's get going... I'll patch myself back home." And that was that; you and the rest of the army continues on. Chika tries to say something to you... but she eventually looks down at her feet. It pains you to see her this troubled...] ... The cliff path finally comes to an end, the open Lowee landscape waiting just out of reach. However, it seems that there was one last trial to face: IF stands in the way of your shameful retreat. "Lady Vert, halt!" the brunette shouts. Her voice causes your arrow wound to burn. You are tempted to attack this ultimate traitor... but Vert's hand squeezes firmly on your shoulder. The goddess silently walks past you and Chika, and approaches the battle-hardened veteran. "Why, hello there, Miss IF. Fancy seeing you here... I presume you have no intent to aid us?" IF bites her bottom lip; such a weakling. "No, Lady Vert... I was given orders to stop you." She has the gall to point her hand towards the Leanbox forces... She has the gall to point at YOU. "Your army is in the weakest state it's ever been... so it wouldn't be hard. As... your friend, I'm here to order you to stand down. It's over... Please surrender." Your breathing intensifies... but Vert remains calm. "I'm afraid I can't do that, Miss IF. If you truly wish to stop me, then you're going to have to kill me. I shall not rest otherwise." "... I knew you'd say that..." Iffy whispers. She clenches her fists, her fingernails undoubtedly digging into her palm. "... The others have practically given up... but I still believe in you, Lady Vert. I know the real you is still in there somewhere..." The warrior runs a nervous hand through her hair, and peculiarly... steps aside? "... For everything the Vert *I know* has done for me in the past, I'm letting you go... just this once. I'm gonna find a way to get you back to normal... I promise." Your CPU chuckles to herself. "Most interesting... It's a pity you refuse to join me again, but I at least thank you for your piety... Just know this, dearest IF: one day, your loyalty WILL once more serve Leanbox. This, I swear..." At that, Vert turns to you and Chika. "We must not waste this opportunity. Let us retreat... and look to fight again another day." Well, you don't have a choice in the matter, do you? As the army marches past the frowning IF, you shoot her a malicious glare. She meets your gaze as you pass by, her eyes proud and undeterred... Such an insolent brat! How heroic she must feel; how honorable! With the gracefulness of her heart, she's 'allowing' you to escape... She thinks she's better than you; better than Leanbox! One day... you'll show her... ... [[Next...|Cave Flashback 3 Page 2]]]

(if: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 3)[Your mind can't help but keep replaying the scene of Nisa attacking you over and over again... Her best friend was gone, and her usual cheerfulness and positive energy had gone with her. The heroine of justice... was fully intent on killing Vert, and she'd murder you just to get what she desired. Beyond that, even when you had her dead-to-rights, she kept on fighting... She very nearly got herself killed for revenge. Your throat feels like it tightens as you start to speak. "... I've never seen Nisa that... troubled before. She... was clearly outnumbered, and yet she kept going..." Chika nods upon hearing your conflicted thoughts. "... I heard about what happened... Pretty rough, right? I never knew she had it in her." You feel your friend's head suddenly rest on your shoulder, and you are too tired to even think of nudging her off. "... This war sucks. Shares are in the toilet, the people are scared, all our friends hate us now... I just hope no one else has to die. Mina AND Gust? Damn... Nisa came pretty close to joining them too." It was all true... How terrifying it is that things can change so fast. Inseparable companions can be split apart in a heartbeat. "... Nisa did all this... because she lost the one she cared so much about. She was willing to die for her friend... I'm not sure if that's loyalty, or mere foolishness." The Oracle grunts in agreement with your words, and a long silence persists, the two of you reflecting on days gone by. Eventually, Chika turns back to look at your contemplative face. "... Foolish or not, I think I'd do the same. I'd die for Vert, I'd die for Fivey, I'd die for all my friends!" Her hand finds yours, her fingers sneaking through your clenched fist. "And I'd die for you. I really would." Her bold heartfelt words shock you, quite frankly. It's easy to boast or say empty things in the heat of the moment, but... you can sense utter sincerity coming from your best friend. Your heart flutters... but it's bittersweet. You can't stand thinking about that scenario. "... I'd do the exact same for you. Not even a question," you reply, attempting a smile. You never feel comfortable whenever you try to show happiness; a cheerful look simply does not fit your facial structure, you worry. Whatever the case, Chika seems pleased... and she once again closes her eyes. At least she looks peaceful... Another long moment passes, and you slowly start to remember that Chika is completely naked. As a blush creeps up to your cheeks, the woman suddenly breaks the silence. "... I wonder what Vert would do? You know... How would she react if one of us died?" That certainly catches you off-guard! Vert's reaction if you died? She... She'd certainly be saddened, wouldn't she? Filled with rage, regret, remorse?... She would care if you or Chika suddenly perished... right? The two of you think about this... and you hear even more voices screaming in your head. You, Lyrica, Chika... what DO you mean to Lady Vert? At least, what do you mean to this NEW Lady Vert? "W-Woah, that sure got heavy... No need to think like that anyways! Everything will be fine!"](elseif: $caveKarma <= 1)["Aaaaaaahhhhhhh.... Water nice for ya?~" Chika winks as she sinks into the bath. A couple of hours have passed, and the Leanbox force successfully made it back home. You had your wound looked at... but of course, you turned down anything more than a typical bandage. Now, you and Chika were spending some relaxing alone time in an adequately-sized bath... Well, in theory at least. The water sure felt nice... but you only had IF on the mind. "... Yeah, it feels great... Thanks, Chika." Not very convincing there... Yep, your best friend can clearly tell something is wrong. She opens her mouth to speak... but her immediate words surprise you. "Hey, Cave... I never got to say, er, thank you. That arrow... yeah, probably would've killed me... Still, that's no excuse for you to jump right in front of it! What if it killed YOU?!" Her cheeks redden in frustration, her eyes guilting you it seems. You pause before saying the first thing on your mind. "It wasn't even something I had to think about... You're my friend, of course I'd take an arrow for you." "T-That's no excuse! It was stupid!" "It wasn't stupid in the slightest," you begin, closing your eyes. In a single second, you see all the atrocities you had to commit so far in this war, along with the horrid things Lady Vert had done... "... Without you, Leanbox would have no hope. I'm just the monster they all fear enough to stay in line... but without you, everyone would go insane." Your best friend seems taken aback. "W-What... are you saying? I... I couldn't possibly..." She shakes her head... before suddenly jabbing a finger in your direction. "No! Don't you dare say you're a monster! Sure, you've done some bad things... but dammit, haven't we all?! We're all trapped in the middle of Verty's mad schemes... and without you, I know I'd have given up by now, and I'm sure many others feel the same way!" Tears well up in her stunning eyes, further jabbing the knife of pressure into your heart. "You're too busy focusing on acting all tough and heroic for Lyrica and Vert and everyone who's watching... but you always forget to actually watch out for yourself! What would we do if... something happened to you?" Chika has you practically backed into a corner now, and an embarassed blush lays siege to your face. You refuse to be bested, however. "... I'm... sorry Chika... but, I can say the exact same about you! You... told me that I'm your 'rock'... Well, you're MY rock! Hell, I know Vert is out of her mind, but deep down, I know she feels the same too! If you weren't around, this war would be even worse. That much, I guarantee." The Oracle gazes into your eyes, her tears clearly clouding her vision. "... Idiot... Ya big idiot! You're a dumbass, ya know that?!" You attempt to twist your lips into a disarming smile... but as always, you are not too sure whether you succeeded or not. "You're goddamn right, I am," you proudly proclaim to the heavens! Your friend reluctantly lets out a soft giggle at your faux-sincere intensity... and for the first time in what feels like forever, IF's betrayal is far from your mind. Your tongue begins moving without your permission, and you suddenly blurt out something you never anticipated verbalizing. "... I'd hate to live in a world without you, Chika... That would be the worst fate of all." "T-The hell?! Y-You did it again!!! I'm the only one who gets to say the sappy stuff!"](elseif: $caveKarma > 3)[A few hours later, you finally make it back to the Leanbox Basilicom. The stench of failure follows you and the rest of the army... but one day, you know your ultimate moment of vengeance shall arrive. For now, however, you must mend your wounds. For you, that simply means a hastily-wrapped bandage where the arrow struck you, but it'll do for now. You first check on Lyrica... who simply looks up and half-heartedly waves when you enter her room. Her eyes seem so tired... Damn it, where's her smiling radiance? It's all IF's fault... "How are you holding up?" you ask. "Is there anything I can do?" The pop idol looks down at her feet as she shakes her head. "I just need some alone time... I miss IF..." As you figured. Her words cut deep... but you have no other choice than to simply nod and respect her wishes. You quietly back out of the room and simply let your feet take you wherever... Funny how they lead you to Chika's room. You do wonder why Chika hadn't checked in with you upon returning... That was very unlike her. Worried about your friend, you slowly open her door- you two are far beyond the point of knocking- and find the Leanbox Oracle also sitting quietly on her bed, much like 5pb. "Chika... Are you alright?" Your best friend doesn't even look up. "... Hmm? Oh... Yeah, I'm fine." She most certainly does not sound fine! Concerned even further now, you take a seat beside her. She doesn't move at first... but after a few seconds, she shifts a little further down the bed, away from you. That's... also unlike her. "... You aren't hurt, are you? Please, you should really visit the hospital wing if you haven't already. I will happily accompany y-" "Why did you kill them, Cave? Some people were completely helpless... and yet, you killed them anyways. Avenir was one thing, but... Planeptune and Lastation were once our friends..." You suddenly feel like you've been sucker-punched in the soul. "W-What? I..." How do you answer her? "... I... only do what is expected of me, Chika. I have my orders... and they were the enemy. What else could I have done?" The Oracle hides her face from you. "Not kill them in cold-blood?! Or, how about, I don't know, act like you're actually trying to fix things, instead of making people fear you!" "I AM trying to fix things! I... If I don't obey Lady Vert, do you have any idea what could happen?! I'd rather not face that situation... so for now, if she tells me to shoot... I ask 'who?' and go along without question. It's all I CAN do!" you inadvertantly yell. Chika's eyes tear up, and you instantly regret raising your voice. "... I don't like this anymore than you do, believe me." Silence consumes the room; the more things change, the more they stay the same. After a long while, your best friend finds the resolve to ask one more question that she desperately didn't want to ask. "... I saw the way you were looking at IF... Would you... kill her too if the situation arrived?" Your shoulders tense up... but you answer as honestly as possible; she deserved that much. "... If she stands in our way... then yes. The same goes for any of our enemies." Duty calls, after-all... Chika appears to nod to herself upon hearing your proclamation... and she soon lets out an admittedly-adorable yawn. "... Okay... Listen, I'm exhausted, Cave... Night." And that was that, it seems; Chika crawls under her covers and lays her head on her pillow, making a point to have her back to you. You can take a hint... "Yeah... good night, Chika..."] ... (if: $caveKarma > 3)[... Well, THAT certainly didn't help at all... Stop thinking about it, stop thinking about it, stop thinking about it... ... Come on, you've rested enough. Time to end this long day...](else:)[Why... can't you stop thinking about... HER? What's done is done... Right now, you should be worrying about Lyrica's safety. ... You aren't suited to rest. Get going... Once this long day was over, you could finally sort out your deranged mind. Right now, you have work to do...] (link:"Finish it...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(1,1000);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Seventh Move")]

Historical- (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(if: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth > 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 75 AND $caveBossHealth > 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50 AND $caveBossHealth > 35))["How could you turn your back on Lyrica?!" Cave shouts, her voice strained... Just what has she gone through today? "You left her to die! You abandoned us!" You were anticipating such accusations. "I left to keep her safe! Vert threatened Lyree if I didn't leave! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Your friend doesn't even bat an eyelash. "You LIE!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" The conversation the two of you had back during the Avenir battle suddenly comes swimming right back. That's when this all broke down... That clearly didn't go too well... but now was your chance to set things right! Somehow...](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65 AND $caveBossHealth > 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50 AND $caveBossHealth > 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35 AND $caveBossHealth > 20))["How can you claim to love her?! She's been lost without you... yet, you never said a word to comfort her!" Cave's eyes carry a look of more than just pure rage; is that... pain? Disappointment? Betrayal? "I had no choice! I had to leave before we even departed for Leanbox, for cryin' out loud! Believe me..." Damn, your chest hurts just thinking about the girl you love. She must feel as let-down as Cave. "... I haven't had a good night's sleep since that day... All I can think about is Lyrica, and how bad she must hate me! I know, I should've done more... I acted like an idiot, okay?! Vert... surprised me. I'd never seen her act that... horrible before..." Your friend(?) stares unmoving, the rain soaking her with a poetic intensity. "Nothing but excuses! I... would do anything for the woman I love. Why couldn't you?!" What... was Cave saying there? Was she... admitting her affinity for your beloved pop idol? Guess the clues were there... You tune out those thoughts and try to find a way to peacefully resolve this. "Listen... I admit, I was scared! You claimed back then that... I wasn't strong enough to protect Lyrica... Well, y'know what? You were completely right... If I was stronger, I would've gotten her off of Leanbox for good! So for that, I'm sorry. I... Maybe I... don't deserve her. She deserves someone who is willing and able to overcome their petty fears... Perhaps someone like you." Cave seems taken aback... but her surprise certainly doesn't last long. "... You think that changes anything? You think that makes up for all the things that have happened?! Everyone we've LOST?!"](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth <= 20))["Because of you... Chika is..." Cave suddenly sputters out, her words colder than even before. Why is she bringing up the Leanbox Oracle now? No... does that mean...? Time to get an answer. "C-Chika is what? She's not..." Your rival points an accusing finger your way. If you didn't know better, you'd suspect she was planting a curse on you... Hell, maybe she is. "... You killed her! It's all your fault! Without you, Vert slipped further and further... and Chika couldn't take it! She pushed herself too hard... all because you were 'scared'..." "Holy..." Chika was dead? Wow... you hadn't heard about that. You've heard rumblings about Gust and even two of the three 'A Brothers'... but Chika? What was the world coming to? "... I don't know what to say..." "DON'T SAY ANYTHING! You can try all you want, but you can't make this better! Chika was... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I-I loved her! And it took me too long to realize... She meant EVERYTHING to me!](else:)[my best friend, always there for me... One of the few friends I've ever had!] But now she's gone... You weren't there to save her! And I... I couldn't save her on my own... I let her down..." "Cave..." What can you say to that? Everything quickly becomes clearer and clearer... "You can't beat yourself up over this! I... I feel awful... Chika didn't deserve any of that, and neither did you!... But you know what won't solve anything? Dwelling on it! If we're going to fix things... we can't lose hope. Chika wouldn't want that, right? She'd want you to be happy, I know she would." Your friend looks down at the mud for a long while... Are you getting through to her? You continue. "... We still have Lyree to protect, right? Well... why don't we both protect her already? Together... we can't possibly let anyone else down." Yeah, not exactly the motivational masterpiece you were hoping for... but it's the best you got right now. You hate to admit it, but some of Cave's pessimism is beginning to leak into your brain. The SMD Warrior seems to soak in your words... before once again readying a strike. "Enough! How do I know you're even strong enough to help her?! Prove it to me!!!"]] health breakthrough test code: (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(if: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth > 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 75 AND $caveBossHealth > 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50 AND $caveBossHealth > 35))[]] (> 75): "How could you turn your back on Lyrica?!" Cave shouts, her voice strained... Just what has she gone through today? "You left her to die! You abandoned us!" You were anticipating such accusations. "I left to keep her safe! Vert threatened Lyree if I didn't leave! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Your friend doesn't even bat an eyelash. "You LIE!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" The conversation the two of you had back during the Avenir battle suddenly comes swimming right back. That's when this all broke down... That clearly didn't go too well... but now was your chance to set things right! Somehow... -(>50 and <= 75): "How can you claim to love her?! She's been lost without you... yet, you never said a word to comfort her!" Cave's eyes carry a look of more than just pure rage; is that... pain? Disappointment? Betrayal? "I had no choice! I had to leave before we even departed for Leanbox, for cryin' out loud! Believe me..." Damn, your chest hurts just thinking about the girl you love. She must feel as let-down as Cave. "... I haven't had a good night's sleep since that day... All I can think about is Lyrica, and how bad she must hate me! I know, I should've done more... I acted like an idiot, okay?! Vert... surprised me. I'd never seen her act that... horrible before..." Your friend(?) stares unmoving, the rain soaking her with a poetic intensity. "Nothing but excuses! I... would do anything for the woman I love. Why couldn't you?!" What... was Cave saying there? Was she... admitting her affinity for your beloved pop idol? Guess the clues were there... You tune out those thoughts and try to find a way to peacefully resolve this. "Listen... I admit, I was scared! You claimed back then that... I wasn't strong enough to protect Lyrica... Well, y'know what? You were completely right... If I was stronger, I would've gotten her off of Leanbox for good! So for that, I'm sorry. I... Maybe I... don't deserve her. She deserves someone who is willing and able to overcome their petty fears... Perhaps someone like you." Cave seems taken aback... but her surprise certainly doesn't last long. "... You think that changes anything? You think that makes up for all the things that have happened?! Everyone we've LOST?!" -(> 25 and <= 50): "Because of you... Chika is..." Cave suddenly sputters out, her words colder than even before. Why is she bringing up the Leanbox Oracle now? No... does that mean...? Time to get an answer. "C-Chika is what? She's not..." Your rival points an accusing finger your way. If you didn't know better, you'd suspect she was planting a curse on you... Hell, maybe she is. "... You killed her! It's all your fault! Without you, Vert slipped further and further... and Chika couldn't take it! She pushed herself too hard... all because you were 'scared'..." "Holy..." Chika was dead? Wow... you hadn't heard about that. You've heard rumblings about Gust and even two of the three 'A Brothers'... but Chika? What was the world coming to? "... I don't know what to say..." "DON'T SAY ANYTHING! You can try all you want, but you can't make this better! Chika was... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I-I loved her! And it took me too long to realize... She meant EVERYTHING to me!](else:)[my best friend, always there for me... One of the few friends I've ever had!] But now she's gone... You weren't there to save her! And I... I couldn't save her on my own... I let her down..." "Cave..." What can you say to that? Everything quickly becomes clearer and clearer... "You can't beat yourself up over this! I... I feel awful... Chika didn't deserve any of that, and neither did you!... But you know what won't solve anything? Dwelling on it! If we're going to fix things... we can't lose hope. Chika wouldn't want that, right? She'd want you to be happy, I know she would." Your friend looks down at the mud for a long while... Are you getting through to her? You continue. "... We still have Lyree to protect, right? Well... why don't we both protect her already? Together... we can't possibly let anyone else down." Yeah, not exactly the motivational masterpiece you were hoping for... but it's the best you got right now. You hate to admit it, but some of Cave's pessimism is beginning to leak into your brain. The SMD Warrior seems to soak in your words... before once again readying a strike. "Enough! How do I know you're even strong enough to help her?! Prove it to me!!!" During their clash, Cave demands to know how IF could turn her back on Lyrica, and the brunette tells her side of the story: Vert had threatened 5pb's very life had IF stayed in Leanbox after having rejected Green Heart's affections. IF brings up what Cave told her back during the Avenir fight: Cave, annoyed, had accused IF of not being strong enough to protect Lyrica. Here, now, IF apologizes and says that Cave had been right all along... Had she been strong enough, the brunette would've found a way to get the pop idol to safety. Cave continues to fight the battle-hardened veteran, but her words carry a sense of sincerity... They sounded like they came from someone who loved Lyrica just as much as she did. IF couldn't have been as cold-hearted as Cave had recently thought of her as... No, she would actually give up the woman she loved just to protect her. Cave, meanwhile, had stayed with the pop idol... and only served to make her more worried over everything. By trying to be there for Lyrica, and to keep her safe... Cave had actually pushed her away. She had even made the girl of her dreams afraid of her... The fight continues, and Cave comes to the horrifying realization: she had been focusing all her hate and frustrations onto IF, and essentially made her a scapegoat. Cave had been thinking of IF as her enemy, but in reality, she was guilty of everything she believed the brunette was. The SMD Warrior claimed she was the only one who could save Lyrica; she was the only one who understood her, even. So, then, why hadn't she actually saved her yet? If she was allegedly willing to give her life to protect the pop idol, then why hadn't she turned on Vert and disposed of her inner circle? No, instead, she just told herself that there was no fighting the insane Vert, and that she should blame IF for not being there; for being smart enough to leave this ill-fated nation. Cave finally realizes that Vert was turning her into a monster, and she herself was chaining Lyrica down. Vert could detect Cave's weakness, and was using it to her advantage...

{(set: $quotePercentage to (random: 1,100)) (set: $quotePercentage to 47) (if: $quotePercentage is 47)[Mio Sakamoto: "Hm? Where have we found ourselves this time?" Najica Hiiragi: "... I can't be certain, but I believe it's yet another of those so-called 'fanfics'..." Tamao Suzumi: "Ugh... I hope Nagisa-chan's alright... Wait, look, there's another girl here!" Mio Sakamoto: "Another girl? Oh, yes, over there! Red hair, skimpy attire... Well, certainly not the most unusual wear I've seen. I wonder how Perrine would look in it..." Najica Hiiragi: "Could be another trap. Where's Lila when you need her?!" Tamao Suzumi: "Er... is she... a-alive?! O-Oh no, s-she's not moving!" ???: "Relax... She's not dead, no matter how much she may look like it. Nyeheheheh... You ladies have room for two more?" Tamao Suzumi: "WOAH! A-Are you a... flying boo-?" ???: "SHUSH, you blue-haired skank! Ugh, what's with me today and encountering blue-haired chicks?!... Anyways, don't say another word! Just follow me and... nyeheheh, I'll show ya'll 'the way'..." Mio Sakamoto: "... How suspicious do you suppose this is?" Najica Hiiragi: "Am I allowed to use a percent higher than 100?" Tamao Suzumi: "None of that matters! What is she can take us to Nagisa-chan! We must! Besides, it's not like we have any other choice, right?" ???: "Smartest thing I've heard all... decade! Coolios, get yer asses in gear, then! Oh yeah, and someone pick up the not-dead red-haired chick. She's the main attraction, after all... Nyehehehehehe!" Mio Sakamoto: "I really should've stayed home... You better save some pasta for me, Perrine..."](else:)[ (if: $caveDeath is "Mortar")[(either:"MORTAR SOLDIER: \"O-Oh crap... W-What have I... d-done?! H-Hide the cannon! W-We can't let Lady Vert EVER find out!\"","LIEUTENANT: \"She's gone... I hate saying it, but I'm kinda... glad. She can finally find peace... and so can we.\"","IF?: \"HAHA! That was AMAZING, Cave! While everyone's cleaning up your gore, I'll be taking Lyrica home! Thanks, buddy!\"","MARKZ: \"Went out with a BANG for sure, heh! Wish I coulda launched the damn thing!\"")] (elseif: $caveDeath is "Chika")[(either:"CHIKA: \"Going to bed, Cavey? O-Okay, I gotcha! Long day and all... Well, I'll... be seeing you soon then, okay?\"","CHIKA: \"Is that all ya got, Cavey? Giving up like that... When did YOU ever give up?\"","IFIFIFIFIFIFIFIF: \"So... you weren't fit to protect Lyrica after all. Shoulda left it all to me.\"","VERT: \"Gone, just like that... What of Lyrica now? No one can protect her... The world is a cold and dark place, Cave. I do hope she can handle it all on her own...\"","CHIKA: \"Cavey... You should've... trusted me. I'd never... lead ya wrong... would I?\"")] (else:)[(either:"With every mistake... we must surely be learning...","SOLDIER: \"She's gone... Contact Lady Green Heart! Cave... went rogue and... has been neutralized.\"","\"How often have I lain beneath rain on a strange roof, thinking of home?\"","SOLDIER: \"At least your suffering's over, Cave. I wish I could've saved you...\"","GENERAL: \"Oh... Oh God... She's dead! She's dead! Green Heart's gonna... Oh crap!\"","VERT: \"Tsk tsk tsk... I was right all along. Pity.\"","COMMANDER: \"You got us this far... but you were becoming just like Markz. Perhaps this was... for the best...\"")] ]} You have failed... (if: $caveScenarioCheckpoint is true)[(link:"Load Last Checkpoint...")[(loadgame:"C")] ](link:"Restart Cave's Path!")[(loadgame:"B")] <a HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

(if: $characterOneHP is "Cave")[{(set: $caveHealth to $caveHealth - 1)}Ouch! The hell?! The oddly-shaped blade of grass, resembling a plump mushroom now that you've gotten a better look at it, is actually a pricker! You cut your hand, even through your glove... Crap, it's only 1 HP, but sometimes paper-cuts trump all other abrasions! [Lick your petty wound...]<back|{(click:?back)[(goto: $previousPassage)]}](else:)[{(set: $iffyHealth to $iffyHealth - 1)}Ouch! What the crap?! The ant freakin' bit your hand! T-The nerve! You just lost 1 HP, all because of this small runt! Screw nature; the outdoors is forever on your bad side! ["Still didn't bite harder than that damn hedgehog..."]<back|{(click:?back)[(goto: $previousPassage)]}]

The rain comes down so hard that you can barely see a few feet in front of you! Damn... It's as if the heavens chose this moment to unleash all their built-up sadness. Maybe Chika's up there with them?... She wouldn't be crying, though. She's probably telling all the angels to man up and stop shedding useless tears. Life's too short to cry about everything... Huh, but then, you guess the angels don't have time running against them anyways. Man, imagine what Chika must be doing, now that she realizes she gets to live in peace forever? ... Heh, she's probably bored already! You're not there for her to tease, no Vert to glomp at night, no Linda and Nepgeo to train... hell, no Share spikes to analyze! Hopefully she... doesn't get herself... into too... much... trouble up there... A bored Chika is a... wild Chika... ... No, you can't stop moving! You're so close to IF and sweet, sweet vengeance, you can practically taste it... so why are you letting these weak thoughts stay your hand?! ... You miss HER, okay?! It hasn't even been a full day... and already, it feels like you won't ever move on! But you have to! There's still Lyrica... Hell, there's still Vert. The past... means... nothing! Memories are... for... the... weak!!! ... The sun slowly sets in the distance by the time you finally finish your preparations to march. By dawn tomorrow, Planeptune will be your new battlefield abode... You sigh as you make sure your weapon is in pristine condition. No matter what is to occur... like any battle you suffered through, you just have to maintain a level head. Simple enough. "You're leaving?" You turn to see Lyrica, clad in her casual wear, standing in your doorway, slumped as she stares at you with those all-too-common exhausted eyes. You feel pained to see her like this; when was the last time you saw her beautiful smile? ... Still, you do your best to ignore the sad thought and answer her inquiry. "Yes... We must depart for the mountain range soon." You begin to walk towards the door, trying your best to maintain eye-contact, though you find it rather hard to do. When you reach her, you open your mouth to respond... and sound out your order with way more authoritorial air than you intended. Stupid, stupid... "You have to stay here in Leanbox, okay?" A solemn look, as if she doesn't really mind the order, or at least isn't surprised to hear it. "Why?" is her simple response. "Vert's orders... You'll be safer here, anyways." Come on... Say something more! You care about her, right? Let her know it! It'll at least calm her down... "I..." But your tongue refuses to release any words beyond that. You are locked in place... Dammit, why can't this be easier? You expect resistance from your blunt relaying of commands (something Lyrica tended to do), but all she does is nod before turning to walk down the hall, never even taking the time to look back at you. "Yeah, of course she did... Well, I'll be fine..." As she turns the corner and out of sight, you sigh and continue on your way. This was all certainly a bother... but why linger on it, right? You had a battle to attend to, anyways. That'll distract you from how useless you feel when it came to Lyrica's happiness... ... "Mr. East, you are to lead your men and circle the base of the mountain from the rear! The enemy will be too distracted by our main force to notice your roundabout attack," Vert flexes her arm as she dismisses Hank from the camp. She soon brings those icy eyes your way, her expression lax but filled with extreme determination. Chika, standing to your left, merely watches her with an air of betrayed hesitation. You wonder when the last time was that Vert and Chika had a conversation that didn't involve conquest. On that note, does Vert even play games anymore, or watch movies, or relax? Poor Chika... No, discard those thoughts! This is a war council; you are not ordered to worry about friends. With a clench of her fist, your Lady issues her commands to you two. "Cave, you are to storm off the mountain and charge Planeptune's main base head-on, and with haste! Chika, you are to remain in our base and protect it from any intruder! Although..." She grins at you. "... I suspect you will encounter no such danger." Huh... How odd. Vert never orders you and Chika to be in separate locations! You've been squadmates in every battle so far... Crap! For a split second, you allow your hesitance to show in your eyes... and Green Heart gives a rather dull smile. "You two are practically inseparable... I wonder how you'll fare on your own?" [["... Yes, my Lady..."|Cave Flashback 4 Page 2]]

Night falls upon the docked airship... Well, tomorrow's the big day; Leanbox will finally invade Planeptune. You may have qualms about this... but discard them at once! You wouldn't dare question Vert... Not with what's at stake... (if: $caveKarma <= 1)[{(set: $flashbackFourViewed to "Good")}"Hey, Cave... May I come in?" a quiet voice comes from your door just as you step out of the shower. That couldn't have been... Chika? Wow, you don't think you've ever heard her sound so... subdued? Usually she would've just barged on into your room, most likely catching you in some precarious position. You would've gone red-faced and scolded her like there was no tomorrow... but deep down, you'd be happy she came to visit. ... Something is definitely wrong. "Hmm? Of course... Come on in. Pardon the mess." As if Chika would really care about your clothes lying in a heap on the ground... Knowing her, she'd probably be all for that. "Here... sit down. Everything... all right?" You feel awkward as you pat the bed... and it is now that you notice the bottle of booze in your friend's hand. She takes a seat besides you... and doesn't even reference you being clad in nothing but a towel. "Thanks..." Her eyes look so gloomy... She's reminding you of Lyrica's expression, actually. The look of someone who has simply given up... Your first course of action should be to get rid of that alcohol. "... Chika, you haven't been drinking, have you? We have an important day to-" "... Verty doesn't love me, Cave." What? Your friend looks down at her toes, obscuring her face from view. "Vert... doesn't love me! I haven't seen her so much as smile in like a full month, Cavey! She barely knows I'm there anymore, she never talks about anything other than 'setting things right' when I'm around, she... she doesn't care! I-I'm useless!" The Oracle's words stab your heart, so much so that you barely register her bringing the bottle to her face. She sniffs the drink for a second... before popping the cap back in and tossing it to the side. Fortunately it doesn't smash on your bed... not that you can even care about that! What do you say? Dammit, your best friend is hurting! You knew she had been... but everything changes once things come out in the open. "... Don't say that! You've said it before: Vert's not... well..." Not off to a good start... In desperation, you cautiously wrap an arm around Chika's slender frame. "... She may not show it now, but... the Vert I know thinks the world of you. She couldn't get by without you in her corner." Your usually-energetic friend just shakes her head. "I... wish I could believe that... I can't help but think this is all my fault, Cavey! Like, maybe it's something I did wrong that made Vert act this way! Now, she hates me... and is gonna ruin the world... We'd all be better off if I didn't exis-" "STOP!" you suddenly shout, Chika's eyes widening at your out-of-character outburst. "NONE of this is your fault, you hear me? None of this is your fault! You've done absolutely NOTHING wrong! If none of this is my fault, then it certainly isn't yours! This falls strictly on..." IF, IF, IF, IF... "... Vert... or at least, whatever the hell is going on with her!" Are those... tears swelling in your eyes? Oh, come on... "So DON'T you DARE blame yourself! You are not useless, you are not at fault... You're perfect, Chika, okay?!" You immediately regret that... weak display of emotions... but the Oracle sniffles before pulling you in for a huge hug. "... I... It keeps getting worse... I can't shake this awful feeling about tomorrow! I-I just know something terrible is going to happen. Vert's got me so worried... I'm scared." "... I'm scared too... but that's completely natural. That means we're... still okay." The two of you sit in silence, words beyond you both it seems. Still... it feels like you haven't yet said enough... Hell, you doubt you've said anything of substantial aid! Gotta think of something... "... Hey, Chika... just remember: if Vert somehow truly doesn't care about you, then... well, she clearly doesn't deserve you. You're a true catch, one many people only wish they could find... and if she can't recognize that, I'd sure hate to be her." You feel Chika shiver in your grasp... Crap, you really hope you didn't just say something excrutiatingly awkward! Oh no, she's pulling away from you... Now you've done it! A shameful blush warms your cheek... but you boldly meet your friend's gaze. If you screwed up, you're going to face your mistakes... No more running from your social anxiety woes! She looks unsure of herself as your eyes lock together... but she eventually gulps and finally opens her mouth. Thank goodness; the silence was maddening... "... Cave, I..." Her eyes close, somewhat wincing almost. Is... she in pain? No... not physical, at least. "... I wish you fell in love with me first." The tension in the room skyrockets with such a simple sentence. You can barely feel your face through the warmth consuming your skin; hell, how can you be sure you even have a face to begin with?! This numbness is eradicating all senses! Chika is looking at you, uncertainty oozing from her innocent expression... You must choose your exact next action carefully... no, beyond carefully! This is riskier than defusing an atom bomb! What you choose to do now... may forever affect your relationship. [Comfort your friend with a soft embrace.]<friendship| [Risk your friendship...]<love|{(click:?friendship)[(set: $caveInterest to "Lyrica")(goto: "Cave Flashback 4 Page 2Good")](click:?love)[(set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(goto: "Cave Flashback 4 Page 2Good")]}](elseif: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)[{(set: $flashbackFourViewed to "Neutral")}Currently, you are mulling over the issue that has plagued the universe for years: Bath... or shower? You're not personally in the mood for a bath... but then again, you are going to war tomorrow, and it would probably help you relax and focus... "... Maybe I should... invite Chika?..." you ponder aloud; why do you talk so much to yourself? Well, possible schizophrenia aside, you head to your best friend's room and push aside the open door... and the Oracle is nowhere in sight! Most unusual... A sad thought fills your head as you come up with an idea on where she could be... and you head to the airship's lounge. Sure enough, it doesn't take you long to spot the Oracle's long light-green hair sitting at the unmanned bar. Oh, Chika, not again... Yep, a humorously-large booze bottle, already half empty, rests on the counter before her. No glass either; your troubled friend happily drinks anything straight from the container. A small section of your heart twinges in pain... and you lightly clear your throat. "Chika..." No, don't scold her about drinking again; she's like a sad child at this point, and you don't want to further upset her. You simply reach for a stool and pull it out. "... Would you like some company?" Your friend, eyes fortunately not yet fully glazed over, smiles up at you. "Oh... Hey, Cavey. Sure... I'd like that..." However, she picks up the bottle once more, turning it in her hand. "... Can we go somewhere else, though? This booze is kinda... too bitter... I'll finish the rest later. Besides, these seats hurt mah butt." A soft chuckle escapes you; you simply can't help it! "Sure..." Hmm... The lounge has a big television in the corner! "Want to... watch a movie? I think some relaxation before the big day tomorrow would be forgivable." "Heh, sure!" Chika responds with glee, her eyes closed and a grin eating her face. When she looks like that, you can't help but think that she's still the same kid you knew from back in the day... No matter what happened, she'd always be young at heart. You help your friend out of the barstool; she stumbles for the first few steps, but she regains composure quickly. Good, she's not yet entirely impaired; by now, Chika's speech would usually be slurred, and her legs would practically be sacks of flour. Holding her hand tight (but not TOO tight), you lead her to the lounge's three-cushion sofa. Man, Vert spared no expenditure on this vessel... You yourself could normally travel between Planeptune and Leanbox on foot if you had to, but if the goddess was willing to provide a lavish ship, then so be it. The two of you take a seat, Chika preferring your lap in lieu of the rest of the couch, and you reach for the remote. "Let's see... 'Shizuma-sama's All-Girl Panic!', 'Kagami's Otaku Awakening', 'Kumakura Mariko: Friendship, or...', 'Nepgeo Blitz Tactics'... Okay, what the hell are these?" These don't sound like acceptable viewing material, especially while you're sitting next to your closest friend. "Hmm... Wow, none of these seem particularly... interesting." Chika snuggles close to you, and points suddenly to one of the options on the viewing guide. "Ohmigosh, that's out already?! And it's just starting! Cavey, turn on 'Record of the Romance of the Three Dominion Warriors'! Please please please?!" The heck? Wow, she sure is excited... How can you say no? "Heh, as you wish." And the two of you find yourselves watching the opening credits to some film you've never [[heard about...|Cave Flashback 4 Page 2Other]]](else:)[{(set: $flashbackFourViewed to "Bad")}You are readying the bath when loud muffled shouts reach your ears. What on Gamindustri is that?... Better go check it out. Your ears lead you to Lady Vert's personal chamber on this Planeptune-bound airship... and a cold shiver makes you want to run for the nearest blanket. Two feminine voices are shouting on the other side of the door... and you immediately recognize Green Heart herself, as well as Chika. You can't make out exactly what they are saying... but even a dogoo could figure out that something was going down. You bring the knuckle of your index finger up to the door and lightly knock. "Is... everything all right in there?" Nothing at first but complete telling silence... but a powerful voice does eventually respond. "Yes, Cave... Everything is fine... Right, Chika?" "Y-Yeah, of course! N-No worries here!" Far from convincing... but you know better than to intervene with Vert's personal life. You'll just ask Chika about it after... ... Bath done, you dry yourself off... and note Chika's absense. Huh... before the previous battles, the Oracle usually wound up in your room. It had honestly become a pre-war tradition of sorts: her barging in unannounced and catching you in a near-precarious position. ... She must be out of Vert's room by now, right? Unless the two, er, resolved their problems and are "making up" this very moment... Knowing how cold Vert has become, you highly doubt that possibility, and you are sprinting down the hall before you know it! Chika's door is cracked open (does she ever shut these things? She is such a slob...), and you peek inside... and a sadly-familiar scene plays out: Chika sitting with her head down, and a half-empty alcohol bottle in her hands. Not again... "Chika, may I... come in?" you ask, not really waiting for a response before you push the door fully open and step inside. Your friend doesn't even look up; she instead takes another direct sip. You notice how her left cheek has a hint of red... and you connect the dots of what happened inside the CPU's room. The Oracle swallows the drink before responding. "... What do you want?" That's... quite the unexpected response. "... You can't be drinking like this, Chika. We have an important day tomorrow!" "... Ah, screw tomorrow." Huh? "Who give a crap?" Another sip... Irritation growing, you reach out and grab the bottle from your drunk friend's tight grasp. She's too out-of-it to even protest. "You know how important this is!" you proclaim, your voice rising to a near-yell. "And you're killing yourself with this crap!" Chika glares up at you. "... You know all about killing, dontcha Cave?" W-What? Where did that come... The alcohol must be really getting to her tonight. "... Look, I know you and Vert haven't been on good terms... but that's no excuse to take it out on me. And more than that, it's no excuse to take it out on yourself! I'm worried about you." She's not responding... Damn it, what do you do? [["Here... That contusion needs attention."|Cave Flashback 4 Page 2Other]] [[Gotta stop her cheek from swelling first and foremost!|Cave Flashback 4 Page 2Other]]]

(if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[Chika has never looked more beautiful and vulnerable than she does now... All doubt flies straight out of your mind as you bring your face closer and closer... Are you really about to...? Yes, you are... The Oracle's ruby eyes look tentative... but she doesn't back away or shift herself to face the other direction. Thump, thump, thump, thump... Both your hearts threaten to burst out of your chests, but nothing can deter you any longer! All those years together have been building up to this grand moment! All that time, never seeing the truth... Well, you were living in the dark no more! The two of you are a mere breath away from each other... and the moment finally arrives: your inexperienced lips gingerly press against Chika's, your eyes still lost in hers up until the moment they close. An unspoken boundary has been crossed, and you wait for your friend to make a move, any move! She sits frozen- almost like a doll- as you kiss her, and that famous worry starts whispering in your ear. You're screwing up! This is wrong! Chika will hate you forever! Some things are simply better left locked away inside! Is this the end? Is your friendship destined to be cursed by an ever-present nagging sensation of discomfort once this kiss concludes? No... anything but that! You keep worrying and worrying.... that you barely register that Chika slowly begins to respond. Her lips meet yours with a reinvigorated energy, and two tender arms wrap gently around your neck. It seems she's actually going all-out here... You retaliate by resting your hands upon the thin fabric covering the Oracle's well-defined hips, and pulling her ever-closer! She hums happily into the kiss. Soaring through the clouds... You've never felt this alive before! Sure, you've felt good, great even... but you've never truly felt like your life was complete. Happiness and sadness came and went... but right now, what you were experiencing was simply perfect. No other words came close to even poorly describing it! The kiss goes on and on and on, your union the only thing that mattered in the world! Soon, you feel like you are falling... and turns out, you were! Chika pulls the both of you down to the bed, so that you are laying in each other's arms. Holy crap... you've just realized that, despite you starting this whole thing off... Chika was now the one firmly in charge. You were no longer in control... and yet, you couldn't be happier. The once-timid buss grows more heated by the second, putting most wildfires to shame! One of your hands has developed a mind of its own, caressing Chika's shoulder most intimately... She must approve, because her very next move takes things to a whole new level: you feel her tongue boldly graze your bottom lip! C-Crap, what to do, what to do?! No, don't panic! Simply... let your mind run free! Go with the flow... and let her in. There's nothing to be afraid of now. You open your mouth just enough to allow her tongue entry, the organ venturing into parts unknown. Your head is complete mush by now... and you feel Chika's daring hands tugging on your loose towel. That's right, you had yet to get dressed... The absorbent cloth is easily cast away, leaving absolutely everything exposed to your best friend. Chika brings up her right hand to grab a breast... and the heat is on! ... The early morning sun arrives far too early, stirring you from the most relaxed slumber of your life. The powerful rays (why does Planeptune get so much sun in the morning?) force your eyes to inch open... and you are instantly greeted to the sight of Chika's sweet sleeping face. The two of you are stark naked and wrapped up in each other... Warm memories from last night flare up, and you can't help but smile like... well, a dweeb. Huh... did you just use the word 'dweeb'? What the hell is happening to you? ... Drat, you know what time it is: you must depart for the battlefield at once! No time to cuddle or admire your best friend (well... more than that now, huh?); you needed to... conquer Planeptune... You are never one to disobey your orders, but... fighting is the last thing you want to do today. Chika is to stay in the main camp anyways, so she won't need to wake up just yet... You decide to let her remain sleeping. It is simply impossible to disturb her... ... Wow... How beautiful is she? No, more than that... Pure, sublime... She's an angel; she has to be! ... You're in love. You're in love? Yeah... love... You love Chika Hakozaki. You love her... For how long, you wonder? Just last night? A month ago? Years? From the moment you and her first met? But wait! What about... Lyrica? The pop idol stole your heart, you thought?... No no no, this is all too confusing! Chika, Lyrica, Chika, Lyrica... Damn it all, now's not the time to think about this! Just... get ready to fulfill your duties. Chika will be here tonight... and you both can sort out exactly what last night really meant. ... You take one last look at the resting angel... and you can't wait for this fight to be over so you can see her again. "... -ove you..." What... was that? You can't overcome the embarrassment of saying those three simple words even when she's SLEEPING?! You have a lot to work on... At least try it again! "... I love you..." Muuuuuuch better... Now you just need to say it when it counts. Not like some creep when she's unconscious... ... Time to move out. [[Get ready.|Cave Flashback 4 Page 3]]](else:)[You pull Chika closer, so that her head is resting right above your chest... and you yourself press your chin against the top of her head. Comforting is not your forte... but you are at a complete loss right now! Your best friend needs you, though... and there's no way you're going to fail her. Your mind keeps turning over the sudden confusing words the Oracle just uttered... and they make less and less sense to you. This... is all new to you... The first response that comes to your mind is: "... I wish so too." What she fully meant is a mystery to you... but what the hell did YOU mean? Either way... Chika stops sniffling and cuddles her way deeper into your grasp... Mission accomplished? No... Not until she regains every inch of her happiness! You'll stay with her all night... She deserves at least that much! "... I... lo-..." Chika begins... but she never continues, and simply relaxes in your arms. You decide not to pry; you'll ask her tomorrow. For now, the two of you shall rest. ... The early morning sun arrives far too early, stirring you from your peaceful slumber. The powerful rays (why does Planeptune get so much sun in the morning?) force your eyes to inch open... and you are instantly greeted to the sight of Chika's sweet sleeping face. That's right; the two of you fell asleep in each other's arms! Not the first time you've done that... and it won't be the last. When you're with Chika... things just feel right. At the very least, you are able to let your guard down in a way you can't with anyone else... even Lyrica. You take a look at the clock: still early in the morning... but right on time for your mission. Ugh... you know it's sinful for a CPU's loyal retainer to groan at her duty, but you can't help it. For whatever reason, you feel like jumping right back into bed and never letting the Oracle go! "... Better get this done with quick." There's no way out of fighting on the battlefield... so you resolve to settle things fast. That way, you and Chika will be back together before long. You take one more look at your innocent-looking best friend... She will be guarding the main camp, whereas you'll be leading the main force of the army; let her sleep some more, while she has the chance. Her beautiful features are simply entrancing... and you realize that you have a... few things to get off of your chest... Tonight, you'll... set things right! But... for now: it's time to move out. [[Get ready.|Cave Flashback 4 Page 3]]]

(if: $caveKarma <= 1)[Two Planeptune soldiers surround you, swinging their pikes with the fullest intent of ripping your body apart. The pointed tips jab out, but unluckily for them you are more than prepared. You sway out of their reach and swing your own twin blades, sweeping both soldiers off of their feet. They fly for a moment before making contact with the rocky earth below... Two more soldiers knocked unconscious by your unrelenting blow. The battle is going good, with minimal casualties on both sides it seems. You're making a point not to kill the opposing side; simply disarm and/or incapacitate anyone who dares stand before you. Your night with Chika... changed you; changed everything! And, though the feelings of fatigue are starting to set in, the pure adrenaline deep within your heart keeps you afloat. The enemy is most certainly strong in numbers, but at this rate they will be no match for the power of Leanbox. Victory was inevitable... so killing them all seemed rather unnecessary. You just want to get this battle over with in record time... You take the time to glimpse the remaining troops that are busy fighting amongst themselves; seems your fellow Leanbox soldiers are taking a similar stance as you. Nonlethal blows... No one's heart is truly in this battle... and for once, you don't feel like complaining. Just gotta bear with it a little longe- Hey, what's that? As your eyes trail over to the Leanbox-stationed mountain, you can't help but notice a tiny trail of smoke rising to the cloudy sky. That's... definitely coming from your base! But... what could it be? Certainly Chika wasn't starting a fir- C-Chika! As the vapor disperses in the mighty wind, a darkening sensation oozes throughout your body; a sudden reminder of what's at stake. "... N-No!" Chika is up there, defending from any prospective attacks! Vert had assumed that you'd be able to hold off any potential invaders... but this was a huge mountainside, and thus maintaining a proper watch on every possible angle was beyond a fantastical idea. What if... some Planeptune soldiers made their way up there?! (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[The love of your life](else:)[Your best friend] is in absolute danger! Damn, but you're needed down here! B-Besides, maybe you're simply overreacting... Perhaps Lady Vert is up there too; no one would be able to defeat her!... No, she should be back on the airship, away from this particular battle! No no no no no... You need to contact your goddess straight away! Good, your radio is still on you... Calm down! Your heart has never beat so fast... It feels quite sickening. "My Lady!" you shout into your transponder device, not even caring to take cover. "My Lady, are you there?! It's an emergency, over!" Silence... Don't you dare do this t- "Cave? I hear everything's been going rather well... What's the issue?" She sounds rather calm, causing your heart to burn with an uncomfortable amount of rage. "I-I believe the main camp is under attack! T-There's clearly a fire..." you stutter, something you barely recall ever doing in your life, at least in the heat of battle. Don't shame yourself, you fool! "... Chika's in danger, Vert! I'm moving to check up on her!" The sound on the other end goes quiet, and at first you believe the signal is lost. However, eventually the static returns. "... I'm sure nothing is wrong. Chika hasn't sent out a distress signal... Stay where you are, Cave; you have your orders." A sinking feeling. Sinking, sinking, sin- "But Ver-" "That's an order, Cave! I'm heading to the base now... I'll handle whatever you think is going on, so don't you DARE leave your post!" And with that, the signal dies... She hung up on you. Rage blinds your vision as you slam your fist into a nearby rock. You look back up at the base, and notice that the smoke is growing fiercer and thicker. You feel your skin grow faint and sickly. The enemy is up there... Chika is up there. You had to move. Now. ... Orders be damned. "... This is more important than your cause, my 'Lady'..." You inadvertently squeeze the radio tightly in your hand, insurmountable strength rushing towards your fingers. The flimsy device is nothing against your grasp... and once a spark shoots out, you slam it right into the ground. Feedback tries to eek its way out of the speaker... but your mighty foot ends its misery. You've just crossed an unspeakable line... and you couldn't be bothered any less. "... Hang on, Chika..." You don't even inform your army that you're temporarily retreating; there's simply no time! Scissors drawn at the ready, you rush up towards the Leanbox main camp... ... The path is calm and quiet, though the lack of any troops whatsoever make for quite the surreal experience. You run straight for the gates, and as you near the entranceway to the top of the mountain, sudden yelling from inside rattles your bones. It didn't come from Chika, that's for sure... The blade in your hand digs into your palm, drawing a slight tinge of blood. At last, you come to the door... and your worst fears lay before you: three Leanbox guards, clearly gatekeepers, lay unconcious at your feet... Shit, the enemy did ambush the main camp! Damn it, Vert... You blast the doors wide open... and find nearly a dozen Planeptune combatants, clad in the toughest of armor and holding the sharpest of swords, surrounding... Chika in a circle! N-No! She doesn't appear harmed, at least from where you're standing... but she shares the same fatigued look as you. She holds a crossbow limply at her side; she was surprisingly an able fighter... but she couldn't handle this whole mess herself. Your best friend quickly makes eye contact with you, uncertainty fused with relief nestled within those lovely orbs. Your own expression, while attempting to look reassuring, matches her own; even with your weapons and fighting proficiency, you can't help but feel somewhat unsure of yourself... but knowing that Chika is alive inspires you to seize the day. You can tell... she feels the same way. Time to save (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[the woman you love... The most important person in your entire life... (link:"Nay, the world.")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4 Page 4")]](else:)[the closest companion you've ever had... The one person you can't possibly (link:"live without.")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4 Page 4")]]](elseif: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)["Too... bright~... Ugh, s-stahp it!" a female's voice slurs as she swings up her hand to block the sun's mighty rays. The life-giving star had been behind a set of hefty clouds up until now... so why'd it have to show itself so suddenly? Ugh... her head feels like it's in shambles. "... More booze should cure 'at right uuuup!" And another swig from the alcohol bottle, she takes... This has to be the tenth drink Chika Hakozaki has had all day! After waking up to find that Cave had already left, the depressed Oracle had immediately jumped for her safety net. When her best friend was away, booze would at least always be there for her! The drunk woman looks behind her to where her darling Lady Vert rested, soaking in the outside air to alleviate a sudden headache. Even in slumber, the goddess looks so... displeased with everything. This was no longer the perfect woman Chika loved so much... but that would all change soon enough! The Oracle was determined to make the CPU fall in love with her all over again! She would make her proud! ... But how? She was too buzzed to do jack-diddly-squat; in fact, Chika suspected that the only reason Vert came up here to the main camp was because the goddess assumed she was too impaired to be of any use! No... No no no no... that will not do! "... Hm? Whazzat?" The Leanbox main camp was situated on one of two summits in the mountain range outside Haneda City... and Chika's inebriated mind just remembered that the Planeptune base was smackdab on the opposing hill! Leanbox had the higher-ground; she could look slightly down and see Planeptune's base, albeit obscured by many jagged rocks, in the not-so-far distance... Neighborly enemies! ... Purple hair... Yes, if she squinted ever-so-hard, Chika could see long, flowing purple hair within the confines of the combatant's headquarters... A very drunk Chika slowly reaches for her crossbow; she knew exactly what would please (link:"Lady Vert!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4 Page 4")]](else:)[Three Planeptune soldiers surround you, swinging their pikes with the fullest intent of ripping your body apart. The pointed tips jab out, but unluckily for them you are more than prepared. With a mighty swing, you bring your right-handed blade directly into the gut of one of the charging men, stopping his momentum dead as he lurches into an unnatural triangular shape. With him now completely embedded on one half of your shears, you expertly kick him off into his teammates, staggering them as you let out a charge of your own. Slashing through the dry wind, the blade caresses both, stabbing through their flimsy armor and piercing their welcoming flesh. Both men groan and collapse to the ground, devoid of energy... With a sigh, you clean off the metal; today has been quite the long one... Whatever gets Vert what she wants faster. If victory today means a shorter overall war tomorrow... then everything will have been worth it. How... fortuitous: you have a moment to yourself, it seems... Your allies are fighting their own duels at the edge of the mountain, displaying their dominance to the world! Planeptune didn't stand a chance... The enemy lay motionless around you before their bodies explode into that familiar pixie dust. All the while, your body struggles to catch its breath... Why are you so... exhausted? Your duty is to never get tired. Leanbox requires your strength, dammit! If Vert tells you to fight for an entire year without rest... then you're going to do it! This day is nothing! ... Gah, it's no use; Chika is still fresh on your mind. Still no word from her... As such, your main camp was left undefended. A serious issue in any other battle... but Vert was confident. Perhaps TOO confident; she was back resting in the Leanbox airship. Not too far from the battlefield... but it showed just how much she... 'cared' about this. She believed you and the rest of her forces could hold off the enemy so well, Chika wouldn't even be needed... You hope Chika's well, wherever she may be. You still feel beyond terrible about last night... Once this battle was over, you were going to find your best friend and... somehow set things right! You couldn't live like this... --CRRR! CRRR!-- W-What the hell was... Oh, your radio is going off. Is your goddess trying to contact you? A dozen thoughts race through your head at once. New orders? Some kind of emergency? Perhaps she's located Chika's whereabouts?! Well, only one way to find out; you pull your radio from your belt and flick it on. The voice on the other end doesn't even wait for you to speak. "Cave? It's Vert. We have a... sudden problem which needs tending to, or so it appears." This can't be good. "Hm? What is the matter, my Lady?" You would say 'over', as was proper radio etiquette... but you know Lady Green Heart; she never cared about things like that, even when she was... normal. "It seems... we have some unwanted guests joining the battlefield. An unidentified force was last seen sneaking into an abandoned hut on the other side of our mountain... They had weapons... and seeing as we have no pending reinforcements on the way, we must assume they are hostile." You know where this is going... "... What is required of me?" "They must already know what they were getting into the second they stepped foot in the area... End them, Cave. If they weren't a threat, they wouldn't be acting so suspect. Make haste! I shall head for our main camp shortly..." The order made sense for the most part: any strange movements happening within range of the main camp needed to be nipped in the bud. That being said, you were stationed to fight along the path leading to your unmanned base of operations! Deserting your original post in exchange for dealing with a... mysterious threat would practically leave the way wide open! Still... you know what questioning Vert will lead to... Before anything, you find yourself blurting out the pressing issue on your conscience. "... Any word from Chika yet?" Quiet, quiet... An uncomfortable clearing of her throat? "... No... I'll deal with that after we've taken the day... Now enough questions. Are your orders clear?" "... Yes... (link:"Understood, My Lady.\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Flashback 4 Page 4")]]

Last of Us joke ending Lyrica tries to break up fight with IF and Cave, IF accidentally knocks her unconscious. Cave fights with even more rage, defeats IF "C-Cave! D-Don't do this!" "... You'll just keep putting her in danger." Blam! Cave carries Lyrica away, not giving a shit about the war or Vert or anything anymore. She's a monster; Vert and Chika don't need a devil. But she is the only one who can keep Lyrica safe. They abandon the army, and travel across the land. "Cave... W-What happened?... W-Where's IF!?" "... IF... I don't know who that was, but she... wasn't IF... She tried to kill you, so... I had to defend us. Vert sent IF to kill you, Lyrica..." "W-What? N-No... How is that even possible!? T-That can't be..." "... I'm sorry, Lyrica..." ... Eventually, the two find a remote village, seperated from the harsh reality outside, not much unlike the one that Adrian, Almaz, and Alex stayed at so long ago. How fast things can change: those boys were all alive over a month ago. Everyone was alive a month ago. But Cave and Lyrica would be different. They would never become the past tense. The SMD Warrior would see to that. "Cave..." 5pb uttered softly, despair in her voice as she looked on towards the village in the distance. "... IF... meant everything to me... You look down at the defeated brunette, barely able to hold herself up while resting on her hands and knees... How pathetic she looks. She honestly thought she was strong enough to protect Lyrica? Hell... were you actually foolish enough to almost believe in her as well? ... So what should you do now? Put her out of her misery?... No, something inside of you is holding you back... ... Perhaps it's the person you see running towards you out of the corner of your eye? She most certainly would object to you killing the battle-hardened veteran... "Lyri- What are you...?!" you stammer as you begin to turn around, too confused to process what was happening. Why was the pop idol outside of the castle?! You told her- no, ORDERED her- to stay away from the battlefield at all times! Yet, here she was, approaching the two of you like a madwoman! What the hell was she thinking?! Lyrica's angry, but determined, face gets ever closer, and you are fully turned towards her by now... ... IF, however, must not have received the memo; her head is kept down in shame... until she senses you have turned your back to her for some unknown reason. The brunette is a fool... but you know what they say about cornered beasts. The defeated girl suddenly pushes off the dirt with her fists before launching herself right for your back with an artistic flying kick. The atmosphere changes behind you... and your body is twisting before you can even process what exactly is going on; the evolutionary need to survive has been kind to you. You dodge just in time to see IF fly straight past you, obviously missing her mark by a fraction of an inch... and her eyes widen in horror right before she crashes into her new incoming target: Lyrica! The world grows silent as the battle-hardened veteran's flaming leg crashes right into 5pb's unsuspecting stomach... and you are rooted to the spot as she falls backwards into the disgusting mud. N-NO! IF falls on her back, clearly thrown off-balance by her gross error in judgement... and as she stands back up, she can only {tare at the damage she has caused. Lyrica is still on the ground... at the very least, knocked completely unconscious by the severe blow. ... But it's not Lyrica you are paying attention to... No, all you can see is the fast-approaching brown hair you are speeding for! With both blades drawn, you slickly swipe your right hand for IF's exposed legs, eliciting a pained yelp from her mouth as she is tossed up into the air and sent exploding right back down into the soggy earth. Where she belongs. You sense movement inside her long left-arm sleeve- she's probably trying to arm herself with another set of Qatars- and you simply kick both her hands with the tips of your boot. As expected, a few throwing knives fly right out... She's out of tricks. You step above her, blades firmly at the ready. It's finally time... "C-Cave! D-Don't do this!" Yes, beg like the bitch you are, IF. Your makeshift-swords whine out in anticipation, the cold steel shivering at just the thought of immersing itself in the battle-hardened veteran's insides. You swallow the brunette's fear, her eyes proving that there was some rational thinking going on in her head. About time... What took her so long? ... Well, better not drag this out any longer than you have to. Line up your blades with her submissive eyes... "You'll just keep putting her in danger." And you lurch your weapons forward! ... "We're done... We're leaving..." Before you know it, you are carrying Lyrica off through the rain, running to wherever your feet take you. Are you even thinking anymore? Where the hell do you think you're going?! Are... you seriously leaving? You know, once you step off this landmass... you'll never be allowed on Leanbox again. You'll be branded a pariah, persona non grata! "... So be it." Guess that settles that... You and 5pb. are done with this godforsaken nation. Vert could fight her own battles from now on. ... Lastation now? Upon reaching the mainland, you simply continued running. Valleys, plains, cities, deserted villages... Your feet weren't content yet. Have to find the perfect resting place... Still, it was getting late, so you found a dank cabin on the side of a dark road and took refuge for the night. Now, here you are, waiting for the sun to rise once more... "C-Cave...?" Hm?! Lyrica's finally waking up! You turn to look at the pop idol and find her half-lidded eyes watching you. She must be confused beyond all compare... You immediately leap to her side. "Are you feeling all right, Lyrica?" That was a nasty hit she took... The wondrous girl thinks for a moment, before shaking her head. "W-What happened?... W-Where's IF!?" Of course that'd be the first thing she'd bring up... You gaze into the eyes of the woman you desperately love... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[at least, you still think you do; Chika stole your heart along the way... Chika... ]and formulate the best words you can muster! "... Lyree... I don't know who that was, but she... wasn't IF... She tried to kill you, so... I had to defend us..." Dramatic pause... Have to build this up. "... Vert sent IF to kill you, Lyrica. I had no choice. We're not going back to Leanbox... Ever. We're on our own now." Light tears form in her flawless eyes... Damn it, hold firm. "W-What? N-No... H-How is that even possible!? T-That can't be..." "... I'm sorry, Lyrica..." In due time... she'll know that this is all for the best. Away from Vert's deranged schemes and IF's treachery... the two of you can finally live a proper life again. And so... time passes... ... "Lyree... Up here, look!" The pop idol, dirt staining her clothes after such a long trek, rubs the sweat off her forehead before directing her attention up your way. "Hmm? What is it now?" You point to the horizon, where a magnificent sight greets you: a remote village, isolated from the harsh reality of the outside world! Could this... finally be where the two of you find peace? It looks rather rural... but lord knows that simplicity has been lacking from your lives for quite a long time. Maybe... this is an opportunity for a new start; wiping the slate clean. "Cavey... Can ya pass the mustard?! Pretty please~" "... This isn't a picnic, Chika. We didn't bring any food." "That certainly doesn't sound like a terrible idea, however! My oh my, maybe I can bake us up some snacks! It wouldn't take too long!" "Y-You're going to c-cook for us, Lady Vert?! Oh man... I don't think my heart can take that!" "... I've been in the Basilicom too long... I'd rather IF cooked..." "I-I find your lack of faith disturbing, Lyrica!... But thank you, Miss IF; loyal as always!" "Better go get that mustard, then~! The five of us will have the greatest picnic ever! The five closest companions to ever walk the face of the planet, wooo!" "Well said, my darling sister... Come, let us all eat! A toast to the future!" "... We still need to make the food..." ... The 'five of us'... The 'five of us' are no more, huh? IF and Chika... were gone. Vert had descended so far into madness that she couldn't be considered the same CPU you once loyally served. Three of your friends were gone thanks to this terrible war... ... But you and Lyrica will be different! You two will never become the past tense! You'll survive... You'll live on. That's what... the friends you once knew would want... Right? Lyrica makes her way up the rock wall until she's standing by your side. She seems somewhat at... awe, so you take the initiative to speak up. "Look... Nothing's certain, but... I think that may be out new home. What do you say?" The pop idol looks at the far-off village for awhile... before looking down at her tattered shoes. She takes in a large influx of air... and speaks. "Cave... IF... meant everything to me..." ... You can only think to lightly caress the girl's sunken shoulder. "... I know..." She continues. "... Too many people have died, and I can't even be sure why! First there was Mina, then Gust, then... Chika... and IF... and yet, here I am! Still alive... Why did they all have to die, but... I got off scot-free? Why do I deserve to live, while IF and the others didn't?" Pain stings your heart; there's no easy way out of this. "... I don't know... I ask myself the same thing every day: why am I still alive? But you, Lyree... if anyone deserves to live, it's definitely you. You're special, your truly are." She stays silent... Damn it, what can you say? "... No matter how hard things may get... you just have to keep finding something to fight for, you hear me? Chika never once doubted her heart, and IF must've found her reason as well... It may never get any easier... but I'll always be here for you. That's a promise." You turn your head back towards the village. "Now come, let's be off! Hopefully we can make it by su-" "Swear to me." Huh? "... E-Excuse me?" A determined look fuels the pop idol's eyes. "Swear to me that everything you said about IF is true." S-Shit... You had hoped she would never bring this up again... but you suppose that was wishful thinking. There's only one thing you can say. [Lie to her.] [Tell the 'truth'.] ... You look the flawless angel square in the eye. "... I swear." "... Okay." -But wait, hold on! T-The sword- Gehaburn, was it?- is floating! Even the soldiers seem aghast, explaining why you aren't filled with lead yet. You... aren't about to fight a ghost, are you? Brace yourself! The sword hovers in the air, twirling slightly in the wind. Hmmm... No, it isn't necessarily floating by itself; you think you can spot a faint silhouette holding the blade by the fiendish hilt. Clearly a woman... Is that a witch hat? Damn, too blurry to tell... The shrouded female speaks! "Well, well... This is quite the unforeseen benefit!" The transparent hand swings Gehaburn a few times, forcing some of the Lowee soldiers to back away. The figure laughs. "I shall be... taking this. Thank you... Cave and IF!" And with that, the sword simply blinks out of view. Your spine is quaking now. T-That voice... I-It couldn't be... And she knew your names... Suddenly, you have several thousand new questions. ... Aaaaaaaand the cocking of the rifles force you to push them all aside. Cave shakes her head, no doubt as perplexed as you are, and A shockwave jolts your entire system as her tongue suddenly flicks across your earlobe. W-What has gotten into her?! What did you awaken?! "L-Lyree, s-stop! W-What if someone...!" You try to fight, but predictably, you fail... The love of your life is acting like a total deviant towards you; how could anyone resist? She suddenly stops, however, most likely sensing your duress. "... I-I'm sorry, Cave... I-I don't know what's... coming over me! I-I..." Another kiss, this time to the cheek. "... must not be in the right state of mind~..." Losing... YOUR... mind! W-Wait... H-Hold on, they're turning around! You are about to let out quite the embarrassing yell... but as soon as Vert and the others look your way, Lyrica is once more back by your side. A blush paints her face red, but she otherwise shows no sign of foul play. Something warm and a tad-bit wet grazes your neck, immediately halting all thought processes. W-What is... L-Lyrica?! The pop idol's lips gently paint your pale skin with light kisses as the entirety of the army looks away. H-Hold on, t-this behavior is far too risky!!! D-Damn... but why must it feel so... intoxicating...?... As you stand frozen, her gentle breaths tickle your ear as she whispers with such an inappropriately-innocent voice. "Relax... It's going to be fine... We'll think of something..." D-Does she sense your fears?! Can she... r-read your mind? B-But... yeah, don't get so... worried... You'll come up... with... something... You always do... ... No! Y-You have to stop this! "W-Why... are you...?" Wow, great effort there! However, the pop idol does suddenly halt her... unexpected advances. "... O-Oh my! I-I'm... s-so sorry!" She immediately jolts her face away, avoiding your gaze at all costs. "... S-Something's wrong with me, C-Cave! I... T-This is so wrong! I-I should be thinking about IF, but..." ... She's said enough. While Vert issues orders to the rest of the army, you hold the angel gently by the cheeks and kiss her as firmly as in your most forbidden dreams. Lyrica easily reciprocates, but most likely hating herself inside for being more than fine with this. You break off the smooch after far-too-short a duration, for Vert begins to turn around. The two of you quickly return to your original stances by the time her eyes land your way. It's simply impossible to hide the blushes and flushed faces... but please make do!

(if: $caveKarma >1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)[The film concludes about two hours later, and the two of you are laying on your sides, practically entangled in each other. Chika has taken to pretty much using your entire form as a makeshift body-pillow. Well, so long as she's at peace, you don't mind... "Cavey... Does Vert... hate me?" her quiet voice rings out, breaking the silence that had stuffed up the entire lounge. That's an... odd question. You stroke your friend's hair, thinking of a proper response. "Of course not... She loves you... Vert's just... going through some terrible times I suppose." "Then why... can't I help her?" Her head is turned away... but from the tone of her voice, you fear she is beginning to sob. "I love her so much, but... it's like she doesn't notice me anymore..." "Chika, I..." Her head shifts, the back of her head rubbing your face gently. Like a scared child looking for warmth... What else can you do but pull her closer? "She looks at me like she does Lyrica, or Markz, or Linda, or one of the soldiers: like tools..." "T-That's not..." "... But that's okay: When I'm with you... I don't feel worthless... You're the only one... I... need..." You are speechless... and Chika squirms in your arms again. You wait to see if she's about to continue... but she keeps quiet, so you raise your voice. "... You're not worthless, Chika..." Her hair is so soft and pure... Dammit, why her? Why did she have to suffer like this? You should be the one with this burden! You'd happily take on her woes. "... Vert needs you more than you realize... but just in case, I'll always be by your side. I'm not going anywhere." Chika breathes out with what you hope is a sound of happiness... and you await a response. However... it still doesn't arrive. Is she...? ... Ah, you see: the Oracle has fallen asleep, the intoxication catching up to her. She lies passed out in your arms... You hope she finds some peace in her dreams, for you doubt she'll find much solace tomorrow morning... You lift her up and carry her off to her chambers. "... You're not worthless... You're not worthless..." Keep repeating it... Perhaps if you say it enough times, it will sink into her head and she'll believe it. As you softly tuck her into bed, you remember the bath idea you were going to propose... Well, too late now. It seems you'll just have to shower alone tonight... ... It's not long (it never is) before the sun rises on the new day... and you immediately set out. All the preparations for conquest must be ready at once! Chika slumbers peacefully in her bed... and you rub her hair before silently leaving her be. Her duty is simply to guard the main camp with Vert, so she has no reason to be up this early. Your friend can continue her sleep in peace... Tonight, you and her will be back together, and you'll do your best to set her mind at ease. It's never too late to help the one most important to you... right? ... Either way, get your ass in gear: the battle [[shall commence at once!|Cave Flashback 4 Page 3]]](else:)[In an attempt to disarm the situation, you reach out your hand for Chika's bruised cheek... but she swats your comforting extremity away. "DON'T touch me! We're 'not on good terms'?! Vert wouldn't care if I dropped dead tomorrow! Heh... thanks for that..." She leans back, stretching her arms above her head. "Just focus on killing more people tomorrow and being Vert's pretty little lapdog... No need to worry about MY problems, Cave; why start now?" This was... getting beyond your control. "H-How can you even...?! Y-You're my best friend, Chika! Of course I'm going to worry about you!" Is this really the alcohol speaking, or... is this how she truly...? "... I'm sorry you feel that way..." Another attempt for her face, and another rejection. "... I want to help you..." The Oracle laughs suddenly... well, more like shrieks. "HELP me? That's funny... Help me with what, eh? Ooh, I know: give me my booze back! At least that's always there for me..." Absentmindedly, you squeeze the container in your hand tighter than before. "Go back to fawning over Lyrica, killing our friends, being a monster... all that stuff. I don't NEED your help." Emotions you didn't realize you had bubble up. Chika... "... Everything I do is for you, Chika. EVERYTHING." She doesn't even move a muscle; she simply finds more enjoyment out of her socks than your attempt at saving face. "You, Lyrica, it doesn't matter: I'm doing what Vert says... so everyone can live-" 'Happily?' Yeah, even you don't buy that; Lyrica already hates you too... The swelling cheek distracts your focus; you can't help but stare at the perfect symbol for Vert's and Chika's fall from grace. "... I'm making sure Vert doesn't... go too far... It's my job to protect you from her! Now, it is clear that I have... already failed, and for that... I am deeply ashamed of my weakness." Your fingernails draw blood from your palms. "BUT! I will devote myself even further to ensuring your wel-" "Go to hell." "... H-Huh?" Chika's cold and exhausted eyes rain death upon you; you've never seen her look this hateful before... Frankly, you hadn't assumed pure vile anger was an emotion of hers! "Give up the act: you don't care." Were you just... shot? Your stomach feels as if there's a large hole in it. "You're worse than Vert is! You can't do shit." And that was that; the two of you stare in silence, everything laid bare in the open. The Oracle had made her point... and you staying here any longer would only exasperate things. "..." Without another word to your best friend, you turn and depart for your room, cursing to yourself the entire time... ... You awake the next morning before the sun's rays can force you out of bed, and immediately are greeted with more variations of regret than any sane mathematician can count. You screwed up! You were already losing Lyrica... and now Chika had already turned on you! You failed her, and last night you were as helpless as ever! "... I-I have to see her!" you declare to the empty room, and you sprint down the hall, still clad in your sleepware. Chika's door is, you guessed it, cracked open, allowing you to slam the full thing open with a wave of a hand. "C-Chika, I'm sorry! I-" But no one was there... the Oracle's bed was neatly made, but lacked one important component: Chika. It was far too early for the slovenly woman to be up and about... Where did she go?! "Cave?... Whatever are you doing?" Lady Vert's calculating voice nearly rips your heart out through your throat, and you turn far too quickly. Her eyes travel down your long, mostly bare legs, and back again. "... Did you and Chika... have a good night?" What was she impl- Never mind that! Nerves getting the better of your verbal skills, you blurt out the immediate issue. "W-Where has Chika gone?! She should still be in bed!" Green Heart's brows furrow your way. "Oh, she's not with you? Pity... I was on my way to apologize to her. I went... a tad too overboard last night, and I wanted to clear the air." A 'tad' too overboard? THAT'S what she calls it? You shake your head. Damn it, don't act like this in front of your CPU! You don't want her to count you as... weak, do you? "D-Do you have any idea where she could've gone?!" Have to segue this back to business somehow... "O-Our main camp needs her!" There we go! Vert's features regress back to pseudo-impassiveness; par for the course, really. "Oh... I am not concerned about that one bit. Our main camp won't be in any danger, anyways... Chika is probably just using the washroom, or in the lounge; you know her. Maybe she even stepped out to visit a Planeptune gift shop? She is a wild one indeed, isn't she?" She begins to turn around and head off. "Regardless... best of luck today, Cave! I'm counting on you... We all are." And with that, she leaves your presence... "..." You spend the next few minutes scouting out the entire airship... but Chika is nowhere to be found. Maybe Vert was right: perhaps the Oracle left to take a relaxing walk? Hopefully she's not suffering from too bad a hangover, or guilt... You're the one who should feel guilty, not her. Definitely not her... ... Better lock these worries away; you have a battle to [[prepare for!|Cave Flashback 4 Page 3]]]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div> }(if: $iffyArmInjury is true)[This... freakin' sucks. Your arm feels so weak... D-Damn, sucker really got you good... ]... What a day, eh? Almost done... It has to be almost done! ... Each step brings you closer to Lyrica. Each step brings you closer to stopping Lady Vert's descent into madness. ... Your mind turns to Cave... Will you be able to set things right with her? Man, you hope she's not still mad... You do regret the terms the two of you last left on... but you had your reasons, and she must have her own. Maybe time has healed at least some of the wounds, right? ... She's always been an odd cookie... but a great friend nonetheless. It may seem like a century ago... but you, Cave, and Lyrica used to be the closest companions Gamindustri had ever seen! (if: $iffyArmInjury is false AND $iffyShotPath is false AND $iffyShotRoll is false)[Together with Vert and Chika... you were pretty much the five core staples of Leanbox!] Those days weren't over, were they? (if: $iffyArmInjury is true OR $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[You walk out of Leanbox's Basilicom with a basket in one hand and a blanket underneath your other arm. You take one last look towards the sky, a sigh escaping your lips as you head out. They said the weather would be fair, but the ominous clouds tell another story. A few nearby soldiers tip their hats to you, so you wave at them; though Planeptune is your homeland, Leanbox always treated you as their own. Got to admire that. You march to the center of the grassy field. Leanbox's backyard is quite expansive, and you feel like a tiny minnow in a hilariously-huge pond. A big, green, grassy pond... Okay, enough with the metaphors! Similes? Aw, who cares; you're no grammar nazi! With a huff, the blanket falls to the ground. The grass unfortunately leaves pesky crinkles, but eh, it didn't have to be perfect... Er, at least, that's what you want to say. The urge to straighten it out completely nags at you... but you tune out the compulsive desire. Buuuuut... maybe a little kicking about won't hurt... Earlier in the day, you asked for a simple "get-together" with Lyrica... as well as Cave, your stoic-yet-endearing friend. Recent events have been... well, stressful to say the least, what with the politicking and concerts and other assorted busy daily goings-on... and time to unwind is an extreme necessity. Besides, it's been far too long since you hung out with both at the same time. Or at all. After the blanket is pressed neatly (yes, it's neat. Completely neat... PERFECTLY neat...), you double-check to make sure you actually have everything ready. The basket is full, good... and while the weather looks rather dreary today, at least it's cooperating enough to keep the rain at bay... for now. Either way, you reckon this sunblock you packed away will go unused... You look over the food you packed... Man, it took you forever to make that salad Lyrica loved, so you hope today she'll be the happiest girl in the world! You're not really what you'd call an... expert cook... but you made the lunch for this picnic, and dammit, you're proud of it! Hopefully pride equates to taste... You are glad to be the first to arrive, as it allows you some time to think to yourself. You always enjoy company... but sometimes being alone has its benefits too. The heroes in the manga you read are always on their own, and they kick ass! So... they must be on to something... Wow, look at you: already thinking about manga and anime. Such a nerd... "Iffy! Sorry it took so long!" You turn to see both of your lovely friends coming from the Basilicom. As it is a standard occasion, both were dressed in casual attire (yes, even Cave is donning a standard shirt and leggings. How often do you see her out of her battle-wear?). Both had a smile on, with Cave even appearing to be stifling a laugh; were they joking together? Wow! You grin at their glee, glad to see them in a good mood... if not a bit jealous; Cave only really shows her 'serious' side when in your presence! What is it about Lyrica that lowers the SMD warrior's guard? Lyrica runs up and embraces you, and you can't help but hold that position for an eternity. Sure, you hug nearly every waking moment, but each one is worth it. No words even need to be said other than "Hey!" Yeah, you're a sly dog! Her loving eyes greet you as she breaks the hold, that smile never wavering. "Impressive... You've certainly went all out, IF," Cave remarks. She kicks the blanket a little, ironing out the edges. Gah, of course you missed a spot! Still wearing a soft smirk, your red-haired friend looks to the sky, where her happiness quickly fades. "... Hope it doesn't rain. Weathermen... what are they good for?" With a tiny giggle, you rub the back of your head. "Yeah, buncha liars! But hey, I've been on a sweet lucky streak lately, so I'm sure it'll fizzle out into nothin'!" Always gotta remain positive; maybe it'll rub off on Cave one day, eh? Lyrica squeezes your hand as if to confirm your belief; whenever she's with you, all the luck in the world bows before your awesomeness! You escort your love to the side of the blanket, choosing to sit right beside her. Ahhhhhh~ The feeling of her warmth radiates up all the right places... Cave, meanwhile, sits opposite of you after curtseying; formal as ever. She nods at the two of you, but her gaze breaks very quickly. Not a sign of disrespect or anything; your friends simply has never been the best at... communicating, you suppose. Apart from Chika and Lyrica, she always seemed to find it difficult to... converse like the majority of the world can. Pretty much her only weakness, because the world must've decided she needed one! She's so amazing in nearly every aspect, something about her [[had to be lacking!|IF Flashback 2-2]]](else:)["...Yikes! T-This movie's scarier than I thought!" Lyrica cuddles closer to you, her body visibly shaking. *'Tamao and the Giant Tomato'* really didn't sound like a frightening film, but you have to admit, it has its moments; seriously, that spider was way too realistic! The... animation sure is... unusual... Sad thing is, this isn't meant to be a horror film. Cave looks over at you two... and chuckles softly, but you can tell by the sudden heat on your chest that Lyrica still detected it. "D-Don't laugh! I-I bet you're scared too!" Your friend doesn't cease her inward show of amusement, though she does shrug. "Heh, shaking." You toss a few popcorn kernels towards her for good measure, but she ducks her head out of the way without even breaking a sweat. You look to Cave's lap... where beloved Oracle Chika Hakozaki's feet have landed. The SMD warrior is massaging the boisterous woman's green sock-clad feet... You aren't too sure how this was arranged, but whatever; they both look pretty happy! Chika especially so: as the stylish soldier's expert hands work wonders on her heels and toes, the rowdy Leanbox professional seems wholely engrossed by the cinematic 'work of art' playing on the screen. She slowly eats her popcorn, her eyes glued to the set with envy; at times, her cheeks even grow rosy red, though you can't be sure that's entirely a direct result of the film. "Oh, Vert~... This is one of the most romantic films I've ever seen!" Er, Chika's gonna Chika. The Oracle begins wildly kicking her feet like a child, prompting Cave to playfully... dump her to the floor! That's the beauty of friendship; you could practically whip each other's asses senseless... and only grow closer! As a dramatic display of this concept, Chika doesn't seem to mind having crashed down onto the carpet at all; she uses her energy to bounce off the ground with her green socks and land in Vert's lap this time. A strange girl. "Isn't this freakin' romantic, my darling Vert?" Vert, eyes wide both at the television's gift to her sight as well as her 'sister' randomly leaping onto her, shoots you a pleading eyebrow raise. H-Heh, you can't help but grin like a doof. "It... it sure is, Chika!" the CPU begins. "I-I can feel the love... resonating!" You can tell by her shaky quote that she... yeah, had as much faith as you in this film. Despite her being a goddess and you being a measly human, it certainly feels like you and Vert have a lot in common, doesn't it? She understands you like no other... and you hope the same applies the [[other way around."|IF Flashback 2-2]]]

*CSCHIIIIING!* Before you can act, a deafening ringing tears away at your eardrums! "A-Aagghh!!!" All you can hear is a metallic ring ring ring ring riiiiiiiiiiing... ... And then everything goes silent. Any possible sound is sucked away almost as if the vacuum of space decided to put a stop to this madness. The soldiers around you seem equally unsure of the current happenings; they stand frozen, like their souls were absorbed with the missing noise... No, wait, they are not all simply confused, are they? It takes a moment, especially through the low visibility of the storm, but you believe you can see a sort of... 'shine' on each and every one of these soldiers' stomachs. As in, there was a glowing ball of light lodged in their torsos. H... Huh? Nothing moves... until the ringing returns to claim your sense of hearing, and you instantly find yourself helplessly looking on as bright orange and red explosions consume the Leanbox guards, one by one by one... No gore, no screams, no anything; just muted low-pitched booms, leaving behind mere specks of dust. It's over in 15 seconds... Everyone who surrounded you is gone. "... W-What the... hell?" Can you walk? Yeah... you are completely unharmed, it seems. How did that make any sense? Hellfire rained down on the area, but you were unscathed... though your heart is beating faster than a speeding hedgehog! You turn to face behind you... and no one stands there any longer. Were... all those guards dead? How morbid... though, you were kinda boned back there, let's admit. Now you can progress in peace! "... Well, that's a freebie..." But that begs the question: who annihilated them? Who had come to your aid? Someone must've intentionally left you alive! You reflect on the shining orbs you briefly caught sight of... and a thought strikes your head. C-Can't be... (if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true OR $iffyArmInjury is true)[Your wound(if: ($iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $iffyArmInjury is true)[s] suddenly (if: ($iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $iffyArmInjury is true)[flare](else:)[flares] up in pain! Gah, this is to be expected... Clutching your (if: ($iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true) AND $iffyArmInjury is true)[patched-up stomach and bleeding arm](elseif: $iffyArmInjury is true)[bleeding arm](else:)[patched-up stomach], y](else:)[Y]ou slowly turn back around... and spot just the person you were thinking of. "... Cave? C-Cave! Y-You helped me? But... W-Well, I'm not complaining! Our side or not, it's... good to see ya." You can't help but sigh somewhat-cheerfully, completely putting aside your fighting stance. You had worried long and hard that Cave was still mad at you... so this was indeed a pleasant surprise! "So, are ya... still with Vert? I-If not... I-I could really use some more of yer help..." The SMD warrior looks at you blankly, her face giving away nothing; stoic as always. A tense shiver rolls down your spine... Something about Cave's eyes feel... dangerous. After a tormenting moment of silence, she takes a single step [[forward.|IF End Test]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100

Red, orange, yellow, blue... Colors on all sides of the spectrum flood the immediate area as you fire blast after blast from your twin blades. No mercy... This is your fight, your fight, fight fight fight fight... None of them fall, not immediately: they all stand, stunned, locked into place by your energy bullets. They have nary a single idea of what fate awaits them... Fools. You have to clear out the outliers... No one else is to take part in your struggle. You've been alone for so long... so you might as well keep it that way. This is the moment you've been waiting for, ever since that terrible night on Lastation! "M-Monster!" "S-She'll kill us all!" "D-Die, Monster!" With a snap of your fingers... the treacherous Leanbox soldiers disappear in beautiful bursts of flames. Like all the dead before, they leave behind little besides dust. Chika was too good to follow that pattern... Even now, her bow still rests in your belt. You'll never let her go... You'll never disappoint her again. "I always have Lyree's best interests at heart... I love her. I'd never do anything to hurt her!" Time to put the traitor in her place! "That was an ORDER, Cave! I can't keep Lyrica alive if you don't follow your orders..." For Lyrica. "But... I know everything will be okay... because I have you. That... makes the fear go away for at least a moment... So... don't be afraid either, Cavey! We got each other's backs, always!... Right?" [[... For Chika.|Cave End Test]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100

{<audio src="Samurai Warriors 4 OST- Longing.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}(if: $caveKarma <= 1)["Get the hell away from her!" You let passion get the better of you as you shout at these infidels. The group of men turn to you a bit too late, as you are already charging straight for them. The closest to you barely has time to scream, as you quickly fire a bolt of energy from your blade, blasting him off his feet. This provides an ample opportunity for Chika to take advantage of the distraction, and she quickly fires an arrow at another soldier's feet. The man hops away in shock... and eats Chika's foot for his efforts. The two of you soon find yourselves fighting back-to-back, warding off any who think it's wise to charge. You and the Oracle kick away a few more dumbasses... before the majority of the sneak-attack squad flee the base. Cowards... H-Hey, there's the source of the fire! A supply tent on the edge of the summit is burning, a glaring charred arrow providing all the hints you need. You fire another bullet from your blade, albeit a larger one this time... and the flames are fortunately snuffed out. Easy enough... The supplies are probably screwed, but no major loss. ... You suddenly feel very tired, the exhausting stress taking its toll. You are on the verge of falling to one knee... when suddenly, a soft group of arms wrap around your torso, a hand precariously close to your breast. "J-Jeez, you sure took your time!" You turn around when you hear the laugh of your dear friend, who likewise appears ready to fall to the ground and sleep for a few years. Seeing her eyes radiating against the beautiful sun fills your mind with splendor as her slender figure, free from the marks of war, shines like a Goddess from the Heavens above... What are you now, a poet? Whatever the case... you mercifully are able to lower your guard... and you can't help but laugh along with her. Before you know it, the two of you are sharing a tight hug. "... I'm glad you're safe." Chika pulls you somehow closer, her vice-like grasp feeling right in every sense of the word. You sense that she wishes to respond... but the two of you simply keep quiet, soaking in the warmth of each other's company. Fright had given way to sweet, sweet comfort... It is such a weird- no, alien- sensation that you are feeling right now; a feeling that simply can't be described in mere words. However, it's something you don't want to ever relinquish. The war, the constant fighting, Vert's slippage... none of that matters now. The feeling of the Oracle in your arms is enough to cleanse your mind of the hardships of life... and replace it with the joys and splenders of paradise itself. (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[You love her more than you ever thought possible... The bliss in your soul is begging to escape, to be set free from your lips! You have to; it's simply too overwhelming to bottle up inside! You subconsciously cup your new lover's cheek, ready to tell her... everything.](else:)[Without this woman... where would you be? She has kept you sane even after all the terrible things you've lived through... From the time you were kids to the present (where she still ACTS like a kid), she is the one person who has grounded you, so to speak. You know now, without a doubt... that you simply can't live without her. Time to tell her so!] "Chika... I-" But the world... doesn't work that way... Nothing can ever be simple. You don't even realize that the initial soldier that Chika struck down... had already pulled himself off the ground! Barely able to stand straight, but not willing to surrender without a fight... he stretches his arm out, a gun snug in his palm. Your eyes take a moment to comprehend the scene playing out behind your best friend... and by then, it's too late. The muzzle flashes, but no sound grazes your ear. Instead, Chika simply tenses up in your arms... before she unintentionally breaks away from the hug. N-No! Not taking the time to think, you rip off one half of your scissors-blade and fire a blast before the Planeptune invader can follow-up his attack! You instantaneously turn your attention back to the Oracle before you can even confirm whether your target lived or died a horrible, brutal, painful death. Who cares about that? T-This... can't be... NO! She wobbles in the breeze, but it's not long before she teeters downwards. C-Catch her! T-There... she'll be s-safer in your arms! The Oracle of Leanbox lets out cough after cough as you struggle to keep her standing, her wound no doubt dulling all her senses. "I-It's okay, Chika... I-It's okay! P-Please, dammit!" Her legs eventually decide they can't support her weight anymore, and soon you find yourself holding her on the ground, propping her up as every muscle in her flawless body begins to turn to stone. You helplessly brush her hair out of her face, too shocked to consider anything of value. What COULD you do? Helpless... Of course you are. Blood soaks your hands, and you feel the unfortunate opening in her back that makes you sick to the stomach. All the while Chika tries to talk, n-no doubt thinking of an inappropriate q-quip... but she struggles to emit even a few dislocated grunts. You shake your head, trying to ignore the water forming in your tear ducts. Seeing her eyes fading, you quickly pull her up for a hug. "C-Chika! Come on, just h-hang on! H-Hang on!" You look around the camp for any source of aid... but to no avail. Furthermore... you smashed your radio in 'super-heroic defiance'! There's no hope... You begin shouting something you never had in your entire life: "H-Help! Someone, p-please help!" Your words go unheeded... but still, you persist like some hopeful fool. You shout and shout... until you feel a weak but warm hand upon your cheek. You direct your sights below... and see that even whilst in murderous pain, your best friend still finds the strength to smile. T-This is just like her! M-Making you worry, b-but treating it like n-nothing is... wrong.... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")["C-Chika... I... love you." Maybe you hope saying it now will change things. All she can do in response is keep smiling... So beautiful, so flawless, so... content.](else:)[You're losing it. "Chika... please don't..."] The light in her eyes begins to fade entirely... but before that awful sight can fill your head, Chika's body unceremoniously vanishes into a sparkly mess of heavenly dust. You continue to hold the air where she once lay, your pose never changing; frankly, you doubt you can ever move again. N-Not her... Anyone but her... Something falls into your hands, and you quickly fixate on the last remnant of your best friend: the twin-bow she always sported in her hair. A simplistic design, merely green and black in color. It was her favorite, one she always wore everywhere she went. You... grew to love this bow... It suited her so well, you feel. Simple, yet lavish and incredible... Perfect. It now sits limply in your palms, an owner [[forgotten.|Cave Flashback 4 Page 5]]](elseif: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)[Three Planeptune soldiers surround you, swinging their pikes with the fullest intent of ripping your body apart. The pointed tips jab out, but unluckily for them you are more than prepared. You grab one of the spears and move to spin it, dragging the soldier along in the process. His body crashes hard into the other two, knocking them to the ground. With that done, you launch your fist forward and slam the initial man square in the chest... Done and done. Too damn simple... You sigh, believing yet another futile skirmish is over... but one of the men suddenly stands once more and charges you! They never learn... You see him from the corner of your eye and, relying on instinct alone, find yourself thrusting your left-handed blade into his gullet. His resistance is short lived, and he collapses to the ground in utter humiliating defeat. A bit more brutal than you anticipated... but he should've known his place. No more heroes rising to meet you?... Seems you can afford a small respite from the action. You spot a nearby rock and lean against it, pulling out a handkerchief to wipe off your blades. The enemy forces refuse to let up... but keep at it, and they'll have no choice but to retreat. After today, Leanbox will finally begin its subjugation of Planeptune! You're still not too sure how to feel about this... but hopefully seizing the day will please Lady Green Heart. Will she finally be appeased and stop this madness?... No, not madness! She must have a plan, a greater purpose... right? "... That's enough rest." Time to get back to it then; the war won't win itself! Right as you're about to move out, however, a sound reminiscent of a far-off explosion catches your ear. The hell? Where is that... coming... The enemy's main camp? Yes, you track the source of the sound to the mountain you so desperately seek to seize. Is someone attacking there? Can't be; you're the pointman! No one else would've had the courage nor the strength to pass you by... If none of your men are up there... then that can only mean that someone is firing FROM the camp, not at it! The 'explosion' could have easily been a rifle, or even some variant of a shotgun, like the one Uni was keen on using... But who are they firing at? You get your answer as a glint in the sky steals your attention. The glint of metal, it has to be! And... it came from the Leanbox camp! Metal, metal, metal... soaring through the air towards the enemy's base of operations! That same base... H-Hear that?! Another shot! That definitely confirms it: the Planeptune camp was firing at someone in your camp! The trajectory of the mysterious flying metal projectile must mean it's... an arrow! But who would be firing an arrow from the Leanbox station? The only two people who should be up there are Lady Vert and... C-Chika! Alarms bells are definitely ringing now... H-Hurry up already! You forget your post, orders, all of it... and immediately begin charging up your own mountain. What is she THINKING?! Another gunshot tears through the air, and it may as well have blasted you in the back with how much your body jolts. "Hang in there..." ... The base's doors are firmly shut; no one has broken in, so at least there's that. Er, well, not exactly true anymore: you take no care in ensuring the door's safety and simply kick it down with quite the demonic force. You're home! Where is she... Your eyes first spot Lady Vert, sitting in a chair right out in the open. Her eyes are shut- she must have another headache- but her lids are twitching, no doubt responding to the loud noises of both the unidentified gunshots and your murdering of architecture moments ago. Well, your Lady is safe... but what about... There!!! Chika stands at the edge of the camp, firing down at the Planeptune summit... Is she actually targeting someone, or simply firing indiscriminately? You can't help but notice the wine bottle lying discarded on the ground... Ugh, not again. Seems whatever was happening didn't matter; your best friend was acting recklessly while under the influence. "Chika, sto-" And her body sudden lurches, followed by another distant explosion taunting your sense of hearing. W-What? But... no, that doesn't... She can't... C-Chika? The Oracle sways in the dry wind, her arms already limper than an unmanned marionette's. You can't even process the sight before you, and all you can do is dash over to her, waking up the sleeping CPU in the process. It's going to be alright, Chika! It's... But she offers no resistance to gravity, and crashes down onto her back before you can reach her. Her eyes are half-lidded and her face the reddest you've ever seen... It's over. "C-Chika..." Blood stains her attire; she was no doubt shot somewhere in the chest... perhaps even the heart. Her death was... instantaneous... Just like that, your best friend was gone. You've failed... You couldn't save her. "... N-No!" This... isn't real, surely! Chika will be fine! She'll be fine, be fine, fine! FINE! FINE!!! What was the last thing you said to her?! Can you even remember?! She's the most important person in your entire pathetic life! How can you NOT REMEMBER?! Did you let her know how truly special she was?! DID YOU?! Nononononononononono! ... Behind you, Vert's groggy eyes completely open... and she looks just in time to see her prized Oracle vanish in a flurry of shining dust. Chika's twin hair bow, green and black to symbolize her ever-present loyalty to Leanbox and the CPU (whether intentional or not is another story...), floats gently into your open arms; the last vestige of her existence. As your very life crumbles around you... the goddess's eyes simply stare ahead, her gaze unwavering. She just keeps watching... watching... [[watching...|Cave Flashback 4 Page 5]]](else:)[That must be the cabin... It sure looks rundown. (if: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 3)[Almost like the one Gust and the Lastation refugees were hiding in before... Forget all that; you have a job to do.] You can hear rustling inside... The door looks flimsy, so this looks to be a quick run-and-gun deal. Have to get back to your post... so don't waste any time! GO! You kick open the door and immediately blindfire a hail of energy bullets from the tips of your blades. Blast, blast, blast, blast, blast... but after a mere ten seconds, the job looks to already be done: three bodies lay lifeless on the ground, no one else in sight. Only three men? Certainly not worth all the fuss... Well, better get a good look at them before they vanish out of existence. Black outfits- how trite- but what's this? You believe you recognize these men... Certainly not on a name basis, but you swear you've seen their faces before... Yeah, in Markz's unit! Three unremarkable soldiers... but Leanbox men all the same! You couldn't have... killed your own allies, right? "... These weapons? They're..." You note the unusual guns lying at the men's sides right as their bodies predictably poof... These are NOT Leanbox-issued guns. Why, they look more like... "Planeptune?" Turncoats, then? Guess this wasn't as big a waste of time as you suspected, eh? Better report this to Vert! You step outside the cabin and reach for your radio... when a most disturbing visual catches your attention. Is that... smoke?! At the top of the mountain... The Leanbox main camp! Shit, someone must've invaded in your absence, just as you surmised! Planeptune? Nah, they couldn't have gotten that bold... There were only three men- TRAITORS- in that cabin... but Vert wouldn't have sent you there if the threat was so small. Crap... it was all a diversion! Lady Green Heart must've been tricked by faulty intel! Those sneaky bastards... Gripping your blades, sweat painting your palms, you spare no time to rest and instead race up the mountain at blinding speed! No one is to take the main base... This day shall go to Leanbox! No one else... especially TRAITORS! ... The gates to the camp are in smoldering ruins by now, bringing your worst fears to life. Sure, Lady Vert ordered you to leave your post... but you allowed this to happen. You are the tank of Leanbox; you are expected to do the impossible, to be at two places at once! No excuses... NONE! You hear yet some more voices from inside... A ton of people are in there, burning down your main camp. Without a proper station, your side was doomed; all the army's food and medical supplies were in there for one thing, and that's not even bringing up the morale issues of losing your headquarters! Damn it, where's Chika? Vert was too confident to station any backup troops there... so it'll just be you against who knows how many alleged-deserters. Your CPU said she was on the way... but who knows how long she'll take. Can't rely on her for aid. But you are more than enough. You've vowed to end the treacherous IF one day... so you can't discriminate here: all traitors must die! The cabin was practice, though you really didn't need any. Simple routine elimination mission: easy... HRAAAAGH! You feel white-hot energy surge up your pale arms as you leap through the flames and shoot in all directions, your twin blades bobbing up and down like improbable revolvers from old westerns. Take this! That! This! All of it! Everything! Die! Monsters! Fools! TRAITORS! ALL OF YOU! DIE! DIE! DIE!!! ... You take a moment to recapture your breath, and no one fires back; either the smoke from the burning camp is blinding them, or everyone is dead. Pathetic wastes of energy... Why must people always turn to treachery? Simply join a cause, and fight for it! Devote yourself to it! Unwavering passion... That's how the world should be. Not a bunch of cutthroat demons who jump from nation to nation, not caring who or what they leave behind... Well... better put this fire out! Hopefully you can salvage what's left of th- Shh! Behind you... Something just moved, you're sure of it! The shuffling of feet... There's a survivor in your midst. One lone combatant looking to catch you by surprise... Too bad their stealth game sucks! Wait a second... wait a second... HAH! You pivot on one foot like a murderous ballerina and fire one last energy bullet at the approaching villain. "Too sloppy!" you boast as the blast sinks into their feminine stoma- but you stop dead once your eyes focus through the dense vapor. This was no ordinary tango. "C-Chi...ka?" N-No, it can't be! T-These can't be the eyes of your best friend you're staring into! T-That's not her, s-struggling to stand! D-Desperately trying to k-keep her eyes open! You r-refuse to believe it! The 'fake' Oracle, clad in the same peculiar black outfit as the rest of this treacherous squad, begins to fall forward... D-Dammit, it's all a ruse! Why are you b-bothering to catch her?! T-T-This isn't... Chika! Can't... be... Your betrayed soul looks into her fading ruby eyes... and it becomes harder and harder to doubt the truth. You just... shot your friend. The same friend you promised... to protect. "C-Chika, I-I'm..." you try, but you just can't muster the strength to let out anything other than a few pointless pathetic sobs. The Oracle, all the while, simply frowns back at you. No anger paints her face... Just disappointment. Almost as if this was all to be expected... but she tried to put her faith into you. The fact that you killed her didn't surprise her in the least... but in her heart, she wanted desperately to believe otherwise. Believe that all the promises you made... weren't nothing more than mere hollow words, said by the biggest fool on the planet. "I-I'm so sorry... I-I'm so sorry..." There's nothing to be done... Chika soons falls limp in your arms, and you can only watch in resignation as her body disappears in a brilliant array of dust. Her favorite bow, simple green and black design, floats slowly down to your empty hands; the only proof that the most amazing woman you've ever known actually existed. Every name you've ever been called is true. Cold-hearted, uncaring, monster, devil... No use hiding it now. If only you didn't have to drag Chika down with you to find this out... ... You hear a familiar voice outside the main camp. Lady Vert has arrived... Put on your best face and greet her. You still have a war to win... [[Monster.|Cave Flashback 4 Page 5]]]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(1,1500);" /></div>}(if: $caveKarma <= 1)["... Cave, I... I wish you fell in love with me first."](elseif: $caveKarma > 1 AND $caveKarma <= 4)["She looks at me like she does Lyrica, or Markz, or Linda, or one of the soldiers: like tools... But that's okay: When I'm with you... I don't feel worthless... You're the only one... I... need..."](else:)["Give up the act: you don't care!... You're worse than Vert is! You can't do shit."] "... I'm so sorry..." Your best friend since childhood... and you couldn't save her. You couldn't free her from this war. You couldn't give her the happiness she deserved... You simply served to doom her; to hold her head under the water as she struggled for air... ... Never again. No one else will die because of your shortcomings, your weakness. You will stop IF... and ensure Lyrica stays alive. She's... all you have left... She's all that matters. ...! (link:"... Did you hear that just now?")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioTrack.fade(1,1000);" /></div>(goto:"Cave Tenth Move")]

(if: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth > 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 75 AND $caveBossHealth > 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth is 50))["How could you turn your back on Lyrica?!" Cave shouts, her voice strained... Just what has she gone through today? "You left her to die! You abandoned us!" You were anticipating such accusations. "I left to keep her safe! Vert threatened Lyree if I didn't leave! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Your friend doesn't even bat an eyelash. "You LIE!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" The conversation the two of you had back during the Avenir battle suddenly comes swimming right back. That's when this all broke down... That clearly didn't go too well... but now was your chance to set things right! Somehow...](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 65 AND $caveBossHealth > 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth <= 50 AND $caveBossHealth >= 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 50 AND $caveBossHealth >= 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "D" AND $healthBreakOne is "No"))[{(set: $healthBreakOne to "Yes")}"How can you claim to love her?! She's been lost without you... yet, you never said a word to comfort her!" Cave's eyes carry a look of more than just pure rage; is that... pain? Disappointment? Betrayal? "I had no choice! I had to leave before we even departed for Leanbox, for cryin' out loud! Believe me..." Damn, your chest hurts just thinking about the girl you love. She must feel as let-down as Cave. "... I haven't had a good night's sleep since that day... All I can think about is Lyrica, and how bad she must hate me! I know, I should've done more... I acted like an idiot, okay?! Vert... surprised me. I'd never seen her act that... horrible before..." Your friend(?) stares unmoving, the rain soaking her with a poetic intensity. "Nothing but excuses! I... would do anything for the woman I love. Why couldn't you?!" What... was Cave saying there? Was she... admitting her affinity for your beloved pop idol? Guess the clues were there... You tune out those thoughts and try to find a way to peacefully resolve this. "Listen... I admit, I was scared! You claimed back then that... I wasn't strong enough to protect Lyrica... Well, y'know what? You were completely right... If I was stronger, I would've gotten her off of Leanbox for good! So for that, I'm sorry. I... Maybe I... don't deserve her. She deserves someone who is willing and able to overcome their petty fears... Perhaps someone like you." Cave seems taken aback... but her surprise certainly doesn't last long. "... You think that changes anything? You think that makes up for all the things that have happened?! Everyone we've LOST?!"](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $caveBossHealth <= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $caveBossHealth < 25) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "D" AND $healthBreakOne is "Yes"))[{(set: $healthBreakTwo to "Yes")}"Because of you... Chika is..." Cave suddenly sputters out, her words colder than even before. Why is she bringing up the Leanbox Oracle now? No... does that mean...? Time to get an answer. "C-Chika is what? She's not..." Your rival points an accusatory finger your way. If you didn't know better, you'd suspect she was planting a curse on you... Hell, maybe she is. "... You killed her! It's all your fault! Without you, Vert slipped further and further... and Chika couldn't take it! She pushed herself too hard... all because you were 'scared'..." "Holy..." Chika was dead? Wow... you hadn't heard about that. You've known about Mina for awhile, and heard rumblings about Gust and even two of the three 'A Brothers'... but Chika? What was the world coming to? "... I don't know what to say..." "DON'T SAY ANYTHING! You can try all you want, but you can't make this better! Chika was... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[my world... I-I loved her! And it took me too long to realize that... s-she meant EVERYTHING to me!](else:)[my best friend, always there for me... One of the few friends I've ever had!] But now she's gone... You weren't there to save her! And I... I couldn't save her on my own... I let her down..." "Cave..." What can you say to that? Everything quickly becomes clearer and clearer... "You can't beat yourself up over this! I... I feel awful... Chika didn't deserve any of that, and neither did you!... But you know what won't solve anything? Dwelling on it! If we're going to fix things... we can't lose hope. Chika wouldn't want that, right? She'd want you to be happy, I know she would." Your friend looks down at the mud for a long while... Are you getting through to her? You continue. "... We still have Lyree to protect, right? Well... why don't we both protect her already? Together... we can't possibly let anyone else down." Yeah, not exactly the motivational masterpiece you were hoping for... but it's the best you got right now. You hate to admit it, but some of Cave's pessimism is beginning to leak into your brain. The SMD Warrior seems to soak in your words... before once again readying a strike. "Enough! How do I know you're even strong enough to help her?! Prove it to me!!!"] [[To the fray!|Cave Boss Battle]]

play as cave. defeat IF, you're about to kill her, but you stand down and let her pick herself up. nepgear shows up, cave attacks, nepgear stuns her with ram rom ghosts? if vs nepgear after IF wins, Nepgear summons a ghost to catch IF off-guard, IF is at her mercy. Cave overcomes her stunned status to save her just in time and kill Nepgear Nepgear in last breath orders her army to kill the Leanbox troops... She poofs away, Gehaburn drops to the ground... before suddenly it begins flying and (Arfoire) shadow appears holding it. Both vanish. Confused Lowee forces decide to attack Cave and IF, the two on okay terms for now. Rush into the castle, Leanbox forces wary, but hear gunshots. They charge out to fight Lowee. Cave and IF find Lyree, talk, sneak out the back Vert's troops approached from the back, and block their path. Talking, eventually vert tells them to go on; she won't stop them. markz kills Lyrica after they cautiously walk away. Vert and markz head into the castle, telling the troops to kill them. IF has last stand and presumably dies. She tells cave to get vert; she'll hold off the forces. Cave is too stunned to argue cave vs vert and markz. Fight over, you disarm Vert. Markz goes to shoot, but you channel energy, swing, and reflect bullet into his neck area. Can mercy kill him or leave him. Vert is helpless, taunts you. Kill her or spare her. If you kill her, you do the deed and eventually walk out of the throne room to look out the window. If you spare her... she speaks into her bosom and says "... Do... it..." Cave leaps out of the throne room as fast as she can as the entire room explodes. When she comes to, she also goes to the window. Can't see the fighting going on, rain too heavy. Maybe it's over. Footstep behind Cave, turns to see Chika. Cave starts talking, Chika takes out crossbow and shoots. Cave catches the arrow and simply stares at it. Boss fight everyone is dead, cave sees chika. fake boss fight, chika hugs cave after she loses. "It's okay... It's okay..." maybe if either karma is good or you spare markz and vert, you and chika are kids and run off. while heading to vert, hear if, lyree, and chika in head other ending: Iffy shot by sniper path. Iffy wins. Cave attacks after loss, but IF disarms her. Two have uneasy alliance after calming down. Cave gets mortally wounded by Lowee army, IF must fight Nepgear. 50 health vs. Nepgear's 100. If battle takes over 10 (15?) turns, Cave will die later. Otherwise, she'll live. Nepgear's defeated, she simply retreats (talks to Neptune outright though). IF carries Cave inside the Basilicom, the few remaining soldiers surrender. Lyrica is relieved to see them. Call forth a medic for Cave... when IF's injury also takes a turn for the worse. She refuses to be sedated... and Lyrica makes the bold move off knocking her out with her guitar. IF wakes up, and hears that Cave's condition has stabled. [If took too long during boss, however]- Cave suddenly yells in pain, and her condition worsifies. IF and Lyrica make peace with her... and she passes away. Vert's army suddenly arrives, bursts through the door, and Markz aims his gun for Lyrica. IF and Lyrica have no choice, and surrender. Fate left open-ended. Unknown scene: Nisa(?) is seen with mysterious individual (Author/Cerise? Perhaps even Red possibly). About to break into the Basilicom... [If beat Nepgear in under the specified turns]- Cave survives, and all three of them have a heart-to-heart. Vert's army suddenly shows up... and Cave leads IF and Lyrica to the back door. Linda arrives and sneaks them away. Vert and Markz still live, and Linda/Nepgeo remain behind... but Cave, IF, and Lyrica successfully leave Leanbox. (if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(if: $vertBossHealth > 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I'm the violent one? I'm the wrongdoer? Take a look in the mirror.\"","\"You may have been my star soldier for a long time, Cave... but I can still run circles around you with my fighting prowess!\" \"Heh, yeah! Your time is up, so step aside for a true warrior, ya bitch!\"","\"I feel so sorry for the others... They put all their trust in you, didn't they? Why did you lead them astray?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth >= 60 AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Don't blame ME for what happened to Lyrica.\" \"I never liked her music anyways! Not a good musician... but what a damn fine target she made, eh?\"","\"Everything I've done was for the sake of my glorious nation! You may not see it now... but everyone will understand in due time! With... or without you.\"","\"Such a pathetic display! You're far too weak to defeat me, Cave. I can see it, clear as day!\" \"Why don'tcha just lay down and let us get this over with real quick! I promise I'll be gentle, heeheehee!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $vertBossHealth < 60)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Do you think you can defeat me? You'll have to kill me... and I know you can't do that. If you kill me... won't you be just as bad as you accuse us of being?\" \"You bastards who always go on and on about that 'morality' and 'political correctness' shit make me wanna hurl!\"","\"If you are so bothered by Chika's death... then why didn't you do anything to stop it? All roads lead back to you, Cave.\" \"How the hell did you ever become a warrior? Laziest bitch I've ever met... I need to hear you scream!\"","\"I just want... a better world! And yet, here you are, trying to take that from me! DIE!\" \"Everyone who'd miss you are already eating dirt! Let's not keep 'em waiting...\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]]]

"This weapon is your LIFE!"- [IF] Don't stop throwing 'til you run out of ammo! (Use Qatar blades at all possible opportunities) But for you, it was Tuesday- [Cave] 'Consort' with your boss, grab a phallus, and make some fireworks... What is this game rated, anyways? (shoot Vert, grab the grass/mushroom, and 'take one for the team') Curiosity blonded the brunette- [IF] Encounter the mysterious beast, survive a pleasant encounter with nature, and trick-or-treat out of season. "Help... me..."- [History] See- and walk into- the light. (defeat Vert in historical ending) You are a true warrior of the four nations!- [???] Honorably route 13 officers in pure spite. (last stand sequence, number subject to change) Top-notch quality work!- [IF] Well, at least it started raining... (die on the third choice) Five-star classic!- [Reunion] One love... One blood... One life... (5 health vs. 5 health, lose in the first turn) Was it worth it?- [Cave] Who knew failing to succeed could lead to such a successful failure? What can you say about THAT GOAL?- [???] Lose the coin-toss. Sometimes you have to accept you can't win all the time. Red card- [???] Live the dream you never want to wake up from! (Defeated Association football's finest!) Good old-fashioned R&R (Read and Review...)- Read every page of backstory. Yes... even THAT one. (Glossary and Red page in True ending) Grazing in the grass~- [IF] You think you'll just rest here for awhile... (don't leave the no damage result of seven for three minutes Buzzkill- [Reunion] With every mistake, we must surely be learning. (subject to change. achieve buzzkill ending? We're not animators!- Admire hard work over three months in the making. You're welcome. Big Match IF- [Reunion] Overcome the odds, rise above hate, and preserve your legacy! (5 on 100, beat Cave) CONGLATURATION !!!- [Reunion] Achieve failure... through victory! BETRAAYAAAALLLL!!!!- [Cave] Damned if you do, damned if you don't... They duel.- [Reunion] That's what they do. (no one takes damage for three turns in a row during cave/if fight) Kick your feet up and RELAX!- Increase an asshole's Views by one. Maybe more? You like to read, right? Spelling Diety- Found one! Why is this here? To cover the author's ass and make any others seem intentional? The Witch and the RNG- Meet an old friend... through no effort of your own. 'We know what we are...'- [Cave] '... but know not what we may be.' (have three different affinities in the first three flashbacks) I'm sorry, Cave. I'm afraid I can't do that. With every mistake, we must surely be learning. "Nobody can tell what I suffer!— But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied." Those were the days, my friend- Live the life you choose! Fight and never lose! (True ending, accept dance with Chika) Just close your eyes, yeah! Just close your eyes and she'll be there... Overheat- Sometimes our biggest idols turn out to be the biggest monsters (empty chairs at empty tables)

The world grows silent as the battle-hardened veteran's flaming leg crashes right into 5pb's unsuspecting stomach... and you are rooted to the spot as she falls backwards into the disgusting mud. N-NO! IF falls on her back, clearly thrown off-balance by her gross error in judgement... and as she stands back up, she can only stare at the damage she has caused. Lyrica is still on the ground... at the very least, knocked completely unconscious by the severe blow. ... But it's not Lyrica you are paying attention to... No, all you can see is the fast-approaching brown hair you are speeding for! With both blades drawn, you slickly swipe your right hand for IF's exposed legs, eliciting a pained yelp from her mouth as she is tossed up into the air and sent exploding right back down into the soggy earth. Where she belongs. You sense movement inside her long left-arm sleeve- she's probably trying to arm herself with another set of Qatars- and you simply kick both her hands with the tips of your boot. As expected, a few throwing knives fly right out... She's out of tricks. You step above her, blades firmly at the ready. It's finally time... "C-Cave! D-Don't do this!" Yes, beg like the bitch you are, IF. Your makeshift-swords whine out in anticipation, the cold steel shivering at just the thought of immersing itself in the battle-hardened veteran's insides. You swallow the brunette's fear, her eyes proving that there was some rational thinking going on in her head. About time... What took her so long? ... Well, better not drag this out any longer than you have to. Line up your blades with her submissive eyes... "You'll just keep putting her in danger." And you lurch your [[weapons forward!|Cave Bad Ending Page 2]]

"We're done... We're leaving..." Before you know it, you are carrying Lyrica off through the rain, running to wherever your feet take you. Are you even thinking anymore? Where the hell do you think you're going?! Are... you seriously leaving? You know, once you step off this landmass... you'll never be allowed on Leanbox again. You'll be branded a pariah, persona non grata! "... So be it." Guess that settles that... You and 5pb. are done with this godforsaken nation. Vert could fight her own battles from now on. ... Lastation now? Upon reaching the mainland, you simply continued running. Valleys, plains, cities, deserted villages... Your feet weren't content yet. Have to find the perfect resting place... Still, it was getting late, so you found a dank cabin on the side of a dark road and took refuge for the night. Now, here you are, waiting for the sun to rise once more... "C-Cave...?" Hm?! Lyrica's finally waking up! You turn to look at the pop idol and find her half-lidded eyes watching you. She must be confused beyond all compare... You immediately leap to her side. "Are you feeling all right, Lyrica?" That was a nasty hit she took... The wondrous girl thinks for a moment, before shaking her head. "W-What happened?... W-Where's IF!?" Of course that'd be the first thing she'd bring up... You gaze into the eyes of the woman you desperately love... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[at least, you still think you do; Chika stole your heart along the way... Chika... ]and formulate the best words you can muster! "... Lyree... I don't know who that was, but she... wasn't IF; not the one I knew... She tried to kill you, so... I had to defend us..." Dramatic pause... Have to build this up. "... Vert sent IF to kill you, Lyrica. I had no choice. We're not going back to Leanbox... Ever. We're on our own now." Light tears form in her flawless eyes... Damn it, hold firm. "W-What? N-No... H-How is that even possible!? T-That can't be..." "... I'm sorry, Lyrica..." In due time... she'll know that this is all for the best. Away from Vert's deranged schemes and IF's treachery... the two of you can finally live a proper life again. And so... [[time passes...|Cave Bad Ending Page 3]]

{(set: $badEndingChoice to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.fade(0,500);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntroTwo.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div>}"Lyree... Up here, look!" The pop idol, dirt staining her clothes after such a long trek, rubs the sweat off her forehead before directing her attention up your way. "Hmm? What is it now?" You point to the horizon, where a magnificent sight greets you: a remote village, isolated from the harsh reality of the outside world! Could this... finally be where the two of you find peace? It looks rather rural... but lord knows that simplicity has been lacking from your lives for quite a long time. Maybe... this is an opportunity for a new start; wiping the slate clean. "Cavey... Can ya pass the mustard?! Pretty please~" "... This isn't a picnic, Chika. We didn't bring any food." "That certainly doesn't sound like a terrible idea, however! My oh my, maybe I can bake us up some snacks! It wouldn't take too long!" "Y-You're going to c-cook for us, Lady Vert?! Oh man... I don't think my heart can take that!" "... I've been in the Basilicom too long... I'd rather IF cooked..." "I-I find your lack of faith disturbing, Lyrica!... But thank you, Miss IF; loyal as always!" "Better go get that mustard, then~! The five of us will have the greatest picnic ever! The five closest companions to ever walk the face of the planet, wooo!" "Well said, my darling sister... Come, let us all eat! A toast to the future!" "... We still need to make the food..." ... The 'five of us'... The 'five of us' are no more, huh? IF and Chika... were gone. Vert had descended so far into madness that she couldn't be considered the same CPU you once loyally served. Three of your friends were gone thanks to this terrible war... ... But you and Lyrica will be different! You two will never become the past tense! You'll survive... You'll live on. That's what... the friends you once knew would want... Right? Lyrica makes her way up the rock wall until she's standing by your side. She seems somewhat at... awe, so you take the initiative to speak up. "Look... Nothing's certain, but... I think that may be our new home. What do you say?" The pop idol looks at the far-off village for awhile... before looking down at her tattered shoes. She takes in a large influx of air... and speaks. "Cave... IF meant... everything to me..." ... You can only think to lightly caress the girl's sunken shoulder. "... [[I know..."|Cave Bad Ending Page 4]]

(if: $badEndingChoice is false)[She continues. "... Too many people have died, and I can't even be sure why! First there was Mina, then Gust, then... Chika... and IF... and yet, here I am! Here WE are! Still alive... Why did they all have to die, but... we got off scot-free? Why do we deserve to live, while IF and the others didn't?" Pain stings your heart; there's no easy way out of this. "... I don't know... I ask myself the same thing every day: why am I still alive? But you, Lyree... if anyone deserves to live, it's definitely you. You're special, you truly are." She stays silent... Damn it, what can you say? "... No matter how hard things may get... you just have to keep finding something to fight for, you hear me? Chika never once doubted her heart, and IF... must've found her reason as well. They could do it, and so can we... It may never get any easier... but I'll always be here for you. That's a promise." You turn your head back towards the village. "Now come, let's be off! Hopefully we can make it by su-" "Swear to me." Huh? "... E-Excuse me?" A determined look fuels the pop idol's eyes. "Swear to me that everything you said about IF is true." S-Shit... You had hoped she would never bring this up again... but you suppose that was wishful thinking. There's only one thing you can say. [Lie to her.]<lie| [Tell the 'truth'.]<lie|{(click:?lie)[(set: $badEndingChoice to true)(goto:"Cave Bad Ending Page 4")]}](else:)[You look the flawless angel square in the eye. "... I swear." What's going on in her head now? Doubt? Disappointment? Belief? Acceptance? Resignation? Either way, her gaze holds firm. (link:"\"...Okay.\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntroTwo.pause();" /></div> (goto: "Credits")]]

{<audio src="Gustavo_Santaolalla-The_Path_A_New_Beginning_OST_The_Last_Of_Us.mp3" autoplay></audio>} [All's Well That Ends Well]<credittimer| []<timer1a| []<timer1b| []<timer1c| []<timer2| []<timer2a| []<timer2b| []<timer2c| []<timer3| []<timer3a| []<timer3b| []<timer3c| []<timer4| []<timer4a| []<timer4b| []<timer4c| []<timer5| []<timer5a| []<timer5b| []<timer5c| []<timer6| []<timer6a| []<timer6b| []<timer6c| []<timer7| []<timer7a| []<timer7b| []<timer7c| [[[Refresh|Credits]]]<timer8| (if: $endingPath != "Cave Bad Ending")[(link:"Skip Credits")[(if: $endingPath is "Farewell")[(goto:"Farewell Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending" OR $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[(goto:"The 5 of Us Result Page")] (elseif: $resultPage is "Greener Pastures" OR $resultPage is "Alive" OR $resultPage is "Loyalty" OR $resultPage is "Picnic")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Vert")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[(goto:"Door Ending Page 9")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Wyn")[(goto:"Joke Endings Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)]]] PASSWORD: CAVEVSIF{ (live: 3.2s)[(stop:)(append: ?timer1a)[Presents:]] (live: 7700ms)[(stop:)(append: ?timer1b)[Measure for Measure -Cave Vs. 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{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending")[You've achieved Ending **1/14**: "The '5' of Us"!] (elseif: $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[You've achieved Ending **2/14**: "Instant Karma"!] PROOF OF COMPLETION: NEPGEO: "Get a higher-ranking ending first..." Replay Scenario: LINDA: "Simply fail the Reunion! It can be as easy as that, really..." Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending")[Ending 2] (elseif: $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[Ending 3]' (if: $endingPath is "Cave Bad Ending")[IF: Fine, None | Cave: Danger, Guilty | Reunion: IF] (elseif: $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[IF: Danger, Stomach | Cave: Danger, Guilty | Reunion: IF] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

(if: $historicalVictory is true)[You struggle to regain your breath, your shoulders rising and falling with every sharp gasp. IF and Chika were fighting by your side... and you finally managed to overcome your Lady, an almighty CPU! Hopefully you've... made them proud. All Vert can do now is rest on one knee, her arm too tired to raise her lance again. Her bitter eyes bear straight for you, a grimace wishing death upon you. That look never gets old. You direct your right-handed twin blade at your former leader. "... It's over, Lady Vert. This war is finished! I hope... you are proud with the results..." The CPU doesn't respond right away, instead insisting on glaring at your form. What will she do? Remain silent? Ask for mercy? Order you to kill her? The answer... is quite surprising. The cold, violent purple eyes you've been gazing into... suddenly shift into... blue fearful ones? The look of a prisoner, trapped in her own mind. Frightened, so utterly frightened... Her quivering lips slowly inch open. "C-Cave... Help... me..." What the...?! "L-Lady... Vert?" She sounds like she's struggling... but struggling with WHAT?! To stand? No, idiot... No, it's almost as if she's... struggling to regain control of her body. No more is the bloodthirsty Vert from the past month; the real goddess is pleading for salvation right before your very eyes! Y-You have to help her up! Y-Your Lady needs you! Nary a doubt crosses your mind as you hold out your hand for your CPU... No, for your friend. Come on, grab hold Vert! A sad, but touched, smile crosses Green Heart's lips... and she lifts her free hand for yours. That's it, that's it! Somewhat hastily, you latch onto her extended appendage. Now, just pull her u- ... H-Huh? Vert's hopeful eyes... suddenly cloud over, and her concerned brows furrow into a shape more reminiscent of... the same goddess who had declared war on the whole of Gamindustri. N-No... Your head starts spinning as a cold realization stabs you right in the gut! ... Before her lance does [[the same.|Historical Ending Page 12]]](else:)[Lady Vert detects your dwindling strength, and swings her lance one more dramatic time! Can't... go out like this! You defiantly meet her blade with your two. If you can't hold her off, you are dead... Heh, not like there's too much you can do about that anyway. No matter how the next few moments go down... you are already resigned to the fact that you are not escaping this throne room alive. You are much too drained, and this new Lady Green Heart is far too powerful... This... is the end... Now that you completely realize it... huh, it isn't as scary as you had thought. No more fighting, no more pain... You can finally relax, maybe even be with Chika and IF forever. Lyrica has escaped Leanbox, and she's a strong girl anyways; she'll be perfectly fine without you. It'll be difficult, but... she will move on. That being said... you refuse to go down like a dog. This deranged CPU made your life hell... so now's the time to repay the favor, if nothing else. You grunt with pained effort as you push and push against her strength... and you somehow manage to win the basic weapon clash, forcing her to leap back a few feet. Without even missing a beat, her eyes begin darting about like a frantic beast's; she's already gauging the best way to silence you for good! "..." You have Gamindustri's future to think about... Focus everything you have into these two twin blades! Every last remaining ounce of fire left burning in your veins needs to flow up your arms into the handles... This is for everyone still alive! ... In the hopes that one of you will be the last who has to fall. Ready?... (link:"Fire!")[(link:"Fire!!")[(link:"FIRE!!!")[(goto:"Historical Ending Page 12")]]]]

(if: $historicalVictory is true)[You don't even feel the thick weapon taking refuge in your torso; you simply tune out everything and glare back at the frowning goddess. "... I had thought you were smarter than that, Cave... Seems I truly was the foolish one for relying on your aid this whole time." You sneer into the face of your CPU. "... Foolish is... right... You've fa...iled, 'Lady' Vert!" "Failed? Me? How so?" she asks, her eyebrow cocking in mock-disbelief. "Without... me... you can't do a... d-damn thing... Your only... lapdog le...ft is... Markz... Heh, y-you're finished. If not tomorrow... then soo...n..." She frowns even more... before puuuuuushing the weapon deeper into your helpless body! "... Such a pathetic waste... Keep disrespecting me like this, and I WILL hunt down Lyrica. She can't have gone far... You don't want her to join you, do you Cave?" This brings a sly, but weak, grin to your pale face. "You'll... nev...er... find h...er... I sav...ed her fro...m... YOU." A wink. "... Who's... pathe...tic now?..." Vert's eyes viciously try to incinerate your flesh... and when that fails, she resorts to lifting her leg and kiiiiiiiicking you off of her blade! Blood smears your vision, and you barely feel your back smash into the marble of the Basilicom's elegant throne room. No escaping now... So be it. "I don't need YOU! FAREWELL, CAVE!" you hear the lunatic CPU shout... before she soars closer, lance held high!](else:)[Energy bullets blast from the tips of your steel shears, hellfire raining down upon the mad CPU. Vert leaps with astounding HDD-influenced speed, showing off expert dodging skills which would leave any ninja envious. You... can't... hit... HER! You keep shooting and shooting... but to no avail. As expected... but still quite disappointing. Eventually your energy reaches an all-time low, and you are forced to relent. The two of you now stand on opposite sides of the room, warily watching the other for any sign of movement. A classic stand-off: one you already know the ending to. "..." Any last words? No... For your entire life, you've let your actions do the most talking; you were never good with words anyways. Why change how you live now? Thus, with your soul completely at peace... you point your right blade at Green Heart, and hold your left one above your head. Bring it on, Vert. The goddess frowns at your foolish movement, and springs off her feet, faster than any rocket. With her lance aimed high, she rushes forth!] "C-Cave?!" Your sins will never be completely forgiven... "Cavey... Y-You made it!" ... but, perhaps you've been able to atone for at least some of them. "... It's... good to have you back, Cave." Chika, IF... Two friends you failed. Will you... be able to face them? "You did good, Cavey. Don't EVER think you didn't." ... You must. You must apologize for everything. "C'mon, Cave, this way! We've all been waiting for you!" ... Tell them both how much they mean to you. No more distractions, no more misgivings... "You're never leaving my sight again, Cavey! I... won't ever allow it, nope!" Just set it right. Now, and forever. "Thanks... for loving us, Cave." "... We love you, Cavey. Always have... and always will." "... IF... C-Chika... Thank you... [[Let's go."|Historical Ending Page 13]]

(if: $historicalFinalPageVisited != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossCaveTrack.pause();" /></div> <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (set: $historicalFinalPageVisited to true)}... Before the next morning had dawned on Gamindustri, news of the incident at Leanbox had spread like wildfire. Not only were many soldiers on both sides dead... but two of the strongest driving forces behind the entire war effort, IF and Cave, had fallen alongside them. Specific details were not known... but in one night, the very face of the conflict had changed. Lady Vert emerged from her throne room tattered and bruised... but her demeanor remained unchanged. Of the few people who were still on good terms with her, none would claim that she acted any differently from that day on. She had lost her Oracle, Chika Hakozaki; her star solder, Cave; and the woman she was rumored to have loved, IF... and still, she could only look to rebuilding for the future battles to come. However... in the immediate days that followed, Lady Green Heart went... unnaturally quiet. There are many possible theories... but no one can say anything for certain. Perhaps she merely sat in her throne room for the next few days, strategizing on her next step to take Planeptune or perhaps another nation? There is also always the chance that she was injured during the scuffle she is believed to have had in her throne room, and was simply mending her wounds. But... perhaps the most interesting theory of all is that, for all the cruelty and rage that now resided in Lady Green Heart's soul... the loss of her three closest companions weighed heavy and deep. Pure speculation, sure... but what if the old Lady Vert was beginning to surface again? Only time will tell... Enough about Leanbox for now, though; there was a more... interesting development taking place over (link:"in Planeptune.")[(goto:"Historical Ending Page 13")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 Ost With Vengeance.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }Lady Neptune and Lady Noire were among the first to hear about IF's untimely passing... but the details were rather peculiar: IF was not killed by Cave, nor Vert, nor any particular Leanbox soldier! No... Why, rumors were circulating that Lowee was responsible! But... how could this be? Neptune didn't care; IF's death alone was enough to kindle an uncharacteristic burning rage inside. All attempts to contact Lady White Heart met with utter failure... and soon, another shocking development reached Purple Heart's ears: several Planeptune forces suddenly assassinated their commanders, defected from the army, and fled to the nation of Lowee. Among the immediate list of those killed in the mass treachery was one medic by the name of Compa... That settled it. The ditzy goddess of Planeptune, having lost both her sworn sisters, engaged HDD against the orders of her Oracle, Histoire, and... began looking to enact vengeance upon the nation of Lowee. She blamed Blanc for everything, and refused to listen to even Black Heart's pleas! So the once-peaceful (if not naive) CPU, having activated the same cursed HDD which was truly responsible for Vert's insanity, raised her army... and marched for Lowee. Lady Vert had gone silent... but Gamindustri's problems were about to get a (link:"whole lot worse...")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[You've achieved Ending **12/14**: "Historical"!] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[You've achieved Ending **14/14**: "Measure for Measure"!] (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[KEY OF OBEDIENCE: XAREBEQB ] Replay Scenario: (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[KRJQLSZK] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[SZAGXBMW (1) NWUNSQSS (2) AAYIWHJX (3) LINDA: "Congrats on gettin' here, by the way! Oh yeah, but if you're planning on replaying this ending from any point, just remember that you need to input those SEAL codes again beforehand, got it? Otherwise it won't work!"] Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[Ending 13](elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[Ending ¿?]' (if: $endingPath is "Historical")[IF: Fine, None | Cave: Fine, Innocent | Reunion: Cave] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending")[IF: ¿? | Cave: ¿? NEPGEO: "AWESOME! I've been waiting for this one! Both Iffy-Cutie's and Cave-Baby's health need to be at the same exact odd number! Which number? Why, the hottest number in existence, that's what! If your house's heat is set to *70*, you've gone just a tad smidge too high~!" LINDA: "... Man, she looks cute when she wiggles her as— A-AH, a-as she should have also added, to get this ending, you'll need to have entered at least one SEAL code. Not all three, though that wouldn't hurt, I guess... Just one is needed, though. Think you can get it? Me? I'm headin' home. Long day tomorrow." NEPGEO: "Long NIGHT before tomorrow, Lindy~!" LINDA: "N-Not in front of these brats...!"] (if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(link:"Onwards to tomorrow, always!")[(goto:"Book Cover Page")]](elseif: $endingPath is "Historical")[(link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)]] }

{(if: $iffyComplete is "No" AND $caveComplete is "No")[(set: $iffyHealth to 100) (set: $caveHealth to 100)(set: $caveKarma to 0)(set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to 0)(set: $caveFlashbackView to "No")(set: $livesCounter to 3)](elseif: $iffyComplete is "Yes")[Select Cave now... <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div>](elseif: $caveComplete is "Yes")[Select IF now... <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div>]}IF: Loyal friend of Neptune, the CPU of Planeptune. She has decided to do whatever it takes to protect her loved ones. She harbors a deep respect for Lady Vert, and also is in a relationship with Leanbox pop idol, Lyrica (AKA, 5pb). However, disgusted by Vert's and Cave's actions, and also threatened with Lyrica's life on the line by the newly-deranged goddess, IF fled Leanbox without any time to explain her actions. Cave: Loyal soldier of Leanbox, determined to fight for her lord to the end. However, even her loyalty has begun to corrode after seeing what Vert has brought upon the land. Still, she has yet to move past her negative feelings towards IF not only abandoning Leanbox, but also Lyrica... so she sticks through the terrible orders. She secretly is in love with Lyrica, and is now in Leanbox with her, determined to safeguard her life at all costs... These two souls are destined to finally reunite on the battlefield! Your actions will determine the outcome of their impending clash... if there even is one. How you respond to the upcoming situations may just keep someone alive... or end countless amounts of lives. It's all up to you... ... And it all begins with a single choice. Choose whose scenario you wish to play through first! IF's Health: (print: $iffyHealth)/100 | Cave's Health: (print: $caveHealth)/100 (if: $iffyComplete is "No")[IF|IF Scenario Start!]]] (if: $caveComplete is "No")[[[Cave|Cave Scenario Start!]

Cave bad ending- The '5' of Us IF bad ending- Fake True Ending (Cave)- Farewell (perhaps "Coming of Age" if kid scene) IF takes castle- Mission... Accomplished... If Vert ghost variant, different name IF- Cave shot, two variants Buzzkill (Cave)- No boss fight, you both realize you're making things worse, and leave together. Vert won't dare kill Lyrica if she hopes to find you ever Historical ending True Ending Lovers joke ending Wyn boss Cave- Loyalty- two branches. When you defeat IF, two choices: either kill her, or capture her alive. Click capture, she slaps you for 5 health. Click again, she swipes her blades for 5 health. Click again, she kicks you for 5 more. Click again, you manage to apprehend her and knock her out. You sneak IF inside and hide her in your room (is Lyrica in her room? check). Lyrica finds out, and you tell her to keep completely quiet about it. She demands to follow you outside to wait for Vert, however, and you can't tell her no. Vert arrives, you lie about killing IF. Suddenly, Lowee forces arrive and open fire, the army quickly regroups. Vert declares she will fight the leader... who turns out to be Nepgear. Meanwhile, you, Markz, Lyrica, and random soldiers must fight off the army. Catch being, Markz/Vert will give you orders. You MUST follow them. Three strikes, and after fourth choice, Lyrica will get shot. All choices, you can stab, shoot, or incapacitate (instant strike). First choice, worth one strike: shoot the three soldiers. Second, Markz is rushed by two guys, but disarms them. Stab them both. Third choice, two strikes, Lyrica knocks down five soldiers. Markz snickers and tell you to kill the perverts. "they were hittin' on your gal! Why dontcha show me their insides?" Fourth choice, Vert defeats Nepgear. She tells you to kill her. Either Kill or spare. If spare, Vert stabs her anyways, and instant three strikes. If three strikes, Lyrica is killed, you must fight Vert with Markz. If no three strikes, everyone cleans up, Vert heads inside. She soon comes back out and drops IF to the floor. You lied... Your final orders: Kill IF... or Lyrica dies. If you refuse to kill IF, Lyrica dies again (slightly different scene, though), and same boss fight. I assume IF will survive after that, still working on that. Lyrica should survive if you kill IF, prolly no boss fight? ALIVE ENDING: Cabin scene- narration, you find a run-down cabin and hide in it while the storm continues. IF goes silent, and you drift asleep. You wake up, she's yelling at herself under her breath. You speak, mumbling to calm down... and she instantly snaps at you, saying it's your fault. EX: "Why did you let her get shot?!" Cave says she did what she had to. It is her fault... but there's no going back. What was she supposed to do: kill IF? Choices: - (Fight path): "Would Lyrica want this?" (Last Stand path): "Don't talk like that, dammit!" (Bonus path): Kiss her. (Fight path): you mention lyrica... but IF snaps again. "Don't say her name!" She blames you for her death. "If you cared for her, she'd still be alive!" Cave starts getting riled up, says that IF leaving was the sole reason Lyrica was put in danger in the first place. Cave couldn't do it alone... IF draws her knives, slashes, you block. "SHUT UP!" Cave vs IF boss fight, round 2 You win, toss her to the ground, hold blade at her face. Her face is blank, almost as if wishing for you to end her. You relent again. You tell her to get up. She asks why, and you say that if you kill her... no one will be happy. IF is quiet, before quietly saying that without Lyrica, she can't go on; she has no one left. Cave says that's not true- "... You still have me." IF breaks down, and the two hug. (Last stand path): "Whatever you're thinking, PLEASE just calm down!" Her shoulders sink, she seems to relax. However, her face is clearly conflicted, her eyes clearly calculating something. You hope you're getting to her... but she suddenly flings 6 Qatars at you. You get pinned to the wall, her having strategically aimed each knife for sections of your clothes. You fight free and immediately pursue, following her boot marks in the mud. You ponder how fast she's running... and you realize that she's using every last ounce of strength in her body. She's going to get herself killed, perhaps intentionally! She might be sprinting back to Vert in her weakened state! A little while later, you see lights in the distance... and find IF's surrounded by a bunch of soldiers. She's breathing hard, and bleeding slightly. The soldiers have swords (commanders (5, 10, 15) will shoot). She's not backing down, clearly antagonizing them. You charge in, take out one guard, stand with IF back-to-back. She seems to try to ignore you... but you can sense a slight hint of relief from her. Last stand sequence, possibly 15 guards. not too difficult. Your turn, IF's turn (she can only attack or miss probably), enemy's turn. you can slash, shoot, heal yourself, or heal IF. You lose if either fall. After the fight, the guards are unconscious. The two of you are quiet... before IF asks why did you come back for her. Cave asks what is she trying to do. IF says she's done with Vert... She has nothing to lose. Cave asks what will that prove? Will killing Vert change anything? Will it make things worse? It will solve nothing, Vert will have won, and IF will most likely die in the process. Lyrica's death will have been for nothing. IF says she has no reason to live anymore... and you slap her. You remind her that she still has Neptune, Compa, and Nepgear... but Cave has nobody. Vert is still deranged, and Cave will be shot if she returns to Leanbox. Likewise, the other nations won't trust her... She's lost Chika, and Lyrica... Cave is alone, but she... still hasn't given up yet. But IF... still has loved ones to return to. She has a life left to live. It'd be pointless to give in. There's still some hope left... Tears subsiding, she asks what now? You remind her that she has somewhere to go... IF can go back to Planeptune and... plan for days to come. Make Lyrica proud. One day, you'll stop Vert... but for now, you need to rest and think. She then asks... if you'll be by her side. Cave is quiet... before nodding. "Of course... All the way." IF seems pleased... and the two of you walk off together. (Kiss path): you suddenly kiss IF, and she is confused for a few seconds... before strongly pushing you off. You begins to chastise you... but when she sees the despair/resignation/exhaustion on your face, she goes silent, before backtracking and apologizing. You start to cry, saying how you loved and lost Chika and Lyrica... and now you're forever alone. It's all your fault... You'd give your own life if it meant bringing them back. IF listens to everything you say as you become more and more vapid... and she silences you with another kiss when she figures she can't calm you down with words. She is clearly unsure of herself... but in order to calm you down and prevent you from doing anything rash, she lovingly says that you still have her. She'll... fill the void. narration, you two head back to planeptune. You have gone strangely cheerful, almost as if you repressed the entire Leanbox ordeal. Neptune and Compa aren't sure what to think... but they accept Cave in anyways. Cave and IF... become an oddly-affectionate couple. scene afterwards, the two of you are kissing in bed. some conversation, then IF will bring up that Planeptune is planning to invade Leanbox soon. Simply hearing Leanbox's name nearly sets you off, almost like a Vietnam flashback (LEANBOX LEANBOX LEANBOX LEANBOX, etc)... and IF once again backtracks to soothe your mind, saying that she's staying her with you no matter what, so no worries. You coo that you love her, and she responds likewise. Whether she actually loves you or not is irrelevant; she knows you'll go insane and snap, and possibly hurt others- if not herself- if you aren't there to comfort her... so she's willingly becoming your lover just to protect you. She's bottled all her negative feelings in order to be a strong enough partner for you... You've become her Lyrica, and she's become your Chika. [if kill her at very beginning]- You kill her, wait outside for Vert. Vert eventually arrives, you tell her what happened, she commends you for a job well done. You follow her inside to the throne room... and soon, smoke fills the area. Vert is suddenly stabbed in the gut... by none other than Nepgear?! You must fight her. Either before or during, soldiers from outside the smoke will attack, risking your health. if lyrica interest is true possible notes- she and cave are a couple, vert continues war. maybe laying together. cave asks if lyrica blames her. faux-happy ending? if no UST between the two, Lyrica acts colder than ever. Possible titles? To Greener Pastures... De Novo Overheat Paradise Lost As Long as You Are Happy lex talionis Alive Empty Chairs at Empty Tables (mission accomplished? Or, that could be Every Breath you Take) I Dare you The Black Parade (Runaway ending? IF carries off injured cave) Heart of the matter Drops of Jupiter (related to Chika?) Undun moving on? Two out of three ain't bad- IFxCave ending? (Third Wheel) Behind Blue Eyes- Vert ending? (blue eyes- human form. Purple- HDD) Stop crying your heart out Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) The Way (the second coming.)(accolade- Hard to say I'm sorry: even lovers need a holiday) She Ain't Heavy, She's My Sister- Door good ending? Let's live for today- grass roots Lux Aeterna Make your own kind of music reflections of my life

(if: $chikaTurn < 4)[(if: $chikaTurn is 1)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to ("Why... is this happening? Hasn't... fate made its point already?"))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to ("If you don't have Chika... then who DO you have?!"))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to ("You were meant to live alone, and thusly die alone... You refused, and got your best friend killed. People like you... aren't meant to achieve happiness."))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]] (if: $chikaTurn is 1)[What do you do?](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[What CAN you do?](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[No... Nonononononononononononononono!] (if: $caveObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(if: $chikaTurn is 1)[Weak... Why are you so weak? You could've stopped this... No, you couldn't have. You can't do shit.](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[Sorry won't cut it! You KILLED your friends! Chika, Lyrica, IF... Everything you told them must've been LIES! LIES!!!](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)["..." Just give up; you've already lost. Join your friends... and MAYBE they'll pretend to forgive you.]]](else:)[(if: $chikaTurn is 1)[Weak... Why are you so weak? You could've stopped this... No, you couldn't have. You can't do shit.](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[Sorry won't cut it! You KILLED your friends! Chika, Lyrica, IF... Everything you told them must've been LIES! LIES!!!](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)["..." Just give up; you've already lost. Join your friends... and MAYBE they'll pretend to forgive you.]] (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[(if: $attackUsageEvent is true)[FILTH!](else:)[[Attack]<attack|] | (if: $skillsUsageEvent is true)[MONSTER!](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] (if: $defendUsageEvent is true)[DEMON!](else:)[[Defend]<defend|] | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Action Page")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Action Page")] (click:?defend)[(set: $defendUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveDefendChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Stab]<stab| | [Jump attack]<jumpattack| [Running slash]<runningslash| | [Somersault kick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?stab)[(set: $attackUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveAttackChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $attackUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveAttackChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $attackUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveAttackChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $attackUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveAttackChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Action Page")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| [Malicious Heaven]<malicious| | [Full Burst Option]<fullburstoption| [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $skillsUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?heal)[(set: $skillsUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?malicious)[(set: $skillsUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $skillsUsageEvent to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Action Page")]}]](else:)[(if: $caveKarma <= 1)[You blink your eyes... and suddenly find yourself in front of a cold, dark, and scary castle. Rain falls down from above, drenching your clothes... Y-You're shivering! W-Where are you? This... isn't your home! "C-C-Chika? CHIKA?!" No one answers... You dart your head around, perplexed at how dismal the yard outside the massive building is. Saddened hills upon hills, tired grass upon grass, walls of trees isolating this nightmarish locale from the rest of the world... ... You're all alone out here. The black night approaches... You've never been more scared in your life! Y-You need to get out of here!!! ... But you're too afraid to move... Your small legs simply refuse to carry you any further! A child shouldn't have to deal with these kind of situations! W-What do you do?! Why are you here?! Someone, anyone, h-help!!! With nothing left to do... you fall to both knees and begin to (link:"cry...")[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="chikaBossTrack.pause();" /></div>}(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 17")]](else:)[You can't do this anymore... Defeated, you fall to one knee... and await the end. (link:"\"... Finish... it... Chika...\"")[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="chikaBossTrack.pause();" /></div>}(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 17")]]](if: $chikaTurn != 4)[ Your Health (Cave): (if: $chikaTurn is 1)[100/100| Energy Meter: 10/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[50/100| Energy Meter: 5/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[1/100| Energy Meter: 2/10] Chika's Health: (if: $chikaTurn is 1)[100/100| Chika's Energy: 10/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[1,000/1,000| Chika's Energy: 100/100](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[10,000,000/10,000,000| Chika's Energy: 1,000/1,000]](else:)[]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> }"N-No! Dammit, listen!" You barely have the time to breathe as you spot one of your knives on the ground nearby. "Just gotta..." You roll like there is no tomorrow, and you feel the terrible sensation of a blade just barely missing your ear; Cave doesn't miss often... so you can't afford to waste these precious openings! You scoop up the closest Qatar, and without a second thought, you swing it behind you, anticipating her next quick attack. A good judgement! The knife smashes against cold steel, and you don't even get disarmed this time! You look to her enraged eyes piercing your soul, and as the two of your weapons clash... her free hand brings the other half of her scissors high in the air, circling against the graying sky! Crap, why did she have to upgrade to a weapon that splits itself in half?! She's already fast enough as it is with ONE weapon, but a long blade for each *hand*?! With a shudder and a yell, Cave quickly rears this second shear and chops it down like a butcher's knife. You yourself cry out as you leap away from the weapon-lock, doing everything in your power to not lose your balance and fall over. The blade slams into the mud right where you stood, the wet earth splashing the SMD warrior in the face. If you were any slower in dodging that, your head would now physically be able to go up your own ass! ... Er, wow, you're stressed out if you're coming up with phrases like that! Hafta stay moving! You follow up your lucky dodge by rolling behind your crazed friend, desperately trying to think of some way to cool her off! Hmm, hmmm... Her neck! Chop her neck! It'll pain you to do it, but... there's simply no choice! In that regard, you won't seriously harm her, but simply knock her out for a spell! It'll provide her a chance to rest and calm down, as well as give you time to think! "Cave, I don't want to-" "SHUT UP!" And dammit, you really want time to think. Hurry, she's moving! You leap forward and prepare a fantastic karate-chop with your right hand... and your rival snaps her own right arm around, twisting her neck away just out of reach and inadvertently gunning for your extended limb! S-Shit! The two of your arms collide sloppily... and Cave is caught off-guard: her right-handed shear goes flying out of her grasp... and into YOURS! Crap, she sliced through your jacket a bit with that one... but it's just a scrape. What truly matters is... you actually disarmed her! Well, only one blade... but now you've leveled the (link:"playing field!")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 1")]](else:)["Damn..." the stylish soldier mumbles... before gifting you a hellish stare and winding her lone shear around again. There's no frickin' slowing down with her! Once more, an axe-like swing looks to silence you. Can you deflect it?! W-Woah, no, too fast! You roll out of the way as before, looking like a monkey stuck in an unusual platforming/puzzle game. You didn't want to risk losing your new weapon right away, so you chose not to hazard a risky swing... but dang, you can't take much more of this. Rolling tires a body out after awhile! The two of you are now stuck in an eye-lock; if this was a slice-of-life anime, there'd be lasers connecting your pupils. Oh yeah, and you wouldn't be fighting to death; Cave'd probably be a blushing tsundere for the boke-like Chika, you'd be the more level-headed 'straight-man', you'd all be in... ANOTHER alternate high-school universe, and... Y-Your mind is going weird places again! You stand with your shoulders tensed, and she taps her foot; who's gonna make the first move? ... Yeah, it's her; she's charging, bringing up her left wrist for the powerful finisher! You got one chance at knocking that shear away from her, or it's all over! Or, best case, you'll survive... and have to eat all your meals through a tube from here on out! "Errryeaaahahhhh!" you shout as you roll one last time and spriiiiiiing right into an uppercut! In your head, you can see it: your blade will forcefully clash with hers... and the momentum behind your speedy somersault will dislodge the weapon cleanly from her fist! Cave will then be completely defenseless... Well, not exactly true, but she'd be without her most immediately-dangerous attributes. She's already drained from the earlier fight as is, so she won't be able to muster up any of her fancy 'skills' at least. Close your eyes and concentrate! Going, going, come on, ya got this...! Haha, you've connecte-... huh? That was certainly a... strange sound. No metallic 'SCHIIIING'ing or cursing Caves or splashing of mud at the blade falls to the earth. No, this sounded like... sticking your hand inside a pumpkin as you carve it. Like, not just sticking your hand inside, but JAMMING it all the way in there! H-Heh, kinda like that evening when you and Lyrica were finally alone after a few busy, stressful weeks... and, feeling adventurous, you both experimented with how far you could shove your fingers up yo- W-Woah, nevermind! But seriously... now something warm is covering your hands. You gently extend your fingers along the blade... and brush against Cave's... stomach? That definitely feels like whatever fabric she uses for her clothes! ... N-No... Y-You were aiming for her blade! Why... are you feeling her stomach?! And why is it so... (link:"*slimy*?!")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(set: $ffLinkClickedRed to false)}Death, death, death, death, death! C-Crap, you're not even close to being ready! ... Wait, er... is this what death feels like? The air is chilly, sure, but... you barely feel any different. If a sword is in your gut, surely you'd experience at least a slight discomfort, right? "... IF...?" Cave's confused voice? Huh... Do you dare look? Oh well, if you're dying, might as well be a woman and face it directly! You open your eyes... and see Nepgear standing before you, a frozen wax replica of a human being. Or Candidate, whatever literal or metaphorical phrasing works for you. The demonic-looking sword in her hands stopped just short of your stomach; if she hadn't gone completely catatonic, you'd be a shish kebob! "... Huh? H-Haha... C-Cave, What, uh, what... happened? Sure got lucky here, e-eh?" Weird, now that you are looking around awkwardly... you note that the world seems *different* somehow... Oh, did you say *'different'*? No, the correct word is *'blatantly wrong'*! There's no color in the trees, the sky, the mud, the Basilicom, nothing! And not in a 'real is brown' sorta way; everything is pure white, like some pretentious artist's monochromatic view of the universe! Only you and Cave are colored in... Are you two the only things that exist? As your head sits in a total stupor, the SMD warrior walks up and flicks her finger into the blade, a harmonic vibration strumming into the air. "... IF, this is... unusual." "H-Ha, you're tellin' me!" She nods, then you nod... then she nods again. Yeah, er, what more is there to say? She almost watched you get impaled by a lookalike of your friend... and now you are both in some indie arthouse film! "... Don't you want to step out of the blade's way? Just a... suggestion." ... That may be for the best. Rubbing the back of your hair, you stumble backwards and quickly stand by Cave's warm side. "Thanks... So, um, what's next? Should we... keep going?" Your friend grunts, her eyes studying Nepgear's frozen form. Might as well do the same until you get your head back in orde- "Heeeeeeeey! Sorry (link:"I'm late, Iffy-poo~!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 1")]](else:)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> }Uh oh... That voice... A familiar voice, one that used to haunt your dreams roughly a year ago, pretty much around the time you and Lyrica first hooked up. ... It's not like it's a bad voice; completely the opposite, in fact! The voice belongs to an... unusual friend, sure, but one who saved the entire world's hide back when Arfoire tried to turn everything into a high-school alternate universe she could rule with ease. No, the problem lies not with her... but more with the fact that whenever she pops up, you know your mind is about to be blown. Seeing the pure white and now somewhat-foggy landscape around you, though... you suppose you should've expected this turn of events. "... IF, look!" the stylish soldier demands, pointing up in the washed-out sky. Man, even the rain is frozen in time! Your eyes follow her finger... and when you see a golden dragon soaring for you two, all your suspicions are confirmed! "Wait, haven't I... seen this beast before?" Indeed Cave has! She, too, was visited by this dragon a year ago, though you were really the only one who got to know both it AND its girl companion! Or, is she the master? Is the dragon her pet, or does she somehow fuse with it? Hmmm... Either way, the girl in question... seemed to take a mighty interest in you back then... H-Hehe, don't want to brag, of course, but... kinda feels sweet to have an admirer, especially one who can cross dimensions! You dog, you! The dragon hovers a few inches away from Cave's tense face, and it flicks her nose with its reptilish tongue. "H-Hey!" Satisfied, the small, snake-like beast coils towards you... and in a flash, a short red-headed girl with a ponytail on the side of her head, stylized in the shape of an 'R', stands before you. You assume she's roughly a year or two younger than you... though her bust size is... er, deceptively grand. Puberty was kind to her... Add to all that the random white stripe covering nearly the entirety of her right bang, as well as highlighting the bottom of her 'R'... and there's no doubt in your mind who this girl is. She winks at you as she strikes a pose, keeping apart her index and middle fingers as she holds out her hand in front of her open eye. Sign of a playful deviant... who shouldn't be as smart as she truly is. "Long time no see, my wifey! Looking totally bangin' today! Though a little bit too sweaty... You been working out?" "... Hello, (link:"Red.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 2")]]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="chikaBossTrack.play('Sengoku Musou 4 OST - Twin Cherry Blossoms.mp3');" /></div>(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $caveAttackChoice to false)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to false)(set: $caveDefendChoice to false)(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)(set: $caveObserve to 3)(set: $chikaTurn to 1)(set: $struggleCount to 0)}Chika's caring eyes are no more, and an otherworldly rage stares back at you... Like a demon possessed, she silently raises her crossbow once again, the rest of her body limp and lifeless. Crossbow. Chika. Aiming. You. ... [["C-Chika... No..."|Chika Boss Action Page]]

{(display: "EnemyInfoCaveLS")(display: "LogCaveLS")(display: "CaveLS")}

{<div id="enemy">$ename | HP: $ehp/$mhp.</div>}

{(if: $endingPath is "Greener Pastures")[<div id="log"> (if: $log is "you")[It is your turn.](elseif: $log is "atk")[(if: $atk is "Heal")[You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal $atkdmg health!] (elseif: $atk is "Slash")[(either:"What fools would dare stand in your way?","\"Geez, Cave... You gonna STAB him? At least you had the good grace to painlessly shoot me in the face...\"","Obstacles... That's all these fiends are.") You slash $ename, dealing $atkdmg damage. As if there was any doubt.] (elseif: $atk is "Shoot")[You fire a basic energy bullet from your blades, not even digging into your power reserves to do so. (if: $atkdmg is 0)[However, like the fool you are, you miss... (either:"You can't afford such failure, not now! Try harder!","You have no one left to fight for but yourself... Is this the limit of your strength?","Chika's face pops up in your head again... She looks so disapproving. You're failing her.","Just a few moments ago, things were looking so bright... Serves you right for getting your hopes up.")](else:)[$ename responds too slow, and his torso eats the projectile. That must've been a good $atkdmg damage. (either:"\"Get 'em, Cavey! Give it to 'em real good!\"","\"Please don't hurt yourself out there, Cave... I... don't blame you for what happened to me... but I'll never forgive you if you die here!\"","\"You never knew how to take a break... but heh, I guess now's a better time than any to kick ass, hmm?\"")]]] (elseif: $log is "enemy")[(if: $eatk is 0)[$ename tries to fire, but his gun jams. (either:"The fool...","Worthless...","He's sealed his fate...")](else:)[$ename fires from his gun. Several (print:$eatkname)s strike you, dealing $eatk damage. (either:"Ha! As if that is going to faze you!","No one's here to mend your wounds... You're out of allies.","How long have your former comrades thought about murdering you?")]]</div>] (else:)[<div id="log"> (if: $log is "you")[It is your turn.](elseif: $log is "atk")[(if: $atk is "Heal")[You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and heal $atkdmg health!] (elseif: $atk is "Heal IF")[Channeling some energy from deep within, you pat IF on the back... and restore $atkdmg points of health to her! (either:"\"... Thanks...\"","\"I... d-don't need... h-help...\"","\"... Ya didn't have to do that...\"")] (elseif: $atk is "Slash")[(either:"IF is... such an idiot!","\"No one else... You can't lose your last remaining friend!\"","\"You guys are so reckless, geez! But... guess you have no choice: do your thing, Cavey!\"") You slash $ename, dealing $atkdmg damage. As if there was any doubt.] (elseif: $atk is "Shoot")[You fire a basic energy bullet from your blades, not even digging into your power reserves to do so. (if: $atkdmg is 0)[However, like the fool you are, you miss... (either:"You can't afford such failure, not now! Try harder!","It's happening again... Will you fail her too?","Chika's face pops up in your head again... She looks so concerned. She's... afraid you're going to fail! Y-You can't let her down!","Damn it... Why now?")](else:)[$ename responds too slow, and his torso eats the projectile. That must've been a good $atkdmg damage. (either:"\"Get 'em, Cavey! Give it to 'em real good!\"","\"Please don't hurt yourself out there, Cave... I... don't blame you for what happened to me... but I'll never forgive you if you or IF die here!\"","IF could learn a thing or two from your flawless form!")]]] (elseif: $log is "iffy")[IF swings her Qatars for $ename, (if: $atkdmg is 0)[but misses due to sloppy form!](else:)[shocking him for $atkdmg damage!]] (elseif: $log is "enemy")[(if: $enemyDefeated is 4)[The $ename draws back the string of his bow, and fires an arrow for $etarget! (if: $eatk is 0)[However, $etarget (if: $etarget is "IF")[shifts her](else:)[shift your] body enough to avoid taking the hit! (either:"After today... did he seriously think an ARROW would finish either of you off?!","Truly pathetic... Chika trained the archers better than this.")](else:)[The arrow blasts $etarget in the arm for $eatk damage!]] (elseif: $enemyDefeated is 9)[(if: $eatk is 0)[The $ename tries to fire, but his gun jams. (either:"The fool...","Worthless...","This is why Chika preferred crossbows and her own long legs.")](else:)[$ename fires from his gun... and several (print:$eatkname)s strike $etarget, dealing $eatk damage!]] (elseif: $enemyDefeated is 14)[The $ename mutters beneath his breath... and jabs out his palm for $etarget! Is he... summoning magic?! Ice crystals fire out from his hand... (if: $eatk is 0)[but melt before reaching $etarget! (either:"Fools cannot hope to master the arcane arts!","Failed or not, that spell felt much like the ones Adrian used back before... things went to hell. Green Heart never alerted you of teaching her troops these kinds of abilities!","Magic... like from the Yellow Bandana's tome! Where did that thing get to anyways...?")](else:)[and crash into $etarget, dealing an otherworldly $eatk damage!]](else:)[(if: $eatk is 0)[$ename slices his sword for $etarget... but misses in a manner most humiliating. (either:"Now's your chance!","THESE are Leanbox's finest?!","Tch... You are ashamed that these men used to be your allies.")](else:)[$ename slices his sword for $etarget, dealing $eatk damage!]](if: $eatk != 0)[ (if: $etarget is "you")[(either:"Ha! As if that is going to faze you!","Your former allies seem to have no qualms about murdering you... That was a fast turnaround.","Better you be a shield than IF... She's all that matters now!")](else:)[(either:"\"M-More! T-That was nothin', ya jerks!\"","She's trying to hide it... but IF is in clear pain.","Damn it, don't let that happen again! Lose her, and it's all over!")]]]</div>]}

(if: $endingPath is "Greener Pastures")[<div id="you">You: $caveBossHealth/100 Energy: $caveEnergyMeter/10 {(if: $turn is "you")[ (link: "Slash |")[ (set: $atk to "Slash") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 5,15)) (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")] (link: "Shoot |")[ (set: $atk to "Shoot") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 15,25)) (set: $atkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $atkchance > 80)[(set: $atkdmg to 0)] (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action") ] (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 1)[(link: "Heal")[ (set: $atk to "Heal") (set: $caveEnergyMeter to it - 1) (set: $atkdmg to (random: 20,25)) (set: $caveBossHealth to it + $atkdmg) (if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)] (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action") ]](else:)[<strike>Heal</strike>] ] (elseif: $turn is "enemy")[ (link: "Continue")[ (set: $eatk to (random:4,8)) (set: $eatkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $eatkchance > 85)[(set: $eatk to 0)] (set: $log to "enemy") (set: $turn to "you") (set: $caveBossHealth to it - $eatk) (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")]] (if: $caveBossHealth < 1)[(set: $caveDeath to "Last Stand")(goto: "Greener Pastures Boss Action")] (if: $ehp < 1)[(set: $enemyDefeated to $enemyDefeated + 1) (set: $enemyNumber to $enemyDefeated + 1) (set: $ename to "Soldier $enemyNumber") (set: $mhp to ($mhp + 5)) (set: $ehp to $mhp) (if: $enemyDefeated is 5)[(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 2")]] </div>}](else:)[<div id="you">You: $caveBossHealth/100 IF: $iffyBossHealth/100 {(if: $turn is "you")[ (link: "Slash |")[ (set: $atk to "Slash") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 3,8)) (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (set: $turn to "iffy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")] (link: "Shoot |")[ (set: $atk to "Shoot") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 8,20)) (set: $atkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $atkchance > 75)[(set: $atkdmg to 0)] (set: $turn to "iffy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action") ] (link: "Heal You |")[ (set: $atk to "Heal") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 20,25)) (set: $caveBossHealth to it + $atkdmg) (if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)] (set: $turn to "iffy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action") ] (link: "Heal IF")[ (set: $atk to "Heal IF") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 20,25)) (set: $iffyBossHealth to it + $atkdmg) (if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)] (set: $turn to "iffy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action") ] ] (elseif: $turn is "iffy")[ (link: "Continue")[ (set: $atkdmg to (random:5,10)) (set: $atkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $atkchance > 65)[(set: $atkdmg to 0)] (set: $log to "iffy") (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")]] (elseif: $turn is "enemy")[ (link: "Continue")[ (set: $etarget to (either:"you","IF")) (if: $enemyDefeated < 5)[(set: $eatk to (random:5,10))](elseif: $enemyDefeated < 10)[(set: $eatk to (random:10,15))](elseif: $enemyDefeated < 15)[(set: $eatk to (random:15,20))](else:)[(set: $eatk to (random:20,30))] (set: $eatkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $eatkchance > 80)[(set: $eatk to 0)] (set: $log to "enemy") (set: $turn to "you") (if: $etarget is "you")[(set: $caveBossHealth to it - $eatk)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to it - $eatk)] (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")]] (if: $caveBossHealth < 1 OR $iffyBossHealth < 1)[(set: $caveDeath to "IF Last Stand")(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")] (if: $ehp < 1)[(set: $enemyDefeated to $enemyDefeated + 1) (set: $enemyNumber to $enemyDefeated + 1) (if: $enemyDefeated is 4)[(set: $ename to "Colonel")](elseif: $enemyDefeated is 9)[(set: $ename to "General")](elseif: $enemyDefeated is 14)[(set: $ename to "Unit Commander")](else:)[(set: $ename to "Soldier $enemyNumber")] (if: $enemyDefeated < 4)[(set: $mhp to 5)](elseif: $enemyDefeated is 4)[(set: $mhp to 15)](elseif: $enemyDefeated < 9)[(set: $mhp to 10)](elseif: $enemyDefeated is 9)[(set: $mhp to 20)](elseif: $enemyDefeated < 14)[(set: $mhp to 15)](else:)[(set: $mhp to 25)] (set: $ehp to $mhp) (if: $enemyDefeated is 15)[(goto:"Moving On Page 2")]] </div>}]

{(savegame:"A","Blaze of Glory")}You are now IF... "I-I can't believe we're finally together again! I... love you, Iffy." ... Good, Cave's running off. You were worried she was going to stick around and fight with you. You can tell that when she was struck by the fake Vert's lance, she suffered more than just physical pain... She wouldn't have been able to help you in this fight. Probably would've just gotten the both of you killed faster. ... Fake Vert? Yeah, you mean that... That *thing* that resembles the CPU you used to admire is... just that: an eerie imposter, much like that Nepgear from earlier. Lady Green Heart must've died long ago, but you simply didn't want to admit it. You held onto false hope that you could somehow save the goddess from whatever insanity was plaguing her mind... but there's no way. Even if there was... anyone would be a better candidate for the job than you. You're not that special. "Surrender, IF! No one else has to get hurt today!" a soldier screams out. His weapon is drawn... He has his orders; they all do. What's one small lie... if the person they're telling it to won't be around to find out in a matter of seconds? "... I... don't deserve the kind of loyalty you displayed. Even after everything, you... are a true friend." "I'm sorry, Cave... A true friend wouldn't have let this happen..." Consider this penance... In a few moments, you'll... be reunited with Lyrica, which at this rate is all that matters. Compa and Nep will be shattered... but without you around to screw things up, the war at least won't get worse. As for Cave... you know she'll get the job done. But, even if she doesn't... perhaps she'll meet up with you and your lover in due time. "S-Stand down, IF!" You're surrounded now... They're going to kill you in the name of an insane freak of nature no matter what you do. Might as well go down swinging! (link: "Avenge Lyrica!")[ (set: $ehp to 10) (set: $mhp to 10) (set: $ename to "Soldier 1") (set: $turn to "you") (set: $hp to 100) (set: $eatkname to "bullet") (set: $enemyDefeated to 0) (set: $chargeEnergy to 0) (goto: "Last Stand Action")]

{(display: "EnemyInfoLS")(display: "LogLS")(display: "IFLS")}

{<div id="log"> (if: $log is "you")[It is your turn.](elseif: $log is "atk")[(if: $atk is "Heal")[Gotta focus... There, you healed $atkdmg health! Make it count.](elseif: $atk is "Super Heal")[This'll help... There, you healed $atkdmg health! Get going; you still have work to do...](elseif: $atk is "Charge")["I'll make you pay... ALL OF YOU!" Show them your strength.](elseif: $atk is "Slash")[(either:"Lyrica, Lyree, Fivey... She is gone, yet these monsters still live!","\"I love you, IF... I've never felt so alive!\"","No more pulling your punches... Look at where morality has brought you!") You slash $ename, dealing $atkdmg damage!](elseif: $atk is "Throw Qatar")[(if: $atkdmg is 0)[Your Qatar flies... and hits no one in particular. (either:"You're slippin'... Why now?","Cave was right about you... Whether she's forgiven you or not, maybe you... don't deserve absolution...","Lyrica's no longer here to guide your hand... Her spirit must not deem you worthy enough.","You really thought you could help Lady Vert? Save Gamindustri? Ha, pathetic!")](else:)[(either:"Who cares about stunning anymore? If this kills 'em... all the better.","\"Miss IF... you are the greatest person I've ever had the good fortune to know! Kind, honorable... Perfect.\"","Lyree Lyree Lyree Lyree Lyree Lyree Lyree... WHY?!") You viciously toss a knife straight for $ename, and the projectile crashes into his gut. Quick and easy $atkdmg damage... but it should've done more.]](elseif: $atk is "Super Qatar")[(either:"Whose fault was all this? Adrian's? Cave's? Vert's? No... The blame lies on your shoulders. It's ALL your fault.","Why couldn't it be you?! Why HER?! Why not YOU?!","\"Die! Die! Dammit, DIE!!!\"") Energy sufficiently augmenting the Qatar, you throw it right for $ename. He lurches violently at the $atkdmg damage... He should be screaming in horrendous agony. He must feel at least a fraction of your pain...](elseif: $atk is "Ultra Qatar")[(either:"\"How could you turn your back on Lyrica?! You left her to die! You abandoned us!\"","\"... You think that changes ANYTHING? You think that makes up for all the things that have happened?! Everyone we've LOST?!\"","\"... I... don't deserve the kind of loyalty you displayed. Even after everything, you... are a true friend.\"") A supreme amount of energy sufficiently augmenting the Qatar, you throw it right for $ename. His body practically keels over at the immediate $atkdmg damage... Suffer!!! Every last loyal soldier of Leanbox must *pay!!!*]] (elseif: $log is "enemy")[(if: $enemyDefeated <= 7)[(if: $eatk is 0)[$ename tries to fire, but his gun jams. (either:"The fool...","Worthless...","He's defenseless!")](else:)[$ename fires from his gun. Several (print:$eatkname)s strike you, dealing $eatk damage. (either:"Ignore the pain and think of... Lyree...","\"Grrr... I-Is that all you got?!\"","\"You... MONSTERS!!!\"")]](elseif: $enemyDefeated > 7 AND $enemyDefeated <= 12)[(if: $eatk is 0)[$ename charges for you, sword held high... but you twist out of the way. Not now... You're not ready to join her just yet...](else:)[$ename jabs forward with his sword, catching you without incident. Blood drips down after the dealt $eatk damage. (either:"You always try to act tough, even now... but damn it, you're afraid!","\"I-I... won't go down THAT easy! G-Give me your best shot!\"","\"I-I do not fear d-death... Y-You guys aren't even trying!!!\"")]](elseif: $enemyDefeated > 12)[$ename channels some energy of his own... and suddenly flicks his fingers your way! Green-tinted lightning shoots from his fingertips... (if: $eatk is 0)[but disperses due to the rain. (either:"\"Oho... Not like THAT, buddy!\"","Great; Vert's very own soldiers have become magicians now!","Standard soldiers using magic? Why are they... channeling the Yellow Bandanas' arcane arts?! How?!")](else:)[and you get singed by the scalding-hot magic spell. Did they... learn that from Adrian?! You took at least $eatk damage... (either:"You're gonna die like this... Die by the same kind of magic that killed the real Lady Vert!","\"... M-More! I can... k-keep g-going!\"","\"Cave... I can't... hold out much... longer!\"")]]]</div>}

{<div id="enemy">$ename | HP: $ehp/$mhp.</div>}

<div id="you">You: $hp/100 {(if: $turn is "you")[ (link: "Slash |")[ (set: $atk to "Slash") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 5,15)) (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Last Stand Action")] (if: $chargeEnergy is 0)[(link: "Throw Qatar |")[ (set: $atk to "Throw Qatar") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 15,25)) (set: $atkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $atkchance > 60)[(set: $atkdmg to 0)] (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]](elseif: $chargeEnergy is 1)[(link: "Super Qatar |")[ (set: $atk to "Super Qatar") (set: $atkdmg to 50) (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $chargeEnergy to 0) (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]](elseif: $chargeEnergy is 2)[(link: "Ultra Qatar |")[ (set: $atk to "Ultra Qatar") (set: $atkdmg to 100) (set: $ehp to it - $atkdmg) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $chargeEnergy to 0) (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]] (if: $chargeEnergy is 0)[(link: "Charge Energy...")[ (set: $atk to "Charge") (set: $chargeEnergy to it + 1) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]](elseif: $chargeEnergy is 1)[(link: "Heal |")[ (set: $atk to "Heal") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 15,30)) (set: $hp to it + $atkdmg) (if: $hp > 100)[(set: $hp to 100)] (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $chargeEnergy to 0) (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]](elseif: $chargeEnergy is 2)[(link: "Super Heal")[ (set: $atk to "Super Heal") (set: $atkdmg to (random: 30,50)) (set: $hp to it + $atkdmg) (if: $hp > 100)[(set: $hp to 100)] (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (set: $chargeEnergy to 0) (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]] (if: $chargeEnergy is 1)[(link: "Charge Energy...")[ (set: $atk to "Charge") (set: $chargeEnergy to it + 1) (set: $turn to "enemy") (set: $log to "atk") (goto: "Last Stand Action") ]]] (elseif: $turn is "enemy")[ (link: "Continue")[ (if: $enemyDefeated <= 7)[(set: $eatk to (random:5,10))](elseif: $enemyDefeated > 7 AND $enemyDefeated <= 12)[(set: $eatk to (random:10,20))](elseif: $enemyDefeated > 12)[(set: $eatk to (random:20,30))] (set: $eatkchance to (random: 1,100)) (if: $eatkchance > 75)[(set: $eatk to 0)] (set: $log to "enemy") (set: $turn to "you") (set: $hp to it - $eatk) (goto: "Last Stand Action")] ] (if: $hp <1)[(goto: "Last Stand Conclusion")] (if: $ehp <1)[(set: $enemyDefeated to $enemyDefeated + 1) (set: $enemyNumber to $enemyDefeated + 1) (set: $mhp to ($mhp + 5)) (set: $ehp to $mhp) (if: $enemyDefeated <= 7)[(set: $ename to "Soldier $enemyNumber")](elseif: $enemyDefeated > 7 AND $enemyDefeated <= 12)[(set: $ename to "General $enemyNumber")](else:)[(set: $ename to "Commander $enemyNumber")]] </div>}

You've downed $enemyDefeated supporters of that horrible, horrible imposter... They just keep coming... You put up a good fight, but one warrior alone can't fend off an entire army. You are out of options... "I love you, IF... You're safe now. It's over... Relax." Your soul is crying for release from your battered frame... It's time. "... You got this, Cave... End it," you whisper, your words lost in the rain. Closing your eyes, you can see Lyrica ushering you to her. "Sorry Nep, Compa... You'll do well without me, though. I know ya will." ... Here goes nothing! Your eyes slam wide open, and you fling your last handful of Qatars at the nearest soldier, penetrating his chest despite the battle armor. He collapses... giving way to five bayonet-wielders. "Feelin' lucky?... GAAAH!!!" Fist held high like a true hero straight out of an anime... (link:"you charge!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="lastStandTrack.pause();" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="basilicomTrack.play('Samurai Warriors - Osaka Castle.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 12")]

You listen to her groveling. If she was lying, she was sure making herself seem as pathetic as possible in the process. Does she even know what fighting by your side would entail? Does she expect you to leave Leanbox? You refuse to believe she'll actually JOIN Vert... Hell, but why WOULDN'T you leave the deranged CPU's side? You have to face facts: the Vert you used to know... isn't coming back. Staying here would just endanger more lives. You've failed Chika... Who'd be next? ... Lyrica. You can't simply leave; step out of line, and you know what'll happen to the pop idol. Vert had eyes and ears everywhere... As long as uncertainty prevailed, your hands were tie- ... Wait, but Vert isn't here right now, nor is Markz or any of her typical enforcers. The remaining Leanbox guards are most likely too fearful to attempt anything against you... What's binding you here? Maybe... allying with IF wouldn't be such a bad thing. With a little help, you can finally break Lyrica free! ... NO! IF is... a traitor! You can't simply... No! "Cave... Er, you... alright?" You get lost in your own mind far too often... You continue to direct your body towards the castle, but you slightly twist your head to address the battle-hardened veteran. "... Stay quiet. Follow me; we're going to get Lyrica. Let's hurry, Vert'll be back any second." The brunette blinks once at your bluntness. "Oh, er... F-Fine by me! Y-Yeah, let's get a move on! I have some explaining to do to Fivey, heh..." She begins to move... but you suddenly jut your blades in front of her face, forcing her to freeze. You keep your features calm; free from all emotion. "Try anything- ANYTHING- and you are finished. Understand?" A simple threat... but one easy to understand. A nervous smile crosses Iffy's lips. "O-Of course... That's fair. I just want to make things right again, Cave." A determined look shines from her hopeful eyes. "Fivey's all that matters to me at the moment. I will do nothing more to make things worse." Good... Nice and complient. However, deep in the pit of your stomach, a twinge of emptiness stings you. Are you... bothered by how smoothly this is going? She's a traitor; why isn't she resisting more?! ... Enough doubt. Head to the front entrance of the castle now. Have to operate quickly. Maybe you'll even be able to sort out just what the hell your [[next step shall be...|Farewell Ending Page 2]]

(if: $loversPageCheck != true)[{<audio src="Dynasty_Warriors_7-Large_Feather.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}So it's finally come down to this: the two rivals reunite on this dismal battleground, the rain barely quelling the heat burning within their bodies! Weapons drawn, brows furrowed, glares exchanged... The fated encounter is finally commencing! The two keep their eyes trained upon one another, slowly inching closer and closer, their breaths becoming more and more erratic with each passing tick of the clock. They both knew... how this was all going to end. The time for joking around had passed. "IF..." Cave mutters, her words like knives carving into flesh. "Cave..." Iffy's anger is far less, but with wounds, exhaustion, and generally all the troubles she experienced on her way here, the intensity behind her words is still palpable! The hot-headed soldier of Leanbox gives the brunette a smirk, one filled with flame. "So... you surely took your time getting here." "Heh, you know me! I like to take my time when it counts." Even she lets out a chuckle. They are now within each other's personal space, both feeling the other's exhalations. The SMD warrior grunts. "You appear to be burning up... I can *feel* it. Are you really ready to face me?" Taunting now, Cave bumps her former friend with the dull side of her blade. IF only continues to grin. "Hey... I like it hot! Y'know, I'm bettin' you're the same way!" She bumps Cave back, using her small chest to collide with the soldier's pale frame. "So... what are we waiting for? We both know what's gonna happen..." "... Correct... Why waste anymore time?" With that, the two take a single step back as their blades rise up to eye level. The heated exchange of words has concluded! Now, the fight shall commence! They ready up, charge forward, and... "IF~..." "Cave~..." The two woman take hold of one another, fall to the ground... Wait... W-Wait, that's not an attack! Their weapons just fell to the sidelines... O-Oh! Must be one of those grapple things, right? Like MMA or something, maybe a professional wrestling hold?... No... N-No, but they are holding each other very tight... ... Woah, wait a minute! (link:"Are they...?!")[(set: $loversPageCheck to true)(goto:"Lovers Ending Page 1")]](else:)[<audio src="MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>IF and Cave roll around on the grass, their lips mashed together, their hands gliding smoothly about each other's body. Their wandering digits don't seem to be finding a permanent home... e-er, except that one! Cave, keep your hand away from there! We're rated 'M', not 'AO'! T-This makes no sense! The... The intense fight... The emotional climax!... Grr, not **that** type of climax! No! NO! No no no no no! No! They're ruining it, they're ruining it **ALL!!!** The 'friends' eventually break free for air, their breathing heavy as their gazes are locked together. "Cave... You've always been so perfect~!" "No, you are mistaken: if anyone is perfect, it is YOU, IF!" "H-Hey! T-That's... h-hehe, embarrassing...!" Oh come on, what the hell? I've been-... I mean, this tale has been going on for so long, and now it all ends in... Wait, who's that coming from the Basilicom? No... not Lyrica too!!! "Guys, you made up! I'm so happy!" IF looks up at the pop idol lovingly... and so does Cave. "Hey Lyree~! Of course we did! How could we ever hate each other?" "Iffy's right, Lyree! Simple misunderstanding~!" Lyrica bends down to address them more properly. "Yay~..." she moans as she... N-No, don't join in! This isn't how it's supposed to play out! "Aren't you all forgetting somebody? Somebody... *important*?" ... Shit, here comes the insane woman herself! Maybe now hell will break loo- "Lady Vert... Come a little bit closer~..." Cave makes a hilarious attempt at sounding seductive... and huh, it works?! N-No! Don't work! Ah, now Green Heart is into it. Deranged, indeed... At least Markz isn't around. "Lindy, they're already starting! Come on, move those sexy legs!" "Gah! Geo, don't grab there!" Woah... Underling? Nepgeo? N-No, they're not it either... L-Look at all of them! Is that... no! How does this even make sense? One by one, the licentious group is approached by Nisa, Gust (I'm IGNORING YOU!), Lady Purple Heart, Compa, another IF, Blanc, Kei, two Nepgears, MAGES., Falcom, a third IF, a second Cave, RED, Mina (LALALALALALA, YOU TOO!), Rei Ryghts, Noire, Uni, Marvelous, (link:"Chika...")[(set: $loversPageCheck to false)(goto:"Lovers Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)[{(set: $bossAttack to "No")(set: $specificAttack to "No")(set: $playerChoice to "No")(set: $correctChoice to "No")(set: $wynBossHealth to 999)}You are now IF... Cave's eyes, wincing from her lack of energy, are firmly trained on you... and she takes out her trademark scissors before pulling the two blades apart, holding each half like an assassin's knife. She means business... You retract a few Qatars in anticipation, your own weak frame weighing heavy on your ability to focus. She begins to speak! "IF! You shall no-" WHAM!!! H-Huh?! Before your rival can finish, something flies through the air and whacks her right in the face! Cave crumples to the ground at once, knocked unconscious by the simple blow. What the heck?! Is that a... soccer ball? Er, or is it a football? What do you call this sport on Leanbox... or Gamindustri, for that matter? Hmm, and why is it here? Not that you're complaining, granted; you only have '4' health! Cave was gonna murder you if an actual fight broke out! "O-Oh gee, I'm so sorry about that!" Huh?! A young, innocent voice calls to you from behind... and before you can turn, a short girl sprints past you to reclaim the ball! Once she hoists it up and over her head, she turns back over to you and smiles bashfully. Cyan eyes, light brown hair, a blue top, white short-shorts over dark blue shorts, gold wristband... Certainly an adorable soccer player. "Sometimes I get so caught up in my training, I completely forget there's others around! If this were a real game, I'd get a Red Card for sure!" You stare as if you just saw a pixelvader sing karaoke with a warp-pipe (*shudder*)... Hey, wait a minute! Why is this girl here?! It's a freaking warzone! Besides... if you follow the trajectory of the ball that smacked Cave... did she come from the WALL?! The mysterious newcomer continues, closing the gap between you and offering a hand. "Anywho, howdy! Name's Wyn. Professional Soccer Player and soccer fanatic and soccer lover and soccerball fanatic and soccerba-..." She goes on and on with the introductions... and you are just as confused as ever. Cave is still down, and 'Wyn' doesn't even seem to notice! You subconsciously shake your head... but again, before you can do or say anything, the stranger opens her excited mouth. "Huh? Something wrong?... Oh, you must be cold, I'm sorry! Oh, and your friend and... oh wow, this is quite a day, huh? So sorry! Hey, here's an idea: you can take my shirt! It's kinda baggy, so it should keep you warm! As for your friend... er, I can give her my pants! Not a lot, but it's the least I can do..." Okay, now she's about to (link:"take her clothes off!")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="wynBossTrack.play('Trinity Universe Opening Song COSMOLAGOON.mp3');" /></div>(set: $wynPageCheck to true) (goto:"Wyn Boss Segue")]](else:)[{(savegame:"A","Death by 'Association'")}... You know this has to be a trap, even as a shirt flies into your arms! Is this... Vert's doing?! Must be. Some sort of... trial, yeah! She's testing you with a young girl who somehow is going to be older than you on the wikis! In an instant, you growl... and Wyn cocks her head in confusion. "Huh? Um, shirt not enough? Yeah, you're right, probably not! Um... I can't take my underwear off, so... will my shoes-" "Shut up!" you shout, face red. "Just... Just shut up! No more games, dammit!" In frustration, you thrust your right hand forward... and forget a Qatar is currently in your grasp! POP!... goes the soccer ball. Uh... oh... That easygoing and cheerful expression instantly leaves Wyn's face as she looks at the deflated mess in her hands. You don't know why, but, you suddenly feel quite afraid. "You... You popped it..." "W-Well... I mean... I-I DIDN'T mean t-" Her neck suddenly cracks as she stretches her muscles, and her cyan eyes now glow a firing red with pure rage... Or maybe you're just imagining all that, but dang, this is heading south! "Well then, kind stranger... Two can play this game! I'd normally only hand you a Yellow card for this *misconduct* offence... but you picked the wrong 'Wyn' to mess with today, bucko! Bring it on, meanie!" She puffs out a cheek as she reaches into her back pocket... and pulls out a GIGANTIC soccer ball?! (link:"\"... Crap.\"")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]]

The rain continues its incessant spate, and the two of you walk along in silence. You can't bring yourself to look IF in the eye... but you maintain a secret watch on her at all times. Her head darts cautiously with every rustle of the trees to the right... What is she possibly worried about? No one's coming to attack her anymore; not with you around. Still... she must be paranoid after whatever the hell she went through today. Doubtful whether she had it even half as bad as you... but it was at least enough to unease her. You humor the thought of saying something to soothe her nerves... but alas, the words never arrive. Perhaps it's for the best... Also doubtful. You wonder what she's thinking about? Is she thinking solely of Lyrica's safety? Why would she start now? Unless... she really did think that leaving was the best way to protect her?... U-Unacceptable! No matter what the brunette may say... you can't rely on her; it was simply impossible. Even if she truly is redeemable... that will change nothing. Only you can get everyone out of this mess! IF, Lyrica, Vert... Their fates were practically resting on your shoulders. This was the curse you were destined to bear, forever. A lonely life, sure... but at least you were in complete control. No excuses that way... "... Cave, you hear that?" IF suddenly whispers, pulling you out of the dark recesses of your mind. You cock your head to the side, urging her to continue. "... Rustling... It's definitely not the wind." What is she rattling on about? You don't hear a... thing? Wait, no... "... Someone's watching from the trees, Cave. I knew someone was hiding in there..." Hate to admit it... but she may be right. Her powers of perception surpassed your own for the moment; suspicious sounds are indeed coming from your right! What on Leanbox is stalking you? [["... Wait here."|Farewell Ending Page 3]]

The battle-hardened veteran is about to protest your issued order, before shutting herself up. Smart girl... You aim your twin blades for the trees and take your time sneaking over to them. Your nerves are calm and collected and... calm a-and... c-collected aaaaand... T-There! A hunched-over figure in the thick thrush, hiding inside a bush... The rain provided a decent-enough cover, but you still manage to see right through their sneaky ways! Should you fire?... No, not yet. A fool like this deserves to endure a... slow end. Step, step, ste- "H-Hear me! C-Come to my aid!!!" That voice!!! Was that...?! Before you can even finish the thought, a bright flash catches you off-guard... and the bush rustles far more dramatically than before. Someone must've jumped out... Shit, prepare yourself! You blink your eyes in a mad attempt to regain your vision. C'mon... almost... T-There! Your gaze comes to... and the first sight that greets you is the face of... [[Nepgear?|Farewell Ending Page 4]]

Purple Sister, of Planeptune? You've always had a soft spot for the innocent CPU-candidate... but something is clearly off here. First of all... you swear Nepgear was at the mountain range earlier this morning. You know, back when... Chika... ... But more than that, something about this Nepgear's eyes just feel... wrong. Gone was the youthful splendor you secretly cherished, and in its place was a depressingly-familiar look: the look of a tortured mind. The same look you see when staring into a mirror... "Nep... gear?" Your mind racing too fast to collect a decent thought, you instinctively extend a hand for the girl. The Candidate takes a single step back... and that is when you notice the violent-looking sword in her clutches. Not even in one of Chika's favorite games did a warrior wield a blade such as that! An uneasy shiver takes a detour down your petrified spine. Nepgear(?) frowns at you, and steps back yet once more. "So... realistic... Why must you mock even the living?!" Her voice quakes with slight terror... and her ears perk up. Almost as if she's... listening to someone speak? "... But... must I really? L-Look!" You can barely twist your neck, but you downright know that Nepgear is pointing at IF, most definitely as stunned as you are. "I-IF is here! I-I just need to deal with her... right?" A pause... Come on, feet, move!!! "... No, you're right... I-I'm sorry." Now her sword is armed at the ready... and you finally regain control of your motor functions! "I-I will! I-I will destroy her puppets!" You swing for this confused Nepgear's torso as the words leave her mouth... and IF does the same, springing to your side like a true... ally... The two of you direct your full attacks to this hostile strang- *CCCCHHHIIIING!* Y-Your head!!! Crap, what is that... sou...n...d? ... Oh no... [[It's happening again...|Farewell Ending Page 5]]

{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.fade(0,200);" /></div><audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}Once more, you find yourself frozen... but this time, not because of some dark aura around the CPU Candidate you thought you knew. No... a new face had appeared before you. "C-Chika?" Your best friend stands before you, her eyes lifeless and a disappointed frown taking up the bottom half of her face. What... N-No, not now! Not another damn illusion!!! Why... are you forced to suffer like this?! Your best friend... is right before you now! But it can't be her! But why CAN'T it be?! Can it be?! Can this actually BE Chika? You have to hug her, and tell her that everything will be fine from here on out! (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[Tell her... how much you truly love her... ]Set things right! "Cavey... Come with me. You know you want to! Your fight is done... Let's rest for once, okay?" ... You begin walking towards the Oracle, content. She... is all you need... This is where... you... belong... "C-Cave, snap out of it!!!" IF's voice beckons to you from the other realm of existence... You shake your head just in time to see a black-tinted transparent Lady Green Heart swing a ghostly lance for your neck. As soon as it strikes you, a bolt of electricity courses through your pale body. S-Shit, w-what's... happening?! V-Vert?! N-No... What... is... this?! Darkness begins to cloud your vision... Is this... the... end? You don't even know what's happening, and... now you're going to... die, just... like... that... Nepgear raises her demonic-looking sword high. "I cast you back to the shadows from whence you came, faker!" Here it comes...! "C-Cave, n-no!!!" The blade... never finishes you off... H-Huh? You squint your eyes hard and, through the cloud of haze, see IF's leg digging deep into the mud in front of your face. "Y-You can't take Cave! I-I'll never allow it!" T-The fool... She's holding Nepgear off? Why? To... save your life? Why would she... do that? After everything... you've done? You can't move... It's all up to... the (link:"traitor now...")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 2 OST - Kawanakajima.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Segue- IF")]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[You can barely breathe... but you've done it! You fended off the malicious fake Candidate... and saved Cave's endangered life. You are the battle-hardened veteran; was this result ever in any doubt? Nepgear stands on her knees, her tired eyes watching the mud beneath her. Now's the time to find out who this girl really is... and what's the deal with that creepy sword of hers. Oh yeah, and maybe you can get an explanation on just what the hell she was talking about the entire fight. She... sounded troubled, yeah? She's not... evil, or at least, she doesn't WANT to be. Maybe... Maybe you can help her? By showing compassion to your fallen opponent, perhaps she will see the light and confide in you! With this optimistic idea in mind... you extend your left hand, intending for your friend's doppleganger to accept your aid. "..." Nepgear doesn't even flinch at your close proximity... C-Could this actually work?! Cave was hesitant- hell, probably still is- but if your stubborn friend was able to side with you for at least a solitary moment, then anything i- "DIE, ARFOIRE!" Before you know it, you find yourself surrounded on all sides by apparitions of your allies. Neptune, Noire, Blanc, Vert, Uni, Ram, Rom, even Linda... W-What's going on?! A-And why can't you move?! Crap! T-They're c-closing in! At once, every single phantom swings for you... and next time you blink, you are lying paralyzed on the ground, staring up at the stormy sky. Rain pelts you in the face, taunting you. You twist your head as much as you can, and see Cave not too far from you still lying on the ground. Some hero you turned out to be... The murderous Candidate has found the strength to stand, and begins a slow march over to the SMD warrior... You manage to blurt out the first thing to reach your mind: "D-Don't... hurt... Cave... J-Just kill me, o-okay?!" Nepgear stops for a moment, pondering to herself. She looks around, again as if responding to several voices at once. "... Every fake must perish... but you put up a good fight, proxy. As such," she proclaims as she turns back to you, raising her sword high, "I shall grant you your final request! Gehaburn, FINISH HER!" You close your eyes, anticipating the end for what has to be the fifth time today. Eh, more or less... Is now really the time? Sorry, Fivey; (link:"couldn't make it...")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 6")]](else:)[A splash of thick liquid suddenly wets your face... Hmm, the rain is still hitting you as well, but that... uh, certainly wasn't rain. Is... this what death feels like? Something like paint hitting your cheeks? That can't be right, can it? A feminine voice whimpers in a strange blend of both fear and confusion, and your curiosity gets the better of you. You open your eyes, and immediately the color red greets you like Lyrica on a nice summer morning. Is this... blood? You move your hands, momentarily forgetting about the impending death, and wipe your face... U-Ugh, it is! Why is blood suddenly... on... your... oh. Ohhhhh... "G-Gah!" Nepgear moans, fighting to utter anything comprehensible. The reason why becomes fairly obvious as you lower your gaze from her face to her torso: two blades are protruding through her dress. Two halves of a long pair of scissors... Cave. Your head is too dazed for the scene to fully sink in... but you still have the wherewithal to turn away as the SMD warrior yanks out her weapons, and yet more blood launches for you. Sonuva-! Annoyance turns to anger turns to sudden relief turns to confusion turns to shock turns to disgust... C-Cave just impaled Nepgear from behind! H-Holy... Having retracted her blades, Cave looks to see if you are all right. She's huffing and puffing as if she had just ran a marathon... Considering the two of you were rendered immobile by violent ghosts, that's probably an understatement. The imposter Nepgear, meanwhile, crumples to the ground, her eyes closed and her teeth clenched. ... You wish it didn't have to come down to this, but she WAS about to murder the two of you. You don't believe in killing your foes... but sometimes, there's just no good way out. What you should really be taking from this is... Cave just saved your life. Without her, your innards would be mixing with the mud right now. You are speechless, and some light subconscious tears well up in your eyes. Deep down... she's still your friend... Through thick and thin, to hell and back; that's friendship. Cave closes her own eyes... and holds her hand out? (link:"\"... Here.\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 7")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[She's... helping you up! Are your eyes deceiving you? Well, even if they are, you'll gladly accept a little deception every now and again. A corny smile indenting into your face, you gladly clasp your friend's hand. She pulls you up without a sound. Having survived that ordeal, the two of you stand in a somewhat-awkward silence. You resort to rubbing the back of your head. What can you say after that? Still... can't you at least say something?! Anything! "... C-Cave, I-" "Thank you... IF." W-What? "... I... don't deserve the kind of loyalty you displayed. Even after everything, you... are a true friend." Your heart soars with relief, joy, and who knows what else in between. Things... are going to finally get better; that much, you are sure! You beam right at your friend and open your mouth to spea- "Uuuuuuurgh... K-Kill... th...em...! F-Fa...kers... N-Now!!!" Both of you jerk your heads down at the weak voice; Nepgear had pushed herself up enough to give one final order to... someone unseen. W-Who is she talking to? The same 'person' she spoke to during your clash? No... she was receiving orders from a voice in her head, but this... felt much different. ... Is it too late for her? Damn... You got so caught up in happiness, that you somehow forgot a lookalike of your friend was dying at your feet. Why did she have to be so hostile. Dammit, ya idiot... You reach out for Gear, but Cave shakes her head... and instead points for the trees. "... Listen... Reinforcements?" No... The rustling is far too drastic for that. Back-up forces weren't about to ambush you; an entire army was! Your eyes are turned away when Nepgear finally goes limp... and she flashes out of existence, leaving behind naught but her cursed sword. That... is never something you can get used to... Just in time to see the fake Candidate disappear, many armed guards leap out of the trees, guns and bows at the ready. Gee, that sight never gets repetitive! Their outfits... White? H-Huh... L-Lowee? Why is Lowee here? And... are you supposed to believe they're here on a fake Nepgear's orders? Either way, they quickly point your way. "Y-You heard the Lady! (link:"D-Down with Leanbox!!!\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 7")]](else:)[Cave's arm suddenly reaches for your hand, grasping you tight. T-Too tight! "... IF... We run. NOW." No complaints on your part. She blasts herself off the ground, still managing to catch you off-guard. With her hand still gripping your own, you nearly fly after her. The Lowee soldiers all stand frightened as you flee, their presumed leader dead. Were they... f-free? Should they turn back and forget all this happened? That was most likely the desire of them all... but they simply couldn't. Nepgear appeared to be dead... but what if she wasn't? She'd come searching for anyone who betrayed her... and that was worse than dying. "... W-What are we waiting for, men? W-We have our orders! C-Capture the Basilicom! End Leanbox's reign of terror!" With that, the army charges! Outnumbered, you and Cave have no other choice but to barge on in through the castle's front doors... and of course, a line of jumpy guns welcome you inside. ... Unbeknownst to you... "Well, well... This is quite the unforeseen benefit!" a deep but feminine voice muses. Seemingly coming from the ether, a peculiar-colored woman in a witch hat approaches the abandoned sword. "Most unexpected... Impressive, you two. To stray this far from your preordained path..." A laugh, one fitting of a demon. No, the Devil. "Who knows what other changes you can bring? I eagerly await the possibilities!" The mysterious lady bends down to grab Gehaburn. Upon making contact with the hilt, her hand feels a slight burning sensation... but she ignores it and grips tight. "W-What strength! Yes... I could get to like this world. I suppose that brat had SOME use to me, after-all." Enamored by the cursed steel, the witch swings the sword a few times, slicing through the rain with ease. "... Remember ME, pathetic CPUs? Your sacrifice was all for naught... well, at least until today!" Her lips twist into a sleek smirk. "From now on, YOU service ME! Time to reclaim my script..." And with nary a sound, the woman blinks out of existence, never to be seen in this realm... again? ... (link:"Back with you...")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearFarewellBossTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 8")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)["H-Hold it right there!!!" a brave guard shouts. Well, this... was to be expected; your fight provided ample enough time for the remaining Leanbox soldiers to gather in the entrance hall of the massive castle. They knew that, if one of you was to enter the Basilicom, it would be through the front. They weren't banking on the two of you forming an alliance, however. Cave once again ushers for you to freeze as she herself steps forward with her hands raised. It is kind of annoying to take a backseat... but it's been a long day already. She wants to take control, you'll gladly relinquish some of your free will. She also did kinda save your ass! "Stay you hands! We are not your enemies!" The lead guard scoffs. "Yeah, like hell you aren't! You know how many of us are DEAD because of you?" He puffs out a cheek in your direction. "And standing with the enemy... Have you no shame?" Cave remains stone-faced as always... but you can sense her skin crawl. You can't help but pity her sometimes... She's had it rough, no doubt. You ponder what it'd be like to see through her eyes for a day. "... You can't even begin to comprehend the things I do... Judge me later if you need, but we have a crisis on our hands! I'd recommend yo-" More guns raise, aiming right between your eyes. Cheery. "W-We can't just ignore this! Murder AND treason... V-Vert will shed no tears if we execute you right here!" This isn't going anywhere good! You are about to open your dry mouth... when the SMD warrior once again responds, holding her arms out. "Fine; kill me, then! Kill the BOTH of us! But do that... and you'll all be dead by morning." The men exchange looks of trepidation, some shifting uncomfortably beneath their heavy armor. "... W-What is THAT supposed to mea-" As if Cave had planned all this... loud slamming wracks the front doors, the echo reverberating throught the hall. T-The Lowee army! Man, you're slipping... Your friend flashes her (former?) allies an uncharacteristically sly smile. "We (link:"have guests.\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 8")]](else:)[<audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>The banging becomes louder and more violent, and the fine wood quickly begins to quake with each strike. The forces are about to bash their way inside! The soldiers quickly lose interest in you... and when Cave once more tugs on your hand, you realize that's what she was hoping for. "... To Lyrica, quick! Follow me." How would the two of you deal with the random Lowee invaders? Simple: YOU wouldn't! ... Was this moral? Who knows... but it seems Cave has finally decided on what team she is playing for... Besides, you're really desperate to see Lyrica again after so long, so this is for the best! Thus, as the two of you sneak further into the castle, the frightened Leanbox troops say their prayers... and await their destinies. ... Cave hurriedly leads you down the long and elegant halls to Lyrica's chambers; a journey you've made countless times in the past. You soon reach her door... and lacking any kind of restraint at all, you burst right on in! "L-Lyree, w-we're here!!!" The pop idol is lying on her back when she hears your loud voice, and she immediately perks up. "I-IF?! O-Oh thank heavens!" Screw hesitance; you run over and pick up the love of your life for a tight hug. She releases an adorable 'Ooomph!' at the sudden action, but she happily reciprocates. "I... I thought I'd never..." Crap, s-she's crying! Y-You're gonna start too... M-Man, you're such a dweeb today! "... s-see you again, Iffy!" You smile into the soft skin of her neck, caressing her back all the while. "I'm here now... For good this time, Fivey... I'm sorry I left. You know me... I'm kinda an idiot. A huge one." "T-This isn't the proper time for jokes! I-I heard all the explosions and whatever out there... I-I thought you were dead!!!" Lyrica tenses in your arms that instant. "... W-Wait... W-Where's Cave?! She's not... well, y-y'know... right?" You pull yourself away just enough so that your noses can rub against each other. "Don't worry, okay? She's fine, actually!" Did... she not follow you inside? Crap... She must be nervous of what the pop idol will say. "Er... C-Cave, where'd ya go? Come on in!" The two of you eagerly await the red-haired tank's grand entrance... and her foot soon (link:"comes into view!")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 9")]]

You are now Cave... You slowly enter the room, head held down. Why do you feel so weak right now? It's just Lyrica... Why are you so nervous? ... You don't want to damper the mood, do you? You think that, by simply existing, you will once again lower 5pb's spirits, even when she's in the presence of her lover! It would make sense; she must hate you by now. Add all the deaths you've caused today, albeit some out of your total control... and you'd be shocked if she ever trusted you aga- H-Huh?! Tight arms suddenly grip your torso?! "D-Don't worry me like that!!!" L-Lyrica... "... I'm sorry, Cave... I-I actually doubted you... I thought you'd either end up hurting IF... or yourself." What is she... R-Respond, you dunce! N-No, wait, your words are... caught in your throat! Oh, stop acting like that's so unusual. Lyrica's grasp... Wow, it certainly feels like... Chika's. Even the tone of voice she used, the words she said... Your heart once again embraces the pain of longing. ... Chika was gone because of you... but Lyrica will never succumb to the same fate. Neither shall IF. (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[The Oracle you still, and always will, love more than anything...](else:)[Your best friend, THE most faithful companion you've ever had...] must live on in these two! "... I screwed up, Lyrica... This is all my fault," you mutter before your mind has completely caught up. "... But no more. I'm through with screwing things up." Lyrica suddenly pulls away to look directly at your conflicted face, and IF behind her cocks a questioning eyebrow. "C-Cave, what are you saying?" You give the flawless pop idol the most sincere look you have. "... We're leaving. I'm getting us- ALL of us- out of here." You point to IF, who jumps in surprise. "IF... I shall begin making amends now. I shall offer my allegiances to Leanbox..." Are you really going to do this?... Yes. Lyrica can't be safe so long as she remains in this hellish hole. "... no longer. Now let's move before Vert returns. The war out front will provide ample enough distraction." The three of you shall sneak off into the rain. The destination? Wherever your feet take you. Lyrica and IF, predictably, seem perplexed beyond their years. "L-Leaving?! B-But... h-how?! W-Where will w-" "No time!" You close your eyes tight in an attempt to block out your hollering inner voice. Don't get cold feet now! "... We shall discuss our next step as soon as we depart the capital." Chika's hesitant eyes stare into yours... Chika? N-No... Lyrica. Lyrica's eyes! W-What...? "... Trust me, Lyree... You are all I have left, so... please." IF walks up behind her girlfriend and gently pats her shoulder, wearing that trademarked corny smile. It's... more comforting than it was about an hour ago. "... Cave's right. Let's get going, Fivey." The blunette, tears welling, gulps in the most flamboyantly-nervous way possible... before nodding. "... I trust you, Cave... [[I-I'm in!"|Farewell Ending Page 10]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[With every remaining Leanbox guard focused on the ambushing Lowee invaders in the front, you lead Lyrica and IF to the back door and kick it open without restraint. Something about the action makes IF sigh... Did she have something personal against this door? No matter... The three of you are now running through the rain, the sky even darker than before as night quickly falls. Goodbye, Leanbox... Goodbye, prison. "Do... you really think this is going to work, Cavey?" It has to! With all three of you together, Lady Vert is helpless. She can try all she wants... but she'll no longer have any kind of hold over you. "You don't look too sure... You're scared again, aren't you?" ... Yeah... but that's to be expected. Perhaps fear... isn't a weak emotion. Brave warriors feel fear on a daily basis... but cowards let it control them. You are no coward! "I hope you know what you're doing..." ... You certainly hope so too. "I'm rooting for you Cavey, no matter what. (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I love you!](else:)[I'm just sorry I... can't be there with ya.]" "... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I love you, Chika. Always.](else:)[I'm sorry too... I'll make you proud.]" ... (link:"Keep running!")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.fade(0,200);" /></div>(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 10")]](else:)[{<audio src="Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}You make it about three-fourths of the way through the massive backyard... when a voice sends a dagger through your soul. "Cave? My oh my... Just where do you think you're going at this hour? And in THIS weather?" IF lets out an audible "Oh crap!", and Lyrica clutches her arm defensively. The darkness and the rain is severely obscuring your vision... so much so that you practically missed Lady Green Heart and her new right hand man, Markz Phenix, standing a few feet in front of you. Too late... The rest of the returning Leanbox army stood in the distance. If you squint hard enough, you can juuuuuuust make them out... Damn, if only you hadn't got so caught up and let yourself get distracted! Markz laughs. "Why, and her little girlfriend is here too! AND Miss IF! Going out for a nice civil walk, I take it?" That weasel... "..." Try as you might, you are unable to find the proper words! Caught red-handed... Good luck trying to explain yourself this time! IF is the first to overcome her verbal blockade. "L-Lady Vert! We... This is..." Er, temporarily-overcome, that is. ... This is your responsibility. "... Vert, you'll gain nothing by eliminating us... Just let us pass, and... this'll progress smoothly." The goddess, face giving off a bored expression, raises an eyebrow. "Oh? So, I take it you are leaving my side, Cave? Are you stepping down because of the whole Chika debacle? Everyone makes mistakes, Cave... You shouldn't quit just because you got her killed." Your pupils dilate... and IF suddenly grabs your shoulders. "D-Don't listen to her!" The battle-hardened veteran next turns back to the CPU, fangs bared. She's... still choosing to defend you? What a strange feeling... "Hey, Vert! What gives?! If anyone's made a mistake... it's you! Because of all the crap you pulled, we're leaving Leanbox for good! Nep will treat Cave and Lyrica with the respect and care they deserve!" The brunette pulls out a Qatar and points it for Markz, almost as a challenge. "At least the other CPUs don't surround themselves with bloodthirsty warmongers!" The grizzled soldier laughs, gripping his specialty machine gun tight. "Hoho, bitch has quite the mouth! Why don't I-" The chainsaw-like barrel of the weapon revs up dramatically. "- fill it up with somethin' nice!" You draw your twin blades, IF pulls out several more Qatars, and Lyrica pulls out her weaponized-guitar from... somewhere? You're ready to go down fighting if you must! (link:"Bring it on, Leanb-")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 11")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"... Fine," Vert suddenly begins, eradicating your tense stances. "If that's truly what you desire... then I permit you to move along." With that, she steps aside and motions for you to pass. Her army in the distance also shifts to the sides... giving you an easy exit. ... There must be a catch, surely! As if she'd let you off this easy! Lyrica looks to you for aid. She... depends on you again! No anger or sarcasm or disappointment in her eyes! Just the need for comfort, with hopes that you can provide it! Vert chuckles to herself. "You have been of excellent service to me, Cave... and of course, my darling Iffy, it is always a pleasure to see you. You leaving will sadden me greatly... but I can not bind you here any longer. As always, Leanbox will move on... and so will you, I'm sure." A nod, whilst Markz frowns at how simple this is going. "... If you are devoted to leaving... then be free. I won't stop you." No one moves... so you decide to take the first step. One, two, three... Still no sign of foul play. Perhaps... the goddess does indeed realize it's not worth it! You nod at Lyrica and IF, and your friends grow more confident in your hopeful look. This nightmarish day... is finally coming to an end! Thus, the three of you walk slowly forward, taking your time so as not to provoke anyone. You were finally about to set yourselves free from this damned nation! Sure, the war isn't over yet, and may not be for a long time... but you'll survive. You'll hang in there... together! The storm will pass... Chika... We'll do it. For you. For the first time in awhile... the future looks bright! Nothing ca- *CRACK!* What was that? Your ears begin ringing, absorbing all other sounds... Did... an explosion just go off near you? No, not that kind of bang... What happe- Through the muffled sounds, you somehow hear IF exhale an uncomfortable amount of air. You turn slowly... just in time to see Lyrica fall face-first into the mud? A hole dots the top-left of her back... and blood whimpers out. L-Lyri...ca? IF is frozen to the spot, one hand in mid-reach for the pop-idol of her dreams. Her eyes are clouded over... as a sick realization dawns on her. Your head is unnaturally calm, your brain simply too drained to process so many thoughts and form a full idea. All you can do is look towards Markz, smoking gun in hand. Beside him, Vert shrugs. (link:"\"Oops... Well, *I* didn't stop you.\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 11")]](else:)[{<audio src="Samurai Warriors 4 OST - Heavenly Voice.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}Nothing moves, the Leanbox army as stunned as you and IF. As soon as Lyrica vanishes, however... you soar towards Markz, blades drawn and aimed for his goddamned neck! Kill him! Kill him!!! KILL HIM!!! "Clumsy!" Vert shouts, before slicing her lance upwards. Her weapon catches you clean in the back, eliciting a strong hiss from between your gritted teeth. You find yourself unable to stand... and you collapse. W-What did she do to you? Y-You can feel your energy f-fading!... N-No, fight through it! Get... THEM! "Finish them, men... Markz and I shall be taking our leave. There is much to go over after such a tumultuous day..." At that, the two walk straight past you and for the castle... leaving you and IF in the rain with the entire army. The men are unsure of how to immediately proceed, so they stand and observe. Bunch of idiots... but in less than a minute, they'll come around... and swarm you both. "That's one more, Cavey... W-Well, it's the thought that counts, e-eh?" Chika... and now Lyrica... Worthless, filth, pathetic, foolish... a failure... You push yourself up, your head spinning. Whatever attack Vert struck you with must've sapped your energy... for you can't feel any otherworldly power surge through your veins. All that's on your mind is Vert and Markz. You need to see both of them covered in their own blood, begging you to spare their worthless lives. And you'll let them survive... for a while. Bring them to the brink of death, before relenting at the last possible moment. Tear them apart, break them down like the useless machines they are... Maybe then, you'll... feel like you deserve to live. "C-Calm down, Cavey! I-It's not over yet!" Hmm? It's not?... N-No, there's still... IF! Your... friend is still standing in the same exact spot, her eyes as lively as a crashed computer. She seems to be staring at her hands... er, if she has vision, that is. She's not as heartless as you've been telling yourself the past weeks; her mind must be a complete wreck. You... find yourself praying it's not exactly like yours now... The world doesn't need another Cave. You call out to your despairing friend, your voice croaking out. "I-IF! W-We have... to move! We can... We can still... avenge her!" The brunette's head moves slower than a ghost girl's from some foreign horror film. She must be looking at you from the corner of her vision. "... Yeah... we can." With sudden flourish, three blades fall from both her long sleeves in between her awaiting fingers. A... battle stance? N-No... what is she planning?! "S-Snap out of it, IF! T-This isn't the way!" But you already know your words are falling on deaf ears... Yep, she's acting just like you would. Desperate, your arms reach out to the battle-hardened veteran... but she takes a hefty step forward. Shoulders tensed, she speaks once more. "... Get out of here, Cave. You can... catch 'em." She points at the army with a Qatar... and the staggering amount of soldiers suddenly begin to charge! "... I'll hold them off. You... kill those bastards." Is... she CRAZY?! "I-I'm not leaving you behind! W-We can... find them together! Please..." "I follow you inside, we'll have nowhere to run. We get revenge, and then they'll box us in." Her eyes close... She's completely sold on this course of action. "... I'll give you some time. I believe in you, Cave. This... is how I avenge myself! I'm sorry for screwing up so badly..." "Y-You idiot! Y-You're coming with me and we're going t-" A throwing knife whizzes by your face, lightly grazing your cheek. A smidge of blood trickles down across your cold, pale skin... IF pulls out yet another knife to replace the one that solidified her point. "... See ya, Cave. Good luck." You clench your fists... but there's nothing you can do. Not now; IF has lost the love of her life... The hopeful brunette has been reduced to such a sad state, it's impossible to reason with her. The army has closed the distance fast, and is just about within melee range of IF. Stay any longer, and you'll be caught up in this mess with her. With your heart unable to sink any deeper... you turn your back on your ally. Truly the last person you can call a companion... If only you hadn't realized so late. (link:"\"... Farewell.\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="lastStandTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 OST - God of War.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Last Stand Segue")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[You are now Cave, the utter failure who is well and truly... alone. The throne room... They must be in there. "... I thought you'd protect me, Cave?" Lady 'Vert' and Markz... One deranged goddess, and one murderer disguised as a soldier. "You... tried your best, Cavey... A-At least there's... no way for this to get... worse, right?" Kill them... This is what IF wants, isn't it? She's willingly sacrificing herself, just so you can give these freaks a taste of their own shitty medicine. She originally shunned you because of your violent ways... but with Lyrica gone, she can't see any other way to proceed. Not like you're one to talk; how else CAN today end without yet another life lost? What are two more deaths by your hands, anyways? You're used to killing by this point... "... I'll take care of Lyree, Cave; don't ya worry about that!" Everyone has gone on without you... Maybe you're not needed wherever they are. It's to be expected, but... it still somewhat hurts. Lyrica, Chika, and IF are together now... while you are left here to rot. No friends, no partners... You've never been more alone in your life. ... Well, you will have SOME company soon: two demons impaled at the end of your blades! ... You finally find yourself in front of the Basilicom's massive regal doors. No turning back now... "... Don't screw THIS one up, Cavey... I-It's... getting harder and harder to... defend you..." (link:"\"... I won't let you down.\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 12")]](else:)[With a violent kick, the doors to the throne room are no more. Lady Vert and Markz instantly turn at the mild destruction... and the goddess scowls. "... Why, hello again, Cave. Still... bitter, I see." She turns her head to the grizzled soldier standing a few feet away and shrugs, before going back to you. "... It appears you survived. Good; I'd hate to lose a star warrior because of some petty indiscretions." Markz chuckles to himself. "Hey, we're missing a couple heads here. Let's see... Oh yeah, I accidentally blew that blue-haired skank away! Terribly sorry about that, but it was the strangest thing: she walked right in front of my bullet! Guess I stole her heart after all!" He'll... be the first to go, you decide. It would be nice to torture them both... but no, they don't deserve the time of day. He needs as unspectacular a death as possible. From there... you'll figure out an appropriate measure for Vert. Speaking of the CPU, she quickly chimes in. "Yes... and I do not see IF here, either? Another falling out between you two?" Her brows furrow in such a manner that she looks completely at ease. "You have to stop pushing your friends away, Cave! Oops... Oh, do you even have any friends left? My apologies." That does it! You draw your twin blades and aim at both your targets. It is now you remember, however, your diminished energy... You can't fire! Taking them on in your current state... can only end in death, and you REFUSE to go down before they do. ... Fortunately for your adrenaline, Vert continues talking. "Quiet today, hmm? I don't see what you're so upset about, Cave: you were perfectly aware of the repercussions! You had a duty to fulfill- namely staying loyal to me- and you failed. If I didn't have Lyrica killed, what would my men think of me? A leader who doesn't uphold her promises is a weak one indeed." Vert's right-hand asshole shoots you a thumbs up. "So, with that all out of the way... why don't you just mosey on along and cool yourself down? Hell, if ya want, you could be a nice loyal soldier and help out with those shitheads attacking the front! Though, I think our crew's already handling them quite nicely; Lowee doesn't breed fighters, heh!" "Indeed," Green Heart continues, closing her eyes as she sits atop her throne. "For you, even after all this... I'm willing to look the other way, Cave. We can both forget this even happened... What do you say?" You can feel it... Rage... swelling... Coursing through your... (link:"blood!")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 13")]]

"Good, good. I know I can count on you, Cave... But, if there's one thing I've learned, it's that trust is an ever-fleeting thing. Don't take this personal, but... I must guarantee your loyalty to me. You are a strong warrior, Cave... and I need you by my side for my vision to be complete." WEAK! "Be mindful of what you do at all times, Cave; you never know who may be watching. Some people have eyes and ears everywhere..." HELPLESS! "O-Of course... That's fair. I just want to make things right again, Cave. Fivey's all that matters to me at the moment. I will do nothing more to make things worse." FOOLISH! "... I'm sorry, Cave... I-I actually doubted you... I thought you'd either end up hurting IF... or yourself." DESPONDENT! "... I trust you, Cave... I-I'm in!" FALLACIOUS! "... I'll give you some time. I believe in you, Cave. This... is how I avenge myself! I'm sorry for screwing up so badly..." IMPRUDENT! "... See ya, Cave. Good luck." MONSTER! ... "Well... you know what you hafta do now, right Cavey? (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I love you... but don't join me just yet! The Cave I know would never take the easy way out! You haven't changed, have you? Doctor's orders, remember?](else:)[Besties for life! I'll support you in whatever you do... Just, don't... lose yourself out there, ya hear me?]" ... (link:"Snap.")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="basilicomTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div><div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 - Petals in the Wind.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- Cave")]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[In your dreams, shithead! Your arms move faster than mere human eyes can see... and your blades, reformed into their original scissors-form, reflect Markz's bullet... right back at him! "Gck!" he utters as his own projectile lodges itself in his neck. Clutching at his penetrated skin, he falls over. Who's laughing now? Helpless and bleeding out, the grizzled soldier winces up at you. "... Go... ahe...ad... Some... go...od it'll... do..." The sheer fact that he's still able to speak is a testament to how stubborn this freak is. You only have one choice. [[Kill him]<kill| [Leave him]<leave|]<decision|(click:?kill)[(replace:?decision)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}... He doesn't have long before he succumbs to his inadvertent self-inflicted wound... You'd like to make him suffer, but you unfortunately don't have that luxury. Better end him before he passes. He needs to die by your hand! Like a dog, too... As unceremonious as possible; that's truly what he deserves. Thus, you once again pull apart your shears, point the right-handed blade between his eyes... and blast him away. Just like that... one headache was gone. Good riddance. Burn in the deepest reaches of Hell... and even that is too merciful. But your vengeance is not yet complete... Behind you, your next target lets out a weak cough. Better turn around and deal with the (link:"biggest problem of all...")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 14")]]](click:?leave)[(replace:?decision)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma - 1)}... He doesn't have long before he succumbs to his inadvertent self-inflicted wound... You'd like to make him suffer, but you unfortunately don't have that luxury. Imagine the pain he must be feeling. The physical toll must be staggering... but the emotional damage may be equally as rough on him. In the last moments of his life, he must reflect on how you finally got the better of him. The past month, you've constantly had to watch your back for this creep, fearfully awaiting the day he'd put Lyrica's life in danger... ... You were too weak to stop him before the worst could happen... but at least there's no happy ending awaiting him at the end of all this. You decide not to kill him. He wouldn't hesitate to finish you off... and you refuse to become him. A monster you may be... but you aren't Markz Phenix. ... Now comes the moment that matters. Behind you, a strained voice lets out a cough... Can't delay it any longer. Markz gives you a most unflattering hand gesture as you (link:"turn around...")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 14")]]]](else:)[Vert sits against her throne, an arm draped below her breast. Seems in your rage, you actually harmed the CPU considerably! However, even now she refuses to disengage her HDD form. "... Screw you, Cave," is what she next utters. Doesn't she know the severity of the situation she is in? "I merely upheld my vows... and THIS is how you repay me? I think we both know who the real villain is." Don't... listen to her! "... You've destroyed Gamindustri! How can you feign such innocence?!" The CPU, clearly in pain, snarls up at you. If she had her weapon, she'd have no qualms about adding your head to her wall. If your head wouldn't disappear upon death, that is. "You still don't understand, do you? Everything I've done... has been to protect Gamindustri. Protect it... from itself!" An accusatory finger juts your way. "Back on that mountain during the Rebellion, that Adrian fool... opened my eyes. When his spell struck me, I had a vision: one of a Gamindustri where I, along with everyone I loved, were no more... all because of the other insolent brats out there. The world was going to turn on me- on US- Cave... and I simply refused to sit idly by and watch it happen." T-Turn on Leanbox? What is she...? "... So, to stop the other nations from backstabbing you... we declared war on them?" Green Heart closes her eyes and lets out a sad chuckle. "Everything's eventual, Cave. 'The empire, long divided, must unite; long united, must divide. Thus it has ever been'... You can't fight against fate. So why would I wait for the others to inevitably fall in line with the script? If I struck first... then I'd be the one in control. They'd react to ME, not I to them." Her eyes once again open... With each passing second, you recognize your goddess less and less. By now, she is a completely different person. Just like that Nepgear from before... "I can't control destiny... but I can at least do things on MY terms. I am not anybody's lapdog... Can you say the same?" Who... is this? Her words carry a sad sense of truth to them... but it simply has to be a complete fabrication! Lady Green Heart was nothing like this! ... She died during the Yellow Bandana Rebellion... That has to be it. Adrian shot her with that spell, she died... and something sinister possessed her discarded body. The question then becomes: who, or what, (link:"took control?")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 15")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[... Still, what else can you do but play along? "... I hope you're happy. In your quest to protect Leanbox... you lost everyone. Chika, Lyrica, IF... They're all gone." "... You corrupted them, Cave. I can't force someone to want my protection. You led them astray... and got them killed. If they were so easily tempted to turn against me... I guess I was right all along. Good riddance." ... You've heard enough. You reconnect your shears... and point the weapon for your former Lady. [[End her!]<kill| [Spare her!]<spare|]<decision|(click:?kill)[(replace:?decision)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma + 1)}"... Farewell, my Lady." And with nary a word more, you lurch your scissors forcibly forward, penetrating the goddess' torso. She gasps out as all the breath leaves her tired form! Perhaps to soothe your own troubled mind, you embrace the woman you once served without trepidation, rubbing her back with your free hand much as a mother would her crying child. Your right hand continues to press the blades deeper within her all the while. Vert hisses for most of the duration... but she eventually falls silent, before lying limp in your arms. Just like that... you've killed the CPU of Leanbox. "... I did it, guys... I... won." But no one is there to celebrate your victory... You killed the big bad, but you are still alone. You'll forever be alone... ... Get out of here. You suddenly can't stomach the thought of standing in the Basilicom's throne room any longer. Head through the busted-down doors... back to where (link:"today's journey for vengeance began.")[(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 16")]]](click:?spare)[(replace:?decision)[{(set: $caveKarma to $caveKarma - 1)}... No. Killing her sadly won't solve anything. Worst case scenario, some sickos in the world would deem her a martyr... and continue her worthless cause. All it takes is one idiot in the right place at the right time to change the entire fate of the world. You lower you blades... before speaking up once more. "... You're coming with me, Lady Vert. You shall pay for your crimes... in the flesh. Gamindustri can't afford for you to face judgement in the afterlife before you've made amends here." Green Heart suddenly laughs. "ME, make amends?! It is the rest of the world who owes me! I will give them NOTHING!" You shake your head. "... There's no point in resisting any longer... It is over." A sly smile looks up at you. "Is that so?... You know, I am a WELL prepared woman, Cave. Why, I've accounted for every single possible contingency, ranging from the basic to the most absurd and unlikely scenarios. You don't think I've anticipated my own throne room being compromised by (link:"hostiles?\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 15")]]]](else:)[... What is she implying here? Dread bubbles up in your stomach... and you involuntarily back away. "The worst insult to any leader... is someone capturing their own personal chambers. Why... it is worth dying if it means you'll never lose your land to the enemy! To never suffer the indignity of such humiliation..." This is getting bad. "You never had a chance to defeat me, Cave... I have always been one. Step. Ahead... of you." The CPU, a relaxed air about her, suddenly clutches a small shred of her dress below her bosom. "Linda? Are you there? Do you read me?" From some unseen spot on the goddess' body, Linda— better known as 'Underling' to your peers— speaks out, her voice filling the room. "Er, y-yes? Who the heck is this?" "It's Vert... Do it." "D-Do what?... O-Oh... Ya mean, use this... thing you gave me? Are you finally going to tell me what it's even for? Nepgeo's been worried sick." Back away, back away, back away! As you panic, Lady Green Heart closes her eyes tight. "You'll find out by morning... I promise, Linda. Now, don't delay... and activate it." "... Uh, okay. You're the boss... ma'am... Ugh, here goes!" Why aren't you moving faster?! G-Get out of here! Vert catches your eyes one final time. "Farewell, Cave." On cue, you kick off the ground as hard as you can, leaping backwards for the busted-down door... right as the entire throne room explodes. ... You come to moments later in the hall outside, thick smoke leaking out from the doorless opening. Are you... alive? You blacked out for a moment there... Hmm, you're barely any worse for wear, it seems. Well... at least physically. Though, now that you focus on it... you do feel more bruised up than before. Your clothes are also tattered, and your hair is somewhat singed. You managed to avoid lethal wounds... but Vert left you a parting gift nonetheless. "... Farewell, my Lady." you whisper to the air. Well... that was that. First Chika, then Lyrica, then IF... and now, you've even led to the death of Leanbox's very own CPU! There's never been a monster as vile as you... Just to add insult to injury, you find yourself back where today's journey for vengeance began. Can you believe it hasn't even been an hour since you and Lyrica were (link:"standing together in this hall?")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 16")]]

(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="vertFarewellBossTrack.pause();" /></div> <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}The grand window, entirely eviscerated from your earlier recklessness, stands before you. The rain is still coming down... but hmm, isn't that odd: you can't hear any sounds of fighting below! Sure, you're high up, but the sounds of intense combat would certainly carry through the destroyed glass! You stick your head outside and look down... and sure enough, you can't see anyone. There is the sporatic sighting of a discarded weapon, but other than that, the front yard is deserted. The smoke from the earlier mortar fire has completely dispersed by now... Even the battlefield looks lonely. When will this rain clear up? Will it ever? "Dreary day, eh? I hate the rain sometimes..." a calming voice from behind embraces your sense of hearing. You do not turn, instead choosing to continue staring down at the muddy grass. "Somedays it's peaceful to listen to, like when you're snuggling in bed... but others, it's just a pain in the ass! Y'know what I mean, Cavey?" You find yourself nodding. Such a goof... and yet, you always end up agreeing with whatever she says, no matter how asinine or out-of-place. That's just the way she is: Sincere, energetic, hopeful... Nothing like you. "... Yeah. Though, the sun can be equally as annoying at times... Don't you think?" "Heh, I suppose so... But, the sun can't drench your clothes! I guess it can bleach your outfit, though. You know my red dress I wore that one time? The one Verty loved? Left it out to dry in the sun... and fwoop, pink as an eraser!... Oh man, and NOW I'm remembering our school days! Dang, I hated homework!" Always changing the subject at the drop of a hat. "... You're one to talk; you would never have graduated had I not let you copy my notes. Unwise move on my part; I should have let you learn some discipline!" "Awww, but you didn't! You stuck with a sad idiot like me the whole way... But that's why I love you, Cavey~! You've always been there for me... Even when I didn't deserve it." Your lips donning a sad smirk, you finally turn around. Chika stands several feet away, her arms folded... and her crossbow held tight. Such a reckless pose... That thing better have a safety feature! She wears her own somber smile... but it quickly gives way to a serious frown. "... You know why I'm here... (link:"don'tcha, Cavey?\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Farewell Ending Page 16")]](else:)[{<audio src="Samurai Warriors 4 OST- Longing.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"... Yes. I have to pay for my sins." The Oracle nods. "... Yeah... You really did kinda mess things up. Everyone's... gone. And who knows what'll happen next? Leanbox is pretty much done, Planeptune will seek revenge, Lowee is worse off than it ever has been... People will be seeking answers, and they won't get any. They'll then turn to people who CAN give them answers, even if they're not truthful... and Gamindustri will just sink deeper into chaos. You know how these things work..." It was true. Pretty obvious, actually. The world would surely have been a better place... had you never been born. You stare down at your feet for a moment, letting everything sink in. "... I wish I could fix things... I wish I wasn't so useless." "..." Chika falls silent... and the entire atmosphere shifts around you. Nothing too obvious... but in your exhausted state, you are able to sense even the most minute changes. It's not over... just... yet... "... So... What's our next step, Chi-" you begin as you lift your head towards your best friend... but you freeze as soon as you find yourself facing down her crossbow. "C-Chika?!" "It's for the best, Cavey." With that, the Oracle pulls the trigger, and an arrow fires directly for you! Using every last operating muscle in your body, you speedily move your right hand... and catch the arrow a mere inch away from lodging itself in your forehead. You fixate on the arrow in your hands... ... So, it's (link:"come down to this...")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Segue")]]

{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}(if: $caveKarma <= 1)[{(set: $resultPage to "Do Us Part")}"Hey... Why are you cwying?" H-Huh?! That... voice! "C-Chika?!" you sniff, turning your head as you try to wipe away the humiliating tears. Sure enough, your young friend is running up to you, pure smile threatening to consume her very face. Where did she come from? Oh, who cares; you've found her! "There ya are, Cavey! Thought I wost you for a second!" she chuckles, rubbing a solitary finger under her nose. "Geez, it's dark and wainy out here... C'mon, let's go home! Dinner's waiting!" D-Dinner? H-Home? "T-Together, you mean? C-Chika... I-I..." A thousand words rise to your lips, desperately seeking a way out... but your best friend suddenly snuffs them all away with a massive hug! She playfully pats you on the back, a bit rougher than you expected. "We're soul-mates, remember? We hafta do everything together! Besides," Chika pulls away just enough to shoot you a wink along with a peculiar hand gesture. She's been watching too much anime again... "... Mom doesn't bewieve we're married! I need you to pwoove her wong!... You still have the wing, wight?" Always so dramatic, sheesh... Either way, you reach into your pocket... and pull out the flower ring. You would be wearing it on your finger, but you didn't want the rain to ruin it. "... Of course I do... I-I'd never forget something like this!" The biggest grin you've ever seen gleams back at you; how does her face even have room for her mouth?! "You ARE my soul-mate!" Satisfied, the energetic little girl laces her fingers in your right hand, and pulls you in the direction opposite the spooky castle. How odd; the path she's leading you down doesn't look as scary as the rest of the area. A soothing light illuminates the way... All you have to do is bask inside the warm glow, and you know you'll be forever safe. "C'mon, wet's go! Maybe after dinner, we can even have a sweepover! Ooh, maybe a sweepover every night! And we might even be able to skip school forever too!" The urge to correct and chastise her... doesn't even rise halfway. Quite frankly... that all sounds perfect. "... O-Okay! W-Wet's go!" "Coolio! I wove you, Cavey!" Chika begins running now, and your feet follow her without a second thought. "Now follow me! We're never gonna be apart again, not ever! Ever!" Nothing more needs to be said... and the two of you run into the light, leaving this withered old battlefield behind. What the future holds in store, you can't be quite certain... but with Chika by your side, you'll... be living in absolute paradise. This is where... you... (link:"belong...")[(goto:"Credits")]](else:)[{(set: $resultPage to "Farewell")}Chika approaches you with ill-intent... before dropping her crossbow to the ground. H-Huh? "... Stand, Cave." Something about the tone of her voice inspires you to do just that. Her demonic demeanor has vanished... and the friendly Oracle you know and love has returned! Your best friend... Is this truly her standing before you now?! You manage to claw yourself back to your feet and gaze into Chika's disarming eyes. Just like you remember, she's beaming; not a worry in the world. Makes you wonder what... you've been... afraid of all... along... ... A lone tear sneaks past your defenses and trails down your cheek... before another and another and another! Soon, many tears fall from your crying eyes. G-Geez, you're simply a wreck... AND in front of your friend! She'll never let you live this one down! The Oracle zooms in closer, forcing you to turn your head in embarassment. She... c-can't see you like this! However, Chika has other ideas; like an angel, she wraps her arms tight around you... and gives you the softest hug this side of the universe. Love, caring, comfort... all in one simple embrace! You can't suppress your emotions any longer... You bawl uncontrollably in your best friend's arms! Truly, this is where you belong... Forever. "I'm sorry!... I-I'm so s-sorry..." Chika pats you on the back, smiling against your pale neck. "It's okay... (link:"It's okay...\"")[(goto:"Credits")]]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $resultPage is "Do Us Part")[You've achieved Ending **13-A/14**: "... Do Us Part."] (else:)[You've achieved Ending **13-B/14**: "Farewell..."] KEY OF ATONEMENT: WYCURSCC Replay Scenario: VSSZXMGD (1) GERZYDZJ (2) Path to 'Ending 14' IF: Perfect | Cave: Perfect, Innocent | Reunion: IF LINDA: "Let's just cut to the chase: you'll need all three of those SEALS broken to unlock this! You got one KEY here... Did you find the other two? Find them, type them in on that Password screen... and then fight for your life, dammit! In the meantime, I'll be, uh, here... I guess..." (if: $resultPage is "Do Us Part")[Path to 'B' NEPGEO: "Awwww... I wish *I* had more of a childhood with Lindy!... Wait, what did that ending mean? Oh well, that's not why I'm here! What I AM here for is to help you on your way to seeing *EVERYTHING*... Teehee~! This one is simple: if you don't spare those two enemies at the end, I'm pretty certain you'll see the other path. Though... either way, what are Lindy and I gonna find when we return from Lowee...?"] (elseif: $resultPage is "Farewell")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "I wish I could be the one to hug Cave-Baby... Well, there were multiple ways to get the variant you just got, but a surefire way to get 'A' is to spare those two important Leanbox figures! I'm... not sure how to feel about that, honestly; Lindy and I are parts of this army solely to pay off our debts... It'd be a shame to see our Lady go, but... then we'd be free... Maybe I can see Nisa again... Poor Gusty..."] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

{(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)}(if: $chikaTurn is 1)[Does it even matter? What use will doing anything be? Haven't you lived far too long anyways? Chika pulls the trigger of her repeating crossbow, firing yet another arrow your way. Should you...? N-No, d-don't just give in! You swerve your head out of the way, the projectile grazing your delicate cheek. Much like Lyrica's cheek earlier today... You should've stopped this! You should've stopped it all! The Oracle, still donning a frown, raises her crossbow once again. She's... really trying to kill you, huh? You... deserve this, so why... does it hurt... so... much...? ... Feeling... faint... F-Falling... ... E-Eh? What just... You blacked out, but once again find yourself facing Chika. Her crossbow is still drawn... but you are unharmed? Surely you wouldn't have been able to dodge the next attack if you fell unconscious! Though, you're still standing upright, as if all is well... ... Don't lose it now... Though, again, is it even worth it?](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[(if: $struggleCount is 5)["S-Shit, n-no!" No good; the rain has rendered the sill too slippery... and your muscles ache with every breath you take. You're... falling! So tired... Just close your eyes and embrace this... Goodbye, world! Goodbye, everythi- ... ... Are you dead? No... You had hoped that you would've left your exhausted body behind, no? You still feel as crappy as ever... You open your eyes... and are once again facing Chika in the hall outside of the throne room. No way... ... You're in Hell; that's the only explanation! How else can this make any sense?](else:)[You can't... You... CAN'T! Not CHIKA! Anyone but HER!!! ... Wait, where'd she go?! You're just staring at an empty foyer... "C-Chik-" The crash of rain washing over your face shuts you up... and you blink several times to remove the precipitation from your eyes. You are so stunned, you barely realize that you are now outside the Basilicom! ... Furthermore, you're barely hanging on to the window, hungrily trying to claw yourself back inside as your lower body dangles in the wind! A drop from this distance would kill anyone; hell, it already killed Mina! "C-Chika! H-Help!!! P-Please!!!" you beg like a coward... but no one responds. So... you DO want to live... How unusual. What more can you accomplish other than ruining even more lives? Have to... get back in! C-Come on! (link-repeat:"STRUGGLE!!!")[(set: $struggleCount to it + 1)(if: $struggleCount is 5)[(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")]]]](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[(if: $caveKarma <= 1)[(if: $farewellPageCheck != true)[Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop, make it stop!!! Please... Please make it stop... Chika readies another arrow... before lowering her crossbow and turning around. W-What?! Where is she...?! You... can't let her leave! You just can't! "C-Chika, w-wait for me!!!" you shout, your small legs working overtime to catch up with your slightly-older friend. Her small frame stops moving upon hearing your call, and her head quickly turns to face you. "Hmm? What's wwong, Cavey?" Why are you so... sad right now? "Chika, I... I thought we were gonna pway some more games! Why are you... weaving?" Your friend rubs the back of her innocent head, a happy grin disarming some of your nerves. "Heheh, I wish I could! But, it's getting wate... Mom'll kill me if I don't get home fast!" Oh... right... Life is about more than just fun and games. Chika has parents to get home to, schoolwork to finish (or in her case, not finish), and other friends to play with... You can't be selfish. "I-I... understand... Sowwy..." Geez louise, what is the matter with you today?! Aren't you usually the voice of reason, always telling Chika to act serious and responsible? Why, then... do you still want to have fun? Chika observes your transparent face, humming playfully to herself. "Mmmmmmmmmm... Cheer up, Cavey, jeez! We can hang out after school tomorrow, wike always! I'm not goin' anywhere, nope!" You can't find the proper words to say, so you simply direct your head downwards before nodding. Not very convincing... Maybe she bought it? ... Haha, nope, not a chance. "... You don't bewieve me?" "T-That's not it!" you blurt out, your face beat-red. Dang, what is this feeling?... You just want to hang onto your friend and never let go! "... I just... always miss you (link:"when you go...\"")[(set: $farewellPageCheck to true)(goto:"Chika Boss Result Page")]](elseif: $farewellPageCheck is true)[Your best friend is quiet for a moment... before suddenly skipping to a nearby bush. "Hold on a sec, Cavey! I have an idea!" Oh great, now you've done it; you've given her an idea for yet another platitudinous scheme! And you aren't even old enough to know what 'platitudinous' means! Hopefully you used it correctl- "Aha! Here we go!" Oh, she's already done... What's she going on about? The youthful Chika holds out both her palms, clearly expecting you to investigate. "... What... is this?" A flower wrapped to resemble a crude ring... H-Huh? The rambunctious young brat blushes just a little, before regressing back to rubbing her hair. Such a bad habit... "Y-Y'know...! We never get to hang out as wong as we want... so why don't we just get married?! That way, even if we're not together, we'll... Bah, too embarrassing! You get it, right?" You... don't know what to say! Marrying your best friend... Is there anything better than that?! "... Is it... that simple?" You pick up the fragile ring, holding it between your fingers. So pretty~ "Ahum! I read it in a book! Just put that on yer finger, and... that's that!" This all sounds pretty suspect; after all, how can you believe Chika has even read a book? Still... it couldn't hurt to try, right? "... O-Okay! W-Wet's do it!" Failing to hide a smile, you fit your finger into the ring with ease! Chika wraps you in a rather tight hug, clearly wasting no time. "Yay!!! We are now Mrs. and Mrs. Hakozaki!" Her face snuggles against your cheek, and all you can do is close your eyes and relax. The two of you continue the embrace in utter silence for a long while... before your new wife's gentle voice whispers out into the evening air. "... Don't ever feel wonewy, Cavey... We'll always be together... 'Til Death Do Us Part'!" You wonder if she even realizes what that means. Heck, do YOU? Oh well... you simply can't shake off this bliss! "... I know..." ... Your friend will have to head home eventually... but please, let this moment last forever!]](else:)[Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop, make it stop!!! Please... Please make it stop... Chika readies another arrow... before lowering her crossbow and turning around. W-What?! Where is she...?! "C-Chika, w-wait! Where are you going?!" you cry out. The Oracle doesn't look back. "... It's not worth it anymore, Cavey... I'm leaving. It's for the best." "N-No! I... Y-You can't leave me!" "... I'm sorry... but I can't stay here." "Chika... D-Don't! I... need you." "..." You reach out for your best friend... but she keeps walking. Leaving you behind, forever... Will you ever see her again? Do you even deserve that honor? ... You shake your head as hard as you can, hoping to wake from this nightmare... and aren't even surprised to find Chika staring back at you. As if none of this matters... Curse fate's cruel hand...]] Your Health (Cave): (if: $chikaTurn is 1)[100/100| Energy Meter: 10/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[50/100| Energy Meter: 5/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[1/100| Energy Meter: 2/10] Chika's Health: (if: $chikaTurn is 1)[100/100| Chika's Energy: 10/10](elseif: $chikaTurn is 2)[1,000/1,000| Chika's Energy: 100/100](elseif: $chikaTurn is 3)[10,000,000/10,000,000| Chika's Energy: 1,000/1,000] (if: ($chikaTurn is 2 AND $struggleCount is 5) OR (($chikaTurn is 3 AND $farewellPageCheck is true) OR ($chikaTurn is 3 AND $caveKarma > 1)) OR ($chikaTurn is 1))[(link:"Next")[(set: $chikaTurn to it + 1)(set: $farewellPageCheck to false)(goto:"Chika Boss Action Page")]]

(if: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth > 65) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 75 AND $iffyBossHealth > 50) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth is 50))["I don't wanna fight you, Cave!" IF shouts, her cowardice shining through. "I want to help!" "H-Help?!" Now she's just insulting you! "... You turned your back on Lyrica! Am I supposed to believe you *helped* her?!" you shout, your voice straining... Don't let emotion drag you down! "... You left her to die! You abandoned us!" The brunette closes her eyes, your words giving her reason to think. Great time to start. "... I'm sorry... but I did leave to keep her safe, dammit! Vert threatened Lyree straight to my face... Told me if I stayed any longer, she'd be put in danger! Vert's gone completely insane, Cave!" Excuses!!! "... You LIE! You don't care! You've NEVER cared!" "Come on, I know you can see it too!" How insolent! She was a fool back during the Avenir invasion, and she's even more foolish now! What folly... And yet, she has friends to return to! Who care about her... Who rely on her! Why do idiots get all the luck?! ... Well, her luck's run out today!](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 65 AND $iffyBossHealth >= 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth <= 50 AND $iffyBossHealth >= 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 50 AND $iffyBossHealth >= 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "D" AND $healthBreakOne is "No"))[{(set: $healthBreakOne to "Yes")}IF, face red, begins to shout. She's clearly losing her temper... "W-Why are we doing this?! Lyrica wouldn't want this, Cave! Please... l-let's just go to her, together!" She STILL doesn't get it, does she?! "How can you claim to love her?! She's been lost without you... yet, you never said a word to comfort her!" This is all IF's fault... A-All of it! "I had no choice! I had to leave before we even departed for Leanbox, for cryin' out loud! Believe me..." She clutches her chest; no doubt a flimsy ploy to garner some pity points... b-but it won't work on you! "... I haven't had a good night's sleep since that day... All I can think about is Lyrica, and how bad she must hate me! I know, I should've done more... I acted like an idiot, okay?! Vert... surprised me. I'd never seen her act that... horrible before..." You stand in silence for a moment... N-No, don't fall for her lies! She's the fool, not you! "... Nothing but excuses! I... would do anything for the woman I love... Why couldn't you?!" It's IF's fault that Lyrica must hate you now! You must follow Vert's every whim to save the pop idol's life... all because this traitor left you alone! If anyone is to blame, it's Vert... N-No! Y-You mean, I-IF! SHE is to blame!!! ... Either way, your rival gazes down at her feet, no doubt looking for help on how to dig herself out of this mess. Good luck with that. "... Listen... I admit, I was scared! You claimed back then that... I wasn't strong enough to protect Lyrica... Well, y'know what? You were completely right... If I was stronger, I would've gotten her off of Leanbox for good! So for that, I'm sorry. I... Maybe I... don't deserve her. She deserves someone who is willing and able to overcome their petty fears... Perhaps someone like you." W-What? She... A traitor wouldn't say... something like that, would they? More pandering? Then why does she sound so... honest? You sense actual sorrow within her... G-Get a hold of yourself!!! "... You think that changes anything? You think that makes up for all the things that have happened?! Everyone we've LOST?!"](elseif: ($quoteHealthFlow is "A" AND $iffyBossHealth < 35) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "B" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "C" AND $iffyBossHealth < 20) OR ($quoteHealthFlow is "D" AND $healthBreakOne is "Yes"))[{(set: $healthBreakTwo to "Yes")}The brunette is panting harder now; she's almost defeated... Good. Still... her eyes look just as determined as ever... W-Why does she continue to fight?! What... drives her?! ... She's never lost someone... She doesn't know what it's like. "... Because of you... Chika is..." you suddenly find yourself sputtering out. W-Why does your mind keep going back to HER? What's... done is... done... "H-Hmm?... C-Chika is what? She's not..." IF asks, one eyebrow raised. Ohoho, so she doesn't even know! Glad to hear her day hasn't been hampered by the 'small' problem one bit! You point an accusatory finger the battle-hardened veteran's way, your eyes unintentionally misting over. "... You killed her! It's all your fault! Without you, Vert slipped further and further... and Chika couldn't take it! She pushed herself too hard... and now... I-It's all because you were '*scared*'!..." "Holy..." Her pupils instantly shrink, retreating back into the white expanse of her eyes. Hit a bit too close to home, did you? Maybe now, she'll... finally realize that life can get serious sometimes. "... I don't know what to say..." "DON'T SAY ANYTHING! You can try all you want, but you can't make this better! Chika was... (if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[my world... I-I loved her! And it took me too long to realize that... s-she meant EVERYTHING to me!](else:)[my best friend, always there for me... One of the few friends I've ever had!] But now she's gone... You weren't there to save her! And I... I couldn't save her on my own... I let her down..." "Cave..." W-What now?! Just... shut up! Why can't she just... go away, and leave you here to rot?! She... d-doesn't... care... "You can't beat yourself up over this! I... I feel awful... Chika didn't deserve any of that, and neither did you!... But you know what won't solve anything? Dwelling on it! If we're going to fix things... we can't lose hope. Chika wouldn't want that, right? She'd want you to be happy, I know she would." Mud... So much mud... Your eyes are locked onto the ground, unsure of how to respond. Is... this right? Have... you been looking at this entire situation wrong? Is IF your enemy, or are YOU? She continues. "... We still have Lyree to protect, right? Well... why don't we both protect her already? Together... we can't possibly let anyone else down." ... Until she proves otherwise- that all the things she says are more than just empty promises- the brunette is your enemy! She must show her worth! "... E-Enough! How do I know you're even strong enough to help her?! Prove it to me!!!"] [[En garde!|IF Boss Battle]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[(if: $loyaltySpareCount is 1)[{(savegame: "A", "Loyalty- First Trial") (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 1)]}Got her right where you want her... So, why then... can't you bring yourself to finish her? This is your duty: kill the blasphemous traitor! She's put Lyrica through hell, left Vert to drift further into insanity, and she allowed Chika to... be taken from you. Finish her! "..." No use... Something inside you prevents the outright murder of this villain... No, don't use that word. You've been telling yourself over and over to murder IF... but now that she's actually here, your mind starts to give in to weakening doubt. What if... she isn't as bad as you've been making out? Could you have been... wrong? ... She's still a traitor, no matter what your confused mind may think. Maybe you can't kill her... but it's your duty to apprehend her at the very least. Perhaps... Vert will feel generous with the expected punishment? Or... damn, you know nothing good will come of bringing the brunette to the goddess on a silver platter! Shit! Confused, you reach for the brunette in a supposed attempt to capture her... and as soon as your hand grasps her shoulder, a blur of flesh suddenly blindsides your cheek! H-Huh? ... I-IF just slapped you, draining 5 health! T-The nerve! S-So, she's planning to resist?! ... Is this truly worth it? You were willing to give her the benefit of the doubt, but... (link:"Kill her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $endingPath to "Imprisoned")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 1")] (link:"Spare her!")[(set: $loyaltySpareCount to 2)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 1")]](elseif: $loyaltySpareCount is 2)[{(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)}You grab for her again... but the battle-hardened veteran is not keen on becoming Leanbox's prisoner! She slices at your stomach, having secretly pulled out a couple more knives without your knowledge! T-The bitch! That's 5 more health... Can you spare anymore? She attempts yet another swing... but you swipe your own blade at the precise moment, disarming her of her trusty Qatars. She yelps in surprise, and simply pouts up at you. She'd look almost cute if she wasn't actively trying to harm you. This could go on forever... At least, without resorting to... 'drastic' measures... (if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[Wait... H-Hold on... You suddenly feel (link:"very weak...")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")]](else:)[(link:"Kill her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $endingPath to "Imprisoned")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 1")] (link:"Spare her!")[(set: $loyaltySpareCount to 3)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 1")]]](elseif: $loyaltySpareCount is 3)[{(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)}You once more try to gain control of the situation... but IF's boot connects with your stomach, drawing the breath from your lungs... and that's not even mentioning the additional 5 damage! In quick form, she attempts yet another kick... but you grab her leg and forcibly toss her to the ground. S-Stay! C-Can't she see you're trying to help her?! You could easily murder her, but... for some reason, you're refusing to! You're trying to give her a chance... and she's still firmly against you. ... You can't trust anyone... Give them an inch, and they'll take a mile. This is how you got into this very mess in the first place; by letting Ver-... SOMEONE take advantage of you! ... Don't let yourself down again. (if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[Wait... H-Hold on... You suddenly feel (link:"very weak...")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")]](else:)[(link:"Kill her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $endingPath to "Imprisoned")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 1")] (link:"Spare her!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 1")]]]](else:)[... Show some restraint... She's simply scared. Not in a cowardly way, either; she's merely showing evolutional growth and wishes to survive against what she considers a mortal threat. You've done the very same today... You can't kill her... That isn't what Chika would want, nor Lyrica... She should be your friend, not your enemy! ... That still doesn't change the fact that IF is springing up yet again! She launches herself for you... and you respond with a swift chop to the neck. Her eyes roll back... before she collapses in your arms. Unconscious... Good. Hopefully some rest will ease her mind. ... So, now what? You have randomly decided to spare the lone enemy you once vowed to destroy. Lyrica is waiting inside the Basilicom, along with the rest of the army; you can't simply take IF off of Leanbox! Besides... you figure the two of you need to... 'discuss' things eventually, and hazarding the chance of her escaping into the night will just bring you back to square one! ... But if Vert finds out that you are aiding the enemy, then... you know what will happen. Damn, there's simply no time! S-She could be back any second!!! ... Hide IF. Quickly run inside, hide her in your room, and... greet Lady Green Heart when she returns! Y-Yeah, that's perfect!!! Er, b-better (link:"get to it, then!!!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 2")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

{(if: $caveDeath is "IF Last Stand")[ (if: $caveBossHealth < 1)[You... You can't do this... With one decisive last blow, you fall slowly to the mud. Some help you were... Good... luck... IF...] (elseif: $iffyBossHealth < 1)[With one last blow, IF snarls... before falling to her knees. N-NO!] ] }You have failed... (if: $endingPath is "Greener Pastures")[(if: $guardBreakOne is true)[(link:"Last checkpoint...")[(loadgame:"B")] ](link:"Restart the fight...")[(loadgame:"A")]](else:)[(link:"No... Not like that!")[(loadgame:"A")]] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[You figure the remaining Leanbox guards are waiting in the front lobby of the Basilicom... and you can't risk them seeing your harbored refugee. Thus... you sprint around to the back of the castle- not caring to look at whatever damage IF has caused back here- and try to open the back door. Hmm, locked... That's to be expected. ... No one else is around, right? It's a large castle, and since most everyone must be stationed in the front... You pull out your twin blades and fire two forceful blasts of energy, decimating the strong elegant structure! Don't delay, now! You run inside and make your way to your room, the passed out battle-hardened veteran in tow... ... Whew... Hopefully your closet will be a good hiding spot! You lock the door, hoping against hope that IF will not wake up in the next twenty minutes. Lord knows what she'll think if she regains consciousness just to find herself in a coffin. You pat your hands, rubbing off the dirt you attracted from the good old outdoors, and turn around... to find Lyrica standing in the doorway. I-Isn't she supposed to be hiding in her chambers?! "... Cave? What are you... doing?" Thankfully, she isn't wearing that disappointed look you've become accustomed to... but she sure looks damn confused. Why shouldn't she? "... What happened out there? Where's... IF?" Okay, you have GOT to figure something out! "... W-Why aren't you hi-" "TELL ME, Cave!" You can't argue with that... Crap crap crap! Well... perhaps there's no harm if... Lyrica finds out? She may be a pop idol to the outside world... but you know how competent she can be in a fight. You frankly fear for your life if you try to conceal any more secrets from her! Besides, the moment you turn your back, she's just gonna explore the closet herself. Might as well acclimate her to what's going on before she draws the wrong conclusion! You sigh. (link:"\"... Here, look.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 2")]](else:)[You unlock the door you locked no more than a minute ago... and allow Lyrica a peek inside. She gasps. "W-Why is... W-What happened?! I-Is she alive?!" Awkwardness shining through, you place your hand on the blunette's shoulder. "Y-Yes, she's alive..." If she wasn't, her body would've disappeared by now... but you decide not to point that out. You're not an asshole. "... We fought, and I won... We can't let Vert find her, you understand?" Lyrica seems shocked; is she surprised you didn't murder her lover? You are somewhat saddened by that thought... She seems at a loss for words, but she eventually lifts her head up to look at you. "... You... want to protect her?" Try to smile, dammit! Hmmm... neh, good enough. Hopefully it doesn't look too creepy. "... Of course. I... think everything has a chance to work out. Besides..." Chika pops up in your damn head again... She's probably making fun of you, wherever she is. Your attempts at comfort always make your face look stupid. "... this war doesn't need another victim." "C-Cave..." She must sense the inner war you're currently fighting (and probably losing)... and wraps you up in a tight hug, a hand gently caressing your back. This... warmth! Y-You've nearly forgotten how good her arms feel! "I-I'm so sorry, Cave... I-I have to admit something: I thought I was... afraid of you! I saw and heard about all these terrible things you did... and I feared you had... y'know, changed... I began to think you... liked killing..." L-Lyree... You keep quiet as you return the hug two-fold. She continues. "... Gosh, I-I acted like such a jerk! I-I didn't care what you were going through... I-I'm so selfish, Cave!" Tears form in your eyes... G-Goddammit, not now! "... Y-You're not selfish, Lyrica... I certainly didn't... help matters along... so you have every right to be mad at me." You pull apart from the hug, holding the pop idol's shoulders and gazing into her wondrous orbs. "... I do not deserve absolution... but if you can find it in your heart to forgive me... I shall vow to never fail you again. Whatever it takes to set things right... I will make it so, for you." You can't help but inch your head closer. "To my dying breath, I shall keep this promise." The pop idol gulps, your emotion perhaps coming across far heavier than anticipated. Your faces are too close... but neither of you pull away; instead, Lyrica's lids close halfway, confusion coursing through her mind. Your own head is in shambles... No, your heart is in shambles. The atmosphere is heavy; the unabating rain is simply no match! (link:"Give in... Kiss her!")[(set: $lyricaInterest to true)(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 3")] (link:"No... You mustn't!")[(set: $lyricaInterest to false)(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[Before either of you realize it, your lips become one! Lyrica is hesitant for barely a second, quickly melting into the kiss. The hand caressing your back picks up speed, moving up to meet your hair. You, in return, wrap your arms around the angel's neck. This... is the greatest feeling in the world! Any guilt you may feel is masked by pure bliss... and the desire- no, NEED- for more. ... However, before the two of you can heat things up...](else:)[You stare into each other's eyes... but eventually, Lyrica shakes her head. "... I-I'm sorry... W-We... c-can't..." "... I-I... apologize as well..." Red-faced, the two of you continue to hold one another, not sure if NOT taking things to a new level was the right choice. Lyrica avoids looking your way, instead eyeing the resting brunette, propped up inside the cupboard. "... S-She'll wake up soon, right?" You nod and prepare to verbalize your answer... when suddenly,] loud footsteps echo throughout the hall right outside the room. The two of you gasp, and you pull away just enough to shut the closet door tight.(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[Seeing the sleeping IF for the split second... reminds you of what line you just crossed... b-but don't worry about that now! Y-You're trying to save her life, y-yeah! T-That's what counts...] You and Lyrica are still holding each other... and when your eyes fully meet again, both of you can't help but blush in (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[a fair mix of embarrassment and shame](else:)[embarrassment]. She looks away, and you follow suit... just in time for a surprise familiar face, Hank East, to pop his head through the door. "Whew, found ya two! Man, that's quite the jog to get here, eh? H-How do you two manage?" No one says a word, the weight of awkwardness bearing heavy on the entire room... and the somewhat-rotund Leanbox guard stands in dweebish silence for a moment. "... Er... so, uh, anyways, Lady Vert has returned! Oh yeah, and the whole army too! They're waiting out front for ya, fair ladies! Guess she wants an... explanation for all the disembodied weapons lying around the lawn, y'know?" Oh yeah, Hank was stationed in Planeptune, just like you... S-So, Vert's finally returned?! Y-You had better haul ass over there! "A-Affirmative! I'm on my way now... Thank you... Hank." The photojournalist-turned-bodyguard waves, before turning around and sighing. "... Now I gotta walk the whole way back... Screw it, I'm headed to my room first; got some pics to develop! See ya!" With that, he walks away... You look back at Lyrica... (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[who is still blushing, even harder than before. What should you say? ... You decide that there's really nothing to worry about anymore... so there's no need for her to hide. At least, not right now. "... Lyrica, would you like to... accompany me outside?" you ask, your words coming out far too stinted. The pop idol thinks for a moment... before nodding, tentatively at that. "... Y-Yeah, s-sure! L-Let's go greet the others... Er, then..." Her eyes shyly travel to the side, just narrowly avoiding your gaze. S-So... majestic... "... maybe we can... t-talk afterwards?... J-Just the two of us, y-you know? A-After we check up on IF again, though!" Deep crimson blush now... Her face or your own? W-Woah... W-What is going on?! Don't act like a fool, stay cool, stay COOL! "... A-Alright... That sounds w-wonderful!" More silence follows, with each of you occasionally attempting to move, only to stumble over the other's foot. Finally, you close your eyes, take a deep breath... and issue out an order, managing to bring professionalism back to your form! "... L-Let's get going! V-Vert is waiting!" (link:"\"Y-Yeah, y-you're right!!!\"")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 4")]](else:)[who is already pouting? W-What? "I know what you're about to say, Cave... and NO! I'm coming with you... and that's FINAL!" G-Geez, you weren't even prepared to say anything yet!... W-Well, if she puts it like that... Besides, the fighting should be done completely by now, so what's the harm in her greeting the returning forces with you? You'll keep her safe if anything goes awry... (link:"won't you?")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[You dash through the empty front lobby, and back out into the rain... and sure enough, Vert is patiently awaiting with the rest of the Leanbox forces. Her right-hand man, Markz Phenix, smirks as you make yourself known, and a few of the Leanbox guards who nearly incurred your wrath today eye you warily. Lyrica, meanwhile, looks around in awe at the front lawn torn asunder. Fortunately, the smoke from the mortar fire had mostly dissipated (where did that cannon get to, anyways? Someone is going to be demoted before the day is through...), but weapons lay scattered across the grass, their owners passed on. Vert nods at Lyrica and yourself, but it is Markz who speaks first. "So-ho! The Pop Princess graces us with her presence?!" He jabs his thumb in your direction. "Your hubby here let you out of yer cage for once?" It's not even worth scowling at him... You ignore him(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[, 5pb. secretly lacing her hand with yours,] and instead address the goddess. "My Lady! I am glad you have returned! I take it your journey home went off... without incident?" Green Heart smirks and folds her arms right below her rather-ample chest. "Good to see you too, Cave... Yes, it was a rather uneventful trip." Her eyes carry a... hint of intrigue to them as she scans your face for any emotion. "Certainly nothing as exciting as what occurred on this very lawn! Or, so I've heard... Care to indulge me?" Crap, that was fast. Lyrica looks up at you, eager to hear your retelling as well. "... It was nothing, My Lady. A band of Planeptune rebels attempted- poorly- to lay siege on the Basilicom. I, along with the rest of the guards, warded them off with ease." The CPU inches her face ever-so-closer, drawing an uncharacteristic gulp out of you. "Is that so? Shame I missed it... And what of IF?" Your body instantly tenses up. S-She knows IF was here?! "A few of the guards claim to have seen IF... and how the two of you were on a clear collision course. What became of that, hmm?" (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[Lyree squeezes your hand tight on a purely unconscious level. You struggle to ward of a blush as you think of a proper response.](else:)[Crap, what to say, what to say?!] You look down at your feet, clenching your fists in an attempt to show more emotion than usual. She has to buy this! "... That is true... She is dead, my Lady. I defeated her in battle... and ended her." Lyrica shifts uncomfortably beside you(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[, and she grips harder. G-Geez, she sure is strong!](else:)[, most likely not expecting you to lie so blatantly.] Vert seems somewhat taken aback at first... but she quickly hums happily to herself. "That's the Cave I've come to expect: unquestionable loyalty! Tis a shame IF had to be put down... but even the most innocent dog can turn rabid. You did..." Her lips twist into a... disturbingly-cheerful smile. "... well, Cave. (link:"Excellent work!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 4")]](else:)[With that, the HDD-enabled CPU claps twice, and the entire army stands at attention. "Well, men, today may have not been the shining success we had hoped for... but we will regroup and prepare to fight another day! As shown by their cowardly ambush, Planeptune stands no chance against us! With Chika in our hearts... we WILL be victorious. And I mean sooner, rather than later... Understood?" The foot soldiers all give their cliched "hurrahs!" and such. Markz, typically one to skip out on celebratory festivities that don't involve drinking, lights up a cigar instead. Meanwhile, you and Lyrica simply stand together like two wallflowers at a high-school prom. No matter what you did, you needed to lie, as IF was currently still very much alive AND taking residence in your own damn bedroom. The two of you now run through thousands of possible next steps in your heads... but no definitive choice springs to mind. How can you possibly escort IF off of Leanbox without getting caught? Is it even possible?! ... Lyrica's life is already in danger, and if the battle-hardened veteran is caught, you will be beside the two of them on the chopping block. What can you do? Do you leave? Where would you go? Who would accept you in their nation? Wouldn't Vert find you? She'd hunt you down like animals... and she WOULD find you. Probably'd sick Markz on you two... You shudder at what that creep would do. Well then, do you stay? What will that gain you? You and Lyrica will still be cornered rats! Crap crap crap, nothing is making sense! A cold sweat breaks out all over... D-Don't panic! (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[The pop idol's hand squeezes yet harder, to the point where you determine she's trying to tell you something. You turn your head... and find her face is, as before, way too close. She bites her lip. "Do you... have a plan?" You... can't lie to her. "... Not exactly..." Way to instill hope. "... Okay... W-Well, maybe we should..." Lyrica casts her eyes downwards, gazing at your interlocked hands. "... h-head back inside... T-To IF, I mean! W-We need to wake her up and... f-figure things out, right?!" You stifle yet another embarrassed gasp of air. "... Yes! L-Let's do... t-that!" "Together..." She's gaining ground... again... So close... "Yeah..." Are you about to...?... N-No! A-At the last second, the angel creeps her lips up just a bit... and tenderly leaves a heated kiss on the bridge of your nose. W-What... has gotten into her? I-Into YOU?! "Alright! Now, as for you, Cave..." Lady Green Heart's booming voice suddenly snaps the two of you out of your confused reverie, and you both return to your original stances before she can fully turn around and get a good luck at the... peculiar proceedings.](else:)[Lyrica suddenly nudges you with her shoulder, and you look at her from the corner of your eye. Vert continues addressing the rest of the army, everyone focused away from you two luckily. "... Hmm?" you grunt, urging her to speak her mind. Lyrica thinks silently for a moment. "... What should we do?! If Vert finds Iffy now... she'll punish BOTH of you! I don't want to see that, Cave!" She's... worried about you! Grim situation, yes... but you can't help but glow a little on the inside. "... Don't worry about a thing, alright? We'll... figure something out." "... Okay." With lack of anything better to do, the blunette rests her head upon your shoulder, her nerves upsetting her system no doubt. You'll keep her safe... You have to. As for IF... you'll find some way to proceed. At least you should have some time, right? Today's battle is over... Vert finally finishes issuing her orders to the others, and turns around. You both are next up, eh?] She must sense some sort of tension in the air, as evidenced by her raised eyebrow... but the goddess eventually goes back to her stern look. "... Cave, if you may be so kind, I'd like for you to help out with cleaning the lawn. These weapons are quite unsightly, are they not?" She stretches, her arms arcing high over her head. "I must head inside for a moment. I have to... check up on something real quick. I shall make a hasty return, do not wor-" (link:"\"V-VERT!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="runningTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 5 OST Run Run Run.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 5")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[That voice... So familiar! But... no, it couldn't be... Vert (along with every single member of the Leanbox forces) turns in surprise at the feminine shout from afar. You can just make out a figure standing in the distance, the wind and rain still enough to impede vision. Will this storm ever pass? The goddess opens her mouth to shout a response. "... Yes? Who is summoning me?" No reply... but if you squint hard enough, you can see the silhouette raise her arm in the air, before dropping it down dramatically. Karate-chopping the rain? Hmm... no... Giving a signal?! On cue, Markz shouts "... Get down, maggots!", and you cover Lyrica without even thinking. A few Leanbox soldiers go down with vicious grunts, their clanking armor a clear indicator that the worst of today is not yet over. Still serving as the pop idol's human shield, you peek up at the sky... and the situation becomes clear: an endless hail of arrows shoot down side-by-side with the rain, aiming for the center of the army. You hear Lady Green Heart's yells over the whizzing projectiles. "Everyone, inside! Hurry!" For the first time in a long while, you can't really argue with that! Leading 5pb by the hand, you follow Vert and Markz inside. Many soldiers follow suit, but several stay outside to prevent any invaders from breaching the Basilicom's doors. You secretly wish them luck... knowing that whatever happens, you'll have to clean up the mess. ... The CPU, soaking wet from the rain but fortunately unharmed, clutches her chin. "... This day will never end... If it's another trial we must face, then we shall meet these villains with open arms!" She thinks for a moment more, before turning to you. "Cave, I apologize... but I am in need of your aid yet again." At her request, you nod like the loyal vassal you are. Markz lights another large cigar, puffing out a vivid smoke ring. "Heh, these bastards just caught us by surprise! We'll kill 'em easy, right men?" The room erupts with war cries, loud enough to make your ears ring. "Yo, gun chick!" Ugh, now he's talking to you. "Don't lag behind out there, eh? I'll be... keepin' a good eye on ya the whole time! Don't, heheh, disappoint me!" God, he makes you want to puke... Vert nods to her army. "I will attempt negotiations with this unknown opponent... Should they not comply, then... we show them no pity. If they act foolish... none are to remain alive. Understood?" More hollers of compliance. "Cave..." (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[Lyrica coos, her breath tickling your ear. "... Please be careful out there..." A kiss on the cheek seals the deal! Y-You can not fail! You... love this angel. You always have! After this battle... you're going to let her know! "You too. I... can't live without you, Lyrica." Her beautiful cheeks redden at your words, and she smiles from ear to ear. You both are going to war... but you couldn't be more comfortable with each other. You can't help but think that things are... going to be alright.](else:)[Lyrica whispers, nervousness prevalent in her tone. "... Don't die on me now, okay? We... still have to get back to IF... R-Remember that! Promise me!" You can't help but chuckle to yourself. It's not a funny situation by any means... but just a day ago, you thought this pure angel hated your very soul. At least now, there were... signs of progress, and that'll keep you going! "... I promise, Lyrica. I won't let you down." She seems satisfied with your response... What a relief. Now, you better stay true to your word!] Markz motions for everyone to gather by the doors... and the way outside is (link:"slammed open!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 5")]](else:)[The immediate fighting has ceased, with the scattered Leanbox soldiers who remained outside training their guns into the fog. No... not the fog; an entire army is lined up across the lawn, facing the Basilicom! Guns and bows aim in your direction... but no one fires. The battlefield is still... for the moment. Hard to tell... but their uniforms appear to be white. No... that can't mean...?! "... Lowee?" Vert frowns, before holding her hands up and stepping forth. "I demand to see your leader! Show yourself!" A fair challenge. She is obviously expecting Blanc... though you suspect this is not the case. Lady White Heart would not have stalled her attack; the castle would be leveled by now! The throng of international assailants murmur to themselves, before clearing the way straight down the middle. A female figure marches forward, sword held at her side. Long, purple hair... When you attach her form to the voice you heard earlier, a strange possibility confirms itself: Nepgear?! Your Leanbox comrades emits sounds of confusion, and the CPU Candidate speaks! "Hello, 'Green Heart'... You must feel very confused right now, I bet..." Nepgear proclaims, flexing her free wrist. The voice is the same as the girl you always had a soft spot for, but... something about the tone is wrong. This... can't be the Nepgear you know. You suddenly remember rumors about a Nepgear imposter assaulting Blanc... and your back releases a heavy shudder. Something otherworldly was afoot... and it was going to spell disaster one way or another. She continues. "... I am here on... unrelated business... but seeing as my target is currently located inside your Basilicom, I figure I may as well kill two birds with one stone." Lady Green Heart shakes her head, one hand reaching for her lance. "... I have no earnest idea what you are talking about. Hell, I don't even know who you are! You certainly aren't Nepgear." Can't say you disagree. "... As I'm sure you are aware, Miss 'IF' of Planeptune has been siphoning the shares away from Leanbox and Lowee... I am here to put an end to her." You feel your insides churn as Vert flourishes her hand your way. "Oh, I... see... Well, I'll have you know that IF has already been dealt with. So, you can... just, crawl back into whatever hole you sprouted from. Good da-" "IF's still alive. She's in your 'Basilicom'; you can't hide her from me, Arfoire!" As everyone gets even more confused (and your heart skips a beat), Nepgear(?) raises her sword and slashes through the air with intense ferocity. "My sister has been telling me to bide my time before I end this insult of a nation... but if the Deity of Sin can't even hide her own fakes, I see no reason to delay! I'm through following this game's rules; I'm strong enough to kill any of her proxies! I yield (link:"Gehaburn's power!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 6")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{(set: $loyaltyStrikes to 0)}Everyone can sense Lady Vert's confusion... but no one is surprised when she draws her spear and prepares a combative stance. "Gehaburn?... Where have I heard that name before?" Nepgear smiles. The real Nepgear could never make a face this sly! "You should know it well, Arfoire! It's the sword... that shall rid this realm of you once and for all!" "Hmph! I hate to break it to you, but I am not the Deity of Sin! I am Lady Green Heart, the strongest goddess in all the land!" Her lance points squarely at the Candidate. "I do not take kindly to fools threatening my nation and spouting off pathetic rabble! If it's a fight you want... then have at you!" You pull out your own twin blades, expecting a torrent of bullets to rain down on your leader... but Nepgear begins laughing! "Ooh, how daring! Fine... While my men storm your castle, you and I shall face in a one-on-one duel! Nobody interfere; this is between me and Arfoire!" This sounds like a terrible idea! You have no idea what this imposter is capable of! "D-Don't fall for it, my Lad-" "Cave, no. You focus on fending off her army... I will adhere to her conditions! It has been awhile since a worthy opponent has crossed my path!" There's... no stopping her. Better follow your orders then! "On guard!!!" With that, the possessed CPU and the imposter CPU Candidate charge forward and begin their duel. What is Gamindustri coming to? The Lowee forces, meanwhile, take this as a sign to march themselves... and they begin rushing for the castle. No turning back now! Markz smirks at you with that sleezy grin which comes so naturally to him, before hoisting up his machine gun and firing. It's time for war. Individual feelings have no place on the battlefield; tune any hesitating questions out and simply follow whatever orders are presented to you! Delay or, even worse, disobey... and you or someone else may get killed, just like that! You are an honorable soldier; this is your life! Lyrica pulls out her weaponized guitar- always the innovator, she is- before turning her head for you. She nods, and you quickly nod back. You always worry about her... but she can hold her own, so don't worry about her too much. Just focus on surviving, and getting back to IF once the fight is done... You both need to be standing by the end. One last breath... before the two of (link:"you are off!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="runningTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioFrenzy.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Frenzy Moon.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 6")]](else:)[{(savegame: "A", "Loyalty- SMD") }As the entire Leanbox army faces off against the rushing forces, you find yourself facing three terrified Lowee soldiers. They clearly have no idea what they're doing, do they? Do they even have any clue why Nepgear is in charge? You find yourself getting further and further away from the truth... and common sense. "... Should they not comply, then... we show them no pity. If they act foolish... none are to remain alive. Understood?" ... If they were truly innocent, they'd surrender. Better deal with this swiftly. (link:"Attempt to disarm them!")[(set: $loyaltyStrikes to $loyaltyStrikes + 1)(set: $loyaltyChoice to "disarm")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 7")] (link:"Put them down with your blades!")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "slice")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 7")] (link:"You have to shoot them!")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "shoot")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 7")] Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[(if: $loyaltyChoice is "disarm")[You channel some energy into your twin blades and fire a few bullets for the soldiers' guns. The weapons, clearly outdated technology, disintegrate the second the scorching heat blasts them. Unarmed, the men can only run off like scared little children. At least they've escaped with their lives...](elseif: $loyaltyChoice is "slice")[You charge for the enemy, determining that no other immediate threats are aiming for you, and slash the three Lowee soldiers with your twin blades. Their armor is rather flimsy and weak, thus allowing for deeper and quicker penetration. One man goes down, followed by the second... The third man takes longer to fall, not accustomed to having a shear tear through his system. The howling wind eventually tips him over, however. Nature working it's magic... Speaking of magic, the three bodies quickly disappear, making their way to parts unknown.](elseif: $loyaltyChoice is "shoot")[A simple reflex by this point, you channel some energy into your twin blades and fire a few bullets for the frozen soldiers. The scorching-hot blasts sear straight through their torsos... and the three enemies crumple. Clean and simple; no blood to clean up afterwards. Even better for sanitation directors, the bodies quickly vanish into the damp atmosphere, never to be seen again. Out of sight, out of mind.] ... The Lowee soldiers dealt with, you quickly adjust your mind in preparation for the next set of combatants. However, all of the action is happening around you, not TO you. You check on Lady Vert... and see she is still fighting the good fight against the imposter Nepgear. Please be safe... "Grah! Bastards!" You hear Markz's disgusting voice over the sounds of intense combat, and follow the source to find the grizzled veteran clutching his cheek. A speck of blood appears to be running down his tanned skin... Yet another scar to add to the collection. Two Lowee soldiers, brandishing knives, lunge once more for the man you so despise. They look to finish him... but Markz has other ideas! As if he intentionally played possum to lure them in, he expertly grabs his opponents' arms! Before they can fight him off, he twists them to the ground. You hate to admit it, but his close-quarters-combat game is air-tight. "Yo, gun-chick!" the sleezebag snarls, noticing your watchful eye. "These pricks managed to cut me! How about you put a few of those magic rounds into their skulls? Pretty please? For me, heheh?" You don't respond right away... causing Markz's brow to furrow. "... Y'know, that wasn't a friendly suggestion." What should you do? (link:"Refuse!")[(set: $loyaltyStrikes to $loyaltyStrikes + 2)(set: $loyaltyChoice to "refuse")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 7")] (link:"Shoot them!")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "shoot")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 7")]](else:)[(if: $loyaltyChoice is "refuse")["... You're a big boy. Fight your own battles." Markz seems somewhat taken aback by your blunt refusal... but he soon shrugs it off. "Hmm... You're no fun." Nonchalantly, he takes out his magnum, pulls back the hammer, and fires. You look away, not interested in seeing the violent fruits of his labor. No matter what you've called yourself in the past... you will NEVER become a monster like him.](else:)["..." There's nothing else for it. You focus your mind on the two halves of your scissors... and blast the two disarmed soldiers out of the living realm. The urge to turn your makeshift guns on Markz is high... but you stay your hand. You're not a traitor; you simply do what is asked of you. Should you disobey... you know what will happen... The grizzled soldier claps, simultaneously releasing a hideous cackle. "Bravo! Wish I could shoot things with magic! Would save a crapload of money on ammo, heh!" You don't respond, instead turning away to survey the rest of the battlefield. Anything to remove this guy from your mind.] Vert and Nepgear continue their duel... though it appears that the fake Candidate is reaching her limit. Her stance is sloppy... She's getting tired. Likewise, the Lowee troops all around don't look too keen on fighting any longer. ... That reminds you: where is Lyrica?! You rapidly scan the field, and spot the pop idol whacking a combatant with her steel guitar. That must hurt like a bitch... Four other men lay at her feet as well; seems she's been busy! That's the girl you (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[love!](else:)[adore!] The blue-haired angel moves on, spotting a few more soldiers headed her way... when you notice the five soldiers she took out beginning to sit up. They eye her angrily, the thirst for revenge clear in their expressions! Markz pats your shoulder. "Those guys are lookin' to hit on yer gal! Must have stones of brass... or at least some guts! Hmmm... Why dontcha show me what they're made of, yeah?!" "..." "... You better not be hesitating. They're not just gonna kill your girlfriend; they're gonna wreck her from head to toe." ... (link:"... Knock them out.")[(set: $loyaltyStrikes to $loyaltyStrikes + 2)(set: $loyaltyChoice to "refuse")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 8")] (link:"... Shoot them.")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "shoot")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 8")] (link:"... Tear them apart.")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "slice")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 8")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[(if: $loyaltyChoice is "refuse")[Markz wants you to kill these men for simply doing their jobs. They are following orders, much like you. They are seeking pain on Lyrica because she is the designated enemy; nothing personal to it at all. He expects you to murder them... Why should you listen to anything he tells you to do? Still, these five tangos need to be dealt with... so you run up to them and knock them right back down with a set of smooth jabbing kicks. Just like that, they're out of commission... yet very much alive. Markz shakes his head. "You're askin' for trouble... Thought you were supposed to be the loyal one." Loyal... but no monster. Not anymore.](elseif: $loyaltyChoice is "shoot")[And that's what you do: you focus your blades and spray a rapid stream of energy towards the men, all five sitting upright... and in a flash, they are gone. Lyrica fortunately is already dealing with yet another foe, so she does not see you silence the troops. It's for the best... Markz groans. "BORING! I heard you performed some flashy deeds today! Why couldn't ya show me some of that?" Ignore him... He wanted you to tear these soldiers apart, but... this is war, not a massacre. You wish it didn't have to come down to killing, but at least you put them down quickly. Don't slip further into becoming a monster... Remain a loyal soldier. That's all you can strive for...](else:)[They seek to harm Lyrica... and that's enough to set you off. This isn't for Markz's perverse pleasure; this is to ensure you don't fail the pop idol ever again. She's all you have left. All you have. "Cavey, this is a REALLY bad idea..." Not now, Chika... They'll all see one day why you must do these things. You dash over and lift your blades for the five defenseless men to see... and get to work on your gory craft, slicing and slashing this way, that way! Everyone will understand that this is all necessary... If they can't now, then they will! Lyrica's safety means more than mere moral instincts! ... Blood staining your shears, you turn back to Markz to indicate the task is complete. The grizzled veteran is grinning from ear to ear, his eyes practically sparkling. "Holy shit, even I wouldn't do somethin' that cruel! You busy tonight?" He enjoys violence... You don't. In fact, it all makes you sick... But, this is a necessity, right? He takes pleasure in death and destruction, while you only commit these foul deeds to achieve your higher purpose: protect Lyrica's precious life!] ... With that out of the way, the battle rages on... but in the dead center, a major breakthrough takes place: Nepgear, dripping with sweat and rain, lunges for the CPU... and Vert parries her off-balanced attack, knocking 'Gehaburn' clean out of her hands. The mysterious imposter collapses to both knees, leaving a deep streak in the mud. Your Lady has won. The Lowee troops see their leader(?) has fallen... and immediately freeze. Lady Green Heart holds out her free left hand horizontally, signaling for her army to cease fire... and just as quickly as it had began, the war ends. "... Your commander was not able to best me... so what hope do all of you have? Leave, and I will not send my forces to pursue you!" Your CPU screams, her voice breaking through the wind's howling barrier. Nepgear's enforcers find no fault with this propostion, and they turn and flee like cowards. Markz twirls his magnum, antsy to wipe some of them out... but ultimately choosing to give it up; they aren't worth the ammo. Vert smiles softly as she looks down at the pissed off CPU Candidate. "What loyal soldiers you have! Why, if I'm not mistaken, I'd say they were almost RELIEVED to abandon you! Which begs the question: (link:"who did I just defeat?\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 8")]](else:)[The imposter doesn't respond, opting instead to shift her body so that she's facing away from her victorious opponent. The dominant goddess once again laughs, sounding like a snobbish aristocrat in the process. "You claimed I was Arfoire? Well... I am not; I'm someone MUCH stronger." Tears begin to well in Nepgear's eyes, but she grits her teeth to prevent any sobs from sneaking out. Who is this girl? She's clearly not all there... but she's not fighting indiscriminately either! No, she has a goal; one you can sense she's not quite confident about... but one she can not afford to fail. Perhaps by questioning her, you can get some well-deserved answe- "Cave, I grow tired of this pathetic fool... Kill her." H-Huh? "M-My Lady?" Dammit, you sounded reluctant again! When will you get it through your thick skull to NEVER question your lord?! The CPU frowns at you, but purposely avoids your eyes. "... That was an order, Cave. How am I supposed to... keep everyone safe if you don't follow my simple orders?" Lyrica's scared eyes find yours and, without a word exchanged, you desperately ask her for help. She doesn't know the harsh truth... but perhaps she can see the conflict in your stare, and realize what's... at stake. Markz growls. "Do it, Cave... Lest I need to remind ya about the alternative?" "..." Your right hand tightly grips the hilt of your blade as you continue pleading with the pop idol. What can she do? She doesn't need to be dragged into this... but it finally feels like the two of you are starting to resolve your issues! You want to show her you're not really a ruthless monster... but if you don't do what Vert says, then... Possibly feeling your duress from across the stormy battlefield... Lyrica subtly nods, though uncertainty never leaving her face. She may not, nor ever, know why... but if you commit this one last vile act, she'll be willing to... understand. Or accept it, at the very least... Perhaps she fears for your own safety should you disobey? So innocent, so caring, so pure... She must never know the real reason! ... So what do you do? Vert, Markz, and the rest of the Leanbox army watch you with expectant eyes. Nepgear, meanwhile, has completely accepted her fate, her eyes closed tight in preparation for her long-fought journey finally coming to an end. ... Uncertainty has no place on the battlefield! Choose, NOW! (link:"Kill the imposter Candidate!")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "kill")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 9")] (link:"Refuse Lady Vert this one command!")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "refuse")(set: $loyaltyStrikes to $loyaltyStrikes + 3)(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 9")]] Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioFrenzy.fade(0,200);" /></div> <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }(if: $loyaltyChoice is "kill")[Don't think about it, don't think about it... Just close your eyes and look away; you fear the sight will penetrate even your closed lids. Ready? Okay... Goodbye, and may you find some peace... ... When you open your right eye, Nepgear has already disappeared... signifying your obedience. You don't... feel right at all. You can't take much more of this. Vert pats your shoulder, and you resist the urge to nudge her off. Behave! "As expected of my star soldier! Well done, Cave!" She's taking this all in stride... No surprise. You survey your associates' faces, and most are avoiding you like the plague. Your own army fears you... but what else could you have done, dammit?! Screw them! Markz, meanwhile, still wears a shit-eating grin. Lyrica is the only one who looks at you with an emotion other than pure disdain or perverted bloodlust. She can sense your pain, you know she can! As soon as the goddess halts her congratulatory taps, you hover on over to the pop idol... and she (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[wraps a single arm around your thin waist. "... You had no choice..." she whispers, though it's so quiet, you can't even be sure you actually heard it!](else:)[nods, while also attempting a disarming smile. "... It's over at least, right?" Yeah... you certainly hope so.] Silence falls upon the exhausted, but victorious, army... and the content Vert soon speaks up, loud enough for all to hear!](else:)["... I can't..." you whisper, eliciting an eyebrow raise from everyone around you, including Nepgear herself. "... Killing her won't solve anything. My Lady, wouldn't capturing her be much more preferable?! We can extract important info from her, learn who she works for! Who she is!" Lady Green Heart's blank expression bears down on you, causing you to shrink. "... What good would that do? I have no need for her sob story. She's too weak to defeat me... and thus, I could care less about interrogations!" Her arm slices through the wind. "Now FINISH HER!" ... Hold firm; you can do this. "... I'm sorry, My Lady... I cannot." The area falls completely silent, Lyrica internally fearing for your very life. Vert wouldn't dare, Vert wouldn't dare, Vert wouldn't da- "... Very well. I can't expect you to do everything." The goddess suddenly lifts her lance and points for the Candidate's confused head. "A leader must occasionally do things herself!" She pushes the weapon forward... and you turn away before the results can scar your mind forever! ... You sneak back to Lyrica's side as a few random soldiers clean off Vert's spear, the goddess looking rather displeased at the proceedings. Markz shakes his head, preferring to keep his eyes off of you. You prefer it this way, actually. No one says a word for a long moment, though the pop idol(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[ interweaves her hand with yours.](else:)[, unsure of how to comfort you, pats your back gently.] Is she... proud of you? That was such a foolish thing to do... but you refused to become a monster again in her presence. Hopefully this means she understands... The world continues its period of R&R, the rain washing away the mess of the battlefield... before the CPU finally speaks up!] "... Well, with that waste out of the way... I suppose now is the time we can finally rest and recuperate. I COULD order you all to clean the yard of these ghastly war artifacts... but I'm feeling rather benevolent today. You all may enjoy some... 'off' time, at least until dawn!" The army cheers as they did before... and an idea hatches in your head. You look directly at Lyrica and nod. She does not seem to understand what you mean, but when you next open your mouth, she figures it out. "... M-My Lady! I will tidy up the lawn! This yard became a battlefield under my watch, after all!" The pop idol follows your example, potentially realizing your thought process. "I-I will as well, L-Lady Vert! W-We will clean up the yard while all of you rest! It's... b-been a long day, yeah?" Green Heart seems somewhat taken aback, cogs turning in the back of her mind. Regardless, her cocky smirk returns to her rigid lips. "Oh? Well, I certainly won't stop you from doing important chores!(if: $loyaltyChoice is "refuse")[ But... this is a most odd show of initiative! You aren't overcompensating for your display of defiance earlier... are you, Cave?]" She turns to Markz... and waves her hand for the Basilicom's doors. "As you two wish, the grounds are yours! Men, let us unwind in their stead! We can never be too sure what tomorrow may bring... so let us build back our strength!" Huzzah, huzzah, blah blah... ... It surprisingly doesn't take long for everyone to clear the front yard and enter the castle... leaving just you and Lyrica alone in the rain. Alone, alone... If ever you were going to discuss the future and make up a flawless plan, now is (link:"the time!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 9")]](else:)[{ <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }So as to not arouse suspicion (you know, just in case someone is still watching), the two of you gather the strewn-about weapons in complete silence for the first few minutes. The rain continues to pour down, but after so long, you've simply adapted to the feeling and are able to ignore your soaking clothes with complete ease. You throw one last bayonet (most likely belonging to a fellow Leanbox soldier... Hopefully not one of the men you accidentally blew up) on the pile... and Lyrica decides to break the momentary tranquility by finally opening her mouth. "... We have to get out of here, Cave..." Such a profound and telling statement... but one you can't disagree with. "... Yeah, we do. But where can we go? Vert will... hunt us down if we abandon her..." "... I don't know, but... I figure if we have IF with us, Planeptune will happily take us in! Won't... they?" "... I hope so." Admit it, you have no plan. Not a single clue, eh? Both Lyrica and IF need you... Come on, you can't just wing this! You can't possibly afford yet another failure! "... Either way, I think we've stalled enough. We should get Miss IF and... sneak out before anyone notices. Everyone should be resting by now." So you ARE leaving, huh? You just took a huge step... You're done with Leanbox. (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[You note that Lyrica isn't responding right away... and you turn to find her staring at the pile of guns, her mind lost in thought. She detects your watching eyes and quickly snaps out of her trance, blushing as she tries to hide her face. Always adorable... "... Is there something you'd like to add?" You try to maintain a semblance of professionalism, despite the... odd moments shared between you two no more than fourty minutes ago. What is she thinking? She looks so... conflicted! H-Hold on, she's s-suddenly reaching for you! She tugs the front of your soggy shirt... Damn, your clothes must be see-through at this point; you'll have to dump this from your attire completely! "... Cave, can I... ask you a question?" Sounds serious. "Of course... Ask me anything." Determination lights the pop idol's eyes. This is going to be interesting. "... Do you... love me?" ... Well, that's unexpected... W-Wait, WHAT?! "L-Love?!" Oh, don't act like such a dweeb! You made out with her not too long ago, for crying out loud! Fought the urge to stick your tongue down her flawless, goddess-chiseled throat... There's no other choice but to answer honestly; if you want her to trust you, hiding simple feelings is a surefire way to get back on her bad side. "... Yes. Of course I do..." Say it. "... I... love you." Her face doesn't change, but she lowers her head back to the weapon grave. "... I see..." What's... with that response? Did you... make a mistake? Curse your childish emotions! What use is love anyways? All it does in lead to pain and sorrow a- "Mmh!" Lyrica's soft moans as well as her lips nip your brooding thoughts right in the bud! She's... kissing you, and deeply at that! Does she... realize what she's doing? Does she care? Do you? This may just be... the best possible turn of events you can think of! You hold the love of your life close, not quite sure you understand exactly where all this is coming from... but even you can appreciate that you should never look a gift horse in the mouth. Or look an amorous 5pb. in the mouth... Where was this analogy going, again? Screw it, this is heaven~ "I'm happy for ya, Cavey... I knew you could hold out! That said, feelin' a wee bit jealous here..." Heh, sorry, Chika... At the very least, this one's for you... You and Lyrica burn up in the heat of your passion... but when the massive front doors of the Basilicom begin to shudder, you two instantly split apart and eye the door, rueing the blushes painting your cheeks... and the constant rush of convenient distruptive mood killers.](else:)[Lyrica nods to herself. "... O-Okay! I... G-Good idea, let's get moving!" Before she can run off, however, a bashful look overtakes her every feature. "... T-Thanks, Cave. I... really can always count on you. I think we can... actually do this! Escape this... urgh, nightmare." Another creepy smile; try harder, dammit! "I'll make sure that happens." You reach both arms for the pure idol's shoulders, your strong hands hopefully providing the comfort she so acutely seeks. "We're finally getting out of here... No more worrying from now on, al-" The massive front doors of the Basilicom begin to shudder, and you two instantly split apart and eye the door. Shit, who could possibly be coming?] Slam! The doors smash open... and out walks Markz, grinning as if he had just won a million dollars. Of course it's him... What's he want? "Heya, ladies! Hope I'm not interruptin' on anything kinky!" Yeah, he wishes. "Teh... Our Lady's got a surprise for ya two!" The creep snaps his fingers. "Yep, they're still out here!" What is he... Lyrica habitually squeezes your hand; she's fearing the exact same thing as you, it appears. Vert enters your view, stepping out into the downpour... before throwing IF's unconscious body to your feet. The deranged CPU smiles at you, but her left eye twitches ever-so-slightly. "Cave... We have a rather (link:"important matter to discuss...\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 10")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[IF lies motionless before you... How did Vert... ... She knew. She knew you were lying. She knew you weren't capable of killing your... friend. Stupid, stupid, stupid... You purposely stalled out here so that Vert and the rest would lower their guards while you and Lyrica confirmed your standings with both each other and Leanbox at large. With everyone looking the other way... you'd easily swoop in and rescue the brunette. ... Would it have mattered had you gone inside with the rest? Lady Green Heart must've known the moment you spoke to her. Sensed the hesitation, the foolishness, in your soul... It doesn't matter... You created this mess, and now you must clean it up. The CPU twirls her lance in the air, bringing the butt of the weapon to IF's sleeping face. "... I do not take kindly to liars, Cave. You should know this by now." With that, she bashes the blunt edge forward, whacking the battle-hardened veteran in the face and ushering her awake. "... Mhm? Hwuh?" she mumbles, fog still lifting from her eyes. She must instantly detect four figures surrounding her amidst the rain, for she doesn't stay drowsy for long. "... W-What? Where... What happe-" And then she sees you... and her brows furrow. Your hope, meanwhile, flies straight off of Leanbox. Lyrica attempts to reach out for her lover(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[(?)], but Markz blocks the pop idol's face with his massive gloved hand. His other fist clenches his magnum; perfect for any... immediate assassination orders. You've gotten savvy by now; you are no longer in control. Hell, have you ever been? "Don't panic, Cavey... Please don't. Please..." Vert pulls her lance back to her side and motions for you with her free hand. You... can tell where this is going. "Cave... You gave me your word, did you not? And yet, here Miss IF is: very much alive and well. Insubordination is so unlike you..." "I-I..." Don't even bother; you'll just make this worse. "Hmmhmmhmm... I may be willing to forgive this imprudence on one condition: set things right! IF is a traitor, as you've delineated to me time and time again." A devilish grin; the most vile your Lady has ever made! (link:"\"... Kill her. It's that simple.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 10")]](else:)[The battle-hardened veteran glares up at you, much as she did immediately after her defeat. Her mind must still be a confused mess... but regardless, she holds firm. Lyrica eyes Markz's gun, doubt creeping through her mind. She knows you can't handle this alone... but what can she do? You have to kill IF... or the worst will happen. What does she think that entails? This is different from Nepgear; she was a stranger who had no bearing on any of this. IF, though... you deliberately lied to protect her. This is treason. Does the pop idol only believe your life is in danger? You wish that was the truth. Why, oh why, can't that be the truth?! Vert crosses her arms, unimpressed by your panicked state. "Well? What's it going to be, Cave? IF... or..." "There's... no good way outta this, huh?... B-But it's not your fault, Cavey! I-It's not... your fault... Er, just know that I-I'll... be with you no matter what you choose." ... No. This is your struggle, and yours alone. Chika can't help you now... Don't drag anyone else into your madness. Commit to a sin. {(link:"Kill her.")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "kill")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 11")] (link:"... Refuse.")[(set: $loyaltyChoice to "refuse")(set: $endingPath to "Alive")(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Alive Ending Page 1")] }]

... You have no choice. Damn it, you have no choice... ... Goodbye, Miss IF. Your... death won't be for... nothing. It can't be for nothing. "..." Lyrica sees the writing on the wall. Tears streaming down her cheeks, she closes her eyes tight and turns away. Please don't... cry. IF glares up at your pointed blade... but she offers no resistance. Perhaps she understands... Still doesn't mitigate how despicable you are, though. ... Do it. You suppress an uncharacteristic sniffle... and fire a blast of energy. The sound is deafening; in one split second, the howling wind comes to a sudden stop, the elements themselves terrified of your resolve. Maybe you'll never hear anything again... Good. ... It... is done. The four of you stand in complete silence as the body of the once-proud battle-hardened veteran vanishes into the night. Her leafy bow hovers in the air for but a moment, before gently falling with the rain. You extend your hand, allowing the iconic image of your friend to land in your awaiting palm. More silence follows, Lyrica doing her best to maintain the toughest face possible. Hell, so are you... ... Once the rain has further damaged all your clothes to no end, Vert finally speaks up. "... Excellent job, Cave..." Her voice carries a hint of... sorrow? No, that can't possibly be correct... "... Even when the orders are tough, you eventually pull through... You have my respect." If only her respect mattered to you anymore... Without responding to your Lady, you approach the devastated pop idol. You fear her response should you place a hand on her shoulder, but you attempt so regardless. Lyrica(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[, upon feeling your comforting touch, leans her soft cheek into your extremity. Her warm tears dot your skin. "I'm sorry... Forgive me..." you whisper. The blue-haired angel still doesn't resist you; she instead gingerly nuzzles against you. Is this a sign she... doesn't blame you? That she knows you must have your reasons for what you did? What you *DO*? You can never be forgiven, but... perhaps you still had at least one ally left...](else:)[ immediately shrugs you off... before finally breaking down into messy sobs. Why did you do this to her? No... It was to save her life. She can't know that, but you do. "... I'm... sorry..." you whisper, but you doubt she's listening.] ... Eventually, the four of you decide to turn around and head back inside. Markz and Vert lag behind as you lead Lyrica forward. You have no clue what tomorrow may bring... but at least she is safe. You've failed both Chika and IF today... but no one else must die. (if: $loyaltyStrikes >= 3)["... Cave!" Vert suddenly shouts. How odd; why does she need to shout? Why isn't she following you two? Confused, you turn around... just in time to see a power beam shoot from the CPU's extended lance. It's far too fast to react, narrowly missing your chest... and blasting Lyrica in the back! 5pb. didn't even stand a chance; the surprise laser cuts through her body... and rips a clean hole straight through her heart. With nary a whimper, she falls to her knees first, then flat on her face. She's completely prostrate in the mud when she vanishes into a brilliant glow of dust, her trademark headphones all that remain... "... You ended IF's reign of terror, and for that I commend you! But... your complete and total loyalty to me definitely (link:"needs some work.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $endingPath to "Greener Pastures") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Greener Pastures Page 1")]](else:)[(link:"Put this day to rest...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 12")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[Later that night... (if: $lyricaInterest is true)[(set: $resultPage to "De Novo")It shouldn't come as any surprise that you've wound up in Lyrica's room... but you still can't quite shake the shock of the circumstances. Here you are, the murderer of her girlfriend... and yet, she's cuddling you close in her bed, much as two intimate lovers would. You've only ever been this close to Chika before; never the star idol of Leanbox! You have to admit, it's a pleasant experience... if not a surreal one. Tears still well in her pained eyes, so you rub her back as soothingly as possible. Why couldn't you have done more? Damn it, you feel so helpless... It may sting more, however, that Lyrica seems to not blame you in the slightest; why else would she be grasping you like this? This is definitely all your fault... but she's ignoring that. Why?... You don't understand... When the angel's cries finally subside... you speak your first words in a while. "Lyree... I should've done more... I-I could've stopped all this, I know I co-" A finger held vertically along your lips quiets you at once. The pop idol shakes her head. A soft smile attempts to light up her face, but she's far from the happiest woman on the planet. She's trying, though... For you? "Don't... start on that, okay? It's not your fault, Cave... Don't blame yourself, please..." Your heart sinks... The guilt somehow gets worse the more she claims you're not responsible. "... IF wouldn't want this... Neither would Chika, right?" She's... handling this far better than you expected. That does get you thinking, however; Lyrica has lost IF... and you lost Chika, all in a single day! You both lost someone you loved... You two are all that's left of your past lives. You can't afford to NOT stick together. "... I-I suppose not... I apologize." More silence follows; a trend you are cursed to abide by. You start to get lost in your thoughts again... when Lyrica's soft lips find their way to your own, as they peculiarly did earlier. K-Kissing you, even after everything?! With the lack of resolve and, truthfully, desire to stop... you respond swiftly, pulling the angel closer as your mouths mash together. This is wrong... isn't it? Well... maybe it's not? She clearly wants this, and... you certainly aren't resisting... so maybe it's for the best? IF is gone; you both need to live with that. Is it not the duty of those who survive to move on and live a life that's full? You will make Lyrica happy... forever. The two of you break the kiss to gather some life-giving air within your lungs. While your heart is conflicted, one look into Fivey's eyes proves that she has no doubts or concerns whatsoever. Don't complain, you fool... This... should be a good thing! A great thing! A PERFECT thing! She begins to lean in some more, expecting another union... but you reluctantly open your stupid mouth to speak instead. "... Lyrica... What about our.... p-plan? We can... still flee Leanbox, I know we can. Together, we can... start anew. Whatever you desire, really... What do you say?" Apprehension sneaks through the blue-haired angel's eyes; this is a topic she no longer wishes to think about, it seems. Can't blame her; it's not like you made it far along in escaping, anyways. "... U-Um, m-maybe soon! L-Let's give it a day or two for things to settle down, and then... Y-Yeah! W-We'll... leave soon..." She suddenly presses her entire body against yours, lovingly gazing up at you throughout. Your mind goes even blanker than before. Drat, and just as you were about to reflect on what she truly meant... " Until then, will you... stay with me? I... need... you." Like a maiden possessed, your hand rises to fondle Lyrica's cheek... Er, you really need to find better ways to word things. She is so pure and beautiful... and she wants to give herself to you. The back of your mind nags you to stop this... but you aren't strong enough to combat her advances. Who cares about Vert's insanity, or Markz's sleeziness, or Gamindustri's future, or today's atrocities, or all that crap? Right now... you just want to make and share all the love in the world with this perfect specimen of a woman. "... I love you." "I love you too! I... love you!" But does she really love you? Does... Lyrica really love 'Cave'? Or, have you... become 'IF'? She has lost her love... and you have stepped up to fill her empty shoes... ... IF was a better person than you... so if this is the case, take it as a compliment. No, a blessing... Another kiss, another long stretch of pure joy. It's not long before the heat of the moment catches up to you... and as soon as a wandering hand travels to a most... unexpected location, it is clear that things have changed forever! For the best, or for the worst? Does it even matter? Happiness is fleeting... Just accept this moment. Even a single instance of merriment is better than a lifetime of regret... You've been through so much... For now, just... (link:"embrace this new life...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 12")]](else:)[(set: $resultPage to "Loyalty")"Lyrica? May I... come in?" No response... so you allow yourself in anyways. You feel like you're channeling Chika... It hasn't even been a day, and her soul is already overwriting your own. Could be worse, you suppose; Chika was perfect. The pop idol sits on her lavish bed in complete silence, her eyes red but her tears already dried up. She pays no heed to your intrusion, instead staring blankly at her fancy black boots. This is no good... ... IF is gone, but you two still have a plan to pull off, remember? Once you sufficiently accept she is not prepared to give any sort of reply, you attempt to steer the conversation towards the fateful topic you were so devoted to mere hours ago. "... Look, I... know things could've gone better out there... but we can still do this, Lyrica. We can still... escape." Silence. "... Just say the word!" Nothing. "We can... start over, just the two of us!" Not a single twitch, nor a breath out of line. "... The moment you wish to leave... I will be right behind you." She's ignoring you. Heartily so. "I won't... let you down." Again. You shut yourself up for a couple more minutes, and predictably find yourself standing like a fool as the blue-haired angel refuses to acknowledge your existence. Damn it... Everything you did to protect her... Was it all for naught?! Despair bubbles up your throat. "... Lyrica... Why won't you speak to me?" Stop playing dumb. "... Please say something. I... I want to be here for you." But SHE doesn't. "I WANT to HELP!" Then why DON'T YOU?! "You're... the only one I have left... Everything I do is for you, Lyrica." As if she'd accept an antisocial, robotic, insane, disgusting monster like you! "I love you; I always have! Please, don't... do this..." But she doesn't care... She's wiser than you give her credit for. She knows that if there's anyone in this world who will let her down... it's you. Shutting you out isn't her being cruel; it's her being sagacious. Lyrica has evolved out of needing you. To survive, she needs to leave you behind. "Cavey... She's been through a lot already. Let her rest a bit... Her head will be clear one of these days, yep! I guarantee it!" ... Chika's right. The Oracle sure is smarter than you... Always been that way, hasn't it? You two were children, and your pesky best friend always knew more about life than even most adults. For some, being wise beyond their years meant that they'd view the world through dark-tinted goggles. Cynical, pessimistic, dreary... Knowledge was draining. Not for Chika, though... She is peppy from the moment she wakes up each morning to the second she falls asleep... Nah, more than that; her cheerful attitude never rests! ... You miss her. Why did you have to (if: $caveKarma > 4)[kill her](else:)[let her die]? Lyrica remains completely silent... and by now, you've had enough. Wishing her goodnight, you meander to the door... before looking back one last time. Her head has shifted just an inch... Her eyes still look down, but you take this as a sign that she was at least watching you step out. What that means... is anyone's guess. Right now, the two of you need some well-deserved sleep. You walk straight out the door and peacefully press it shut. You successfully followed all your orders and kept Lyrica alive... but at what cost? N-No, don't think like that! It's too late to doubt yourself. ... Tomorrow is another day. Another day, another day... Until the pop idol says the word, you are still a loyal soldier of the Leanbox army. Better head to bed and prepare for whatever the (link:"future may hold...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioPathetic.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 12")]] ](else:)[{<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}... In the immediate days that followed, Vert kept her head low, choosing to avoid further conflict until her army's strength had made a full recovery. She had lost both her nation's Oracle as well as countless amounts of Leanbox soldiers... so provoking the other goddesses would be unwise. However... the other nations seeked revenge. News of IF's execution spread fast, quickly reaching Lady Purple Heart's doorstep. The ditzy CPU, having never felt such a powerful emotion before, engaged her HDD (which was cursed, much like Lady Green Heart's... At least, that's what Planeptune's Oracle, Histoire, claimed...) and declared complete and utter war on Leanbox itself. Lastation was invariably roped in, due to the alliance by marriage... though it's not like Vert hadn't done anything to upset Lady Black Heart anyways. Neptune, at risk of descending into complete madness, called on Lowee for help... but Lady White Heart (miraculously answering the phone for once) declined, citing an ongoing search for a certain terrorist's whereabouts. She didn't specify... but rumors abound that the person of interest is a dead ringer for Planeptune's CPU Candidate Nepgear. What is Gamindustri coming to? Either way... the search has proved futile thus far. Regardless, the stage was set: a week after the Incident on Leanbox that claimed IF's life, Planeptune would be invading the very same Basilicom. Now was the perfect time for revenge, Neptune assumed: her army was firmly amassed and ready for action, while the Land of Green Pastures still had to be suffering over the casualties they suffered that fateful day. Planeptune didn't realize one thing, though: Leanbox had fared much better than they perhaps should've! For one, while many footsoldiers were gone, the dead were just that: footsoldiers. The important and skillful fighters were well and truly alive. Beyond that, however... one key figure remained loyally by Lady Vert's side: Cave of the Leanbox Special Mission Department! Her fighting prowess was enough to turn the tide of any battle... and now, with only one soul left to protect, the warrior was more dangerous than ever. Lyrica would never fall on her watch... She'd cut through her own friends if it meant protecting the woman she loved. Planeptune and Lastation don't suspect a thing... Time will only tell what fate awaits Neptune, Noire, and the other heads of the invading nations. But that, my friends... is a tale for... (link:"another day...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 13")]]

(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"Ahhh... It's such a beautiful day out!" Lyrica coos as she looks up at the sky's fluffy white clouds. "Don't you think so, Cave?" Cave nods, her head leaning against the woman she loves. "Indeed... but no match for you." "C-Cave! T-That's embarrassing!" the angel blushes... but she can't stop her smile. One day turned to two, two to three, three to four... A week has already passed, and Lyrica's cold feet over the plan to flee Leanbox still had not thawed. It was looking as if... the two would never leave. Well, so long as things stayed the way they were... so be it. In the past week, these two had quickly become lovers. Cave still had no idea what spurred this turn of events... but she wasn't about to protest. The two lived on in happiness, at least as far as the rest of the nation could see. Markz avoided the two for once, and even Vert had... mellowed out in ordering Cave around. Seems the impending invasion was the farthest thing from her mind... Cave would still continue to serve Leanbox... but she had bigger priorities by now. Lyrica was no longer just an idol the SMD warrior wished to protect; she was now the woman she'd marry one day, she could feel it! Marriage, starting a family, who knows... Either way, she now had something greater to fight for. But that means... fight, she must. The red-haired soldier thinks for a moment, before lightly kissing Fivey's neck. "... So, I'm... going to be helping out with the defense tomorrow, most likely.. They won't need me, though. Things look to go smoot-" "Shush!" Lyrica playfully hisses. "Today's our special day! No business talk, remember?" How could Cave forget? "Y-You are right, my apologies!" With that, the stylish warrior pulls her lover even closer. "It's just us today... That's all we need." She could no longer afford to be the same Cave from before: always obsessed with work and professionalism and failure... No, she needed to become IF: affectionate, light-hearted... and reliable. The star idol of Leanbox, eyes shut tight, grunts in delighted approval. "Hehe... You're so cute, Cavey." Likewise, Lyrica was slowly becoming more like Chika with each rise of the sun. Chika and IF would live on... inside the two who remained. They'd live these fresh new lives for their friends who left them behind... ... More time passes, with the couple now laying in the grass, close enough to be misconstrued as a solitary figure. A few birds fly by as the bright clouds momentarily block out the beaming sun. It is in quiet moments like these... where Cave's concerns are at their worst. "... Say, Lyree..." she whispers, leading to the pop idol gently turning her head in acknowledgement. Her eyes remain closed in pure bliss. Cave continues. "... You don't... blame me for what... happened... do you?" The surroundings instantly gasp, the birds falling silent and the sun further retreating behind the cloudy veil before it. The SMD warrior watches for any hint of what is going through her lover's mind... but 5pb. gives nothing away. Just as soon as the urge to reiterate the statement nearly leaps from Cave's tongue... Lyrica suddenly opens her eyes. Her smile stays as cheerful as always. "... Hmm? Did you (link:"say something, Cave?\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Loyalty Ending Page 13")]](else:)[{<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}Just like that, the stylish soldier heard all her ears required. She pauses for but a second, before gently shaking her head. "... No, it's nothing... Come here." Putting on her most relaxed face possible, Cave pulls Lyrica in for a loving kiss, one the pop idol is all-too happy to answer. The past doesn't matter... These two lovers had vowed to begin their lives anew... and there was no going back anyways, so why bother thinking about it? Don't look back. You can never (link:"look back.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]](else:)[{<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"I expect nothing short of excellence from you, as always... Now, move out!" Vert's voice echoes off the majestic halls of her throne room... and Cave bows in respect. She now had her orders: defend against the Planeptune invaders whenever they decide to show up. By nightfall, it was extremely likely Leanbox would yet again become another warzone. But Vert was not afraid, even without her Oracle. Leanbox was more than ready to meet Neptune's foolish challenge... Cave as well felt no trepidation; she's fought so many battles this last month that the experience had completely dulled by now. This was just another day... Business as usual. ... Upon exiting the CPU's central chamber, the SMD warrior finds herself walking the familiar path to Lyrica's bedroom. Not this again, she thought... The pop idol still refused to say a word to her once close friend... and try as she might, Cave couldn't tune out the pain that was eating her up inside. So, day in and day out this past week, she tried time and time again to elicit a response out of the saddened blunette. No such luck... Still, Cave is nothing if not persistent. She casually knocks on 5pb's door, and awaits no greeting or permission to enter inside; she simply pushes open the accursed wooden barrier and heads in. Lyrica lays on her bed, playing some handheld video game. Her expression stays blank, as if Cave was simply some ghost she was choosing to ignore. The red-haired soldier speaks. "... Well, I'm... going to be on the frontlines tonight. Shouldn't be a long battle... We just have to convince Planeptune to retreat and this... will end cleanly. No one has to get hurt..." The electronic sounds of enemy troops getting cut down by a weaponized tuning fork are her only reply; Lyrica refuses to look up from her game. "... Well, I'll... be going now. Please be safe..." Rejected for the hundredth time that week, Cave walks back for the hallway. As soon as she has one foot out the door, however... the SMD warrior turns her head one final time. "... I know things seem like they'll never get any better... but I will always love you, for what that's worth. And please remember: my offer to leave... is still on the table. [Forever, okay?"]<continue1|(click:?continue1)[ Cave's words take some time to sink in... but once they do, a certain look which she cannot identify crosses the pop idol's face. Lyrica slowly lifts her head from the game, her eyes connecting with the soldier's for the first time in what felt like forever. Her mouth opens, unaccompanied by any sound for the first few moments... before finally, Lyrica finds the resolve to [speak.]<continue2|](click:?continue2)[ (link:"\"... I know.\"")[(goto:"Credits")]]]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $resultPage is "Jailbreak")[You've achieved Ending **4-A/14**: "Awakening the Chaos"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Picnic")[You've achieved Ending **4-B/14**: "Warm Food"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "De Novo")[You've achieved Ending **6-A/14**: "... De Novo"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Loyalty")[You've achieved Ending **6-B/14**: "Loyalty..."!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Greener Pastures")[You've achieved Ending **8/14**: "To Greener Pastures..."!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Moving On")[You've achieved Ending **10-A/14**: "We'll Carry On"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Alive")[You've achieved Ending **10-B/14**: "Alive"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Third Wheel")[You've achieved Ending **10-C/14**: "Two out of Three Ain't Bad"!] KEY OF CHAOS: EHORDEOP Replay Scenario: CTQOSVZF Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[Ending 5] (elseif: $endingPath is "Loyalty")[Ending 7] (elseif: $endingPath is "Greener Pastures")[Ending 9] (elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")[Ending 11]' (if: $endingPath is "Imprisoned")[IF: Fine, None | Cave: Fine, Innocent | Reunion: IF LINDA: "So, um, yeah... The brunette chick will find herself surrounded by lots and lots of men— no fears, this isn't one of those videos on Geo's taboo list— and she'll have to talk her way to her goal, or some crap. Well... she'll need to learn to shut her mouth before she gets too many answers! Maybe clear up one subject of confusion, maybe pick and choose between parts of three topics... but if she asks what I'd estimate to be a full two topics, this ending will NOT be in your future. God, who writes this stuff? Is this Judge's work again?"] (elseif: $endingPath is "Loyalty")[IF: Danger, None | Cave: Danger, Innocent | Reunion: IF LINDA: "Y'know what I hate the most?! Useless rodents that talk. Y'know what else I hate?! Bitches who talk way more than they need to! Well, it's my... lucky day: that brunette bitch, when confronted by a group of combatants, must ask WAY too many questions! Just keep asking away... Good thing I won't be in THAT ending either!"] (elseif: $endingPath is "Greener Pastures")[IF: Danger, Stomach | Cave: Fine, Innocent | Reunion: IF] (elseif: $endingPath is "Alive")[IF: Fine, None | Cave: **Critical**, Innocent | Reunion: Cave NEPGEO: "Here's a special one! Poor Cave... She's always so hard on herself! If only she'd accept my advances, I really think I could cheer her up! Can you put in a good word with her for me?... E-Er, L-Lindy's lookin' pretty mad, so lemme get back on track! Anyways, to get this, Cave has to be reminded of all her failures, to the point where both her mind AND body are on the brink of collapsing... but in true Cave-Baby fashion, she STILL has to work herself even harder and defeat IF! Oh, I hope she'll be alright..." LINDA: "Er... Geo, what the hell does that mean, exactly?! How is that supposed to help, er, ANYONE?!" NEPGEO: "Hmm? I thought I did a pretty good job! What it means is, Cave-Cutie needs to take damage as much as possible, and still survive! Like, every possible moment she can get hurt, she SHOULD... unless it involves a mortar, or her fourth and fifth choice involving her false-IF sightings; she should avoid any harm in those three, definitely! By doing this, she'll see a total of seven quick flashes from her past! There! Wasn't that obvious from what I said before?" LINDA: "..."] (if: $resultPage is "Jailbreak")[Path to 'B' NEPGEO: "Congrats on overcoming that... er, whatever the hell that last challenge was! Really awesome, yeah! You free tonight? Or, if you're a dude... you have a cute sister? I have pics I can share with you if ya play nice!" LINDA: "GEO! Just DO YOUR JOB!" NEPGEO: "H-Haha, sorry about that, Lindy! Anyways, I prolly don't need to tell you this, but to get the 'B' side of this ending, Cave will have to... well, LOSE that final fight! Sharing a bed with Adrian will scar her so much, she'll either have to lose or willingly surrender! Capiche?" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Warm Food")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "Hmmmm... I wasn't there, so I gotta ask: did you lose, or click surrender? It's okay, tell me the truth!... Well, I think you already know the answer here: instead of failing... Cave has to overcome the last trial! How? You're smart... I hope; you'll figure it out!" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "De Novo")[Path to 'B' NEPGEO: "Niiiiiiiice... So Cave kissed Lyrica, eh? I know things are complicated, but I hope they'll be happy together in the end. Don't you?... Hmm, oh, dang it! Says here that, to get 'B'... you can't let those two hormone-infused hotties swap spit. But where's the fun in that?" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Loyalty")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "... You didn't choose to kiss her, did you? Well... if you want to see another variant of this ending, go replay this scenario and RIGHT THAT WRONG, bucko!!!" LINDA: "... Er, don't mind her. She gets a bit... antsy... Anywho, what do you think? Would Cave FINALLY kissing that pop idol really be the best idea? Sounds kinda... I don't know... Neh, but what do I know?" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Moving On")[Path to 'C' LINDA: "... Woah, did... Geo write this or something?... H-Huh, it's serious?! REALLY?! Well, okay... Yeah, you... pretty much have to see Cave become completely desperate. Sicko... She has to profess her love to not only two of her closest friends... but then also see them get shot down. From there... once she's alone in that random cabin with the chick she used to think was her most despised enemy, she'll have to... 'put the moves' on her, just like that! Man... on second thought, I NEED to see this! Get to it!" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Alive")[Path to 'A' LINDA: "Well, that didn't end too bad... but perhaps if you worded yourself a bit better, taking more care with not mentioning a certain blunette's name... well, maybe things could've taken a bit of a... different turn, eh? See, I can be preeeeeeeetty wise sometimes!" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Third Wheel")[Path to 'B' LINDA: "... So, was this your first time in that cabin, or did you get here on a repeat playthrough? Did you just... know that you needed to lock lips with three different chicks in the same 24-hour span? Oh well, just in case you're confused on how to get the other variations... start with playing the 'pop idol' card when trying to comfort the pissed brunette, okay? Trust me; I'm a villain!" ] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

(set: $endingPath to "Greener Pastures")(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}Those headphones look so unusual on their own... Quite frankly, you've never really paid them any heed when they were on the idol's head. They just fit her so well that they simply always seemed to be a physical part of her form. You lift them up from the mud, your head blank. These are too perfect to be laying in the dirt of Leanbox! Keep these safe... ... Why? Why? Why? WHY? WHY? WHY?! WHY?! WHY?! WHY?! WHY?! WHYWHYWHYWHYWHYWHYWHYWHYWHYWHY?! "Come, Markz; let's get out of this awful rain," Vert says, unconcerned with your mental breakdown. The villainous duo walk off, headed for the door. Leaving you behind as well... "You guys finally made it! Woohoo, it was gettin' kinda lonely here!" "Sorry to keep ya waiting, Chika! Got a little, er, preoccupied, heh." "At least we're all together again! All three of us!" "Damn straight, sista! We're gonna have so much fun~!" Chika, IF, and Lyrica... The three closest companions you've ever had... have gone on without you. You can see them just on the horizon, embracing each other as they journey into an otherworldly sunset. Sheltered from the rain, they no longer have anything to fear. They're free... and together. ... You have no place with them. Your curse is to continue walking this doomed land, alone... It would be such a helpless endeavor to attempt anything to rectify this sad state. ... No... There is one thing you can do. Vert and Markz... are (link:"still in your sights!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 1")]](else:)[Calm yourse-... No, you know what? Let the rage fester. Let it build, and build, and BUILD... until there's nothing left inside your body except pure anger. End... this... nightmare. "... VEEEEEEEEEERRRRTTT!!!" Without even taking care to realize, you fire a bolt of energy from your right-handed blade. The beam soars at the speed of light... and just narrowly misses Lady Green Heart's cheek. Don't think you missed, however; that was simply a warning shot. The issuing of a challenge... Vert immediately stops moving after her potential brush with death, before slowly creaking her body around to face you. "... I'm in no mood for games, Cave... but if we must play, do know that I never lose. Please bear that in mind." Your response? Another shot from your makeshift guns! This time, the CPU deflects it with her lance. "That's it, bitch!" Markz growls as he instinctively reaches for his gun... but the goddess [stops him.]<continue| (click:?continue)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="greenerPasturesBossTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_Next_BGM-Judgement.mp3');" /></div> (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false)(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)(set: $vertBossHealth to 200)(set: $vertMaxHealth to 200)(set: $caveObserve to 6)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $vertEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)(set: $guardBreakOne to false)(set: $guardBreakTwo to false)(set: $guardBreakThree to false) }"... Let me handle this, Markz. I will play fairly; let's not utterly humiliate her right off the bat!" She strikes a proper fighting pose as Markz simply shrugs, and the deranged Green Heart aims her spear for your neck. "... You should've played by MY rules, Cave... I simply kept true to my word. You disobeyed our orders... and so, Lyrica had to die. It is most regrettable that our partnership must come to an end... but Leanbox will carry on well-enough without you." ... (link:"Go to hell.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $saveProtect to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) (goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")]]]

{(if: $saveProtect is true)[(savegame: "A", "The Death of Green Pastures") (set: $saveProtect to false)] (if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter >= 2)[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Skill3","Skill4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($vertSkillsUsage is true OR $vertEnergyMeter is 0))[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $vertSkillsUsage is false AND $vertEnergyMeter is 1)[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](else:)[]}(if: $caveBossHealth > 0 AND $vertBossHealth > 0)[(if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"This is all well and fun, Cave... but please, can't we stop this? I don't approve of my soldiers, past or present, humiliating themselves. Makes me look bad.\"","\"We all make mistakes, Cave. Seems you're not too keen to learn from yours...\"","\"Very cute... Are you done yet?\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"I gave you a chance to cease this foolishness... but you now leave me no choice!\"","\"You're just embarrassing yourself, Cave! Die with some dignity at least!\"","\"Are you not aware of what I am capable of? You kill helpless opponents... while I burn my mortal enemies to the ground.\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"W-What do you want? My life? Leanbox's demise?! Think rationally for a moment!\"","\"I-I will never bow to the likes of you! Die, cur!\"","\"You have not a single clue what you're doing, do you?! Gamindustri will die without me! Everyone will *suffer*!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]] What do you do? {(if: $caveObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack. The fool.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack. It won't be enough, but it's a cute effort.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy. Wow, how scary!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill! She should realize her days of relaxing are over.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill! Why does she bother?](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill4")[Lady Green Heart looks to finish you with one of her ultimate skills. Her foolishness has blinded her.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[She's afraid of you... She knows you can kill her... and you're going to.]]](else:)[(if: $vertChoice is "Attack1" OR $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert appears to be planning a basic attack. The fool.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3" OR $vertChoice is "Attack4")[You suspect Vert is preparing for a hard-hitting melee attack. It won't be enough, but it's a cute effort.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[From the looks of it, Vert may be channeling a small amount of energy. Wow, how scary!](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[Vert is relaxing, it seems; a perfect stance to use a healing skill! She should realize her days of relaxing are over.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3")[An unease fills the air... The deranged CPU must be charging up some devastating special skill! Why does she bother?](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill4")[Lady Green Heart looks to finish you with one of her ultimate skills. Her foolishness has blinded her.](elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[She's afraid of you... She knows you can kill her... and you're going to.]]} (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$caveObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")] (click:?defend)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Stab]<stab| | [Jump attack]<jumpattack| [Running slash]<runningslash| | [Somersault kick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?stab)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "stab")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "jumpattack")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "runningslash")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "somersaultkick")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Malicious Heaven]<malicious|](else:)[<strike>Malicious Heaven</strike>] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Full Burst Option]<fullburstoption|](else:)[<strike>Full Burst Option</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "shootbullet")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?heal)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?malicious)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "malicious")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "fullburstoption")(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Result")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")]}]](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[No... You've used far too much energy, and your body has endured unparalled levels of pain! You... can feel... your life... slipping... (link:"a...w...a...y...")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")]] <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10</div>

{(set: $vertAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2" OR $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to true)(if: $vertChoice is "Skill1" OR $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3" OR $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $vertEnergyMeter to $vertEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $vertSkillsUsage to false)](if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $vertChoice != "Skill1")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... (if: $caveAttackChance > 95 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[and it veers just off-course. You missed... How pathetic.](else:)[and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 25)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]25](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 35)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]35](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 50)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]50] health!] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $vertChoice != "Skill3")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[and it fails. Your mind must be elsewhere...](else:)[and it connects with the CPU! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 35)35](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 40)40] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $vertChoice != "Skill4")[(if: $vertChoice is "Defense")[Vert holds up her lance to block... ]You charge up some energy to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... (if: $caveAttackChance > 60 AND ($vertChoice != "Defense" AND $vertChoice != "Skill2"))[before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is...](else:)[and they fire on the CPU! The lasers deal a violent (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 40)40](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 45)45](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 50)50] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 90 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[You try to stab outwards with your twin blades... but Vert swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[You run forward and jab your twin blades towards Vert... and you manage to connect! You've dealt (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)10](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 85 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[You leap in the air and kick... but Vert dodges using her HDD's insane speed!](else:)[You leap in the air and kick towards Vert... and you bash her in the face! You've dealt (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You dash forward and slice through the air using your twin blades... (if: $caveAttackChance > 80 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and you catch Vert in a short three-hit combo! You've dealt (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30] damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You run up to the goddess and perform a backwards-somersault kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 65 AND $vertChoice != "Skill2")[but Vert sidesteps your incoming foot!](else:)[and you manage to kick her up into the air! You leap after her and, using one of your blades, stab her back into the ground! She's taken a nasty (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 35)35] damage!]](if: $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $vertBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $vertChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert holds her spear tight in both hands and swings upwards, releasing a deadly wave of energy!... (if: $vertAttackChance > 80)[which veers just far enough away from you... (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance > 95)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and fire a shot from your makeshift blade-gun... and it veers just off-course. Well, this was a failure all around...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" AND $caveAttackChance <= 95)[You, however, channel some energy up your arm and fire a blast from the end of your makeshift blade-gun... and it connects with the CPU head-on! She takes (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30] damage!]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 95)[You charge up some energy yourself to fire a bullet from your twin blades! You shoot... but it veers just off-course to avoid the CPU. Damn it! Her attack hits you, and you take (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)10](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 35)35] damage!](else:)[You charge up some energy yourself to fire a bullet from your twin blades! You both attack at the same time... and the intensity of your attacks cancel each other out!]](else:)[It is too fast for you to react, and it singes you for (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)10](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)30] damage!] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert closes her eyes in concentration... and by using the unparalled powers of her HDD form, heals (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth + 20)(if: $vertBossHealth > $vertMaxHealth)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertMaxHealth)]20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth + 30)(if: $vertBossHealth > $vertMaxHealth)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertMaxHealth)]30](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth + 40)(if: $vertBossHealth > $vertMaxHealth)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertMaxHealth)]40] health! ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert waves her hand... and suddenly, a massive spear emerges from a portal to the right of her! It stabs forward... (if: $vertAttackChance > 65)[but just misses you! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance > 75)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and try to unleash Malicious Heaven... but it fails due to your diminished concentration. Well, don't you both feel like winners?...](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" AND $caveAttackChance <= 75)[You, however, focus all of your energy and unleash Malicious Heaven... and it connects with the CPU! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 35)35](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 40)40] damage!]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 75)[and you charge up some energy yourself to unleash devastating wind upon her! The orbs begin to form... before subsiding completely. Seems your concentration wasn't up to par... However, the giant lance quickly approaches you and explodes on contact, and you take (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 45)45] damage!](else:)[and you charge a ton of energy yourself to unleash your Malicious Heaven skill! You both attack at the same time... and your orbs of wind collide with the giant lance, causing it to explode. You cancelled her skill out!]](else:)[and effortlessly collides with you square in the chest, before exploding! You are lucky to have only taken (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 25)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 45)45] damage!] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]Vert begins glowing before she dashes forward, attempting an uppercut slash! (if: $vertAttackChance > 45)[However, she horribly miscalculates and misses! (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance > 60)[Likewise, you charge up some energy and summon forth five 'C'-shaped turrets... which are aiming the wrong way when they fire their lasers. Come on, focus!!!](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption" AND $caveAttackChance <= 60)[You focus all of your energy and unleash Full Burst Option... and the turrets fire on the CPU! The lasers deal a nifty (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 40)40](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 45)45](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 50)50] damage!]](else:)[(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 60)[You charge up some energy yourself to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, your energy isn't as strong as it usually is... Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 35)35](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 55)55] damage!](else:)[You charge a ton of energy yourself to summon five 'C'-shaped turrets! You both attack at the same time... and your lasers blast the fast-approaching CPU, breaking the energy barrier surrounding her! You've successfully cancelled her attack!]](else:)[Her uppercut strikes you, and you are at her mercy as she next slices diagonally-downward with an intense vigor. You find yourself floating in the air for a moment, as she reels her right arm back and sweeps one last time... which instantly causes an explosion to surround you! After the onslaught is over, you find that you've taken (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 35)35](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 55)55] damage!] ] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack1")[Vert thrusts her lance right for you... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 90 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and she connects with you right in the stomach! You take a basic (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)5](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 25)25] damage!] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert swings her lance high for a mean uppercut... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 85 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way on pure instinct!](else:)[and you get sliced for (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)10](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)20](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)30] damage!] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3")[Vert spins her spear over her head once, then slices horizontically. A whirlwind shoots out from her weapon... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend, and luckily even the elements themselves are not enough to break through your guard!](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 75 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[but you manage to dart out of the way by the skin of your teeth!](else:)[and you get sliced by the razor-sharp wind! You lose (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)10](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)25](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 35)35] health!] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack4")[Vert jams her lance into the ground, as if setting up for a pole-vault... However, she propels herself upwards and, while holding onto the now-stationary weapon, spins 3-4 times. She then rips the lance from the ground and leaps right for you, using her momentum to slash you with a dramatic intensity! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your blades to defend... and your block stops her dead. All that effort...](elseif: $vertAttackChance > 60 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[However, you are attentive and quick enough to sidestep her before the damage can be done!](else:)[You can't help but get caught... and you lose (if: $guardBreakOne is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)15](elseif: $guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)30](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true)[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 40)40] health right then and there!] ] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" OR $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" OR $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" OR $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick")[Vert holds up her lance to block... and she successfully fends off your pathetic attack!](elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your blades to block. Vert, meanwhile, also holds up her lance to block... Great minds think alike, they say... ]]](else:)[]} {(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)}Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10 (link: "Next...")[(if: $guardBreakOne is false AND $vertBossHealth <= 130)[(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakOne to true)(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 2")]](elseif: ($guardBreakOne is true AND $guardBreakTwo is false) AND $vertBossHealth <= 75)[(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakTwo to true)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 3")]](elseif: $guardBreakTwo is true AND $vertBossHealth <= 10)[(if: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")](else:)[(set: $guardBreakThree to true)(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 4")]](else:)[(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[(savegame: "B", "Greener Pastures Last Stand Sequence")Vert stumbles back, surprised by your strength. You haven't even started yet! Back at the castle's front doors, a look of caution crosses Markz's face. "S-Shit, she's actually pushing her!" Despite his orders to stand aside and let the goddess fight solo, the grizzled veteran frantically motions for a group of soldiers waiting on standby. "G-Get out there, maggots! Kick the skank's ass!" The men, hesitant as they may be, waste no time in charging for you. Vert pouts, clearly upset at the intruders... but strangely enough, she steps out of the way. Five men now surround you, Lady Green Heart watching on. (link:"Think fast!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) (set: $vertBossHealth to 150) (set: $ehp to 10) (set: $mhp to 10) (set: $ename to "Soldier 1") (set: $turn to "you") (if: $caveBossHealth < 50)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 50)] (set: $eatkname to "bullet") (set: $enemyDefeated to 0) (goto: "Cave Last Stand Action")]](else:)[(savegame: "B", "Greener Pastures Phase 2")The last soldier falls like a sack of dirt... and Vert swings before you can even catch your breath. You just barely catch her heavy lance with your left-handed blade, struggling to push back against her otherworldly HDD-enhanced strength. Straining, she scowls down upon you. "Pathetic little wench! Now..." With great strength, she channels all her power to the weapon... and blasts you out of the clash, your feet sliding backwards through the mud. You remain standing, never losing a beat. You're done playing games. "... we fight like true warriors! Time to get serious! On guard, (link:"Cave!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(if: $caveEnergy < 5)[(set: $caveEnergy to 5)](set: $caveObserve to it + 3)(goto:"Greener Pastures Boss Action")]] <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: (print: $vertBossHealth)/$vertMaxHealth| Vert's Energy: (print: $vertEnergyMeter)/10</div>

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[[(savegame: "B", "Greener Pastures Timed Trial")Vert's staggered... Now! GRRRRAAAAAAAHHH! You blast your blades forward like a speeding freight train, colliding with the CPU's chest... and shooting her at high speed for the Basilicom, her feet completely leaving the ground! She lets out a pathetic whine as she crashes into the front doors... and smashes them right off their hinges. You just bashed the damn doors down, using her very body as a siege weapon... ... So close! Don't let her recover; rush to her and finish this farce! Markz retreats inside to check on the goddess... He won't be safe for long either. You kick off the dirt and, eyes red as blood, soar for [the castle.]<continue1|]<passage| []<passage2| []<passage3| []<passage4| [Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100]<passage5|{ (click:?continue1)[(replace:?passage)[Almost there, almost ther- Suddenly, two feet collide with your cheek... and you tumble to your knees. W-What was... H-Huh?! You look up... and find yourself kneeling before IF. Not this crap again... Why won't they stay out of your way?! Ignore them... Hurry, [get to Vert!]<continue2|]] (click:?continue2)[(replace:?passage)[The rain flies to the right, the howling wind destroying all common sense. You rise back to your feet... Ready?] (live: 2s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage2)[The battle-hardened veteran summons three Qatars from her long sleeves and winds her right arm back. She's gunning for your neck.]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage3)[ [Push left!]<left| --- [Jump!]<jump| --- [Plow through!]<plow| (click:?left)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Left")(replace: ?passage3)[Pushing left!]](click:?jump)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Jump")(replace: ?passage3)[Jumping!]](click:?plow)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Plow")(replace: ?passage3)[Plowing through!]]]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[5]] (live: 7s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[4]] (live: 8s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[3]] (live: 9s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[2]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[1]] (live: 11s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[](replace: ?passage2)[](replace: ?passage3)[](replace: ?passage4)[]] (live: 11.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Left")[You don't have time for this! You duck your head and push past IF... and she slices through empty air. Having failed to take you down, she vanishes... Grr, hurry along!(set: $caveObserve to it + 1)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](elseif: $reactionChoice is "Jump")[IF put in some nice effort... but you are far too nimble to fall for her tricks! You perform a stylish flying leap over her head... and her blades slice up and catch your hips. D-Damn it... No, keep going!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](elseif: $reactionChoice is "Plow")[Arming yourself with your scissors, you charge forward... right as IF brings down her knives, catching you smack-dab in the shoulder! You bear through the pain and stab her with your own blades... and the brunette disappears into the haze. Don't slip up again!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong") ](else:)[Too late! IF's knives slice your chest, and pain courses through your body... but oddly, no blood drips from your wound. Hell, where IS the wound? You look to counter-attack... but by then, the brunette has vanished. You're losing it... B-But nevermind that!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")] [Get to Vert!!!]<continue3|]] (live: 12s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage5)[Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100]]] (click:?continue3)[(if: $caveBossHealth < 1)[(set: $caveDeath to "Timed")(goto: "Loyalty Ending Game Over")](replace:?passage)[... Hm? Is that the strumming of a... guitar you hear? No... No!!! Standing before you this time... is Lyrica, armed with her trademark weaponized guitar. Her pick gleams brightly, even in the depressing darkness. The water at her feet quakes and bubbles from some unseen rumble... She looks to end you; for vengeance! You failed her... and now, you must [pay the price!]<continue4|]] (click:?continue4)[(replace:?passage2)[She moves to pluck her strings... You have to be strong, don't falter!] (live: 2s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage3)[ [Swerve left!]<left| --- [Jump!]<jump| --- [Slide under her!]<slide| (click:?left)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?passage3)[Swerving left!]](click:?jump)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?passage3)[Jumping!]](click:?slide)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?passage3)[Sliding under!]]]] (live: 3s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[4]] (live: 4s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[3]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[2]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[1]] (live: 7s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[](replace: ?passage2)[](replace: ?passage3)[](replace: ?passage4)[]] (live: 7.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[Knowing Lyrica well, you leap high over the pop idol's head... as a vicious wave of blue harmonic energy hums out of her guitar, blasting every square inch in front of her. Luckily, you are safe in the air... and upon landing, you run on, not even taking the time to look back. This is a test... Just a test, a test, just a test...(set: $caveObserve to it + 1)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[As soon as Lyrica plays a musical chord, a wave of otherworldly blue harmonic energy hums forward... and blasts you down to your core! Pain sears through your body, forcing your eyes shut... but when you manage to snap them back open, the blue-haired pop idol is gone. She's left you... again...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")] ... Nearly there! [Vert's downfall is near!!!]<continue5|]] (live: 12s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage5)[Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100]]] (click:?continue5)[(if: $caveBossHealth < 1)[(set: $caveDeath to "Timed")(goto: "Loyalty Ending Game Over")](replace:?passage)[You just about make it to the bashed-down doors... but one last obstacle stands in your way. "... Chika." The Oracle is holding an automatic crossbow, and aiming it directly for your head. She's offering an easy out; an instant end to all this suffering!... But no! You can not join your friends until Vert lies in a crumpled mess at your feet! ["... Move ASIDE, Chika!"]<continue6|]] (click:?continue6)[(replace:?passage2)[Her finger's on the trigger!] (live: 2s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage3)[ [Dodge right!]<right| --- [Duck!]<duck| --- [Charge forward!]<charge| (click:?right)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?passage3)[Dodging right!]](click:?duck)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Correct")(replace: ?passage3)[Ducking!]](click:?charge)[(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")(replace: ?passage3)[Charging forward!]]]] (live: 3s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[3]] (live: 4s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[2]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage4)[1]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[](replace: ?passage2)[](replace: ?passage3)[](replace: ?passage4)[]] (live: 6.6s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage)[(if: $reactionChoice is "Correct")[Chika fires... and you expertly duck under the speeding arrow, the projectile flying through the rain before dissipating into dust. Your best friend frowns... before following suit and vanishing as well. "..." No, words are useless! If you truly feel sorry... murder Lady Green Heart!(set: $caveObserve to it + 1)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")](else:)[No good! The arrow fires... and the next thing you know, you are standing alone in front on the damaged Basilicom. Where did... Chika... go?... Nevermind that! Faint pain resonates off your face, as if you were sucker-punched by fate itself... but you shake it off. Don't get all weak now!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)(set: $reactionChoice to "Wrong")] ... It's time. Step inside... and (link:"kill Vert.")[(if: $caveBossHealth < 1)[(set: $caveDeath to "Timed")(goto: "Loyalty Ending Game Over")](else:)[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 3")]]]] (live: 7s)[(stop:)(replace: ?passage5)[Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100]]]}](else:)[(savegame: "B", "Greener Pastures Phase 3")Vert is already sitting up, the goddess doing her best to no-sell the damage you inflicted by smashing her through the castle's entrance. She'd better enjoy this facade while it lasts... Markz and a few more Leanbox soldiers train their guns on you... but the CPU predictably motions for them to stop. "S-Stand... DOWN! I-I will h-handle this brute!" With that, she hops back to her feet and staggers as she reaches for her lance. "... You can not... (link:"defeat... ME!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $vertBossHealth to 100)(set: $caveBossHealth to it + 30)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)](set: $caveEnergyMeter to it + 5)(if: $caveEnergyMeter > 10)[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)](goto: "Greener Pastures Boss Action")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)["T-Tch!!!" Vert uses her free hand to grip the arm which holds her lance, struggling to reclaim the strength to fight. "... D-Die..." She can barely stand... and yet, she's still trying to attack you! She swings her spear— the FOOL!— and you blindside her with your scissors! The CPU's weapon goes flying, crashing against the elegant walls... and, channeling IF, you follow up with a superkick straight to her abdomen! The goddess elicits yet another fearful yelp as she flies through the air, crashing into one of the central pillars of the entrance hall. Her body leaves such an impact that a section of the upper balcony collapses, obscuring her partially beneath marble rubble. She's finished now! Markz, sweat pouring off his forehead, screams out, his voice echoing across the lobby and down the long, majestic halls. "W-What are you all waiting for?! Kill that... t-that THING!!!!!" On cue, many Leanbox soldiers hesitantly rush out from all directions! Your former allies all have their guns trained on you... You are completely surrounded... Your rage has blinded you. "..." No... You are surrounded... but not outmatched! If all of Leanbox wishes to burn, then SO BE IT! [Target your front!]<continue| [They can't kill you... Defend!]<continue| [They're behind you too... Not for long!]<continue| [When in doubt, go left! Kill the cowards!]<continue| [Your right side is completely exposed!]<continue| [... Don't become a monster. Give in.]<continue|(click:?continue)[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 4")] Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10](else:)[Before you can think, a bullet fires from one brave soldier's bayonet. The idiot's hands are shaking too much... and the projectile scrapes across your pale cheek. "Cave? You ready?" Not... again! C-Can't... control... iiiiiiittttt! "What's takin' ya so long?! C'mon, Cavey! Fivey is going on in like twenty minutes! We've been ready an HOUR ago!" Time slows down, and all sounds become muffled; as if your ears are covered with a heavy-duty filter. Your hands grip both halves of your shears. "She goes on in THIRTY minutes, Chika... I'm finishing up some work. YOUR work, remember? I shall be right there..." The blades are burning hot from your channeled energy... Take pity on these poor souls. "Much as I hate to say it... Chika's right, Cave! Who in Leanbox isn't planning to attend the concert?! We gotta go NOW before the place gets too dang crowded! Sure, we have tickets... but that won't stop a throng from takin' our seats!" One bullet, one soldier falls. Another, another, another. Everything is hot. Everything BURNS. "Heheh, Iffy said 'throng'... B-But yeah, C'MON ALREADY!" For the guards who don't immediately die, the energy balls stick to their armor, their skin. Their essence... They realize now that there is no escape; they've all seen your handiwork. All they can do is pray, scream, or both. "D-Don't pull my arm!... Ugh, fine... you two win! I'm... putting the pen down!... There, happy?" The helpless men, suspended in otherworldly-pain, make their peace... before exploding, the flashes lighting the lobby up like the front yard on a sunny day. A chain of eruptions shake the entrance hall... and flames quickly spread. The Basilicom is at risk of burning to the ground... A proper baptism. "You work WAY too hard, Cavey! You needta relax every now and then! And 'then' is, er, 'now'!" "... What Chika's trying to say is... just let loose once in awhile, yeah? No need to be so tense all the time! Seriousness has its place, but not at the expense of your psyche! Working too hard can drive anyone insane... Though, I do wish Nep could siphon away some of your work ethic..." More detonations of human flesh... The entire ceiling begins to crumble, and the upper balcony starts breaking apart with ease. The few guards who still remain begin to run in sheer terror, but they won't make it far; you've set off a string of absolute destruction, wreaking havoc on the entire front-half of the castle. Markz attempts to regain some sense of control, but even he has his limits. Distressed by all the war-torn flashbacks rushing through his head, he rushes over to help pull Lady Vert out of her debris prison... but a massive section of the balcony above descends right that very moment. The grizzled veteran yelps like a frightened dog before the heavy chunk of marble completely crushes his mortal vessel. "... You are correct... My sincerest apologies! Come, let us(link:"... go.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="greenerPasturesBossTrack.fade(0,5000);" /></div>(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 5")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[Your body begins to cool down... and once your eyes refocus, the sheer scale of your violence becomes clear. The main lobby of the Basilicom is in complete tatters, resembling ancient ruins much more than a home of a living CPU. Flames burn away every flammable surface, banister, and national banner in sight, threatening to venture down the halls once this area was exhausted. Dust of your fallen former allies float in the air, Markz and many others falling victim to your rampage. In one fell swoop, you systematically destroyed all of Leanbox. The ultimate vengeance... So, why don't you feel any more fulfilled? A weak cough sounds out a few feet away from you... and you spot Lady Green Heart's head looking your way. The CPU's drained frame is still firmly pinned beneath a heavy column. On any other day, she'd be able to brush this off... but you tore through all her defenses already. You notice a pool of blood forming beneath her... Not only is she trapped, but... she's not long for this world. "..." Your head blank, you approach your Lady. You are still gripping your blades... so you decide to sheathe them. You've no use for fighting anymore. The goddess winces as she tries to look you square in the eye. "A-Are you... happy now? We're f-finished!... Gamindustri's... finished..." Don't respond... You fear you can't even muster a single response, let alone a comprehensive one. A mixture of relief, sorrow, fear, and anger boils inside... How are you supposed to feel? "You'll... see... Gamindustri needs me!... I pity all who... must suffer... because of... your... in...so...len...ce..." Stubborn to the end... The CPU falls limp beneath her homely tomb... and in a matter of moments, her body bursts into majestic sparkles. Like fireflies dancing in the night... ... The invincible Vert, trapped in her cursed HDD form to her very last breath, had finally met her match... You were the better warrior. You've always been, end of story... ... If only you could've used that strength to prevent all of this, eh? But nah, there's no use in dwelling on the past... This stage of your life is over; time to move on... and start again. That's all you (link:"can do...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(set: $resultPage to "Greener Pastures")(goto:"Greener Pastures Page 5")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Fire Sound Effect.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }More and more of the Basilicom burns down around you... The rain outside can do nothing to control such a massive blaze! You figure the entire impractically-large castle will be on fire within an hour... Good riddance, Land of Green Pastures. ... Hm? Hold on... Before you turn to leave, a small rectangular piece of paper catches your eyes, right where Vert's torso used to lay. What could this be, you wonder? You reach down and pick up... a photograph; grayed with time, but still wonderful all the same. Vert poses with her unofficial sister, Chika, in front of the bright Basilicom. You, IF, and Lyrica stand to the side, not a care in the world. The sky is blue and not a single cloud dots the sky... A perfect summer day. Everyone looks so happy... Hell, even you are smiling, even though the mere idea embarrassed you back then. Screw it: even now, you can barely stomach the idea of showing off such a weak and revealing emotion... You stare at the photo for a long while... before the radiating heat becomes too intense to stand. It's... time to move on. "..." Chika's twin-bow, IF's leafy bow, Lyrica's headphones... and now, a remnant of Lady Vert's humanity: you currently hold all four of these artifacts on you. You'll never let them go... You need to begin anew, but that didn't excuse you from completely forgetting the past. Completely forgetting your friends, your family, your loved ones... Yourself. "..." As Leanbox burns to the ground, you step forward and walk through the empty doorway, venturing back into the cleansing rain. You hesitate for a moment... but you do not look back; you instead continue walking down the muddied and desecrated (link:"Basilicom path...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Credits")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"..." There's only one way this can end... You channel energy to your right-handed blade, drawing a resigned intake of breath from IF... before twisting your upper body and firing an energy bullet for Markz! The grizzled veteran doesn't even have enough time to lose the sick grin on his face, and his gun explodes in his hands! The shock of the mini-explosion blasts him to his feet, and he smashes down hard into the mud. He should be down for a few moments, at least. IF and Lyrica are clearly stunned, but you allow their minds to wander as you turn your guns to Lady Vert. The goddess looks none too amused at your nonchalant treachery. She crosses her arms, almost like a mother scolding a child. "... Well, you COULD'VE just said NO!" That does it! You brandish your shears with the pure intent to harm, and rush for the CPU. Your first slash misses, and your second, but the third, fourth, and fifth slice connects with her HDD-enabled stomach! First blood achieved, you tap your right foot against the ground... before backflipping in the air, kicking the goddess upward. She is powerless to prevent herself from falling victim to gravity's cruel pull... and she collides with the dirt back-first. By now, Markz is standing up... so you swiftly fire a weak bullet for his chest. Not enough to kill him... but definitely an ample amount to render him unconscious. That's two immediate problems dealt with. Lyrica looks to you, her eyes still perplexed. "C-Cave...?" In response, you nudge your head towards IF... and the pop idol quickly snaps out of her confusion and runs over to her girlfriend(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[(?)]. As the two hug, you hear Vert stir behind you. You turn back to face her, the strain on her face obvious to any watching eyes. "W-Well done, Cave... but I've ALWAYS been one step aHEAD of you!" What's with that wording...? Wait... "... N-No, L-Lyrica!!!" But you are too late! From one of the many windows high atop the Basilicom, the familiar *CRACK!* of a sniper rifle echoes across the wet gray expanse... and the blue-haired angel shudders in the brunette's arms. Vert smiles as you futilely run for the the girl you swore to protect... but she vanishes into the rain before you can make it, and you collapse to your knees. It's... over... Lyrica's headphones drop into IF's blood-soaked hands, red also staining her long jacket. Her pupils shrink, her mind not fully caught up yet... Perhaps it never truly will. A chuckle taunts you from behind. "A good effort... but you were never adept at (link:"going all the way.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="aliveBossTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 8 Ost With Vengeance.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- Cave")]](else:)[Before you realize it, you are holding your hand out for your Lady. She has done unspeakable, irredeemable things... but you know this is not truly her. Somewhere deep inside, the real Vert is waiting... and perhaps now you have a chance to dig her out! You were able to put aside your grudge against IF, right? Be the stronger person, and help the CPU up. "... Let me help you." The goddess looks confused, staring at your hand like it's some sort of mysterious foreign object. Her eyes are harsh, as always... but something about her face softens after a few moments of observation. Her eyebrows loosens, and her shoulders relax. "... C-Cave...?" Such a... familiar tone! Y-Your Lady... I-Is this really her?! She slowly reaches for your awaiting appendage... ... When CRACK! A bolt of lightning strikes your neck and trails down your entire body! S-Shit, w-what just...?! As you fall, paralyzed, to the mud, you can't help but watch IF jump away from you and mount Lady Green Heart, knocking her flat on her back. T-The bitch just... stunned you with her Qatars! N-No! W-What is she thinking?! IF begins bringing her fists down hard upon Vert's helpless face, punch after punch falling faster than the rain. The goddess is helpless, her cheeks darkening with each vicious blow. S-She's going to kill her! N-No!!!! H-Have to... move! Feeling slowly returns to your feet, then your legs, then your torso, and soon your arms! That's good enough! You hop to your feet as fast as you can... and sprint for the maddened brunette! Vert is practically in tears by now as the honorable battle-hardened veteran wails on her, and the commotion raises a stir out of the formerly-unconscious Markz Phenix. That's no good at all! Hurry, HURRY! Making it over to your friend, you have no other choice but to pay her back for her little Qatar ploy seconds ago. Bringing up your right hand, you suddenly chop downwards, directly onto the center of her back! Her entire body lurches at the physical contact, halting her assault on the CPU, whose face is bloodied and beaten like nothing else. That'll take a few days to recover... Markz is standing by now and, upon realizing his leader is in trouble, pulls out his magnum. "Y-You've done it now, maggots!" IF is momentarily stunned from your stiff blow, so her legs are essentially jello at this point. You'll have to... carry her away yourself. Vert, whatever state of mind she was in after you defeated her, simply can't be in a forgiving mood after that near-death beatdown... so you must flee. Lyrica is dead... You have no reason left to stay on Leanbox. You must carry IF off... and look ahead. A cruel future awaits... but what else is new? Thus, you grab hold of the brunette's long jacket and begin running, dodging an occasional bullet or two. Markz doesn't fire for long, as he moves to check on his Lady... She's not your CPU anymore, huh? How... strange it feels. You can't help but sense a sort of... emptiness inside. You really have... nothing left to fight for... You've failed everyone... ... Snap out of it, you fool. This thinking will get you nowhere. Just focus on getting out of the rain and finding some sort of refuge. "L-Lemme... G-GO!" IF pouts... but she doesn't have the energy to put up much of a fight. Eventually, she simply stays quiet and allows herself to get hoisted away. She's (link:"given up...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="aliveBossTrack.fade(0,1500);" /></div> (goto:"Alive Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The storm continues, and Leanbox becomes darker and darker with the approaching night. You become desperate for any sort of refuge, and eventually make do with a dilapidated cabin in the middle of a dank forest. These depressing structures always seem to pop up at the most opportune moments... Oh well, whatever gets you out of the rain. Hopefully you don't end up like Gust when she stayed in a hut such as this... ... And so, you carry the despondent IF into the rundown building and wait for the downpour to pass. IF doesn't say a word, even as you lay her down on a dusty mattress and tell her to get some rest. You do the same, choosing to sleep on the wooden floor when it's clear there's only one bed. Just... try... to... relax... ... "...pid! Us-...-tch!" SLAM! "Wa... go, 'hero'!" SLAM! What is that? Your eyes slowly open after who knows how long, thanks in no small part to an incessant banging sound on the other side of the cabin. Groggy, you slowly sit up and look around. IF is currently stabbing the wall with a Qatar, then kicking right under and dislodging the knife back into her hand. She's mumbling violent profanities beneath her breath. "Piece-a crap! Friggin' fraggin' useless dunce! Why couldn't it have been me? Or...?" Er, profane for her... You can't help but internally sigh. You know first-hand that beating yourself up over things won't solve any problem at all. "... Please calm down. Rest, IF." The battle-hardened veteran instantly jolts her head your way, and you can vaguely make out the tired circles under her eyes. Her Qatars are still clenched tight in her hand... Best not antagonize her too much. Her whole world has crumbled down with little warning; be the better person and maintain a level head. Even if she tries to bite your head off. "Ha... H-Hah, yeah! Easy for YOU to say! 'Calm down, IF! Let me sleep!' SO sorry this is all inconveniencing you, Cave!" An anticipated response... "... We'll both get nowhere with that attitude. I'm... no more happy about this than you are." If only comforting was your strong suit... or a suit of yours at all. IF once again chuckles darkly, using a tone that you can't believe anyone's ever heard from her before. She truly sounds so... broken. "That's pretty funny! You certainly didn't do anything to help, did ya? Yeah, that's right; this is all (link:"YOUR fault!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Alive Ending Page 2")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }Don't be fazed by her words... She's speaking not from her head, but from an influx of raw emotions. "... I screwed up, yes... and I will live with that regret for the rest of my life." Chika suddenly springs to mind again... How many loved ones will you lose due to your deficiencies? Chika, it'd be such a relief to hear from you right now... The pissed brunette shakes her head. "Regret?! Wow, that really blows, my condolences!" DON'T clench your fists; let her vent! "The way it sounds, you aren't even sad that my girlfriend's blood splattered all over me! Bet you're only thinking about cleaning my clothes in the laundry, eh? Don't want me to stain your nice white suit..." She rolls her eyes. "... Fivey was more than just a 'mission'! She was more than simply an objective you didn't want to fail! She... was the greatest, most important human being in the entire freakin' universe! How'd you let her get shot?! You should've done EVERYTHING to protect her!!!" "... I had to make a choice... What was I supposed to do, KILL YOU?" IF looks at her feet, her knives gripped harder than before. "... Yeah... Maybe you really should've..." ... This is taking a turn for the worse. What... do you do? Are you... even strong enough to help her? What's stopping you from... totally breaking down as well...? ... {(link:"\"Don't talk like that, dammit!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $resultPage to "Moving On")(goto:"Moving On Page 1")] (link:"\"Would Lyrica want to hear this?\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $resultPage to "Alive")(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Alive Ending Page 3")] (if: $caveInterest is "Chika" AND $lyricaInterest is true)[ (link:"... Kiss her.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $resultPage to "Third Wheel") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Third Wheel Page 1")]]}]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{(savegame: "A", "Divergence") (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false) (set: $caveBossHealth to 50)(set: $iffyBossHealth to 50)(set: $iffyMaxHealth to 100)(set: $caveObserve to 3)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 5)(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 5)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false) }Immediately upon closing your mouth after uttering those words, you already know that you've screwed up. IF's shoulders tense up, as if every ounce of her soul is under assault by your attempt at soothing her mind. "Don't you DARE speak her name! You don't have the RIGHT!" A Qatar is definitively held out, pointed straight for your left eye. Just... stay... calm... "If you cared for her at all... she'd still be ALIVE!!!" No... use... You can feel your blood pressure rise dangerously high. Can't she see you're trying to help her?! "... You seem to be forgetting one thing: if you hadn't ABANDONED US, Lyrica wouldn't have been in danger in the first place! I'm weak; I know that much! I... couldn't protect her alone... Since you appear to know this already, where WERE you? Why'd you leave her alone with a useless fool like me?!" Damn it... No, if this is how she wants to play, then you have every right to go there. She has to learn eventually... The battle-hardened veteran snarls at you like a raving beast, and she drops three Qatars into her other hand... before suddenly slashing for your neck! You are quick on your feet, and hop backwards just in the nick of time! If this is the way she wants it, then fine! Beat some sense into this untamed idiot! Her eyes burn with pure malice and despair as she readies her next move. (link:"\"S-SHUT UP!!!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) (goto:"Alive- IF Boss Action")]](else:)[IF is laying flat on her back... and when she lifts her neck but an inch, she is greeted to the sight of your shears directly in her face. Her eyes carry... absolutely no emotion whatsoever, and her face is strangely relaxed. ... She wants you to kill her. That's it, huh? As far as she is concerned... her story is done. ... She's becoming you. "..." As the brunette anticipates the end... you pull your blades away with little warning. "... Stand, IF." Her face doesn't even flinch at first, but her expression soon betrays her as the beginnings of tears well in her eyes. "... W-Why...?" "... What will it help? If I kill you, then... no one's happy. You deserve... to live." The battle-hardened veteran continues to hold back her tears, looking away to not accidentally unleash every speck of her humanity unto you. "... S-Says who? Lyrica is... gone... She's dead, but... I'm not! Why?!" You don't have the answer to that... Hell, you're still asking the very same thing yourself. Why must Lyrica pay the price... but you get away scot-free? However, asking these questions won't make you feel better... and you are not the one in need of help at the moment. Perhaps some sort of motherly instinct is kicking in, for you find yourself kneeling beside your friend, hand holding her shoulder reassuringly. "... We can't let her death be in vain, alright? We... have to keep fighting. Why we get to live and she doesn't, I can't say... but what matters is, we're still alive. It's our duty to keep strong." "I'm still alive..." IF mutters, almost as if trying to convince herself of that plain fact. You can empathize; losing both Chika and Lyrica feels like a fate worse than death. You may as well already be dead! ... But you're not. It sucks, and may never get better... but you must move on and get stronger. For their sakes, if nothing else. Live a life that'd make Chika and Fivey proud. That's the best way to (link:"honor them...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"Alive Ending Page 4")]]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $iffySkillsUsage is false AND $iffyEnergyMeter >= 1)[(set: $iffyChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill2","Defense"))](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND ($iffySkillsUsage is true OR $iffyEnergyMeter is 0))[(set: $iffyChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Defense"))](else:)[]}(if: $caveBossHealth > 0 AND $iffyBossHealth > 0)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Control yourself, Cavey... Iffy doesn't mean a thing she's said, alright? There's still hope, dang it!\"","\"(if: $lyricaInterest is true)[I love you both... Don't hurt her, okay? Please... For me.](else:)[I'm not picking sides! You two better make up, or... I'll be really mad! I-I'll haunt you forever if something happens!]\"","You can't afford to lose anyone else... Who will you have left then?","She's not backing down... Geez, where does she get all this energy?"))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)] What do you do? {(if: $caveObserveCheck is false)[(click:?observe)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(if: $iffyChoice is "Attack1" OR $iffyChoice is "Attack2")[IF appears to be planning a basic attack. Is she holding herself back?](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack3" OR $iffyChoice is "Attack4")[IF's sense of honor has taken a major dip; she's planning to end you with a strong melee attack!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Skill1")[IF is channeling energy into her Qatar... Is she seriously trying to kill you? She's not herself right now; don't allow her to do something she'll regret!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Skill2")[IF senses the winds of victory are not blowing in her direction... She's definitely healing!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Defense")[Look at how tense she is... That's quite the firm defensive stance. You're... somewhat hurt at how hesitant IF is around you. Is this how she sees you?]]](else:)[(if: $iffyChoice is "Attack1" OR $iffyChoice is "Attack2")[IF appears to be planning a basic attack. Is she holding herself back?](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack3" OR $iffyChoice is "Attack4")[IF's sense of honor has taken a major dip; she's planning to end you with a strong melee attack!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Skill1")[IF is channeling energy into her Qatar... Is she seriously trying to kill you? She's not herself right now; don't allow her to do something she'll regret!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Skill2")[IF senses the winds of victory are not blowing in her direction... She's definitely healing!](elseif: $iffyChoice is "Defense")[Look at how tense she is... That's quite the firm defensive stance. You're... somewhat hurt at how hesitant IF is around you. Is this how she sees you?]]} (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] [Defend]<defend| | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe x$caveObserve]<observe|]{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Action")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Action")] (click:?defend)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "defend")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Jab]<stab| | [Jump attack]<jumpattack| [Running slash]<runningslash| | [Somersault kick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?stab)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "stab")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "jumpattack")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "runningslash")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "somersaultkick")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Action")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Malicious Heaven]<malicious|](else:)[<strike>Malicious Heaven</strike>] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[Full Burst Option]<fullburstoption|](else:)[<strike>Full Burst Option</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "shootbullet")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?heal)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "heal")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?malicious)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "malicious")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "fullburstoption")(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Result")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Alive- IF Boss Action")]}]](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0)[You're... too weak to continue! What... kind of friend... (link:"are... you?")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Game Over")]](elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)["F-Fivey..." IF mumbles... before charging for one more hellish attack! Her Qatars vie for your neck... and you easily kick her in the stomach and send her flying. As before, IF is no match for you. Not in her (link:"current state...")[(goto:"Alive Ending Page 3")]] <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/$iffyMaxHealth| IF's Energy: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10</div>

{(set: $iffyAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $iffyChoice is "Skill1" OR $iffyChoice is "Skill2")[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to true)(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 1)](else:)[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)](if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[What the... Are you CRAZY?! You're either going to blow up the cabin, kill her, or both... No preferable option there!(if: $iffyChoice is "Defense")[ Perhaps justified, IF holds up her Qatars to block. She's using her head; why don't YOU start doing the same?] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(if: $iffyChoice is "Defense")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]You close your eyes in concentration, take a deep breath... and by using up some of your precious energy, you heal (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 20)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)]20 health! ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" AND $iffyChoice != "Defense")[Reconnecting your scissors and using the handles, you jab for IF! (if: $caveAttackChance > 90)[The brunette easily telegraphs your simple maneuver, however, and swerves out of harm's way!](else:)[The blunt sides connect with her frail form, dealing (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 5)5 damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[You leap in the air and kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 85)[but IF rolls out of the way. She's far too smart to fall for cliche moves like that!](else:)[and you bash IF in the chest! Nothing too serious, but still painful for sure. You've dealt (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)10 damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[Holding your twin blades dull-side first (so as to not totally maim IF), you dash forward and slice through the air! (if: $caveAttackChance > 75)[The battle-hardened veteran doesn't even blink as she rolls to the right, narrowly avoiding your strike! Dang, she's still slippery, even after going through Hell...](else:)[The dull ends catch her cleanly in the chest, knocking her back for a total of three hits, worth (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 15)15 damage!] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick" AND $vertChoice != "Defense")[It's the only way! You run up to your friend(?) and perform a backwards-somersault kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 60)[but IF sidesteps your incoming foot! She knows you so well... and that just makes you feel worse.](else:)[and you manage to kick her a few inches into the air! You next swing the dull end of your scissors upwards, hitting her in the back as she crashes down to the hard, wooden floor! You can't help but feel bad at the (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)20 damage you just caused...]](if: $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[ ] (if: $iffyBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $iffyChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]IF channels some energy up her arm... and throws an augmented Qatar! She's certainly not holding herself back! (if: $iffyAttackChance > 80)[Still... this skill is not good enough to take you down! You successfully side-step the projectile, allowing the throwing knife to collide with the wall behind you. Not quick enough, Iffy...](else:)[It's... too fast! The knife hits your stomach, and a small shockwave travels up your body! D-Damn, that smarts... She's stolen 10 health from you!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Skill2")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to block... ]IF closes her eyes in concentration, takes a deep breath... and by using up some of her precious energy, she heals 20 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth + 20)(if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack1")[IF throws back her arm... before launching a mean punch! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to defend, and she is unable to break through your guard! Not bad...](elseif: $iffyAttackChance > 90 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way on pure instinct! A punch? THAT'S what she thinks will put you down?!](else:)[O-Oomph! Right in the stomach! That... sure took the wind right out of you... It is only 5 damage, but let's not make light of the pain!(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack2")[IF leaps forward and slices with her knives... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[You hold up your twin blades to defend, and manage to thwart her violent attack! C'mon, IF... Snap out of it!](elseif: $iffyAttackChance > 85 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you slide out of the way with ease! Poor form, IF! This is so unlike her...](else:)[and you get sliced for 10 damage! A small trickle of blood dots your side... She's certainly playing for keeps...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack3")[W-Woah, what...?! IF suddenly strafes around and attempts to grab you from behind! (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Well... two can play at that game! You ride the balls of your feet and make a complete 180... and bunt the brunette in the face with your scissors. Serves her right for attempting such an underhanded tactic...](elseif: $iffyAttackChance > 75 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[Her arms lace around you... and you quickly jam your elbows back to save yourself! Catching her in the stomach, the brunette momentarily retreats.](else:)[The battle-hardened veteran succeeds... and with a grunt of effort, she tosses you to the side and follows up with a devastating roundhouse kick, inflicting 15 damage! She looks so drained... but she's still almost as strong as you! How does she...?(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Attack4")[IF begins spinning rapidly on her left leg and holds out both hands to slice through the air with her Qatars! She dashes towards you... (if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[but you hold up your twin blades to defend with perfect timing, stopping her dead. She's definitely not well... She's going to kill you if you slip up!](elseif: $iffyAttackChance > 60 AND $caveAttackChoice != "defend")[and you dash out of the danger zone before she can utterly mutilate you! A small fragment of your top is cut in the process... Too close.](else:)[and her blades unfortunately connect with your chest, catching you in a painful 5-hit combo! The battle-hardened veteran has dealt a swift 20 damage! Can't... take much more of that...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $iffyChoice is "Defense")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "stab" OR $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack" OR $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash" OR $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... and she successfully fends off your basic attack! Yeah, you should've seen that coming... She's not making this easy.] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Anticipating a standard strike, you hold up your twin blades to block. IF, meanwhile, also holds up her Qatars to block! Step-for-step, move for move, measure for measure... You two are on completely even terms.]]] (else:)[]} {(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)} <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/$iffyMaxHealth| IF's Energy: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10</div> [[Next|Alive- IF Boss Action]]

{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}The brunette wipes her eyes with her long drenched sleeves... before lightly clutching your arm, almost like a small child. "... I'm still alive... but, d-do I even deserve to be? Without Lyree, I'm... pathetic. I have... no one left..." "... That's not true," you whisper, taking her hand in your own. "... You still have me." The air in the room completely freezes as the rain outside continues to batter the cabin. IF looks into your caring face... and sees the friendship you exhume. You don't want to be enemies any longer... Deep down, you've never wanted that at all. It's a little too late now... but you're finally going to patch things up. Come what may, whether the world gets better or descends further into Hell... you and IF will walk side-by-side, step-by-step. Together... you'll carry on. You both may be broken and defeated... but you will never cease marching onward. "C-Cave... C-CAVE!" The tension in the room completely explodes like the mortar shell from earlier, and tears storm from Iffy's eyes harder than the ongoing monsoon. Reunited... the two of you hug each other tight. You'll never let go... (link:"Never again.")[(goto:"Credits")]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"PLEASE just calm down! You're smarter than this! Think rationally for a moment, okay?!" You're shouting louder than you intended, but who can blame you for getting emotional. Hearing these kind of things spew from IF's mouth... well, it's bothering. The brunette... should be the positive one, not wishing for death... ... She MUST not become YOU. One Cave is far too much for the world as it is... The brunette's shoulders slowly sink after your outburst, and her breathing appears to stabilize. Good... Perhaps you've finally gotten through to her? Her eyes still seem... conflicted, but you can't expect two miracles in one minute. Seal the deal! Put on your best smile (or at least your less-creepy one) and hug her, damn it! You reach out your ar- A-Ack! Why are you flying backwards?! W-What's happening?! Your feet have left the grou- O-Oomph! Okay, that's enough onomatopoeiatic exclamations for one day! Er, and possibly made-up words... W-Why can't you move? Your back just collided with the back wall, and your whole body is suspended in the air... Wait, you're... pinned down completely! You can feel an unusual pressure around each arm, leg, and your hips... ... As you thought: looking down, you find six Qatars total stabbing through your clothes and binding you helplessly to the cabin's side! That... crafty little devil... She ran outside, back into the dark rain, during your initial confusion! What the hell is she planning?! Has she gone COMPLETELY insane?! "Don't let her do this, Cavey! You're the only one who can help Iffy!" "Please, Cave... I can't stand to see IF acting reckless like this..." Don't worry, you two; the SMD warrior isn't defeated just yet! You are practically chained to the wall, which is a marvel in itself (the battle-hardened veteran sure has magic fingers)... but this surprising tactic is only good for a brief distraction. Just use a little strength aaaaaaaand.... there! Freedom! The Qatars fall to the ground... but you are already out the door before the final one lands. "... Damn it, IF... (link:"I'm coming.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Moving On Page 1")]](else:)[{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}You keep running and running, the cold rain sending chills down your spine. Cursed elements... Won't you relent for once? ... Where the hell is IF?! How far did she run? She looked far too weak to be able to travel such a long distance this quick... ... She's not going to make it! She's using every last ounce of her remaining energy in this crazed fit of insanity! The brunette's probably heading right on back to Vert this very instant... There's no way she'll survive; not in her state! Does... she realize this already? She isn't... intentionally looking to end herself, is she? Damn it... Hurry, faster, faster! Follow these boot marks and find her! She's... all you have... left... ... Water pours off your clothes; this outfit has to be beyond ruined by now, and the rain has probably dug itself deep into your skin, bringing you one step closer to a freezing death. But who cares about shit like that? Your friend needs you, now more than ever. Your friend... Your friend! A little further... and you suddenly see a few lights in the distance! Could that be...? Quiet down now... Slowly, slowly, slowly... "Stand down, IF! Our Lady only wishes to speak with you. Follow us a-ACK!!!" One light collapses to the ground; a flashlight, held in... a soldier's hand! L-Leanbox! A scouting party, no doubt looking for you two traitors! Yep... Sure enough, once you are close enough to see through the dark and dreary expanse of trees, you find a muddied and bleeding IF surrounded by at least 16 Leanbox guards! Her wounds don't seem too terrible; a few cuts and scrapes on her arms, legs, and sides... The soldiers are wielding their stock swords, while three commanders stand at the side with bayonets. They don't seem to want to kill the battle-hardened veteran... but she's leaving them no choice. That fool... Why can't she think for a single day of her life?! IF glares at a guard in front of her, clearly not prepared to go quietly. "Get... outta my way!" Yep, definitely not thinking straight... She's injured, outnumbered, and has the judgement of a sock puppet! She's doomed if the current situation continues as thus. ... Time to (link:"intervene, then!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioVictory.play('Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Beyond The Destiny.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Moving On Page 2")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{(savegame: "A", "United, We Stand") }You don't even need to think about it: you rush forward and knee the nearest soldier in the gut, before bringing down your fists upon his neck. The man stands no chance, and crumbles like a used tissue. He's unconscious... One down, 15 more to go. IF pretends not to notice you, even as you quickly approach and stand directly back-to-back with her. You pull apart your scissors and stand tall and firm, covering your rival's rear flank. This fight could turn nasty... but what fight couldn't? You're prepared for whatever may come! "Always getting into trouble..." you taunt, a hint of jest carried along your tongue. The battle-hardened veteran scoffs. "Tch, took ya long enough..." Despite what occurred a few minutes ago, you can sense some slight relief in her voice... She's swallowing her pride and accepting your aid! Now you know you can't fail! Without another word... the two of you nod and rush headlong one final time (link:"into the fray!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) (set: $caveBossHealth to 100) (set: $iffyBossHealth to 100) (set: $ehp to 5) (set: $mhp to 5) (set: $ename to "Soldier 1") (set: $turn to "you") (set: $eatkname to "bullet") (set: $enemyDefeated to 0) (goto:"Cave Last Stand Action")]](else:)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioVictory.pause();" /></div> <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}(if: $turn is "enemy")[The battle-hardened veteran slices with her paralyzing Qatars... and the final guard falls.](else:)[With that final strike, the last soldier falls.] The entire Leanbox force now lies at your feet, unconscious. That should certainly send a powerful message! "Whew... Nice, er, moves back there..." IF says, wiping away dirt and blood from her elbows. "... I keep forgetting how fast you are..." You keep your face blank as you clean off your blades. "... You're not so bad yourself." Wipe wipe wipe, swab swab swab. "A little sloppy at points... but nothing that can't be improved upon." It is then that you notice a glint in the mud by your left foot... You bend down and pick up what turns out to be one of IF's discarded Qatars. You juggle it gently in your palm... before handing out the hilt for the brunette to reclaim. "... Here." Your friend stares at her trademark weapon... but her mind is on other things as she grabs hold. "... Why did you chase after me? It woulda been easier to... let me die." "... You know me: nothing can be easy." "Tch, least yer honest..." Familiar silence falls upon you both, the sound of the rain the only reminder of the outside world's presence. A thousand thoughts race through your mind, but you struggle to think of which one to vocalize... Eventually, you decide on which avenue to approach. Hopefully it doesn't backfire, like nearly everything else today. "... What were you trying to do, IF? You've never been THIS reckless before." Remain calm and casual... This can work. The brunette shakes her head, her drenched hair blocking her eyes from direct view. "... I'm done with it all, Cave. Done with this war, done with Vert... I need to make her pay, whether I have any allies or not. Got nothin' to lose, after all..." "And what will that prove?" Your quick verbal jab draws a cocked eyebrow from the girl. "Were you planning to kill Vert? For revenge?... What the hell will that solve, hmm?" Just keep unloading... She needs this. "You storm back to the Basilicom, all alone... Vert wins, the war still continues, and you... You die, for no reason. And then, Gamindustri... loses its (link:"greatest hope.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Moving On Page 3")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[Iffy turns away, but you can tell that she's beginning to cry. You're getting to her... Don't falter now! "... You need to live, IF. Not just for Lyrica, or me... but everyone." She's biting her lip beneath her long hair. "... I failed Fivey... I don't... h-have a reason to l-live [anymo-"]<slap| (click:?slap)[SLAP! You don't even allow her to finish her self-destructive words! Her saying these things will accomplish less than nothing! You've... come to realize that over the course of this long, hellish day... "You are a FOOL! Remember Neptune?! Compa?! Nepgear?! Everyone on Planeptune is awaiting your safe return!" You close your eyes, tight. Perhaps afraid that someone, be it IF, Chika, Lyrica, or anyone else you may have failed will see into the deepest recesses of your soul. "... You have a home to return to. A place you can be welcomed by friends and family and warmth... I wish I had that." "... Cave..." "... You have the world, IF, so hearing you say those kinds of things is disappointing... I have nothing compared to you. Vert has lost her mind, and I'm not sure she will ever get it back. Hell, I may never find out... for if I return to the Basilicom, I'll be shot on the spot. So, I'm not welcome in my own home... and I'll be shunned wherever I go." The fact that you keep a level tone in your voice while reciting all this perhaps makes it all the worse for the battle-hardened veteran, as her falling tears become very visible, even under her shroud of hair. You continue. "I was a monster under Vert's command, and the other nations would be stupid to accept me in without trepidation. I have nowhere to go, and... I no longer have Chika nor Lyrica by my side." Chika... Lyree... "(if: $caveInterest is "Chika" AND $lyricaInterest != true)[I loved Chika more than I've ever loved anyone or anything before... and I still got her killed. Lyrica too... How pathetic is that?](elseif: $lyricaInterest is true AND $caveInterest != "Chika")[Lyrica... had stolen my heart the first moment we met... and I still failed her. She and Chika are gone because of me... I'm nothing but a monster.](elseif: $lyricaInterest is true AND $caveInterest is "Chika")[I... loved them... Loved BOTH of them! And that still wasn't enough to save their lives... I'm worthless, plain and simple.](else:)[I vowed to protect them both... *I'm* the one who doesn't deserve to live!]" IF bites her lip as she fidgets her arm, contemplating whether she should grasp your shoulder or not. Or, perhaps she's debating whether she should slap YOU this time! "... Dammit, Cave, please... s-stop..." "I'm alone, IF... There are very few people, if any at all, who will miss me if (link:"I'm gone...\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Moving On Page 3")]]](else:)[You suddenly snap your eyes wide open and glare straight for your sobbing friend. "... But I STILL haven't given up! Maybe I truly should; it certainly would be the easiest way out! Roll over and die, just like that!... But no. I have NOTHING, and yet I'm still marching on!" You poke the brunette in the chest with your index finger, almost strong enough to leave a small bruise. She winces slightly, but her gaze holds true. "So don't you DARE think about giving up! You have loved ones to return to; a life worth living!" Your jabbing finger makes way for a calming hand on her cheek. "... If I can carry on... so can you. Tenfold. You are single-handedly the strongest person I've ever met, IF. It'd be a shame for the world to lose you. There's still hope... There's always hope." IF looks into your eyes for a few long moments, the rain washing away any trace of her tears. She sniffles but once... before speaking up. "... W-Well... s-so what now?" "You have somewhere to go, don't you? Go home, back to Planeptune... Plan for the days to come, and make Lyrica proud. One day, you'll stop Vert... but for now, you need to rest, and think." A smile. "You never were any good at thinking, but I'm confident you'll manage." "H-Ha! Geez, thanks!" the battle-hardened veteran snarks, playfully pushing you away as a huge grin returns to her face... and when she notices she's actually smiling again, she quickly looks away. More quiet... As the rain chills you to the bone, you figure it's time to send IF on her way. She'll make it back to Planeptune safely, you know she will... As for you, you'll just have to wander the land. A true loner, that's what you are... You are destined to forever walk alone... a-and you know what, m-maybe that's f-for the bes- "Cave?" Iffy begins, startling you. You hide your brief lapse of composure and stoicly nod. "... Yes?" "... Will you... s-stay by my, er, side...? I'll... make sure Nep and everyone understands, so I... Dammit, j-just come with me, o-okay?!" She can be such an idiot sometimes... but, maybe that's part of the reason why you like her so much. She's brought an embarrassed gleam to your face, if nothing else. "... O-Of course... All the way." "T-Thanks, Cave... Thanks." ... Perhaps... being alone is overrated. Companionship... suits you more, (link:"doesn't it?")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.stop();" /></div> (goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)["... Cave, I... I wish you fell in love with me first." You love Chika... Chika is gone. It's all your fault. "... Cave, can I... ask you a question?... Do you... love me?" Of course you do! You love Lyrica... Lyrica is gone. It's all your fault. All your fault... Love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love them! You love them! Soft lips, warm bodies, tight grasps, loving eyes... Soft lips, warm bodies, tight grasps, loving eyes... Soft lips, warm bodies, tight grasps, loving eyes... Soft lips soft lips soft lips soft li- You pull a stunned IF closer by the scruff of her soaked jacket and violently plant your lips upon her own feisty mouth. Perfection... She tastes just as great as you always imagined! But this... This is not enough! You need MORE! *MORE!!!* You slip your tongue out, as your experience with Chika taught you, and gently prod into her unsuspecting mouth. However, before you can reach your goal... two rough hands push your chest away, knocking you back. Why? Why don't you feel complete bliss anymore? Give it back! The battle-hardened veteran's brows furrow, and she bares her fangs! "W-What the hell are ya d-doin'?! W-What wa-" But when she takes a good look at your eyes- such strange parts of the human body, aren't they?- her shoulders sink. "... O-Oh, c-crap..." Something immediately changes about the brunette's demeanor, as her peculiar anger passes almost as instantaneously as it flared. So cute, isn't she? But hmm... you wonder what she managed to decipher in your longing gaze? Before you realize it, the girl is hugging you, her comforting arms feeling right at home with your pale frame. Her grasp *has* found its rightful home! A wet kiss marks your cheek, and a quiet voice whispers into your ear. "It's... gonna be okay... C-Cave..." Why does she sound so sad? In an attempt to soothe the love of your life's apparent woe, you hug her right back and smile into her neck. "I love you..." you coo, before leaving a trail of kisses up to her ear. "Let's go home, IF... Is that okay?" The brunette tenses right back up, harder than before... but you eventually feel her nod, her hair bristling against your nose. "... Y-Yeah... I'll take care of ya, Cave... I-Is Planeptune... alright? I'll... T-They'll accept us there." "Sounds perfect! Let's-" Another kiss, this time to her forehead. "- go!" You and your love going to the wondrous land of Planeptune, where you'll be at peace together for all eternity! Is there a better (link:"fate than that?!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Third Wheel Page 1")]](else:)[...(live:6s)[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Third Wheel Page 2")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[IF and Cave waited for the storm to pass the next morning... and immediately left for Planeptune, not caring to look back once. Well, IF didn't look back; Cave... seemingly couldn't. The brunette wasn't too sure what had happened, but... the SMD warrior had apparently blocked out all memories of not only that fateful day, but her entire time in Leanbox altogether. All she could focus on was being with her "true love", IF... The battle-hardened veteran wanted so hard to unleash every ounce of her frustrations on the woman who very nearly killed her, AND who had prevented her from saving Lyrica... but the look in Cave's eyes stopped her. 'Twas the look of... total loss, total desertion, total... hopelessness. No, beyond that; Cave looked as if... she no longer cared about not only living, but existing in general. At any moment, she could break down and snap... and who knows what would happen then? With her power... she could destroy the entirety of Gamindustri in one mad fit of rage... ... The two arrived in Planeptune to the... confusion of Neptune, Compa, and Histoire, who knew all-too well of Cave's undying (and violent) loyalty to Lady Green Heart. The nation was wary... but IF soothed their minds, at least somewhat. She reassured them that the SMD warrior was hanging up her scissors and withdrawing from the war... and that the brunette would do the same. Planeptune and Lastation were unsure what to think... but when Vert went completely quiet in the days that followed, Lady Purple Heart and Lady Black Heart reasoned it was fair to allow Cave and IF to retire from active combat. Perhaps... one last attack on Leanbox would end the war for good? Just surround the Basilicom... and that would be that. They wouldn't need their star fighters if fighting wasn't in the plans! And thus, the two rivals lived the following days in peace... together. Cave couldn't be happier, her mind regressing almost to that of a child's. A highly amorous child, granted... but a child nonetheless. She looked at IF with loving eyes day in and day out... and the brunette could only comply, repressing all her negative emotions deep within her troubled mind. Cave wanted- no, NEEDED- her love? Then IF was going to love her until (link:"the end!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Third Wheel Page 2")]](else:)["How do the covers feel? Machine-washed 'em today... Heh, hope I did it right!" You slowly lift up your head to meet IF's eyes, and smile back at her. "They feel lovely... Thank you, IF." The beautiful brunette rubs the back of her hair. Still so nervous, even after these past few days of being together! "H-Heh, that's great! And please, don't talk so formally, darlin'! Makin' me blush..." Elegantly, your love crawls onto the bed and lies beside you. "... How did that sound? *Darlin'*? I'm not good with these, er, terms of endearment..." You chuckle, before fingering a strand of hair away from the angel's face. "... Well, it's... not... bad?" Ah, who are you kidding?! That was a terrible way to affectionately address each other! "We don't have to rush these things... I'm just glad to be with you at all, I-" you begin, before the battle-hardened veteran raises an eyebrow. "-ffy." She nods, content. "Thanks, Cave... I love ya, and that's what really counts!" A soft kiss greets your lips, and you close your eyes to take in the full pleasure. She breaks away before you reopen your lids halfway. "... So, wanna go... crazy tonight?" she asks with a blush. "Have the whole night to ourselves, y'know..." "Certainly sounds tempting... Do you believe you can handle me?" "Hehe... I certainly'd like to find out!" IF winks, before kissing you once more. A soft peck on the lips, but one which pleases you all the same! This is your life... This is how everything should be... You've never been happier! IF pulls her face away before rubbing your cheek lovingly. "Y'know... I also heard that we may have the entire, er, Basilicom to ourselves come tomorrow... Nep always snoops around my room, so maybe we can get some p-payback of our own, if ya know what... Y-Yeah, you get it!" Ooh... Such a deviant! IF is so fun... You just love bubbly and energetic women! Just like a certain someone you used to know... What was her name again? ... Oh well, (link:"not important!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Third Wheel Page 3")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }But hmm... Why would the Basilicom be so empty tomorrow? "... What's the occasion? I can't complain, but where will everyone be?" IF smiled and shrugged as best she could while laying down. "Eh, y'know; Nep and Noire are leading one last charge for Leanbox. They reckon the war will end in a simple surrender; Vert's in... no condition to fight any longer." War? Leading one last charge? V-Vert? L-Lean...box? Leanbox? Leanbox...? Leanbox... Leanbox! Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. Leanbox. (link:"Leanbox. Leanbox.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Third Wheel Page 3")]](else:)[{ <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }W-Wait! What's that wet sensation on your forehea-... I-IF's lips! She's kissing you... How thoughtful! You love her so much! "D-Don't p-pay attention to w-what I'm sayin'! J-Just... I-I love you, Cave! I-It's... okay..." she says, her voice coming out in a strained quiver. How unusual... Is she ill? ... Well, if she is, she's certainly not halting her advances; her hands move up to grasp your cheeks... before kissing you yet again full on the mouth. You hold her tight in response... and when her tongue grazes your lips, you don't hold back one bit. That's IF; the only love of your life! What would you (link:"do without her?")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{ (savegame: "A", "You've Made Your Choice") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> }"Yo! Ya ready, Cave?" You lift your head at IF's determined voice, and nod without a moment's hesitation. "Of course... You?" She laughs, rubbing her long hair. "Heh, 'course! Alls we gotta do is defeat Delphinus and a legion of perverted dogoos, right? Easy! Lady Vert could send me alone, and I'd still get this done fast!" Her smile fades for a second as she looks at you. "E-Er, I-I mean... No offense, Cave! I'm glad you'll be out on the field with me!" Such a simpleton... but that's who IF has always been. Go ahead, let yourself smile back at her. She's your friend, after all. "... With all this talk, you better not lag behind. And beware: dogoos can gang up on you fast if you're not careful." "Yeah, yeah... I know all that already! Heh, watch: I'll slay more than you do!" You chuckle. "Really? Well then... what are we waiting for? Let us be off... and settle this!" "Now yer talkin'! Let's do this!" ... Your blade, warm from the energy it just emitted, rests snugly in your hand as the battle-hardened veteran... ceases to be right before your eyes. Her leafy bow hovers alone in the air, the wind keeping it afloat for longer than physics would usually deem appropriate. "..." You... had to do this... There was simply no other way. Why then... does your heart burn so hot? Guilt? Disappointment? Regret? ... Useless, all those feelings. "... I'll... hold onto this for you," you whisper to the rain... and hold out your hand under the bow. IF's signature hair trinket gently lands upon your palm, hugging your pale skin for dear life. ... ... Time to move on. Your boots slosh in the mud as you head back to the Basilicom's (link:"front yard...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 1")]](else:)[The front yard is completely abandoned, the smoke from the earlier mortar shell still dispersing in the air. Not a soul moves... They all must've retreated inside. Are they waiting to confront you? To turn you in? To kill you? ... Best not to find out. Lady Vert should be back any minute now... You decide to sit in front of the door and wait for the goddess to return. "Ya okay, Cavey? Yer not worried about catching a cold out here?" ... After about ten minutes, and as you clean your scissors for the fourty-second time that day, a rubble quakes the earth below... and a familiar banner appears on the horizon, visible even through the storm! Leanbox flags... Vert has finally returned! You stand, your clothes annoyingly stuck to your skin, and unenthusiastically journey over to greet the CPU. The approaching soldiers eye you warily... but they don't raise their guns. A refreshing sight, surely. "... Welcome back," you greet, your voice empty and professional. None of the soldiers respond, choosing instead to focus on the damage done to the yard. Guns, helmets, and clothing scraps lay strewn about the dirt; momentos of the battle that raged no more than 20 minutes ago. "Sure got crazy out here, huh?" Your Lady steps forward, ignoring her soldiers' hesitation, and nods your way. "Why, hello Cave... You look simply terrible! I... hear we were attacked... What became of that? The issue has been..." the CPU looks down at your tattered and muddy clothes, "... dealt with accordingly, I take it?" Be honest... Your Lady values loyalty and honesty, above all! Tell her... "... Yes, my Lady... IF launched a sneak attack on the Basilicom. She led a small battalion... and they stood no match for our army." The goddess' eyes light up. "Hmm... I see. What of (link:"IF then?\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[Here it comes... To help you maintain your focus, you reach into your pocket and pull out IF's sole remnant. You graze Chika's own twin-bow in the process... Ignore it, damn it! You show the CPU the nifty little ornament, and the slightest hint of color returns to her eyes for at least a second. "... She is dead, my Lady. I defeated her in battle... and ended her." You expect some follow up questions, or an exclamation of shock... but Green Heart simply scrutinizes your face, searching for any hint of weakness or fault. She opens her mouth, and you instinctively brace yourself... but the transformed woman instead opts for a more... unpredictable response. "... Well, well... Aren't you worried about Lyrica? What would she think of your actions?" Bringing up Lyrica? Why?! "... She'll understand... I'll see to that." Silence... and a look in the leader's eyes that almost resembles... sorrow? "... Very well..." she suddenly whispers... before clasping a tight hand on your shoulder?! "I know this must've been... hard on you, Cave... but I must commend you for your loyalty. Through it all, you remained by my side..." T-This is... new... "Thank you." S-She's... thanking you?! W-Who is this woman?! She's... sounding more like the Green Heart you used to know, before the Yellow Bandana incident... 'changed' her! Why... now? "... But of course, my Lady! I shall forever be your blade." "Yes... and I believe you," she says, before completely trailing off, looking out over her army. The troops stand stock still, the rain soaking through even their thick uniforms. Lady Green Heart raises her finger and points around the debris field that is the front lawn. "... Men! Your orders are to clean up this dreadful mess! At once!" "Yes, ma'am!" the soldiers shout in near-perfect unison, and immediately leap into action. You feel the urge to pick up some discarded weapons as well... but the same powerful hand stops you. "Cave... Sit with me, will you? I have a... lot on my mind..." What did... that mean? Caught completely off-guard, you simply nod and stand by your CPU's side, watching the men at work. The deluge pours on, but neither of you pay it any heed. Chika's and IF's bows rest in your pocket, weighing heavy on your soul... and (link:"perhaps Vert's...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 2")]](else:)[You turn your mind away from IF and Chika, and instead try to focus on Lyrica again. She'll... understand, won't she? You did what you had to do... Oh well, it's not like she cared about you anyways. You look over to Vert, and see she is staring at her feet. Must be deep in thought... ... Hm? Muffled voices from way up high catch your ear, and you follow their source. The shattered window you smashed through rests far above... It sounds like a bunch of people are talking inside. Within the smashed opening lies the hallway right outside the Basilicom's throne room... Perhaps a few guards are simply bemoaning the eventual repair job they'll no doubt have to help out with. ... But something about the voices themselves are worrysome. Sure, they're high up... but you can detect a sense of restraint to their tones. Almost as if they're trying- and failing- to stay hushed... "C'mon, Cavey! Now yer just being paranoid, don'tcha thi-" "Come Cave, let us head inside..." Vert begins, forcing a startled hop from you. Her eyes close. "We should get out of this awful rain... Besides, I wish to... speak with you. Privately." You can't help but raise an eyebrow. "Speak with me? About what?" "... Chika." Her lips practically quiver at the name, and she speaks with a harsh grit that you never recall hearing from the CPU before. You don't know what to say, but fortunately don't need to worry about that; she is already turning and opening the door. ... Follow her. Your curiosity is getting the better of you... Besides, what else are you (link:"going to do?")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[You stick as close to Lady Green Heart as possible, avoiding the frightened stares from the weary Leanbox guards along the way. If any were planning on ratting out your prior treachery, they certainly weren't jumping to here. Good... Lyrica once again surfaces in your mind, but you're still not ready to face her yet. What will she say? What will she do? What if she does something... dangerous? ... Just keep walking. Look! You're almost to the throne room! There are only two guards standing outside the massive regal doors, and they nod at your arrival. The window is still smashed to all hell, currently serving as an open gateway to the harsh elements. No one is investigating it... so your earlier nervousness must've just been paranoia. "Ha, told ya so! Score one for me~!" Vert waves her hand, and the two guards nod again like mindless machines and pull open the door to her official chambers. "In here, Cave," the goddess says without turning back. The two of you step inside... and she continues. "Today has been a long day... so let's unwind together. Is that to your approval?" The doors slam shut behind you; the two of you are now alone. The goddess is acting strange... 'Unwind'? 'Together'? That's the kind of thing Chika would say... "... Yes, my Lady... I'd... like that." Today has been far too exhausting to argue... Resting with your leader seems a fitting-enough end to your trials... ... You and the CPU walk through the grand hall, and as Vert heads for her thone, you hear a thump from the hall outside. Did the guards lock the doors? No... There it is again! Another thump sound... What is that? Vert doesn't seem to mind... but you are still on edge. Can't help it, you suppose... You faced death more times in one hour than most people face in their entire lives! Relaxation wouldn't come easy for anyone. Thump, thump, thump! It's getting louder, crueler... What in hell's name are they (link:"doing out there?!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioSilence.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 3")]](else:)[{<audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST - Uninvited Guest.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"Cave... what's wrong?" Vert asks, noticing your distress. You find it hard to verbalize your qualms, instead jabbing your thumb towards the entranceway. The CPU turns her head until she also notices the loud banging. "... What on Gamindustri is... Investigate at once!" As if you weren't already planning on doing that... You run over to the doors and puuuuuuush them open as hard as you can... and find yourself face-to-face with Lady Green Heart. ... H-Huh? But... What?! No, wait: this woman looks like Vert, but... she's almost transparent, and dark. Otherworldly dark... Like some type of demonic ghost. The (fake?) goddess grins at you, before snapping her fingers. At once, two more ghosts- too fast to observe- appear and kick you square in the gut, launching you backwards into the throne room! You land on the fine marble with a terrible crash, your back throbbing worse than your head is. You... can't even begin to process the proceedings! Several loud hisses fill your ears... and you realize suffocating gray smoke is filling the chamber. S-Smoke bombs?! A-A sneak attack, n-no! You roll over and attempt to cough out a scream. "L-Lady... V-Vert! R-Ru...n...!" Gotta... get... up! It's your... sworn duty to... protect Vert at... all... costs! Push, push, push!!! You make it to your knees and leap further into the deep smoke cloud. "I-I'm coming, hold on!" You can't detect any figures inside... Who is attacking?! This can't be Planeptune again, can it?! And what was the explanation for the fake Vert you saw? "W-Who goes there?!" You hear the CPU shout, her voice more irritated than frightened. Okay, you... you think you can see her outline! She's stepped a bit away from the throne, and is holding her lance out. "V-Vert, I'm he-" But no sooner do the words begin to leave your mouth that the goddess' outline lurches horrifically, her torso recoiling in a sickening way. "V-Vert?!" Once you are in close-enough range, you see the awful truth: a sword has impaled Green Heart from behind! Her hands try desperately to claw at the foreign object, but there's nothing she, nor anyone, can do! Who... W-What monster would do this!? You follow the sword through the CPU's paralyzed guts... and lay eyes on long purple hair. The mysterious assailant speaks. "One down, Arfoire... Y-You can't hide from me forever!" That... T-That voice! ... (link:"\"Nepgear?\"")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="imprisonedTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 3 Honnoji.mp3');" /></div> (set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{(savegame: "A", "You... Have Failed...") (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $nepgearSkillsUsage to false)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $nepgearEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveBossHealth to (100 - ($loyaltySpareCount * 5))) (set: $nepgearBossHealth to 100)(set: $nepgearMaxHealth to 100)(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)(set: $caveObserve to 3) }The apparent CPU Candidate of Planeptune warily glimpses your face. "... Cave?" She immediately shakes her head, as if your name is a curse. Probably true. "N-No! Another of her LIES! Cave would never be in such a cruel, cruel world... You're a fake like all the rest!!!" Vert's fading eyes drift to you, her teeth clenched as she fights off the overbearing pain. You wonder if she actually has any feeling left in her cells. "Cave..." "M-My Lady..." "... KILL... her..." With that final order, the CPU's lance clangs into the ground, the sound echoing off the tall walls. Then, with as little fanfare possible, your leader's entire body vanishes off of the sword, leaving behind nothing but dark red blood. ... Just like that, you've failed. Nepgear frowns at her free blade, muttering to herself beneath her breath... but before you know it, she is raising the murderous weapon, pointing it right between your eyes! "A-Arfoire, I shall not stay my hand; not now, not ever! F-For my sister, and for everyone who is relying on me... I-I will defeat you! Gehaburn, Neptune: guide me!" She thinks you're... Arfoire? What does... No, none of that matters, does it? ... You've failed... ... But you still have ONE LAST ORDER! Don't let Vert down! Kill this murderer, whether she's (link:"Nepgear or not!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]](else:)[The fake Nepgear bows her head in shame; she's thoroughly defeated. By all meanings of the word 'just', you should end her life right here! She MURDERED the CPU of Leanbox! What... was going to become of the very nation now? ... However, you can't bring yourself to kill her. Executing IF took... something from you. You can't pinpoint what... but there's an emptiness inside of you now. You're getting weak. What's next: helping this assassin up? ... Oh lord, you're actually planning to help her up! You're inching closer and holding your hand out! "This... isn't Gear, dammit! Jeez, Cave, listen to reason!" Not Nepgear... but A Nepgear. A former ally, former friend... You've already killed IF and (if: $flashbackFourViewed is "Bad")[Chika](else:)[failed Chika]... and you even let down Lady Green Heart! You can't claim any more lives of your friends... even if they ARE twisted copies of the ones you know and love. You extend your hand further... but are immediately slapped in the face! H-Huh?! Nepgear is still kneeling... L-Look out! A transparent fist crashes into your cheek, knocking you back a few steps. You instinctively pull out your scissors and scan for the enemy... but when you lock onto the ghostly Lady Vert from earlier, you freeze. Vert... S-She's punishing you from beyond the grave... Can't blame her; you deserve this. The phantom swings her spiritual lance, which slices across your chest! Unlike a normal stab wound, though, this feels like a bus driving into your ribs! You lose your footing and fall hard on your back. Blades still in hand, you desperately jab upwards... but the ghost mockingly kicks them out of your grasp. The transparent Green Heart steps on your chest, pinning you down... You're helpless. You flail your arms about in a futile attempt to find salvation. The confused girl manages to stand and, with rage in her eyes, sizes you up. "You... c-caught me at... a moment of w-weakness, A-Arfoire..." She notices your shears lying on the ground... and picks them up. "... b-but now, you DIE!!!" This isn't good; she's about to pounce! Have to think of someth-... W-Wait, the sword! Your fingers graze the hilt... Come oooooooonnnnn!!! (link:"Grab it!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 5")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[Aha, got it! Right in time too... for 'Vert' has vanished, and Nepgear is leaping right for you! She's clutching your own twin blades tightly, aiming them for your neck! With a primitive scream, she jumps at you! "Grrrrrrrrryaaaaahhh!" With a grunt of effort, you jam up the sword and hold it above you... and the CPU Candidate is too far in her movements to simply stop; inertia would, quite plainly, not allow it! You close your eyes... and wait. With a profound fleshy squelch... Nepgear lands on Gehaburn, the blade cutting through her stomach like a knife through liquid cheese. You can't help but look now... Her eyes are wide as blood pours out on your arms and chest, and her tongue refuses to cooperate, rendering her utterly speechless. ... You had no choice. You refused to be bested by this opponent... Thus, she had to die. "A...r...f..." is all she can utter... before falling completely limp on the blade. Her eyes remain open after she passes, her pale orbs doing well to scar your vision. C-Come on... D-Disappear already! "O-Oh God... D-Don't look, Cavey! D-Don't... I-It's okay! Y-You only did whatcha had to... do... H-Holy crap..." What you had to do... Gosh, you sure hope so. Nepgear mercifully poofs out of existence... and you sit still for awhile, your brain threatening to break out of your skull with how fast it's racing. That... just happened... This can't be real! Lady Vert can't... be dead... And just when she was finally- FINALLY- starting to act... normal again. At least showing glimpses of her original self... ... Nothing more to do now than to... relay the news. From there... you can only hypothesize what will become of Gamindustri. ... (link:"Stand.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="imprisonedTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 5")]](else:)[You stand, still holding 'Gehaburn' in your drenched hand... when the doors to the throne room promptly smash open! You haven't even moved your head when Markz Phenix's 'charming' voice reaches your ears. "What the hell's going on in here?! The guards are all taken out! The fu-" The grizzled soldier shuts himself up as soon as he sees your bloodied clothes and mysterious sword. On cue, a ton more soldiers flood the chamber... and they immediately lay their sights on Lady Vert's trusty lance, lying discarded by your feet. With your messy and tattered frame, coupled with the disembodied spear... it isn't hard to see what everyone is thinking. The Leanbox army backs away in horror, seeing you as the most despicable traitor known to man. There's no talking your way out of this; you're holding the very blade that killed your Lady. Open-and-shut case. Markz shakes his head as he brandishes a magnum. "... I always knew you were a twisted little shit..." He aims the gun your way... What else is new? "... Stand down, and I won't blast ya to hell! I'd rather have fun with you in an interrogation room than spill yer pretty-little brains all over the throne." What a shit-head... The army is frighteningly awaiting your next move. You have nowhere to run... You either surrender and rot in a jail cell for the rest of your days (assuming Markz doesn't 'abuse' you first)... or blast the assholes and go down in a blaze of glory (or, most likely, a pathetic whimper)... "..." You've never been the type to give up... You tighten your hold around the sword and prepare to mutter one of your arcane incantations... "W-What's going on?! C-Cave?" Lyrica's voice snaps you out of your suicidal fantasies. The blue-haired angel makes her way through the crowd... and gasps in pure shock at your appearance. Lyrica... N-No, she... shouldn't see this... She can't! "..." ... You drop the cursed blade, allowing the metallic chime to incessantly reverberate along the floor... and hold up your arms. It's over... You surrender your fate at long last. Maybe now, no one else... will (link:"have to die...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false) (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 6")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[...(live:6s)[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 6")]](else:)[Cave was immediately branded a war criminal, one of the most despicable Gamindustri has ever seen. Throughout the proceedings, she was accused of not only murdering Lady Green Heart... but also instigating the entire war itself, egging Vert on as some sort of mastermind behind the scenes. Absurd accusations, really, but the world was confused by the war's sudden stop... and the people needed a scapegoat. All the while, Cave kept entirely silent, keeping the truth all to herself. She had nothing to share... Anything she said would only create more conflict, assuming her words didn't simply get cast aside. Markz, who had taken on a sort of leadership role in the traumatizing absence of both Leanbox's CPU AND Oracle, enjoyed attempting to harass and shame the SMD warrior in the following days... but eventually, he lost interest in picking on such a despondent soul. He released her from the Basilicom's clutches and ordered her to be locked away in the nation's highest-security prison; the very same Vert had locked HIM in many moons ago. Cave didn't care either way... All she could think about was what Lyrica thought about all this. She never managed to speak with the pop idol after that terrible rainy day... Perhaps that was for the best. ... As Cave was sent off for prison, Blanc eventually reappeared to the public eye and ordered a search warrant for a missing war criminal of unknown origin. The oddest part? Her target was a woman who looked exactly like Planeptune's CPU Candidate, Nepgear, whom had taken control of Lowee a few days before the incident on Leanbox. The real Nepgear was interrogated, but she was deemed innocent. To date, the perpetrator has not been found... but a certain stock adventuress by the name of Falcom is adamantly searching, independently from Lady White Heart's efforts... The war practically ceased to be overnight. Tensions were still high... but with Vert gone, the crisis was over. The other CPUs' friends were disheartened by the loss of IF, and bemoaned the fact that they could not snap the mad goddess out of her insanity before it was too late... but at least things could finally begin to return to normal. Or, at least as close to normal as it could get... ... As for Cave? She is fated to remain locked away for the foreseeable future, possibly the rest of her days. The only one who knows the truth about what happened that day... and yet, will never (link:"share a thing...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 7")]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)["Good riddance, skank!" Markz chuckles, pushing your back into the dank and drab cell. "Won't need to see yer ugly mug again! Though, I..." His eyes trail downwards. "... WILL miss certain aspects of ya, I guess. Heh." With that, the creep slams the door shut and walks down the corridor... and forever out of your life. Good riddance to him, you say... You observe the cell- your new home- with bored eyes. One mattress, too small to fit even one person comfortably. No windows or decent ventilation of any kind, meaning the room will get hot and stuffy fast! Hell, you already feel like you're melting wearing these simple clothes... The walls are gray, the floor is gray, the ceiling is gray... Everything is gray, gray, gray gray gray! ... Wait, no; there's pale white skin and brown hair sitting in the corner... A fellow cellmate? ... A familiar cellmate. Why, one could point a finger at the brown-haired young man sitting no more than 10 feet away from you and accuse him of starting this entire war. The teen, almost as disinterested as you are, lifts his head. "... So... you tried to kill Vert too?" Adrian... The former leader of the Yellow Bandanas, the rebel group that tried to end the "CPU's tyranny"... All four nations fought as one back then, and crushed the ruffians with relative ease. However... this slimy bastard managed to catch Vert with one of his "magic" tricks... and from that day on, the goddess slowly descended into utter madness. Madness that ultimately led to her demise... and your utter damnation. Adrian was locked away immediately following the rebellion... and here he was, sharing a cell with you. You now fall in the same category as someone who nearly dismantled the entire CPU order... You glare at the boy, your eyes giving nothing away. "... I DID kill Vert." Adrian leans back, his face lighting up in genuine surprise. Probably the first emotion he's emitted in weeks. "... Really? Damn... First competent person I've met in... ever. I could get to like someone like you." He grins, somewhat-mockingly. "You free tonight?" You shrug. "... Guess I have no plans." Well... at least you'll have company. Strange bedfellows is a better term than solitary confinement! This is going to be a long stay... so you better find some way to enjoy your (link:"new life...")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 7")]](else:)[...(live:6s)[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 8")]]

(set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[{(savegame: "A", "eramthgiN") <audio src="Persona 4 Omen Extended.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}"Cave! Cave... wake up!" H-Hmmm? You begin stirring from your slumber; several hours have passed since your incarceration. Who's... calling you? Not Adrian, right? He wouldn't dare... "You need to wake up!" The voice calls again. You are too groggy to identify it... but a harsh hand shakes your shoulder, moving dangerously close to your breast. You can't help but force your eyes open. He can't be this stupid. "... Adrian... Don't... make me... kill you..." you mumble, turning towards who you presume to be the ultimate traitor. However, after clearing your eyes... you can see the brown-haired young man still sleeping on the mattress beside you. The back of his head is facing you... yet you still feel a hard hand on your frame! You immediately leap up, clad in nothing but prison-issued underwear, and soon feel your bare feet graze against the soft grass. The wind blows coldly against your skin, forcing you to shamefully huddle your arms around your torso. The voice reaches your ears once again. "Yes, yes... Looking good, Cave. You were always so strictly professional around me... that I never caught even a glimpse of the true marvels of your nude form!" B-Behind you! You twirl around and, through the moonlit darkness, find the source of the taunting words: Lady Green Heart, still in her HDD form! Another breeze passes by... but you begin to shiver from more than just the cold. "W-Why are you here?!" you shout, ignoring the chilly elements. The CPU just smiles at you. Smiling, grinning, beaming... Such a sickening look! You reach for your scissors... but not only do you remember that you aren't wearing proper clothing, but also that your shears were taken first by that fake Nepgear, then confiscated by the Leanbox authorities! Vert continues smilingsmilingsmilingsmilingsmil- "Helpless, Cave? Hasn't that been the case the entire time?" With a flick of her right hand, a transparent tendril-like object suddenly appears behind the demented woman, and lunges straight at you! W-What is... (link:"J-Jump!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHorrorTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 2 OST - Retreat Battle.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 8")]](else:)[{(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $caveSurrenderOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false) (set: $caveBossHealth to 10)(set: $vertBossHealth to 85)(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No") (set: $skillNepgearCheck to false)(set: $skillChikaCheck to false)(set: $skillVertCheck to false) (set: $thinkQuoteA to "This is your punishment... for letting your Lady down.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Your ultimate duty as a Leanbox soldier... was to defend Vert at all costs. You failed... Give up. It's for the best.") }You leap out of the way just in time, the ghostly tentacle missing by an inch. Seems your Lady has picked up a few new tricks... The goddess chuckles, her voice booming under the night sky. Yet another cold wind runs over the swaying grass... and you struggle to figure a way out of this. Vert flicks her hand one more time, and four otherworldly tentacles appear behind her. You can't avoid them all forever... and you're unarmed, so you've no way to fight back! You're utterly screwed! "C-Cavey, d-don't give up! L-Look behind you! It's hiding in the grass!" You follow Chika's advice and direct your attention downwards... and find Gehaburn indeed hiding within the dark-green organic blades. Green Heart's blood still stains the steel... Fitting. ... Seems you're not entirely helpless after all! You grab the cursed sword... and are shocked at how heavy it is! Didn't Nepgear wield this with one hand? Why can you barely support it with TWO?! Whatever the case, it'll have to do. Not your preferred weapon of choice... but it's better than nothing. You hope. Vert shakes her head. "Really? Still planning to fight? Look at yourself, Cave: you're weaker than you've ever been before! No strength, no clothes, the wrong weapon... What do you really hope to accomplish? Face it: you're destined to fail... Again." ... She is correct: you're exhausted, unfit for combat... and frankly, you aren't even sure what you have left to fight for. Your life was over... A demonic chuckle. "Well? I'm waiting... Give up, and we end this little game of ours much sooner! Fight me... or surrender. Use your head for once, Cave." ... What do you do? (link:"... Raise Gehaburn and fight!")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (link:"... Surrender.")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(set: $resultPage to "Picnic")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]]

{(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $vertChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Attack5"))](else:)[]}(if: $caveBossHealth > 0 AND $vertBossHealth > 0 AND $resultPage != "Picnic")[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $thinkQuoteSave to (either:"$thinkQuoteA","$thinkQuoteB"))(print: $thinkQuoteSave)](else:)[(print: $thinkQuoteSave)] What do you do? (if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false AND $caveSurrenderOptions is false)[[Attack]<attack| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skills|] <strike>Defend</strike> | [Surrender...]<surrender|{(click:?attack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?skills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?surrender)[(set: $caveSurrenderOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Slice?]<slice| | [Thrust?]<thrust| [Spin?]<spin| | [Think...]<think| [Back...]<backattack|{(click:?slice)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "slice")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?thrust)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "thrust")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?spin)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "spin")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?think)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "think")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Think Page")] (click:?backattack)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[(if: $skillNepgearCheck is false)[[???]<nepgear|](else:)[[Nepgear?]<nepgear|] | <strike>Heal</strike> (if: $skillVertCheck is false)[[???]<vert|](else:)[[Vert?]<vert|] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[(if: $skillChikaCheck is false)[[???]<chika|](else:)[[Chika?]<chika|]](else:)[<strike>"I'm sorry, Chika..."</strike>] [Back...]<backskills|{(click:?nepgear)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "Nepgear")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?vert)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "Vert")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?chika)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "Chika")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Result")] (click:?backskills)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]}](elseif: $caveSurrenderOptions is true)[Do you give up and surrender to this hopeless battle? (link:"Yes... I surrender.")[(set: $resultPage to "Picnic")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (link:"No... I can't give up!")[(set: $caveSurrenderOptions to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]]](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0 OR $resultPage is "Picnic")[You fall to your knees, dropping Gehaburn back into the soft grass. You can't... go on... Why should you even fight? You've already failed... Chika and Vert were gone, and you murdered IF in cold blood! What else do you have to live (link:"fo-")[(set: $resultPage to "Picnic") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHorrorTrack.pause();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 9")]](elseif: $vertBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[Your... muscles... ache... like nothing else... but you are v-victorious! You've vanquished that pathetic Vert, and reclaimed your fate! ... Do you feel any better (link:"now?")[(set: $resultPage to "Jailbreak") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHorrorTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 9")]] <div>Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: ???/???| Vert's Energy: ???/???</div>

{(set: $vertAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "Nepgear" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "Chika" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "Vert")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "Nepgear" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "Vert")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "Chika")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)] (if: $caveSkillsChoice != "No")[(if: ($caveSkillsChoice is "Nepgear" AND $skillNepgearCheck is false) OR ($caveSkillsChoice is "Vert" AND $skillVertCheck is false) OR ($caveSkillsChoice is "Chika" AND $skillChikaCheck is false))[You hold Gehaburn tight with both hands... when suddenly, you feel an intense force pull on the blade! You virtually let go, but luckily manage to maintain a grip even as unseen hands force you to hold the weapon as far out from you as possible!](else:)[Here goes nothing... You firmly grip Gehaburn's hilt and driiiiiiive it into the grass!] The blade glows... ] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "Nepgear")[(set: $skillNepgearCheck to true)The cursed sword releases a white shockwave over the plains... and Nepgear appears from the haze, her back facing you! With her right hand, she raises a transparent sword high up... and immediately turns a full 180 degrees! A wave of heated energy shoots from her heels... (if: $caveAttackChance > 80)[but Vert disappears, avoiding the dangerous skill! She reappears behind you... and Nepgear is nowhere to be found.](else:)[and it connects with Green Heart head-on! She takes (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 15)15 damage! Before you can question anything... Nepgear has already vanished back into the ether.] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "Vert")[(set: $skillVertCheck to true)The earth beneath you begins to bubble, almost as if you were standing on molten lava... and from the green magma rises... a black-tinted transparent Green Heart?! Looking just as displeased as whenever you questioned her orders... The specter slices upwards with her lance, knocking you on your back for a mind-bending 1 damage! She smirks, and quickly fades away into nothingness...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "Chika")[(set: $skillChikaCheck to true)"Leave it to me, Cavey!" Before you realize it, Chika suddenly leaps past you, dashing for Lady Green Heart! Your best friend brings forth her right leg... (if: $caveAttackChance > 50)[but the ghastly wraith of a CPU catches her limb and flings her effortlessly into the air! Vert's white tentacles shoot several lances of energy upwards... and the Oracle is no more. "C-Chika!!!"](else:)[and kicks the CPU with an impossibly-strong roundhouse kick! The Oracle doesn't stop there, however; she stylishly pulls out her crossbow and fires three arrows upon the goddess, raining utter hell on her! That's (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 30)30 damage! "Awesome! Love ya, Cavey!" With that, your best friend in the world fades away.] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "slice")[With both hands gripping Gehaburn's hilt, you summon all your strength and haaaaaauuuuuul the unnaturally-heavy sword overhead! The blade crashes into the CPU... (if: $caveAttackChance > 95)[but forgets to actually slice! Like hardened steel, the goddess stands unphased, the sword resting peacefully on her shoulder. That didn't work... You pull back your weapon quickly.](else:)[and splits her in half?! G-Geez... O-Oh, but her innards don't spill out, actually, as she appears to be made of liquid metal?! Both halves of her gloop away before reforming into her original CPU shape! Was that... (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 8)8 damage?] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "thrust")[This'll be rough... You kick out your left foot, gunning for Vert's gut... and as soon as you connect, you lunge Gehaburn forward! (if: $caveAttackChance > 90)[However, Lady Green Heart has appeared behind you without you even realizing! H-How is she so fast?!](else:)[The blade impales her, making an unsettling squishing sound... and Green Heart's body seemingly melts into slimy fluid and oozes a few feet away. You can only watch with half-lidded eyes as she builds herself back up, clutching her stomach when the deed is done. Er... (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 9)9 damage?] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "spin" )[Come on arms, don't give up now... You grip Gehaburn's hilt for dear life... and hold back the blade as you would a baseball bat, winding up for a serious strike! Ready.... Now! You begin spinning in full 360 degrees, holding the cursed sword out... (if: $caveAttackChance > 85)[but you collide into a completely-solid Lady Green Heart, stopping your twirl dead! You can't help but nearly drop the blade, almost slicing your own foot off. This bitch doesn't play fair.](else:)[and you slice Vert three times, reducing her to utter slime! Her drippy remains slop over the grass until they are a fair-enough distance from you, and they gradually reform into the CPU again. Hmm... (set: $vertBossHealth to $vertBossHealth - 10)10 damage?] ] (if: $vertBossHealth > 0)[(if: ($vertChoice is "Attack5" AND $vertAttackChance > 75) OR ($vertChoice != "Attack5" AND $vertAttackChance > 85))[Vert stares into your eyes, your soul, your everything. She stares... She stares... She stares...](else:)[ (if: $vertChoice is "Attack1")[Vert's eyes train directly on you... What is she planning...? She's... glaring at you, almost as if she hopes you will burst into flames on the spot! Huh... w-wait a minute... Y-You suddenly feel hotter than usual, so much so that you can physically feel your skin... b-bubbling! O-Oh God, e-every inch of you is b-burning! S-She has lit you on fire! S-She's looking to immolate you completely, leaving behind nothing but ash! You fall to the ground, writhing and screaming in a desperate attempt to ward off this horrific conflagration! M-Make it stop, p-please...! Make it... ... Stop? Huh... Just like that, it stops. Your skin cells are still crying out, but the fire is gone. Pick yourself up; you still have... a job to do...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack2")[Vert folds her arms... and an invisible force suddenly lifts you straight off the earth and suspends you in mid-air! Your limbs are all fully stetched out, your near-naked body most likely resembling a cartoon star to any wandering eye. The goddess smiles... and chops the air with an elegant hand, summoning many spiritual lances from the atmosphere! C-Crap! You are helpless as the fake weapons blast your frozen body... but soon the assault is over, and you land hard on your knees. Your work is... never done...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack3")[You blink... and one of the white tentacles is already grabbing you before you fully reopen your tired eyes! L-Let go...! G-Geez, it's strong... Y-You're being held up helplessly above the grass! The cold breeze offers no solace either... Vert flashes a smile, before taking a single step back... and flinging a set of Qatars straight up at you?! IF's throwing knives send jolts up your spine... and you fall back to the earth as you struggle to maintain consciousness. Sins of the past...(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack4")[Green Heart furrows her twisted brow... and a long white tendril slices upwards, slashing you into the sky! The CPU already has her follow-up attack ready: Chika's crossbow, aimed for your chest! She fires an arrow... which evaporates into your body! You can only release a shocked gasp at the perplexing sensation... and you eventually find yourself face-first in the grass, a bitter ache in your heart. "I'm... sorry... Chika..."(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] (elseif: $vertChoice is "Attack5")["On guard!" Lady Green Heart shouts, before beckoning all of her white tentacles to slam into the ground! You... hear a crunch beneath your feet. Oh, what NOW?! The... earth is... c-crumbling, r-right out from under you! S-Shit! Like glass, the ground shatters... and you find yourself falling into the depths of Hell itself! Falling, falling, falling, falling, falling, falling, falling, fal- O-Oomph! Next thing you know, your back is colliding with the grass, and you are staring up at the dim stars. Your spine sobs in pain... You can't take much more of this. Perhaps it's time to... give up.(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 1)] ]](else:)[]} {(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $caveSurrenderOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")}Your Health (Cave): (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Vert's Health: ???/???| Vert's Energy: ???/??? [[Next|Imprisoned Boss Action]]

(if: $loyaltyPageCheck != true)[(if: $resultPage is "Picnic")["Hey, Cavey!" Chika's voice suddenly catches your ear, snapping you back to reality. You lift your head... to find your best friend holding up a small sandwich on an even smaller plate. Her smile, along with the blue sky overhead, suddenly lowers your heart rate to a safer level. "You okay? Wanna bite?" Sitting next to her is, of course, Lady Vert on one side, and Lyrica on the other. Between you and the pop idol is IF; the typical seating arrangement for your party. ... Y-Yeah, that's right: you five are in the middle of a lovely picnic! This should be a calming experience... so then, why do you feel so... troubled? "... I..." you begin, not feeling very sure of yourself. The others look at you expectantly, and IF is the first to raise her voice. "Don't be so shy, Cave! C'mon, eat up!" Vert nods. "Yes! We're all here for you, after all! Your birthday only comes once a year!" Lyrica next. "It's been so long since we've been together like this! Relax, Cave... Please?" Your shoulders tense up, the attention forcing you to recede within yourself. "... B-But..." "No 'buts'!" Chika shouts, ushering the sandwich closer to your face. "Stop being so mopey, Cavey, and eat mah delicious sammich! I'll be pissed if you don't! I spent all night makin' (link:"this stuff!\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 9")]](else:)[{<audio src="Persona 4 Omen Extended.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}CLANG! CLANG! ... Hmm? What's that... sound? A metallic banging noise, just a few feet away from your head... You open your eyes just in time to see the jail cell door fly open! S-Shit! You immediately nudge Adrian awake, which is rather easy to do as the bed's small stature is basically forcing you to sleep entangled with each other. The brown-haired young man stirs, and you shake harder. "W-Wake up, damn it..." Who is entering the cell? An intruder? An assassin?! What a way for your life to end, eh? Adrian finally opens his eyes, frowning about two inches away from your concerned face. "... W-What the hell...? I'm... sleepin'..." You open your mouth... but someone speaks before you manage to. "Get up, you slobs! And make yourselves decent, please! I have no need to see your disgusting bodies and be forced to imagine your sick debaucherous nighttime antics!" A dark, ominous female voice, albeit one that hints at... incompetence. You can't be quite sure, but you believe you've heard it before... Sometime long, long ago... While you struggle to pinpoint the voice... the pariah beside you has no trouble recognizing the unknown entrant. "... M-Mother?" Mother?! What...? The voice laughs... and you force yourself to look right at her, covering yourself with the blanket. A gray-white skinned woman clad in gothic witch attire... Didn't IF mention someone like this long ago? What was her name? ... And that laugh... Yeah, you're definitely remembering right! That voice can only be... ... Arfoire. The Deity of Sin herself. But... why did she break into (link:"your cell?")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to true)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 9")]]](else:)[(if: $resultPage is "Picnic")["... Okay." All your friends are here, and all on your behalf! Cast aside your doubts and simply enjoy the moment! "... Thank you, Chika." You grab the small plate and pull it close. The sandwich does look rather delicious... Chika couldn't possibly have made it! That's too far-fetched to be the truth! ... But ah, who cares? You grab hold of the snack and, as everyone watches with huge smiles on their faces, take a mighty bite! Mmmmm... It IS (link:"delicious!")[ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Credits")]](else:)[The Devil ceases her annoying guffaw and speaks once more. "It is... 'good' to see you again, boy..." She turns her head behind her, towards the hall. Looking out for any patrolling guards? "... but, I'm here for this WOMAN, not you." Now a finger is pointed for your face. Heh, beats a gun. "You are to come with me... Now." Adrian cocks an eyebrow at you, but you maintain eye contact with the Deity. "... Why?" is all you respond with. You're still not in the mood for speaking. A separate set of footsteps clog in the hallway outside your room... and before you know it, Lyrica's beautiful face is peeking through the doorway?! Are you sure you're not dreaming?! "J-Just listen to her, Cave! We have to get out of here, fast!" "Yes, the pop idol is correct. The time for explaining will come... IF we escape from this prison alive." Arfoire says, annoyance clear in her words. Well... you have no idea what to say nor think. "..." Yep, nothing's coming out... Lyrica nudges the evil woman with as much care as an arachnophobic forced to dance with a tarantula. The Deity of Sin rolls her eyes. "... Ugh, such insolence... Here, perhaps..." She holds her hand out, appearing to clasp absolutely nothing... when suddenly, a sword materializes right before your eyes! "... seeing thiiiiiiiiis will force your hand!" Well, summoning a sword from thin air is impressive, you suppose, but what's so spe- Wait! You know that sword! It's Gehaburn, only... er, lacking Vert's and Nepgear's blood. "... How did you...?" She crosses her arms, covering her skimpy chest attire. "I just TOLD YOU: escape first, useless answers second! Now pick your ass up and follow us!" Lyrica nods vigorously. "C-Come on, Cave! I-I know it sounds strange, but... w-we can trust her! A-And... she really needs you. W-With your help, we can... s-save everything!" You and Adrian once again share another look, this one completely bewildered. You have some major doubts... but eh, Lyrica was actively rescuing you AND telling you to set aside your trepidation and follow this witch. Save everything? Sounds... far-fetched... but screw it, now you're curious. (link:"\"... Let's go.\"")[(set: $loyaltyPageCheck to false)(goto:"Imprisoned Ending Page 10")]]]

{<audio src="Dynasty Warriors 5 - The Ancient Heroes.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}Adrian looks at you like you're insane. Smart call. "... You serious? She's frickin' Arfoire! I'm her SON, and she threw me to the wolves! What makes you think this is a good idea?" You smirk. "... I don't. This is a terrible idea... Like trying to kill a CPU." He can't find an argument with THAT flawless logic... and you stand, eliciting a blush from 5pb as she catches a hearty eyeful of your nude form. "... I will help you, Arfoire... but only because Lyrica has put some faith in you. Betray our trust, and you die." "HA! A human, threatening ME?" The Deity of Sin shakes her head. "... Fine... Like I have a choice. I shall make no promises, but I appreciate your spirit." She proceeds to turn away, her back facing the two of you. "... Now, get dressed already!" The brown-haired young man sighs before picking up his shirt. You do the same, reclaiming your discarded prison scrubs and readying yourself for the uncertain road ahead. Following that, you walk forward and grasp Lyrica's shoulders, the girl allowing you to touch her skin. Surprisingly, the pop idol doesn't tense up as you were expecting. In fact... she seems almost comforted. Odd... "... I'm sorry..." you whisper in her ear... but she responds with a shake of her lovely head. "... Don't worry about... that now, Cave..." She closes her eyes. "... I just want to get things back to normal." ... Is... that what Arfoire promised her? To set things right? To turn back the clock and bring back the glory days? ... There is no going back. What's done is done... There's no changing that. Not even the Deity of Sin can affect the world in such a way... can she? Adrian slaps your back a tad too rough, startling you. Jerk... "I was tired of this place anyways, so I'll be tagging along... What now, Mother?" "... Don't speak, for starters..." Arfoire hisses. She clearly does not approve of her 'son' (note to self: ask him what that really means later) following along... but also does not have the time to stop him. Instead, she takes a single step forward... and as if the universe was waiting for the right moment to screw with you all, the alarms begin blaring! Lyrica's pupils shrink. "O-Oh no, t-they found the guards!" "You brats took too long..." the witch mutters. However, her resolve does not falter even a solitary bit! "... If we wish to keep our heads, we RUN! NOW!" No argument there! Without another sound, the four of you unlikely allies run off into the (link:"unwritten night...")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]

{(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $caveSurrenderOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")}Who are you thinking about? [[Chika]<chika| | [IF]<iffy| | [Lyrica]<lyrica| | [Vert]<vert| | [Adrian]<adrian| | [Markz]<markz| (if: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Neutral")[| [Nisa]<nisa|] ]<selection1|{(click:?chika)[(replace:?selection1)[Chika](replace:?selection2)[Okay... What of... Chika? [Love]<lovechika| | [Regret]<regretchika| | [Despair]<despairchika|]] (click:?iffy)[(replace:?selection1)[IF](replace:?selection2)[Okay... What of IF? [Regret]<regretiffy| | [Hate]<hateiffy| | [Love]<loveiffy| | [Doubt]<doubtiffy|]] (click:?lyrica)[(replace:?selection1)[Lyrica](replace:?selection2)[Okay... What of Lyrica? [Love]<lovelyrica| | [Regret]<regretlyrica| | [Despair]<despairlyrica| | [Irritation]<hatelyrica|]] (click:?vert)[(replace:?selection1)[Vert](replace:?selection2)["M-My Lady..." [Regret]<regretvert| | [Hate]<hatevert| | [... Love?]<lovevert|]] (click:?adrian)[(replace:?selection1)[Adrian](replace:?selection2)[Why are you thinking of... Adrian?! ["... Did... WE...?"]<loveadrian| | [Sick]<hateadrian| | [Understanding]<understandadrian|]] (click:?markz)[(replace:?selection1)[Markz](replace:?selection2)[Markz? Really? [Disgusting...]<hatemarkz| | [Last Laugh...]<regretmarkz| | ["... Feeling... w-warm..."]<lovemarkz|]] (click:?nisa)[(replace:?selection1)[Nisa](replace:?selection2)[Nisa? Why her? Why now? [Regret]<regretnisa| | [Curious]<curiousnisa| | ["... She's... rather cute..."]<lovenisa|]]} []<selection2|{(click:?lovechika)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... You love your best friend... Oh, all the wasted years you kept that simple truth inside! And for what?")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "\"I love you, Chika... and I alway will.\" You'll never live your mistake down...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretchika)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... You couldn't save her... Damn it...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "If only you had done something, ANYTHING, differently... Chika may still be here, by your side. Physically, that is.")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?despairchika)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "\"I'm so sorry, Chika...\" How could you fail her? Life has no meaning without her around!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Maybe you should just give up... A life without Chika is not one worth living.")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretiffy)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... You shouldn't have killed IF... You lost yourself, and now... not only is the brunette gone, but Lyrica must also forever pay for your insolence.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "\"IF... W-What should I do?\" If only she was here to help... If only you DESERVED help!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?hateiffy)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... IF deserved what she got... She was a traitor, and for that, there were no excuses. Lyrica must understand.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "This is all HER fault... IF ruined... everything!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?loveiffy)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... You never hated IF, did you? You weren't mad over her betrayal! You... were mad that she left you... That she pined for Lyrica instead of YOU! You two... could've made magic together!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "IF's supple form, her warrior's spirit, her unfaltering energy... God, why didn't you capitalize while you had the chance?!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?doubtiffy)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... Did you do the right thing? IF was a traitor... and needed to die... right?")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Maybe you... could've... talked things out... Maybe you should've lost that duel... IF would have spared you; she wasn't a monster!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?lovelyrica)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "\"... I've always... loved you...\" If only you could've said that to her face, right?")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Still hoping to ride off into the sunset with Lyrica? Ha! As if she'd love a monster like you...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretlyrica)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... You are a terrible guardian. Lyrica's so afraid because of you...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "You've made Lyrica's life all the worse by merely existing... You should rejoice in the fact that you can no longer be there to torment her!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?despairlyrica)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Lyrica must hate you... No, she must utterly DESPISE you!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Why did you ruin Lyrica's life?! It's good you're destined to rot in hell!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?hatelyrica)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Lyrica doesn't respect you... She never thinks of the bigger picture! All you've ever done is try to protect her... and she doesn't give a shit! So... why should YOU?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Lyrica... Helpless bitch! And SUCH a whiner. You kept her safe, and she just kept moaning and MOANING!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretvert)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "This is your punishment... for letting your Lady down.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Your ultimate duty as a Leanbox soldier... was to defend Vert at all costs. You failed... Give up. It's for the best.")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?hatevert)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... Vert is responsible for all of this! Why the hell should you feel guilty?! She DESERVED to die! You hope she burns in hell!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "... Are you going to surrender to this fiend? You are glad Vert is dead; in fact, you only regret how you WEREN'T the one to kill her! Time to change that...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?lovevert)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Now that your mind is free... you can't help but notice how beautiful Lady Green Heart is. You're... in love with your Lady! C-Chika knew what was up...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "W-Wow... Never before have you so badly wanted to pick Vert up, slam her down on a soft bed... and just go to town. To make her feel like a true goddess!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretnisa)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Poor Nisa... She lost her best friend, one you may have even watched die! You can... relate...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Nisa is an honorable soul... but this war had driven her to madness. That's... horrible, beyond mere words!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?curiousnisa)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Where is Nisa now? Markz didn't kill her that day she stormed the Basilicom... Is she still alive? Moving on? Plotting revenge?")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Did Gust... really get killed? Must've been when Vert destroyed that cabin full of refugees. Leanbox was in heavy pursuit of Planeptune and Lastation... and Green Heart took every measure to slow her enemies down.")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?lovenisa)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "If only you got to spend more time with Nisa... Look at her body! Man, you could have a lot of fun with her... W-What are you thinking?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Nisa's love for justice... You are ashamed to admit that such... honorable goals are making you feel quite... amorous. Beautiful AND benevolent... and the blue hair is a very nice plus...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?loveadrian)[(replace:?selection2)["... Did... WE...?"](replace:?selection3)[... DID you? [... Yes.]<yesadrian| | [... No.]<noadrian|]] (click:?hateadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Adrian... Such a worthless piece of shit! He's nothing more than a pathetic rebel who accidentally sparked a world-wide war... He makes you sick!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Who the hell is Adrian, anyways?! Where'd he come from?! How'd he accidentally 'kill' the Vert you used to know? This is all his fault...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?understandadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Adrian led a rebellion against the CPU's tyranny... He lacked the skill and manpower to accomplish anything, but... you can't help but see that he may have had a point. Look at what Vert has led Gamindustri to...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "... What if the Yellow Bandanas had defeated the CPUs that fateful day? Perhaps... Gamindustri would be a safer place...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?hatemarkz)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "What did Vert see in Markz? She put him in charge of more military operations than you were even part of! The vile, putrid pig... The only thing he likes more than bloodshed is gloating about wreaking it.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Does Markz have a soul? He'd be happy to shoot you or Lyrica at point-blank range, just for some perverted kicks. You'll probably never get to send him off... but hopefully he meets his vile maker someday soon...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?regretmarkz)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Markz put you in prison, gleefully made you a war criminal. If only you could've impaled HIM on Gehaburn... That would've been funny.")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Markz tried so hard to break you... but you never folded to him. Sure, you're now locked away... but he couldn't steal your dignity. Your freedom is nothing by comparison...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?lovemarkz)[(replace:?selection2)["... Feeling... w-warm..."](replace:?selection3)[... U-Ugh, y-you're turned on! A-Are you desperate?! [... Yes.]<yesmarkz| | [... No. Your body is just being honest.]<nomarkz|]]} []<selection3|{(click:?yesadrian)[(replace:?selection3)[... Yes.](replace:?selection4)[... Did you like it? [... Yes.]<likeadrian| | [... No.]<dislikeadrian|]] (click:?noadrian)[(replace:?selection3)[... No.](replace:?selection4)[... Do you want to? [... Yes.]<wantadrian| | [... No.]<notwantadrian|]] (click:?yesmarkz)[(replace:?selection3)[... Yes.](replace:?selection4)[Well, at least you're honest! Here, have a password! (link:"HAPPYEND")[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Sicko... Just imagine those muscular, strong arms wrapped around you... Maybe he'd cover your mouth, preventing you from making a single sound of protest?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "What if... Markz had taken his interrogation... a-a bit further? Y-You would've been helpless against his overpowering strength... O-Oh God, that sounds appealing, doesn't it?!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]]] (click:?nomarkz)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "Sicko... Just imagine those muscular, strong arms wrapped around you... Maybe he'd cover your mouth, preventing you from making a single sound of protest?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "What if... Markz had taken his interrogation... a-a bit further? Y-You would've been helpless against his overpowering strength... O-Oh God, that sounds appealing, doesn't it?!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]} []<selection4|{(click:?likeadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "You just met him... and you already did THAT?! Worse yet... you liked it. Were you so lonely, you'd take ANYBODY?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "... Well, it felt good... and that's all that matters, right? You wonder if... you and Adrian have a future together? Unlikely lovers... but sometimes the unexpected provides the best moments in life.")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?dislikeadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... Oh God, you JUST met him today! How could you... devolve to such depravity? Does close proximity to a nude stranger instantly open your legs?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "Well... at least you finally got some, eh? Your first true time... to a complete stranger. A wannabe-terrorist, at that! Well... c-count this as a learning experience...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?wantadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "He was lying so close to you... The cell was so muggy that the two of you needed to sleep in nothing but the bare essentials! While you were sleeping... who knows what he could've done to you?!")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "... Would Adrian even accept you? You barely know each other... Binded only by Lady Vert's puppet strings...")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")] (click:?notwantadrian)[(set: $thinkQuoteA to "... S-Stop thinking these thoughts! What, you lose control whenever you're sharing a bed with someone?! This has never happened when you were with Chika!... Oh, er, well...")(set: $thinkQuoteB to "You're not a helpless damsel in distress! Why would you ever stoop so low as to... shack up with a former rebel?!")(goto:"Imprisoned Boss Action")]}

Vert moves: - Snaps her fingers, you're lit on fire (immolation). You really aren't, but damn is it realistic - Folds her arms, you are suddenly tied up and suspended in mid-air, your limps fully stretched out. Chops the air, you get bombarded by spiritual lances. - Slams the tendril to the ground, the earth below shatters like glass. You fall and fall and fall and fall and fall... before landing hard on the grass. - White tendril grabs you and holds you up in the air. Vert then throws a bunch of IF's Qatars up at you. - Tentacle slices you upwards... and Vert is suddenly holding Chika's crossbow. You get shot by an arrow in the chest, which evaporates Cave's moves: - With both hands and using all your strength, you haul Gehaburn overhead, the sword heavier than logic would dictate. 7 damage - You kick Vert's gut with your left foot, and lunge Gehaburn. Vert's body seemingly turns into slimy fluid and slides a few feet away. When she reforms, she clutches her stomach. symbolizing she took 8 damage - You wind up and spin Gehaburn into Vert three times. 9 damage. - Think (think about Lyrica, Chika, Vert, IF, Adrian, Markz. Asks if you would fall in love with them, asks if desperate in Adrian's or Markz's case. Literally just to stall the battle. Maybe the boss doesn't attack?) Skills: All start as "???" and become "Nepgear?", "Chika?", and "Vert?" if you click them. The first time you click each option, you try to swing the sword but it forces your hands to lurch forward, like pulled by a string. Then, the ghost appears. Everytime after, you impale the ground and the ghost appears. [set: $skillNepgearCheck to false and such during the result page] - Nepgear appears and does her Slash Wave special. She is not holding a visible sword, but seems to be clutching one you can't see. - Chika appears, shoots an arrow, and roundhouse kicks Vert. - Vert appear, facing YOU this time (the others have their backs turned to you), and she slices you to your back. 1 Damage, like the boss's attack.

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[Your friend remains firm in her position, a statue accepting the cold rain from above. However, as if the precipitation was having some sort of soothing effect, her face appears to finally relax. At least, you hope that's what you can imply... With a gentle warmth, you kneel down in front of the dear SMD warrior, and calmly place a hand upon her shoulder. In contrast to her expression... she completely shrugs you off. "C-Cave!" Her eyes never gaze at you, her pupils firmly trained on her shears. "Spare me your patronizing pity. You won... Don't rub it in." "I-I'm not rubbing anything in! Cave, please understand-" She suddenly dons a glower so vicious, your spine prepares to skip out your throat. "It is already clear that... you are not going to kill me... s-so just go! Go, and... do whatever the hell stupid plan you foolishly think will work! You... bested me... Well done, you've proven your dominance! So, just... j-just GO!" She talks tough- nothing new there- but a hint of sorrow lingers within her words, you're sure of it! You sigh. She's gonna play the stubborn card, as expected. For once, can't you be wrong? "Cave, stop!" You shake your head, knowing that pep talks were never your strength. Still, she is your friend, no matter what rift this war may have caused, and you need to be her shoulder to cry on. Or at least silently sulk on. "... I-I want to help, dammit! If I can just... I don't know, take the castle, I-I think I can actually end this stupid war! No one else will... have to get hurt." Cave continues to look away from you, refusing to speak. Alas, as no more words escape her lips, you decide to finish your thought. "... Dontcha want everything back to normal, Cave? I-I hate fighting like this! Look, I know I screwed up-" "YES... You did." At least she IS listening. "... Okay, yeah, got it! Look, my point is that if I finish this stupid mission, everything can... finally be put to rest. I hate this war as much as you do! I... want to stop it. (link:"Stop it all.\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 1")]](else:)[Another awkward silence; the rain only adds to the fuel of what may be another argument. You meant ever word you said, but did Cave really care? Doe she... Does she truly despise you in such an irredeemable way? CAN things go back to normal at this rate? Go back to normal without Mina, and Gust, and... Chika? You can only hope so, pray so. "..." With a soft breath, Cave... stands, her head hung low, and her weapon at her feet. You have no idea what to anticipate. "C-Cave?" She allows the rain to soak her hair... before pointing her thumb off behind her; the direction towards the front of the holy building. "... You won... It's only fair." Does she... want the same thing?! It's obvious by her tone that everything isn't exactly 'peachy' between you two... but the mere fact that she's willing to put aside her pride even a little provides more than enough hope for the future. "C-Cave... thanks. Y-You won't regre-" A strange rustling within the bushes nearby perks your ears, and the SMD warrior follows suit. You two have the reflexes of cats... What was that sound? The wind? No... this was the exact same sound you heard earlier, just before meeting back up with Cave! Something crawling in the trees, watching you the entire time... A cold shiver runs down your spine. Is it... finally about to show itself? Do you want it to?! M-Maybe i-it IS just the wind... As you stand lost in your confused thoughts... your friend's eyes shrink. You are still debating over whether a hideous beast lies in the brush, or if nature is merely screwing with you... but Cave has already figured out the situation! Her sharp eyes reveal a rare display of fear... before her brows furrow in determination. You aren't sure of what, but... she's made up her mind. (link:"\"... IF, watch out!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 2")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[And there it is, just to the right of your vision! A blur of lines, so fast they make your head spin! Can't... focus! A set of cold purple eyes- filled to the brim with a malice so pristine, no amount of holy intervention could offer salvation. A hellish blade held in this being's hand, gigantic and glowing with pure rage, charges straight down upon your head. One fell swoop, and your neck will be free from its major burden. You can't even begin to defend yourself; your arms are slop compared to the unknown weapon's speed. You are frozen in time, feeling each individual second pass you by. Is... this fear you are experiencing? Perhaps dread? Or, maybe your brain is too slow to process the fact that you are literally three seconds away from death, and dazed confusion is fated to be your last emotion on this earth. "Gck!" You brace yourself for the strike, but the cold feeling of steel never graces your body. Fearing your mystery assailant is playing with you, you cast your eyes open and up... and see Cave standing before you, her arms held all the way out. Her face, contorted with pain she's hopelessly trying to hide, is more pale than it has ever been. Her jaw quivers open, but nary a sound escapes. W-What is... N-No! A long blade, the one that was meant for your head, is now sticking out of her stomach, like a mutated appendage finally breaking free. You look into her glazed-over eyes, watching in abject horror as her pupils dilate. Her fading orbs stay locked on your own, almost guilting you into acknowledging the truth. A sword... has run her clean through the back. You don't notice any blood running from her body... but there's no way she's anything but doomed. (link:"\"C-Cave!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 2")]](else:)[Wow, that's really the best you had: blurting out her name again! Some friend you are. The red-haired soldier struggles to continue staring at you... but even through the mortal pain evident on her face, a tiny smile breaks through; not enough to showcase trust or forgiveness... but she clearly felt this was all for the best. She's glad SHE is the one destined to die, not you. Her voice cracks, her vocal cords straining as her body shuts down. "Y-You're going... t-to stop t-this all... Pr-Promise?" I-Is this truly h-happening right now?! Your friend... i-is she... N-No, she can't! "C-Cave... N-No! W-Why'd yo-" "You... d-deserved this... v-victory..." S-She's fading fast! You reach for her... just as a hard boot kicks your friend off the now-reddened sword! Soft smile still etched into her stone-like face, Cave falls forward... but the second before she'd collapse into your awaiting arms, she poofs away into a collection of green sparkles. The orbs of light float up into the air, before vanishing into the depths of the rainy sky. Only her weapons and trademark maid/nurse cap remain, tarnished by the mud below because your brain couldn't get your hands to move quick enough to catch them. A stream of water trails down your cheeks. This isn't the rain... Your eyes are unleashing every sorrow you had ever built up in your relatively-short life. Crying as if this is the end of the world... And, why shouldn't you be?! Cave just gave her life for an IDIOT like you! You set her down a twisted path of torment, depression, and sheer pain... but she still found the ability to sacrifice herself in order to save your hide! She might've hated your guts... but she sensed some goodness in you; sensed SOME reason to keep you alive. ... You didn't deserve to win... and you didn't deserve this (link:"last honor.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 3")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)["D-Damn it, Cave..." Tears streaming down, you struggle to formulate your thoughts... when the dark realization comes that you are still not out of harm's way just yet! Cave did this to save you... but she only provided a temporary distraction. Are you going to let her down? ... If you truly did not deserve survival... then the least you can do is avenge your fallen friend. Your eyes trail upwards, seeking the face of the vile cretin who stole her away. Whomever- or even *whatever*- you were expecting... certainly doesn't prepare you for the truth. "... H-Huh? G-Gear...?" Standing tall before you, arms hung loose like a zombie's, is indeed the purple-haired CPU Candidate of Planeptune. However, not only is she standing... well, WRONG, but her eyes also convey an... emptiness of sorts. Utterly devoid of all light... Almost as if she's under the influence of a third party. And if that third party was the Devil. ... This is clearly not the friend back home you know and love. But, then... who the hell is this?! She meets your questioning eyes... and stumbles awkwardly back. Is she... in shock? Her mouth quivers open. "... Y-You didn't tell me that... there'd be a 'Cave' h-here..." She lifts her peculiar sword, red from the SMD warrior's blood. "S-She's bled s-so much... W-Would a puppet... really bleed...?" W-What is she... saying? W-Who is she (link:"talking to?!")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearBossTrack.play('Musou Orochi 2 Ultimate OST - Waltz of White Darkness.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Segue- IF")]](else:)[She thinks she's far more powerful than she actually is. You know this battle is yours for the taking, and yet she still refuses to buckle down. It doesn't matter how many bruises and cuts she endures; whatever rage she has within her continues to burn... and will never simply subside. "Gear... j-just stop! Why are you doing this?!" She glares at you with the same intensity as before. "N-No... I-I refuse to give in! This world of yours... falls tonight, Deity of Sin!” Another charge. You continue to block her sword as she wails on you, but your strength is quickly faltering. Qatars can only take you so far; that cursed blade within her hands will certainly be the end of you! Cave won't be alone in death after all... "N-No... dammit!" You cry out, straining to emit the words. What can you do? Alas, the power behind her blows force your knees to buckle... and you feel the knives in your hands suddenly leave your grip. A sudden jab of her sword causes them to fly in the air. Bye bye... Someone has finally found an opening... and that someone isn't you. Nepgear, or whoever the hell this is, lets out an exhausted laugh. "Now... to finally (link:"end you!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 4")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[You can't believe it; have you really met your match? Her blade rises into the air, higher than your head; a chop straight down will slice you smoother than butter. What can you do to stop this? Nothing. You couldn't get Cave on your side again, at least without her dying for your pathetic ass... and now... now you can't even get into the Basilicom. You've failed her, Lyrica, Planeptune, Gamindustri... You're not cut out for fighting, saving the world, or anything like that! Cave was right to think so all along: you ARE a useless fool. "I'm sorr-" Huh? What's... A glistening by your foot catches your eye; is that steel? You look quickly, and are reminded of Cave's scissors taking refuge in the mud. It's somehow shining through the rain... Maybe your friend hasn't forsaken you after all. You screwed up so badly... but she's finding it within herself to forgive you. Here comes Gehaburn! Don't slip up now! Cave's given you one last chance! "No!" With no hesitation, you quickly fondle one half of the shears... and intentionally fall over on your side, the blade only cutting off a small portion of your long jacket. The sword's momentum can't physically come to a halt so suddenly, but Nepgear still pulls up as hard as she can, not expecting your defiant motion. Angered, she smoothly begins the transition into slicing for your gut, though she stumbles a bit from the weight. Before she can swing again, you fully take the SMD warrior's weapon in your hand... and (link:"slice up!")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 4")]](else:)[In your head, the plan is simple; swing for her hand, dislodge the sword, and force her to speak. If you miss her hand, you'll at least clash with her blade and buy yourself some more time. But, as it turns out, you move just a tad too fast for her unhinged maneuvers... and you miss her appendage completely. The sound of splitting flesh sounds out... and your pupils shrink when something warm splashes onto your hands. "C...rap..." You missed your target, sure... but you still made contact. You did not slice her hand, no; instead... you've plunged the sharp knife into her chest. Deep. You've been using non-killing stun-Qatars for so long... that you forgot that Cave played for keeps. Nepgear's sad eyes bulge out of their sockets, though that angry scowl never leaves. "G... G-Goodness..." she weakly replies, clutching the area around the penetration. What... What have you done?! O-Oh God... Nepgear or not, she's still... Nepgear! A person! Y-You... N-No... You quickly retract the weapon, resisting the urge to puke. The CPU Candidate pathetically falls backwards. "Uni... N-Neptune... I... I lost..." "G-Gear, I-I... I didn't mean to-" You can't finish your thought, as she slowly vanishes in the same vein as Cave did. You scramble to try and keep her around, hoping in vain perhaps to hold her light particles together... but it is all to no avail. Hopefully... she can find some peace now... Lucky her; you are once more left alone in the storm with your (link:"troubles.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearBossTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 5")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[Confusion and sadness quickly blows up into rage. "... Ugh! What the HELL is going on?! Dammit!!!" Is the entire world completely against you? Pardon you for existing, geez... Okay, now who the hell did you just kill? And yeah, that's 'KILL'! Downright murder, more like it... That couldn't have been the Nepgear you know; she'd still be in Planeptune, defending the mountain. Even if Vert retreated, she'd stay there simply because Histoire ordered her and Uni to! She would NEVER go against orders. Was she a ghost? An insane lookalike? You know of Nepgeo, who serves Leanbox last you checked... but that wasn't her either; Nepgeo's a bit of a pervert. This girl was hearing voices. Not-sexual voices, either. ... Maybe... Maybe you've gone insane... and killed Cave yourself, and your mind is simply trying to justify it by attaching the blame to some imaginary scapegoat? Screw it all... You fall back to your knees, frustration eating away at you. Cave is gone, and now you downright murdered a troubled imposter of Nepgear... You were unable to do a single thing to help them! Maybe you could've said something different, or tried a different approach, or... Ugh, this has easily been the worst day of your life. "Y-You're going... t-to stop t-this all... Pr-Promise?" She's gone...there's nothing that can be done about that now. Still... she'd never accept failure, and she's counting on you. You made a promise to her AND your home nation; this war, friends fighting each other for no good reason... It ends tonight! No more lives shall be lost... No more! So long as you draw breath, Gamindustri shall lose nary a single soul more! "Watch me Cave... I'm stopping this. I'm finally gonna do (link:"something right!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 5")]](else:)[The mighty Leanbox Basilicom, a home you once knew all too well. Well, more appropriately, you got to know Lyrica's room best of all... Er, either way, its front doors stand tall and firm before you. You have some reservations with simply up and walking inside... but you're already this far, and you DON'T want to walk the marathon-length of the castle's outsides again (especially in the off-chance that Nepgear may have some very pissed allies hunting your ass). It may just be best to barge in through the entrance. You grip Cave's signature cap in your hand, along with her scissors in your belt; you never know if they'll come in handy... Furthermore, you still have a few Qatars left in your jacket, though you've already lost so much, and these aren't the cheapest throwing knives around... Oh well, they should come in handy if you find yourself in a bind... unless you get, y'know, blindsided and disarmed again. Let's hope, right? "Cave, wish me luck..." Hoping that tonight will bring you some success... you gulp and heave open the doors, before stepping inside. "... Er, that opened easier than expected..." Whatever fate awaits you... at least you'll be out of this goddamn rain! ... The rain patters down upon the tiled ground before you close the doors, your drenched body feeling as if it's held down as the warmth inside hugs your body like an old friend. Your eyes immediately set on peering back-and-forth, scanning like the predator you are... and perhaps entirely as expected, you are most certainly not alone. The exact number you don't know... but a ton of green-clad men stand all around, frozen in horror. Their faces, sunken in from presumed exhaustion, stare at you with fearful eyes. Weapons of varying types are in their hands, but no one has the gall to actually raise them. The perspiration coating your body begins to dim a little; are they... not planning to attack? Hundreds of soldiers opting not to shoot at the enemy who just walked right into their own base... Eh, (link:"good sign?")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 6")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[Staring, staring... Unease settles back in... No, don't doubt yourself now! You can... handle this. Simply speak loudly and... 'stretch' the truth a little. Violently stretch, maybe. "People of the Basilicom!" you yell, attempting to make your voice as booming as possible. "I come from Planeptune, and I ask now that you surrender this Basilicom to me, IF!" Everyone still stares at you in awe and confusion. In some regards, it feels kinda nice that they're not firing like before... but in others, a lingering suspicion hurdles around your mind. Nevertheless, you continue. "... I don't want to harm any more of your men. We simply seek a peaceful end to this war! If you aren't already aware..." You'll hate yourself for going with this angle, but... it should get your point across. "... a lot of your friends outside have already fallen thanks to my army." You hold up the cap Cave once wore, gripping it tight in your hands. The soldiers look at it... and for many, they understand immediately. Sorry bout using this... She'd do the same if the roles were reversed, though, wouldn't she? "As you can tell... Cave didn't want to cooperate... a-and she's no l-longer with us!" Don't flinch now! "... I-If you choose to surrender the Basilicom peacefully, I will promise the safety of all of you! Don't intentionally cross me, and... you won't end up like her! No more harm will be done, and you can all live on without fear of attack. Please, if you care for your lives, as well as the families you support, you will drop your guns now and place your hands in the air!" Yea-hah! That sounded hammy as hell... but hey, whatever works, right? You were never the one for subtlety anyways. You just hope they'll buy your bluff! Cave was their strongest soldier... and if they believe you single-handedly killed her, surely that will dissuade them from resisting? No one speaks outright; instead, a few guards whisper amongst themselves. Dammit, you hate when they whisper. "... W-Well?!" You flash some Qatars from your sleeve. "... Do I take your silence as a show of defiance?!" Yeah, that's a sweet line! Quite the clincher! The throng uniformly winces... and one brave soul, clad in a General's outfit, steps forward. "T-That's not it a-at all!!!" He shakes his head towards his allies... and they nod, before lowering their arms. Hmm. "W-We... also don't want anymore blood spilt, er, Miss IF. We... WE of the Leanbox army surrender to you! Please, just..." Everyone's eyes cast downward. "... promise us you'll... keep our Lady in check! If she... defeats you, she'll probably execute all of us! Or... (link:"worse.\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Confusion.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 6")]](else:)[{(savegame: "A","Reach Out to the Truth") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,100);" /></div> (set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(set: $nepgearChoiceOneAsked to false)(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoAsked to false)(set: $vertChoiceOneAsked to false)(set: $vertChoiceTwoAsked to false)(set: $vertChoiceThreeAsked to false)(set: $caveChoiceOneAsked to false)(set: $caveChoiceTwoAsked to false)(set: $bonusChoiceOneAsked to false)(set: $bonusChoiceTwoAsked to false) (set: $nepgearChoiceOneCheck to false)(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoCheck to false)(set: $vertChoiceOneCheck to false)(set: $vertChoiceTwoCheck to false)(set: $vertChoiceThreeCheck to false)(set: $caveChoiceOneCheck to false)(set: $caveChoiceTwoCheck to false)(set: $bonusChoiceOneCheck to false)(set: $bonusChoiceTwoCheck to false) (set: $nepgearChoiceOneOrder to 0)(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoOrder to 0)(set: $vertChoiceOneOrder to 0)(set: $vertChoiceTwoOrder to 0)(set: $vertChoiceThreeOrder to 0)(set: $caveChoiceOneOrder to 0)(set: $caveChoiceTwoOrder to 0)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to 1) }The crowd mumbles in agreement. Most curious indeed... Your 'threats' seem to have fallen on deaf ears: they're FAR more afraid of their own goddess than YOU... and you have throwing knives pointed RIGHT AT THEM! They want to be free from the CPU... and are surrendering to potentially save their hides... or to stick their heads on the chopping block should you somehow fall. Risk and reward... Vert... What's become of you? That thought has plagued your mind ever since that fateful battle against Avenir, when you fully realized the friend you adored... was no longer the same gentle soul, but a ruthless dictator. ... No matter what... you have to get your friend back. ... But can you trust these guys? Would an entire army really be so antsy to give up the castle to the first person who penetrates the defenses? No... something is off here... They're trying to play you like a damn fiddle! Lure you in... and lob off your head. A nice little trinket for Vert's nightstand. Clamminess shakes you hand, and your shoulders tense up worse than when you saw Lyrica wear that lovely bikini of hers for the very first time. Your ears perk up, keying in on any hint of suspicious sound. "Are... Are you a'right, ma'am?" The same General places his hand upon your shoulder. You look at his tired eyes; nothing seems off with him... and that makes you feel even worse. You step away, and cast your eyes around. What is going on? Why are you feeling so paranoid? Is someone watching you? Apart from the many men already staring at you?! Someone aiming a weapon, grinding an axe, stocking up on poisonous darts?! ... Okay... Calm yourself! Perhaps... Perhaps by clearing the air, you'll... feel better. Right now, your head is in shambles... so a little discussion should help with that, right? You ask questions, maybe you'll get answers! But... maybe you'll get TOO many answers; ones you don't want to hear. Or, even worse, maybe you'll ask too many QUESTIONS... and ruin their willingness to concede the Basilicom?! ... Or, you're worrying over absolutely nothing! "... I..." you begin, the General's eyebrow raising at once. "... have a question for ya'll. Somethin's been bothering me..." ... So, do you trust them? Now's your chance to find out more! (link:"\"Why was Nepgear here?\"")[(set: $nepgearChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $nepgearChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $nepgearChoiceOneOrder to 1)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")] (link:"\"Were you guys... prepared for me?\"")[(set: $vertChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $vertChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $vertChoiceOneOrder to 1)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")] (link:"\"Why didn't you help Cave out there?\"")[(set: $caveChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $caveChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $caveChoiceOneOrder to 1)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")] IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100]

(if: $nepgearChoiceOneAsked is true)[{(set: $nepgearChoiceOneAsked to false)}"Why was Nepgear here?" Tis a simple question, one that DESPERATELY needed any answer. However, based on their confused looks... it doesn't seem like you'll get what you want. "N-Nepgear was here? W-Why are you asking us? She's with your army, isn't she?" Voices from the crowd mumble. "Does she mean Nepgeo?" "Nah, she's with Linda and Markz over by the Lowee border!" "Lowee? Nepgear? Huh... Y'know, I may have heard something about th-... Nah, can't remember." ... That's going nowhere fast.](elseif: $nepgearChoiceTwoAsked is true)[{(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoAsked to false)}"... She had a sword she called Gehaburn. That mean anything to you?" The General slowly looks to his team, who all shrug. Was that rehearsed? "Gehaburn? Sounds... unique..." He shakes his head like a poor 3D model. "... Can't help you there, I'm sorry. We really have no idea about Nepgear or whatever she calls her sword." However, a high-pitched voice from behind him suddenly shrieks out! "Wait a minute! Wasn't that some evil sword the CPUs almost used once? Y-Yeah, years ago, back during the war against ASIC! Huh... Thought it was just a story." ... Genuine answer? They know about as much as you do on this front.](elseif: $vertChoiceOneAsked is true)[{(set: $vertChoiceOneAsked to false)}"Were you guys... prepared for me?" The soldiers all rustle uncomfortably, before the General speaks. "Our Lady, uh... she doesn't really explain things to us. Like, ever..." A shrill voice from the crowd continues the train of thought. "She was expecting your arrival, IF... but she didn't say why or how or when or... Ugh, s-she hinted that you were joining our side, for crap's sake!" "T-This is all a game to her, ain't it?!" "Did she... purposely put us in danger?!" "What the hell's happened to her?!" ... Interesting.](elseif: $vertChoiceTwoAsked is true)[{(set: $vertChoiceTwoAsked to false)}"So, uh, where is Vert, anyways?" Shrugs all across the board. "She... should nearly be back, I think? She left Planeptune hours ago... Yeah, according to Cave, she should already be back!" The collection of soldiers shift uncomfortably. "... H-Hey... W-What if, s-she... IS back?! Like, she's watching us all, right now... Waiting..." "D-Dude, d-don't even joke like that!" "I-Is he joking, though? I swear, she watches me when I sleep sometime..." "Why would she watch YOU? I'm more her type." "Does she HAVE a type?" ... What is happening?](elseif: $vertChoiceThreeAsked is true)[{(set: $vertChoiceThreeAsked to false)}"... She doesn't tell you ANYTHING?" The General averts his eyes. "... No. We can't really ever tell what she's thinking..." There's that shrill voice again. "She simply gives us orders. Logical or not, we gotta do what she says... We have to look out for you? Keep our distance? Hide inside? We don't ask, we just DO... It's safer that way."](elseif: $caveChoiceOneAsked is true)[{(set: $caveChoiceOneAsked to false)}"Why didn't you help Cave out there?" The General closes his eyes. "... None of us wanted to be the one to tick Cave off, especially when she was already so pissed... G-God, I... I can't believe she's..." A random guard sighs. "Helping her would've been a stupid move... I-It's good you came out on top, I-IF!" ... Your heart aches for your lost friend. Sorry, Cave.](elseif: $caveChoiceTwoAsked is true)[{(set: $caveChoiceTwoAsked to false)}"Why... aren't you guys more concerned about Cave?" A baritone voice reaches your ears. "... We, uh, kinda assumed this... sorta thing would happen eventually. Cave gets passionate; a bit TOO much so... I'm surprised she didn't get herself killed sooner." The General rubs his hair. "It... sucks that she's gone... though, we were all kinda afraid of her, honestly. At least Chika was around to be her anchor... but without her, Cave wouldn't have lasted much longer either way. Went right off the deep end... Wow, both killed in a single day. Geez..." You try to say something in response... but one more voice cuts in. "... She killed a few of us out there. I saw my friends explode, right before my very eyes... She was insane. I'm a pacifist, but... perhaps this was the best outcome." Your fists involuntarily clench. It hurts to hear how Cave's former allies remember her.](elseif: $bonusChoiceOneAsked is true)[{(set: $bonusChoiceOneAsked to false)}"... What kinda army is this?" The General blinks. "W-What do you mean?" Your temper is boiling over like scalding-hot oil. "You don't have any clue what Vert's thinking, you don't ask questions, you don't help each other... and now you're saying that it's a GOOD THING Cave is dead!" Where's their loyalty? "Your allies are your family! You... You can't speak of Cave like this! She didn't deserve to die; no one does!" He blinks yet again. God, does anything even go on behind those stupid eyes of his? "... You're the one who killed her, Miss IF... S-Sorry, sorry!" Wow, such insolence! ... This conversation has garnered a whole lot of nothing! Doesn't anyone know ANYTHING?! Is everyone blind AND stupid? Which brings you to your next point:](elseif: $bonusChoiceTwoAsked is true)[{(set: $bonusChoiceTwoAsked to false)}Is everyone blind AND stupid? The bigger question is... are YOU? Jot down this password and let's find out later! RLTAWNSM] (if: $overallChoiceOrder < 5)[{(if: $nepgearChoiceOneCheck is false)[(link:"\"Why was Nepgear here?\"")[(set: $nepgearChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $nepgearChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $nepgearChoiceOneOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $nepgearChoiceOneCheck is true AND $nepgearChoiceTwoCheck is false)[(link:"\"... She had a sword she called Gehaburn. That mean anything to you?\"")[(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoAsked to true)(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $nepgearChoiceTwoOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $nepgearChoiceTwoCheck is true)[Who WAS that Nepgear?!] } { (if: $vertChoiceOneCheck is false)[(link:"\"Were you guys... prepared for me?\"")[(set: $vertChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $vertChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $vertChoiceOneOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $vertChoiceOneCheck is true AND $vertChoiceTwoCheck is false)[(link:"\"So, uh, where is Vert, anyways?\"")[(set: $vertChoiceTwoAsked to true)(set: $vertChoiceTwoCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $vertChoiceTwoOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $vertChoiceTwoCheck is true AND $vertChoiceThreeCheck is false)[(link:"\"She doesn't tell you ANYTHING?\"")[(set: $vertChoiceThreeAsked to true)(set: $vertChoiceThreeCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $vertChoiceThreeOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $vertChoiceThreeCheck is true)[Lady Vert...] } { (if: $caveChoiceOneCheck is false)[(link:"\"Why didn't you help Cave out there?\"")[(set: $caveChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $caveChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $caveChoiceOneOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $caveChoiceOneCheck is true AND $caveChoiceTwoCheck is false)[(link:"\"Why... aren't you guys more concerned about Cave?\"")[(set: $caveChoiceTwoAsked to true)(set: $caveChoiceTwoCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(set: $caveChoiceTwoOrder to $overallChoiceOrder)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $caveChoiceTwoCheck is true)[So sorry, Cave...] } (link:"... That's enough, you got what you wanted.")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 7")]](elseif: $overallChoiceOrder >= 5 AND ($vertChoiceOneOrder is 1 AND $caveChoiceOneOrder is 2 AND $vertChoiceTwoOrder is 3 AND $vertChoiceThreeOrder is 4 AND $caveChoiceTwoOrder is 5))[{ (if: $overallChoiceOrder is 5)[(link:"\"... What kinda army is this?\"")[(set: $bonusChoiceOneAsked to true)(set: $bonusChoiceOneCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (elseif: $overallChoiceOrder is 6)[(link:"Is everyone blind AND stupid?")[(set: $bonusChoiceTwoAsked to true)(set: $bonusChoiceTwoCheck to true)(set: $overallChoiceOrder to it + 1)(goto:"Interrogation Sequence")]] (else:)[(link:"Er... Thanks...?")[(set: $endingPath to "Paranoid")(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 1")]] }](else:)[(link:"... This is no good...")[(set: $endingPath to "Paranoid")(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 1")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100

Imprisoned- Vert fight- add password for Markz easter egg Interrogation Sequence- add password for bonus question easter egg. Mission Accomplished- possibly add health bar to the interrogation sequence AND when beating up Vert/she's beating herself up All endings- once we determine conditions for unlocking, have to go through everything and add any checking for IF's stomach or arm injury, including gun vs. arrow Historical ending- add bonus ending scene after credits. Runaway (F)- decide on changes to reflect the sniper path? Set all GAME OVER checks and all RESULT PAGES unwritten endings: (IF) (Cave) Buzzkill Ending (dummied out probably) (Other) Markz thing Dummied out content INTRO: brief alternate take of Adrian mountain scene. brief setup, everyone non-violently fending off the rebels, vert's already challenging Adrian. He fires for IF, but misses. Vert more nervous now, slips up, gets struck, 'dies'. Adrian tries to reuse the cheat tome... but the magic explodes, Vert wakes up, slashes the book out of his hands. GET: SW2- Retreat (for Vert Ending (when Vert) and for Imprisoned Vert fight) SW3- Honnoji (imprisoned- Nepgear fight) SW2- Kawanakajima (farewell ending nepgear-IF fight) Strikeforce- Wrath of God (Nepgear fight- Door Ending?) SW4 (4-2?)- Longing (for True End, final Cave flashbacks too) Thin Ice(?) Passage of time(?) ending numbers: 1- The '5' of Us 2- Instant Karma 3- "Carry That Weight" (Runaway) 4A- "Awakening the Chaos" (Imprisoned) 4B- "Warm Food" (lose to Vert) 5A- "Mission... Accomplished..." 5B- "The Second Coming!" 6A- "De Novo..." 6B- "Loyalty" 7- "I'll Be Watching You..." (paranoid) 8- "To Greener Pastures..." 9A- "Time Heals All Wounds" (door win 9B- "Time Wounds All Heels" (door lose) 10A- "Moving On" 10B- "Alive" 10C- "Two out of Three Ain't Bad" 11A- "Behind Blue Eyes" 11B- "Empty Chairs At Empty Tables" 12A- "Historical" (maybe be if you win, lose is b. maybe just 1 though) 13A- "... Do Us Part." (good karma) 13B- "Farewell..." (2 karma or higher) 14- "Measure for Measure" (true ending) 0- Son of a bitch! 69- "I'm Done" (?)

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[Enough is enough... T-They're holding something back! You think- no, you KNOW- they are hiding some key truth within their throats! You are just ONE person. Whether they think you killed Leanbox's strongest soldier is irrelevant; they shouldn't be surrendering this easy!!! Dammit... What to do? Their faces, so solemn with fatigue... Why? Their bodies, their weapons, their lack of determination… ... At any point, they can jump you. They WILL jump you. Then, it'll be all over... No. You are not falling for it! Not at this stage in the game. "Ma'am? You okay?" A General offers his hand. You can barely stare at it, rage filling your soul. This man... A loyal soldier of Leanbox. A former friend? Didn't matter anymore. He's probably leading you on. You grab that hand, he'll drag you down to the ground. They'll all pounce. They always do... They did outside, and they sure won't hesitate to do it in here. Too enclosed of a space, even this wide entrance hall. Nowhere to run... Your mind red, you swat his hand away. The confused man looks at you like a child being rejected a toy he so desperately desires. Or trading cards... Yeah, scratch a toy; this child likes card games. "W-What are you...?" You back away from him, from everyone! To the middle, the center of the throng! Hafta get away from the crowd... but naturally, the circle formation of the guards renders that impossible. Every soldier, eyeing you curiously- sizing you up- simply stands stock still and observes you closely. Their weapons remain firmly on the ground, at their feet. They've given up... all too easy. Far, far, far far far too easy. With a nervous grunt and a sweating palm to your forehead, you struggle to hold yourself together. "... Stop it..." you hiss with every last ounce of strength in your gut. (link:"\"E-Excuse me?\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 1")]](else:)["... J-Just stop it! Stop this... this... this whole 'Oh, we surrender!' schtick! This... This is clearly fishy..." You feel completely out of breath. How mortified are you right now? It's impossible to gauge. The men look sorta scared too... but what do you care?! Probably another damn trick! "M-Ma'am, we truly mean it! We don't want-" "No, shut up! What are you planning?! I..." A sense of discomfiture dawns on you after saying all this. Why not just throw on a tin hat with all of this paranoia?! You're thinking like a total nutcase! ... No, these people are insane; you have a good reason to feel afraid! This isn't good, at all. You really wish Cave was alive right now... She'd know what to do. "... I-I'm armed, okay? You try anything, and you're... you're gonna be sorry!" That was probably the least-threatening warning ever, but so long as your point got across, who gives a hoot? In any case, Leanbox's Finest begin to step back from you, hands in the air. If this is an act, then they are truly playing it completely to the limit; you have to give them a point in determination, if nuthin' else. Man, if they are planning something, just... do it already! Get it over with... This day has been long enough, not to mention scarring... The General tries to walk to you, but you once more swat him away. "M-Ma'am, w-we have no intentions to betray your trust! W-We WANT this war to end, whether Leanbox loses or not! Sooner the better, too... S-Seriously, do you know how hard this day has been on us?” This sets something off deep within. "... Wait, how hard it was on you? On YOU? Do you know what I went through just to get here? I had to fight people I once considered friends- friends who didn't hesitate in tryin' to KILL ME! I had to freaking survive snipers and paranoid soldiers like you, and... Gah!” Your knives fall from your sleeves and into your awaiting hands... and the General's forehead sweats like nothing else. "L-Listen, IF, y-you have my word! W-We are all disarmed, our hands are clean... H-Hehe, i-if we were planning something, we would've done so by now, d-dontcha think? Haha... ha?" Fair point, and that's the same thought you've been struggling with. Again, they outnumber you and, even with your great skills in combat and survival, you aren't in any condition to fight them off... ... Do they realize this? They think you murdered Cave... which could be more than enough to strike fear in their souls; the SMD warrior was the best fighter Gamindustri has ever seen. They probably believe you must be invincible... so surrendering is the logical choice. ... But what if that's the point of all this?! What if they WANT you to let your guard down? They want you to THINK they are afraid... when in reality, they are chomping at the bit for the slightest hint of weakness in you! ... That's it, you know it! It's the oldest trick in the book... and you'll be damned if you're (link:"falling for it!")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)["... Okay, that's enough..." You've heard all you needed to. Still... you can't help but doubt this situation at least somewhat. Maybe you should... keep an eye on a few of them as you go to contact Planeptune? Don't want to risk them being out of sight. "... You, aaaaaaaand... you three guys over there!" You point at the General first, then three random buff dudes in back. "Yeah, you four. Yer coming with me!" "O-Okay!" Yes, sweet, sweet compliance... You don't waste anymore time and immediately set up the stairs. Sure, these guys claim to have surrendered... but when Vert returns with her main army, who knows what will happen? Get yer ass in the throne room, report back home... and then you'll feel more comfortable. Lady Green Heart will have to see the writing on the wall; she wouldn't want her Basilicom to get bombarded by Planeptune and Lastation reinforcements! Lyrica pops into your head... and you bite your lip as you round a corner to another staircase. What will you say to her about Cave? You're STILL not sure what to tell YOURSELF! But damn, it's been so long since you've seen her... ... One step at a time. You'll get to see her lovely face AFTER you've saved the day! ... You wander down one last long hall... and find yourself facing the throne room's entrance, propped open by two complient guards. A window to the direct opposite end is smashed open... and the spectre of Mina's 'incident' looms large over your hair. She was the first to go; the death that transformed the war from a mere spark to a wildfire. You breathe in, then out, then in, then out... "... Let's go." Go on, walk inside and take a seat. Do this... and the castle will (link:"be yours!")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 7")]](else:)[Oooh... This seat feels pretty cozy! Man, you could get used to this whole CPU treatment... Nah, you're no goddess. You close your eyes as you happily snug into the royal chair... but when you sense eyes burning onto your form, you snap out of your childish trance to find the soldiers awkwardly standing at attention. You cough, face turning pink. "... E-Er, n-no one look! I have to... dial my base now!" No more wasting time; call them already! As the guards bow their heads, you stuff your hand in your jacket pocket and begin fishing deep within its recesses. "C'mon... Please don't be shot to crap..." Where is it? Not there, not ther- Aha, found it! Let's hope this still works... From your pocket, you pull out a small tranceiver device. A primitive radio... but an ideal one for infiltration missions. You usually wear a ton of cellphones on your person... but you had feared that their signals would be tracked by the Basilicom's defenses, so you reluctantly left 'em all back home. Too bad that didn't change anything... It feels... empty without your babies... I-Ignore that thought! "... Whew, seems like it'll still work! Got lucky there..." With that, you tune the frequency, thanking your lucky stars this wasn't blown up by that sniper's bullet. That would've made things awkward. You set the radio's dial to 140.85; the code for Planeptune's closest base, just off the shore of Leanbox. You tap out a simple preordained code, manipulating the white noise... and a tiny voice eventually answers. "Pudding Pie to Leafy Bow... Leafy Bow, is that you?" You sigh; they always forget the 'Over' part. Isn't it always much cooler when you sound more professional like that?... Er, anyways, the voice on the end is that of some disinterested male, no doubt barely in his twenties. Disappointment flares up your torso when you realize that neither Nep, Compa, the real Nepgear, nor Histoire would be hearing the news firsthand... Nah, not just that; you simply really want to hear your friends' voices, and make sure they're alright. "... Y-Yeah, 'Leafy Bow' here... er, 'Pudding Pie'. Over." Yeah, you... didn't decide on these codenames; these were all easy ways for Neptune to remember her stations. Fortunately, Noire helped her out with mostly everything... The voice delays, possibly reporting to a fellow operator. "... Good to hear from you. Is everything okay, Leafy Bow? What's your status?" You think for a moment. "... Is Lady Nepgear all right? Is (link:"she there?\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 8")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)["Hmm? Purple Sister? She is fine; she returned from the mountain about thirty minutes ago.(if: $flashbackFourViewed is "Neutral")[ She and Black Sister were a bit... shaken from the battle, but they're both safe and sound.].. Why do you ask? Would you like to talk with her?" ... Is that the answer you were hoping for... or the one you feared? "I-I see... No, it's fine, thanks. Just makin' sure is all..." Nepgear's alive... Did you really see her, then? WAS that a ghost? Who the hell did you kill? Who killed Cave? "... What's the mission status, Leafy Bow? You sound hesitant... Are you compromised?" "N-No! I'm fine... I have something to report to Histoire." "Oh... alrighty then. Well?" You look at the entire chamber. The soldiers who followed you nod resolutely, their guns held in formation, just like a cliche marching troupe. The world goes silent, anticipating your epic response. The sadness over Cave's demise and your murdering of Nepgear(?) shanks your stomach... but you do not let that stay your hand. Time to utter the words that will finally end this terrible mission... and possibly the entire war at large. "Mission... accomplished..." And leaving it at that, you click the radio off... and the four soldiers all collectively breath a sigh of relief. You probably shouldn't have turned the device off before receiving a reply... but they got the message. Now it's only a matter of time before the relief forces get here. Vert shouldn't fight back after losing her main headquarters... but if she doesn't go quietly, she'll have to go through hell laying siege to her own castle. Fight all she wants, you'll NEVER relent! "I... I did it, Cave... I did it... Everything's gonna... be... fine..." Whew... don't you feel tired? The realization that you probably just saved Gamindustri comes crashing down all at once, completely enervating your body! You drop the radio into your coat and close your eyes. It has been a long day... but at long last, this painful chapter in your life has finally concluded. Now... you wait... and rest... The throne feels... so inviting... Just like Vert used to be. You can understand why CPUs order such fine pieces of furniture! The soldiers relax around the chamber, kicking their weapons away and sitting down right on the marble... and you find yourself suddenly sinking into your own thoughts. You can... afford a little... relaxation time, can't you? Ah~... (link:"... Think about Cave.")[(set: $resultPage to "Second Coming")(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 8")] (link:"... Think about Lyrica.")[(set: $resultPage to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 8")]](else:)[(if: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[Cave... Why did she do that? Leapt right in front of the sword meant for you... You didn't deserve such a show of trust and friendship. ... Did she... forgive you? Nah, she couldn't have... You led her to this. You DID abandon Lyrica, you WEREN'T there to help Chika... and you never took the time to see what your friend was going through. She was forced to do the things she did... because she was afraid of losing her own friends. Afraid... You were both afraid of Vert... and while Cave stayed behind to try to set the goddess back to normal, you opted instead to run away like a scared dog. She had all the right in the universe to resent you... No, to wish to END you! ... Yet, she died for you. She believed you deserved redemption... Her life had fallen apart thanks to you, but she still forgave you enough to save your pathetic, no good, useless, cowardly, ignorant life... ... Cave, wherever you are... I'm sorry. A little too late, don't you think?](elseif: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[Lyrica... Dammit, why must you be so drained?! You have to... see the love of your life...! You haven't seen her in person since you abandoned Leanbox all that time ago... ... She doesn't hate you now, does she? Leaving without getting the chance to explain yourself... You'd completely understand it if she does. That's why... you'll have to make it up to her! Whatever she wants... she'll get! Anything at all... ... Just gotta... pick yourself up... and find her room. Where was it again? Run right from the throne room's doors, past the chain of four fake rooms (this castle has a lot of useless space, such as doors that lead to stock-empty rooms, stairwells that lead to nowhere, balconies where there shouldn't be any... and some doors that are merely painted onto walls), down another long-ass hall, turn left... Dah, you're bad at directions. Once you start walking, you'll be able to find it from experience! Just to hold her again... would be a dream come true...] ... "Glad to see time has treated you well, Miss IF." "Mmmm... Yeah..." ... What?! Horror, unadulterated horror; how else can you describe it? Your eyes open up after an uncertain period of being closed, and the same sight from before does not greet you. Gone are the resting soldiers; instead, a fleshy obstruction stands in the way. The long blonde hair, white bikini-styled armor, and visible 'underboob'- as Nep would gleefully call it- is enough to answer your fears. Vert's here. (link:"\"Oh shi-\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 9")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[A lance is pointed at your neck, the cold tip just about grazing your skin. Her face, calm and dry as if she was never in the rain to begin with, stares at you blankly. Her voice, while pleasant, comes out in a rough, coarse hiss. "... What a surprise! Thank you for keeping my throne warm, dear." Not good, not good, not good! You immediately push off of the chair and stand with your arms above your head, her lance never leaving your neck. One wrong move, and your head is gone... Ha, as if it'd be as clean as that! You'll be *EVERYWHERE*! Her face never changes as she practically pokes the sharp blade into you, using her free hand to point towards the side of the room. You follow her urging and see the General, along with his three allies, watching this play out from the wall. Their guns lay broken in half at their feet. They must've been overpowered with ease... and are now trying to play nice with the bloodthirsty CPU. ... Where's everyone else? The guards from the foyer? Vert's main army? Why are you six the only ones here? Did... the CPU sneak inside, alone?! "My, you seem confused, Iffy!" Vert chuckles, tapping your neck lightly. "I have a thousand ways to maneuver around this castle, many my own bodyguards can't even imagine! Never turn your back on the enemy, Iffy-darling..." Her free hand crosses beneath her breasts. "Either way, I must commend you; when I returned to my own Basilicom, my men wouldn't let me in! Seems you thoroughly succeeded at seducing them with your talks of 'freedom' and 'peace'... I coaxed my way inside, but not before hearing the news of our surrender! To think my most loyal of soldiers would turn their backs on me... Now I have no chance of warding off your reinforcements! You've bested me at my own game!" Your eyes can't help but be drawn back to the weapon. "Vert... it's over. Please... put the weapon down! I... I just want the goddess I know back!" Green Heart smirks. "Always so adorable, Iffy! I do not believe you're in the position to make requests, however; 'Tis I, the 'loser' of this battle, with my blade at your head, not you. Besides," she says calmly, flipping her ponytail with an elegant flourish. "the old Vert, the WEAK Vert, is gone... She'll never be back, and that is for the benefit of Gamindustri as a whole!" Dammit... what can you do? "What... are ya planning to do?" Wipe that fear from your eyes! This is no time for doubt! "Kill me? No use; Histoire and Nep will take no pity on you. Just surrender and... they'll help you. I'LL (link:"help you!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioWithdrawal.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Withdrawal.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 9")]](else:)["Ha! Help?! I need no 'help' whatsoever! Look at yourself before casting such fallacies upon others!" The lance presses harder into you. Any more and she'll easily draw blood! "... I can kill you right here if I so desired... and no one would stop me. Sure, this war is doomed, and my ambitions are fated to perish beneath my enemy's feet... Even I can't fight the other nations alone! Without my army's loyalty, I have no choice but to surrender..." Her eyes gleam into yours, and the slimiest grin you've ever seen on anyone before stretches her cheeks. "... But you're helplessly in my grasp; I hold your very fate in this lance! It wouldn't be hard to end you... I seek no pity. I'll hand your head to Purple Heart; maybe she'll finally discover the cost of 'peace' inside it!" You... can't move! Vert's words chill you to the bone. Try as you might... your optimistic outlook on life has left you, much as you left Cave. There's... really no good within your friend left, huh? She'll gladly kill you... Vert is dead... and you will be too in a second. "Goodbye, Miss IF!" Lady Green Heart frowns as she winds back her spear... before slamming the hilt to the ground, the bang resounding off the walls. Your eyes remain wide even as the goddess steps away... and once the shock withdraws from your system and you are again mobile, you realize that she's now standing a good few feet from you. H-Huh? "Teehee... Just kidding! You won, Iffy; I yield!" This woman... Your temper is beginning to flare, you can feel it! "... What's... Who ARE you?" If Vert is dead... who the hell is this monster? The Fake suddenly breaks down into blistering laughter, her diaphragm no doubt taking a powerful beating from her bobbing chest. Er, wait, is that right? You were never the best at the human body. Or biology, for that matter. "You are so much fun to mess with, Miss IF! So gullible, so trusting... So desperate! Trying to act like you're always the one in charge... but really, you're a scared wimp behind that tough facade of yours! Can't do a thing... Why, you remind me so much of Cave! Almost as fun to mess with, too." ... What? Did... Did she just...?! Vert notices the look in your eye... and smiles as your fists clench. "... What's wrong? It's her fault she was so foolish. She cared more about Lyrica and Chika than she did about serving by my side. I had to keep her in check the whole way through... and she was starting to lose her worth! Lived like an unloyal dog... and (link:"died like one.\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 10")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[... Don't listen to her. That's what she wants. She wants you to get mad. Why, you can't say... However, that face of hers, one filled with so much cruel joy... That isn't one you should concern yourself with. She was once your friend... and perhaps some day she can be again. Now, though... Right now, she's nothing to you. Don't give in to your emotions, no matter how strong... Isn't that how this war began anyways? All wars? Adrian formed the Yellow Bandanas to abate his rage... and nearly killed Vert. Vert then took drastic measures against all who slighted her, even the smallest indiscretions. This led to you leaving Leanbox in a foolish fit of frustration when you SHOULD have thought for more than a split second... which in turn unearthed Cave's... 'issues', which drove you apart. From there... things just spiralled way out of control. The cycle has to stop... and it stops here! You breathe in through your nose, calming your screaming heart in the process. Eh, not perfect, but you're feeling slightly better now. "... Cave was wiser than you'll ever know. She was admirable BECAUSE of her love! She never gave up on protecting Lyrica... even when you did everything you could to make her life miserable! She... devoted herself to a righteous cause... to the very end." There's that hair-pulling headshake again! Is none of this getting through to her?! "Iffy, Iffy, Iffy... What did Cave actually gain from this 'righteous' cause, hmm? Hooray, she did what I asked and kept Lyrica alive! In return... Lyrica no longer trusts her... Oops, I should say, no longer trustED her!" The goddess smirks, and your back tingles again. "Try as she might, she couldn't hold on to the one she loved... Worthless!" Don't... growl! Keep your... heart rate in... check... "H-Her intentions were good, and that's what counts!" "Good INTENTIONS?! That's your best defense?! Ha! Why, then..." She flips her hair like that snotty cheerleader you couldn't help but hate. You know the one. "... are you so desperate to foil my plans? I simply wish for a better Gamindustri; the violence is merely a means to an end. What have I done wrong? It's the thought that counts, right? I'm no different from Cave in that regard..." She's... t-twisting your words! "T-That's... That's not... S-Shut up!" D-Damn... Green Heart's face doesn't move; her smirk remains in all its sickening glory. The disarmed guards continue watching from the side all the while... Thanks for the help, ya jerks. "You don't like that? Sorry, Miss IF... but it's time to wake up. Welcome to the world!" She winks, her purple eye taunting you. Egging you on, more like it! "... You don't want me to continue speaking the truth? Well... what ever will you do about that? Striking me down is the only hope you'll have!" "I-I'm not (link:"fighting you, Vert!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 10")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[Perhaps you're simply tired after such a long and dreadful day... but your tolerance level for this shit is at a record low. "..." Something wet trickles down your cheek... Is that a tear? Man, you must look so pathetic... Just hang in there...! There's... no worth in... giving in to your emotions! Vert looks at the four guards standing helplessly by the wall, raising an unimpressed eyebrow. The men have no choice but to look bemused, not keen on falling even further on her bad side. "Crying, Miss IF? Certainly unbefitting of a warrior! At least Cave never suffered THAT ignominy! It's a good thing she died before she showed how truly contemptible she was!" ... Yep, that did it. With a scream, you drop your Qatars and charge right into the unsuspecting goddess! Her lance is aiming away, so you pay no passing thought to any potential attack; you simply spear her to the ground, crashing down onto the marble floor. A rare display of shock bubbles within her eyes as you bring your right fist straight down. "Shutupshutupshutup!" Slam! "Shutupshutupshutup!" Bam! "Shut... dammi..." Pow!" "Shut... fra... si... Cave... shut... Sh...Sh... GAH!" You aren't even making any sense, but does that matter? Your fists just destroy her, your mind tuning out both the four flabbergasted guards and whatever pleas Green Heart can possibly make. Leader? Goddess? Friend? Who gives a damn? Whatever 'normality' you want the world to return to, it ain't happening; not with this (link:"demon running around.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 10")]]](else:)[(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")["Why not? Afraid you'll... push Lyrica away?" Her tone has radically darkened now... Before, she was pissing you off with an air of friendliness to her evil words... but now? No pretenses; honest as a warranty tag! "Tap into your monstrous side... and lose your love forever. Sound familiar? Mmhmm... You ARE like Cave! It's so easy to read you!" You've... never seen anyone act this devilish before... Dear lord, you've fought Arfoire, and she didn't even match half the malice radiating off this woman! "STOP talking about her!" She eagerly continues. "Make me." Hit her... Hit her! HIT H- ... No, you're smarter than this. "... No." You shake your head... and turn ever-so-slightly. It's not even worth looking at her anymore. "... No point. I'd... accomplish nothing by taking down a... worthless runt like you." "... I see..." Vert begins, bringing up both hands to caress the length of her lance. "... I suppose you are smarter than Cave... Shame how you'll still lose Lyrica, though." You cock an irritated eyebrow. "Oh yeah? How s-" An energy beam suddenly fires past your head, singeing a few strands of hair. In response, your body freezes from the trauma. Lady Green Heart's lance is pointed for you, and the tip is steaming. She's... really going to do this! You... have to fight her! You pull out your Qatars, and bring them up to protect your face... and sure enough, the deranged CPU is already slashing for you. However, there is barely any weight to her strike, so you effortlessly hold her off. That's... different. She leaps away, and once again opens her mouth. Geez, brace yourself for whatever the hell she's gonna spew. "Iffy... H-How could you strike me?! Even when I so gracefully surrendered..." W-What is she pulling?! "Please, there's no need for violence! I-I just wan- (link:"N-NO!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 11")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")["What the hell's going on in here?!" a shrill voice calls out... and the throne room doors slam wide open. Sure enough, in walks a few more soldiers. "We could hear from the main foy- W-Woah, L-Lady... Vert?" "H-Help!!!" Vert shrieks... right before you punch her again smackdab in the jaw! All eyes are on you and your bloody fists, but you don't even bat an eyelash at the intruders. They'll just get in the way. Punch, punch, punch, punch, punch... Vert's face is almost unrecognizably bloodied and bruised by the time several pairs of hands desperately try clawing you off, but all the strength in the world can't combat your fury! You immediately shove them away and continue pummeling this villain. "C-Call for backup! Backup! She's insane!" "Someone stop her!" "Y-You do it! S-She'll kill me!" You tune everything out but your own two hands. Vert still finds the energy to struggle, to RESIST... but you'll break her eventually. You'll FORCE the old Vert out of this fake if you have to! The doors open again, and you hear hundreds of feet clacking against the floor. Must be the entirety of the (surrendered?) Leanbox army... Weird, no one's trying to stop you yet. Good for you, but... why aren't they bum-rushing you? "I-IF?!" Instead of burly men pulling you off your target, the familiar voice of an angel greets your ears. Your fists quickly stop their onslaught, leaving the CPU a beaten wreck. She's barely breathing and her eyes are tightly shut. It is a... horrifying image... and when you realize you are the artist of such a macabre piece, your gag reflex nearly goes off. Reality sets in as you slowly turn towards the voice... At the open doors, standing before a crapton of shocked and appalled soldiers, is Lyrica, looking as if she's about to collapse and break apart like fine china. Should her jaw have stretched all the way to the floor, you wouldn't have been surprised. (link:"Busted...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioWithdrawal.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 11")]]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[{(set: $narrationCheck to false)}(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[W-What's happening?! Vert shuts herself up and instantly fires another energy beam... but instead of heading for you, the attack blasts the frightened General square in the chest! He falls to the ground, silently embracing the shiny floor. The other three guards, still frozen in complete helplessness, stand on their toes. Meanwhile, your pupils shrink within the white expanse of your eyes. That's all you can really muster, what with your head being beyond a complete mess. "M-Miss IF! H-He has a family! Please, n- Gck!" Bewildered, you can only watch as the woman flips the weapon around and slashes her own right arm! The shoulders of her already-revealing outfit begin to come undone. Y-You have to stop this! "Lady Vert?! W-What the hell is wrong with you?!" You grab hold of her unharmed shoulder... Big mistake. The CPU kicks you in the chest, knocking you back and on your knees. "G-Get away, y-you brute! S-Someone..." A hard smack to her own cheek. "... p-please... h-help me!!!" She's insane! Neh, well, that ship's already sailed... but now she's fallen right off a cliff, and fallen off another one after that! You stand back up... right as the lance swings once more for your neck. You manage to bring up your Qatars just in time! Still no power to her blows... Her jaw quivers... and you notice a cut on her bottom lip. "Stay... away... P-Please..." she whispers... No, pleads. She's never been so... submissive before. Look, tears are streaming down her cheeks! What do you do?! "... Vert..." You extend a helping hand... but when the goddess moves to swing, you're already prepared; you sweep her leg out from right under her... and knock her down on her ass. "... This crap... ain't gonna work on me!" Her puppy-dog eyes look up at you, guilting you into feeling... something. "... Have mercy... T-They're only doing their jobs!" Goosebumps, all the way up your arms. "What's THAT supposed (link:"to mean?!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 11")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")["Ly...!" is all you can utter as you quickly jump off the brutalized Green Heart, the soldiers around you quickly backing away from the crimson liquid trailing off your knuckles. Unfortunately, the pop idol doesn't care for an explanation, as evidenced by her storming through the crowd and fleeing the chamber without even a second glance. C-Crap... t-that wasn't supposed to happen! You wish to forget this chamber and chase after her... but two intrepid souls nearly rush into you while heading to Vert's aid, forcing you to forget that plan for the time being. You find you can barely move anyways, so you don't try to stop them; you've... done more than enough... The CPU eventually stands, using the two guards as crutches. You avoid her wandering and blackened eyes... and end up stumbling upon her own pool of blood spilled across the marble. In the red puddle is your own frightened reflection... "Just like Cave..." the ravaged woman whispers as she passes by. Walking off, and leaving you with your sorrows... a faint smile crosses Lady (link:"Green Heart's lips.")[(set: $narrationCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 12")]]](else:)[Over by the wall, the General pushes himself off the ground. His armor is visibly burnt... but he otherwise seems fine, fortunately. "M-My Lady... What wa-" A shining-white flash suddenly blinds you, and your ears begin ringing from some unheard noise... and when you next are able to see, the guards are no longer in the room. ... O-Oh crap, did he just... explode?! Vert... S-She... killed them! All four of 'em!!! The aforementioned goddess, still on the ground, mutters to herself. "How could you...?! What kind of monster are you?! I-I don't want to do this, but... I-I have no choice!!!" The air behind her... begins to ripple? Almost like a portal is appe- W-Wait, you recognize this! "S-Shit!" You roll to the right just as a humorously-large energy-lance juts out from the space behind the crazed woman. Moved just a second too late, and you would've been toast! You recover your standing pose and prepare your Qatars... and sure enough, the still-sitting CPU jabs her lance once last time for your skull! "A-Away with you," she cries, choking on the tears! It's coming... Swing! You slice your knives up... and Vert's lance breaks in two, pretty much exactly like a weak twig. It just... broke? T-That easy?! ... It's another trap! She's playing possum! Have to pin her down; there's already been four casualties thanks to her chaotic fit! Putting your foot down... you strike your most fearsome pose and aim your Qatars for her neck. She has no way out now! "What the hell's going on in here?!" a shrill voice calls out... and the throne room doors slam wide open. Sure enough, in walks a crapton of soldiers, no doubt the entirety of the (surrendered?) Leanbox army. "We could hear from the main foy- W-Woah, L-Lady... Vert?" Your eyes widen as you stand like a horsebird caught in the headlights. Everyone seems taken aback by the scene apparently unfolding before them! You turn to the four guards who witnessed the truth... but then you remember that they are nothing more than ash at this point. You're (link:"alone here...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioWithdrawal.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 12")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is false)["T-This..." you begin, stuttering like a grade-schooler who left his homework on the bus. "... isn't... what it looks like!" Yeah, they'll buy that; you haven't even moved from your pose! Your blades are STILL held up to her throat. The CPU sniffles, covering her eyes. "I-I just want everything to go back to normal... Can't we just be... f-friends again?" That... w-witch! To the world, a crying and beaten Lady Vert is pleading for her life... as you stand tall above her, threatening just that. Not good. Not good at all. ... Well, at least it can't get worse, right? I mean, it's not like Lyr- "I-IF?! W-What's going... on?! Oh my God, what are you doing?!" Shit, spoke too soon! Because the universe is making no effort to hide its distaste for you, Lyrica pushes her way past the multitude of guards... and gasps when she sees your 'honorable' takedown of the goddess. Her eyes seem so... hurt. This is the first time you've seen her in what feels like a month, and she's wearing no graceful smile, showing no loving gaze, walking with no cheerful gait. No... instead, she seems almost... afraid. "F-Fivey..." Hah, try to explain your way out of this one! Mercifully, your muscles allow you to lower your knives... but the misunderstanding-based damage has already been done. Vert coughs, barely able to breathe. Just to damn your soul more, a few droplets of blood spill out. "S-She's a monster! S-She killed an unarmed General... and even murdered Cave in the c-coldest of blood... P-Please, j-just get me away from this m-maniac!" The lying... bitch! She's... in complete control, even in defeat. Fu-... Now you REALLY know how Cave must've felt. "Y-You...!" "I... I s-surrender! Please, no... more..." ... ... (link:"M-Mission accomplished...?")[(set: $narrationCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 12")]](elseif: $narrationCheck is true)[...(live:6s)[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 12")]]](else:)[<audio src="MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>Lady Green Heart was escorted away from the (if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")['crazed'](else:)[crazed] IF... and the war, more or less, came to an abrupt end. Despite accusations of taking... 'extreme' measures, IF was lauded as a war hero for single-handedly capturing Leanbox and putting a stop to Vert's mad ambition! The goddess(if: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[, after proper intensive medical care was given to her,] was brought to Planeptune in order to receive 'help' from Histoire. In Vert's absense, and without a proper Oracle to take up the duties, IF was placed in charge of the Basilicom... and thus, pretty much the nation at large. Not a permanent fixture... but it'd take months- OPTIMISTICALLY speaking- to properly fill the nation's leadership gap, and the brunette was deemed the right woman for the job! (if: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[Not like they had many options...](else:)[Whether she believed so or not...] Anyways, Histoire studied the CPU's insane head day in and day out... but even now has yet to find a cause... or a cure. She recently sent out scouts to search for a mysterious book; the one Adrian held during the Yellow Bandana Rebellion. From the rebel's hands, the book wound up with Mina... but after her unfortunate demise way back when, the 'Crucial Codes' (as the tome was called) dropped off the map. Rumor has it, though, that Histoire has traced the energy of the enigmatic hardback still somewhere in Lowee... Speaking of which, Lady White Heart eventually resurfaced and forthwith ordered a search warrant for a missing war criminal of unknown origin. The oddest part? Her target was a woman who looked exactly like Planeptune's CPU Candidate, Nepgear, whom had taken control of Lowee a few days before the incident on Leanbox. The real Nepgear AND Leanbox-recruit Nepgeo were interrogated, but they were deemed innocent. To date, the perpetrator has not been found... but a certain stock adventuress by the name of Falcom is adamantly searching, independently from Lady White Heart's efforts... IF didn't have time to contemplate that peculiarity; she was more preoccupied with restoring her image in Lyrica's eyes. (if: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[The pop idol had seen enough to pass judgement on her lover's soul... and the two drifted further and further apart. Not hard to see why: not only had she witnessed the battle-hardened veteran pummel the CPU to near-death... but she also quickly heard from the guards that IF murdered Cave! Days passed... and when Cave truly didn't return, the pop idol lost all hope in her girlfriend. Iffy always strived to be the honorable and heroic one... but she must've turned into a monster over the course of the war. The brunette simply wanted what was best for not only 5pb, but all of Gamindustri... She succeeded in her mission, but in the process got her friend killed, actively murdered an opponent, and nearly slaughtered her ex-friend with her bare fists. She saved the day... but no one would ever look at her the same. ... She picked up right where (link:"Cave left off...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 13")]](else:)[The pop idol knew something was fishy with Lady Vert's little 'show'... but still, doubt managed to seep in. Not hard to see why: Cave was indeed gone... and IF herself loudly proclaimed to the Basilicom that she was the one who killed her! That didn't make things easy... In spite of everything being against her, however, the battle-hardened veteran made her case by explaining her side of the story (every small detail)... and 5pb. seemed content with the answer. ... Well... mostly content... Okay, kinda content. Er, sort of understanding? Maybe... willing to overlook things? ... Cave was dead and gone... but her 'legacy' lived on in the (link:"unlikeliest of souls...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 13")]]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>Rain patters the Basilicom, washing off the windows of their dust and grime. Another miserable day... While not true, it feels like it's been raining for weeks! Ever since Cave fell... you haven't been able to notice the sun. The remnants of the battlefield outside have long since washed away... Still feels weird being in control of the whole damn Basilicom, though. You fear the ghosts of Cave and Nepgear are never too far behind... You can't help but feel paranoid here! This is a big castle; one of these days, you may walk down a deserted hall... and never be heard from again. No wonder Vert went insane! This place could hold thousands of people within its walls... and yet, especially without the constant patrolling guards, less than 10 people reside here on a daily basis! Right now, it's just you(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[, Lyrica,] and a few other random soldiers. You believe Underling and her Nepgeo friend are staying at a hotel... but you don't really associate with them too much. Nothing personal; you're just in different social circles.(if: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[ Or lack of one.] "... Wonder how Nep's doing..." you sigh, peering out a window from the first floor's 'Den Room'. The fields outside look just as muddy as ever, the rain reducing the once-solid ground to pure mush. Immediately after THAT day, you returned to Planeptune briefly... before getting stationed here on Leanbox for the foreseeable future. How you long for a different visual setting... Oh well, at least things are kinda tranquil in here. The eeriness just sorta adds to the atmosphere... Yeah, that's not something you'd see in a serial killer's diary or anything! On holidays, this room would be lit up and decorated to hell and back... but for now, only the weak glimpses of light seeping in from the outside make the room anything but pitch black. The television's off; you're not in the mood to watch it. ... This place is torture... Divine punishment. All your failures are encapsulated within this castle's very foundation... and you're destined to remain here until either Lady Vert's head is cleaned of all the insanity gunk... or Histoire and Kei find a replacement goddess. Hell, they need two Oracles in addition to hoping some new CPU falls out of the sky! This may... take awhile... Oh well, it's not like people age fast in Gamindustri; you have all the time in the world... "Vert..." Her (if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[(self-inflicted) ]wounds were thankfully not fatal... but the ones (if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[she inflicted on your psyche may never heal. What on Gamindustri was she trying to pull off? She was doomed... but she still had to get the last shot in.](else:)[you inflicted on your own psyche may never heal. Why- no, HOW- did you... snap? You... gave in, just like she wanted... and as a result, you practically lost the self-respect of everyone around you!] Hell, the Leanbox soldiers, the very ones forced to serve YOU for now, STILL stay out of your way! They are compliant to a fault, yes... but they offer no company nor hospitality in the slightest. They're simply done with the war... and with you. ... Damn... you really... miss your friends... (link:"ALL of them.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 13")]](else:)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilenceTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> }(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")["When's the rain going to stop?" The voice of Lyrica, the only other person in the dark room, calls out to you from a chair in the corner. You jump at her words, nearly forgetting her presence to begin with. Oh yeah... you're not alone at the moment; your lover is sharing the same damn space! Huh... lately, her being here and you being all alone are becoming one and the same. She's becoming as reserved as Cave could be, maybe more. Sometimes, you swear the day will dawn and night will fall before she has uttered a solitary word. You observe the completely soaked window. "No clue... Probably another whole day of this stuff.” You hear her shuffle in her seat, before standing up and looking out as well. Unlike you, she places her head upon the glass, her face completely barren. That's the way it's been for some time; ever since she witnessed that scene, and on realizing that Cave truly wasn't coming back, a smile never came back to her face. She just seems so... lifeless. You try your best to support her, knowing full well that whatever she saw had to be scarring. Often, you feel like you aren't doing close to enough. ... Is it because you choose to never talk about *it*? You assumed it'd be better to never bring it up... but that's clearly not helping. Maybe... Maybe now's the time. "Look, Lyree... whatever happened during... y'know, that day..." She still looks outside, as if she's completely tuning you out. Harsh... ... Grr, don't let that stop you! Don't turn back now! "... I just want to, um, apologize for... well, everything." She still barely reacts, only blinking to show that her precious life still lingered. This is getting difficult to deal with. "I... Everything's over, okay? T-The war's over, y'know? Pretty soon Gamindustri will be back to..." Yeah, finish that one. How can things EVER get back to normal now? Your 'rousing' peptalk makes you want to punch yourself hard in the kidneys... but to your surprise, she nods? "Yeah... I hope so." Still not looking at you, but... it's a start, you think? ... This... isn't Lyrica anymore; just a shell of her former self. Does she... care about you? Maybe everything Vert said has come true: your lover fears you, just as she did Cave. ... Well, you'll just have to win her back, then! Screw moping around; she's the love of your life! Get your ass in gear and... rest her troubles! "I'm... going to tune my guitar a little, then head to bed. Night, Iffy." It's technically the middle of the day... "Oh, um... y-you sure? We can do... sumthin' together, if ya want?! Can't go outside, but... a-a movie! W-We can see a movie! Even a sappy rom-com!" Still no smile; she just walks over to the door. "Yeah... Maybe some other time?" And she leaves... Story of your trope... er, life. Oh well, maybe you can... 'get your ass in gear' (link:"tomorrow...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 14")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")["Lyree, stop! You... you don't..." "I'm sorry, Iffy. I... Some time apart will do us both good, I think. Everybody needs a... little time away." "B-But I... W-We...! Alright... Fine." "Goodbye, Iffy... Talk to you soon." It's been weeks since you've heard from Lyrica... O-Oh well, one of these days, she'll come knocking back on that door and you both will be together again! You're sure of it... "Y-You're going... t-to stop t-this all... Pr-Promise?" "... Did I at least make you proud, Cave? I... I'm sorry... I'm such a friggin' idiot!" "Yes, you are... but no one enjoys the presence of a perfect individual. Your flaws are... refreshing. (link:"To me, at least.\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 14")]]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[THUD, THUD, THUD! A heavy knocking mashes the Basilicom's front doors, loud enough to travel down the rightward-bound halls and reach the den (or the noise simply passing through the thin window... Whatever works), and forcing your body to lurch in the sofa. Crap, you drifted off to sleep again! Darn catnaps will be the end of you! ... Who the hell can it be? Who'd want to travel in this crummy weather? Unless... What if it's Nep or Compa or Kei or someone, ANYONE, who wishes to speak with you?! Hot dog, you could go for some kind of companionship tonight! You hop to your feet and eagerly head down the convoluted path to the entrance hall... and when you finally stand before the wooden doors, you pull them open without a doubtful thought! "Sup! How ya guys do-...?" ... Er, who... is this? An ominous woman with pale skin, clearly shown off thanks to her lack of decent clothing, in a cliche witch hat... W-Wait, something's... coming back to you! In a deep-but-still-feminine voice, the witch speaks. "... Not quite who I was expecting... but you'll do. I suppose variety is overrated..." That voice! That face! This... This is Arfoire! Yeah, the Deity of Sin! Over a year ago, she once again tried to end the world... though instead of using ASIC's help as she did even longer ago, she tried turning all of Gamindustri into a crappy high-school alternate universe, laden with self-inserts! Wow... That sure feels like an eternity ago! Apart from the insane Nepgear's ramblings, you haven't had to think about Arfoire for so long! ... W-Why is the DEVIL standing before you?! "C-Crap! W-What the hell?!" Smooth as always! Never change, IF, never change. The Deity of Sin grins, baring her sickening fangs. "... We... (link:"need to talk...\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 14")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[Sure enough, you sense a presence before you. Looking up, you find Cave staring down at your resigned expression, arms crossed at her chest. Her face is stone-cold... but her eyes at least convey a hint of comfort. Lord knows you need all the comfort you can get. She continues. "... You did fine, IF. I'm sorry I ever doubted you." She says that, but... "... Lyrica hates me, Cave! Hell, all of Leanbox fears me! I'm beginning to think that Nep's even weary of me! Why else would she send me away?!" You shake your head. "... I'm a bad person, that much is obvious." A cold but soothing hand lands on the top of your head, lightly ruffling your frazzled hair. "... It can't be helped. Couldn't have happened to a more undeserving person either. You did what you could... and what you had to. You have my respect." "Heh, yeah... I just wish the rest of the world agreed!" The SMD warrior chuckles into the back of her hand a bit, before suddenly remembering something. She reaches behind her... and pulls out a can of orange soda? "... Well, the people of the world? Who needs 'em! Here." Tears well in your eyes. Man, you are such a dork; crying at a soda can! Cave... is a true, true friend. "... Thanks, Cave..." This room is too bleak... Face turning flushed, you suddenly reach for the television remote before gleefully grabbing the cylinder and snapping the tab off. "Hey, how 'bout we... watch something? I-I know this channel with really (link:"crappy sci-fi movies!\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Mission Accomplished Page 14")]]](else:)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilenceTwo.fade(0,200);" /></div> <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Trio The Beryl.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }(if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[The two of you stare for a long, long time, your uncertainty preventing you from speaking up! W-What should you do?! You don't want her to smite you! However, she is the first to avert her eyes... and a disgruntled scrunch of her lips tells you that your life is about to get much, MUCH more complicated. (link:"\"... I need your help.\"")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")] ](elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")["Teh... I'd love to." With that, Cave plops down beside you on the sofa and clicks open her own orange soda. "Heh heh, I knew you'd like that!" You raise your container and usher it in the air. The red-haired soldier closes her eyes and smiles, doing the same... and the two of your drinks respectfully clink (link:"together!")[(goto:"Credits")]]]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[You've achieved Ending **5-A/14**: "Mission... Accomplished..."!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[You've achieved Ending **5-B/14**: "The Second Coming"!] (elseif: $endingPath is "Paranoid")[You've achieved Ending **7/14**: "Every Move You Make..."!] KEY OF CHAOS: EHORDEOP Replay Scenario: SRWHWVXR Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[Ending 6](elseif: $endingPath is "Paranoid")[Ending 8]' (if: $endingPath is "Mission Accomplished")[IF: Danger, Arm | Cave: Danger, Innocent | Reunion: Cave LINDA: "Cave's day is never done... Can't say I don't feel bad for her, but at least it ain't me! She's gotta initially protect her friend... and then stick through each and every single one of her orders. Even if the friend she just saved... is standing in the way of her mission. Heavy stuff, eh?"] (elseif: $endingPath is "Paranoid")[IF: Caution, Arm | Cave: Fine, Guilty | Reunion: Cave LINDA: "Whew... Thank the good lord *I* won't be at the Basilicom for this one! Cave has to protect the brunette bitch, and then resist the urge to follow her immediate orders. However, when the last command to 'kill' arrives... she'll have to obey just that once! Or, something like that... Grr, why do these have to be so vague? What, is it implying you have to save IF, ignore your basic orders, but THEN turn around and... kill IF later? How the heck will THAT one end?!"] (if: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished")[Path to 'B' NEPGEO: "You know who I like thinking about? Cave! I like thinking about her A LOT! Like, every chance I get, ESPECIALLY when I'm sitting alone in a comfy chair!" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Second Coming")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "Teehee, I can't blame Iffy for thinking about Cave-Baby... but shouldn't she be focusing more on her girlfriend instead?" ] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[The General's eyes, sunken deep into his skull, let out a terrified glisten. You tighten your hold around your three right-handed Qatars... What do you do? As you grit your teeth, the soldiers simply look terrified... and instead of grabbing their blades and guns, they choose to clear out, stepping even further away from you. The General stands frozen to the spot, watching your hand closely; he worries his blood will stain your knives in a matter of seconds! The question is... will that truly come to pas- “IF? I-Is that you?” An angelic voice, emitting a melody only equivalent to the beautiful sounds of a sinfonietta, rings through the room, twirling wondrously into your seduced ear. From that harmonic sound followed silence, the worried Basilicom snuffing back a breath. At once, you already feel calmer. Your rage is quelled, your nerves soothed, fear crumbled... What majestic soul has called out for you? Your head turns... and through a doorway to the left of the foyer, and tucked away behind a soldier or two, is the love of your life! The idol of your dreams! The Singer of the Heavens! Her blue hair, her red eyes, her slender build... Lyrica has entered the scene... and mercifully re-entered your life! Forget words; rush to her already! With a simple nod to the General, you run through the thicket of soldiers (all who refuse to try anything rash) and embrace your true love. She is caught off guard, but in no time she follows your example, wrapping her warm arms around your drenched and dirtied form. "IF...! I... I-I can't believe it! W-What...?" Your mind's floodgates explode, and you can't contain the emotions any longer! Relieved tears of hope stream down your muddied cheeks, dripping onto the pop idol. The madness, the sadness, the horrific pain... It is as if this terrible day has been wiped from your mind with such a simple touch! "Lyree... I never thought I'd... s-see you again! Holy crap..." You nearly collapse to your knees, accidentally gripping the girl tighter than you intended. Lyrica doesn't notice, or at least doesn't mention anything. She is clearly at a loss for words, but somehow scrounges up something to say. "I-Iffy, it's okay... Are you all right? Y-You-" She pulls back enough to quickly scan your form. "... look like you've been through... Hell." Heh, you must look like utter crap right now. Mud, dirt, rain, sweat, blood, cuts, scrapes, bruises... At least you have all your appendages! You look at her straight in the face; such a grand sight for what has overall been a dreary occasion. Y'know, just a wee bit. "Uhhh... O-Of course I am! N-Never better!" Even your teeth are stained with mud, so the smile you give clearly doesn't help your case. ... Nevertheless, the mere sight of your existence is enough to brighten the angel's mood. You wish you didn't look like vomit and death... but eh, whatcha gonna do? A solitary soldier behind you coughs... followed by another clearing his throat. Lyrica turns to address them, blushing lightly. God, she's so beautiful! "... S-So, what's... going on here, anyways? I've been, er, in my room the (link:"whole time...\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 2")]](else:)[{(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)}You look at her, then at the men. An awkward feeling, akin to telling a terrible joke on a first date, climbs up your esophagus. Perhaps the General acknowledges your repentant uneasiness, for he chimes in before you can gulp. "... M-Milady! W-We regret to inform you that the... well, the Basilicom surrenders-" He motions for you with his left hand. "- to Planeptune. We are currently undergoing negotiations... Right, Lady IF?" There's...sincerity in his voice? Y-Yeah, there is! His words rang true, lacking the hollowed emptiness you feared. Sure, it could simply be another trick... but this time feels different. Perhaps it is the hug from your girlfriend, or perhaps it is the softening sounds of the rain outside... but the crippling fear you felt no more than two minutes ago now seemed like a distant memory. A nightmare, destined to whither away in the recesses of your slumbering mind. Leanbox... is prepared to surrender. You swallow deeply before nodding, accidentally flinging rain around the room like a shaggy dog. "Y-Yeah... Yeah! L-Let's get right back on that!" You leave her embrace, a hard task to do, and head off back to the center of the room. The guards all nod... before opening up a path to the stairs, ushering you to the throne room that lies a somewhere overhead. This castle never made any sense... but you know the way there. They're simply allowing you to take the castle... Aren't they worried about Vert? What will she think when she finally returns?! Granted, you doubt the goddess will fight such a large portion of her army... A slight suspicion still lingers, but with Lyrica present, perhaps that's all it will stay. ... With a brisk pace, you and 5pb make your way to the throne room, stopping momentarily to ogle the smashed window in the lobby outside. A few of the soldiers from below follow you, serving as your escorts now... Giving you the goddess treatment, hmm... Inside the chamber, at the far (far!) end, sits the regal chair... Green Heart's chair. "... Well... er, here goes... nuthin'," you whisper... before turning around and planting your tush right onto the throne! For all intents and purposes... you are now in charge of Leanbox, at least momentarily. Vert will have no choice to surrender to Planeptune! The green-clad soldiers all look at you, their faces showing nothing. Just the way it should be, you think. Compliant and willing to end this war... Things seem to be going smoothly! Lyrica shyly walks up and stands beside you, a tiny smile on her face... though you sense concern in her otherwise-simple expression. What for? Then you remember Cave... and reality slowly settles in. This... isn't going to go down well. She's about to ask you, isn't she? How do you... broach the subject? What do you tell her?! Have to think of something, fast! (link:"\'Fivey... Um, about Cave...\'")[(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 3")] (link:"\'Cave... saved my life, y'know... but...\'")[(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 3")] (link:"\'I-I'm sorry, Lyree, but... Cave isn't...\'")[(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[... Only, the question never arrives. Instead, she represses the thought, for now. "... So, is... everything going to be... normal again?" she asks in a voice so sweet, it'd give a dogoo diabetes. Your lover is putting on a strong face, as she must've done this entire war. To hear her not mention Cave, however... is a bit disheartening. Oh, how you wish you could wrap your arms around the SMD warrior and just... tell her it's all okay! That every struggle she went through to protect Lyrica... was worth it. ... Best to suppress these thoughts, just like Fivey is. She needs a hero right now, not a troubled crybaby. "H-Heh, of course! Once Vert gets back, she'll have no choice but to give up! Then, we'll..." The CPU's smiling face pops up in your mind. How you miss your friend. "... we'll get her help. Get back OUR Vert... and then, Leanbox will be good as new! Gamindustri will!" Do you believe that? No choice in the matter; you have to. "... I promise ya, Fivey." You grab her hand to stroke it, and she offers no resistance. Instead, she smiles as she softly shuts her eyelids. "If you say so... I trust you, Iffy." Again with the not-so-subtle pain... but she's trying her damndest to be happy, as should you. Such a loving soul... Do you even deserve her? Perhaps... Cave was the one she should have fallen in love with. Your lost friend did more for this woman than you'll ever know. ... "O-Oh snap!" you suddenly blurt out, before stuffing your hand in your drenched jacket pocket. "C'mon, don't be shot to hell..." Lyrica cocks her head curiously. "Hmmm? What are you-?" Aha, found it! Let's hope this still works... From your pocket, you pull out a small tranceiver device. A primitive radio... but an ideal one for infiltration missions. You usually wear a ton of cellphones on your person... but you left them all home in fear that their signals would be tracked by the Basilicom's defenses. Sure, that worked out for ya... "... Whew, seems like it'll still work! Got lucky there..." With that, you tune the frequency as the pop idol slowly realizes what you are doing. You set the radio's dial to 140.85; the code for Planeptune's closest base, just off the shore of Leanbox. You tap out a simple preordained code, manipulating the white noise... and a tiny voice eventually answers. "Pudding Pie to Leafy Bow... Leafy Bow, is that you?" You sigh; they always forget the 'Over' part. Isn't it always much cooler when you sound more professional like that?... Er, anyways, the voice on the end is that of some disinterested male, no doubt barely in his twenties. Disappointment flares up your torso when you realize that neither Nep, Compa, the real Nepgear, nor Histoire would be hearing the news firsthand... Nah, not just that; you simply really want to hear your friends' voices, and make sure they're alright. "... Y-Yeah, 'Leafy Bow' here... er, 'Pudding Pie'. Over." Yeah, you... didn't decide on these codenames; these were all easy ways for Neptune to remember her stations. Fortunately, Noire helped her out with mostly everything... The voice delays, possibly reporting to a fellow operator. "... Good to hear from you. Is everything okay, Leafy Bow? What's your status?" You look at the entire chamber. The soldiers who followed you nod resolutely, their guns held in formation, just like a cliche marching troupe. Lyrica holds her breath as the radio's static hums and chirps. The rest of the world goes silent, anticipating your epic response. Your insides still cringe, the worry about Vert's whereabouts reaching suffocating levels... but you do not let that stay your hand. Time to utter the words that will finally end this terrible mission... and possibly the entire war at large. "Mission... (link:"accomplished...\"")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 3")]](else:)[And instantly... a load is lifted off your shoulders. Sweet, sweet relief... You finalize the verbal report, and in no time flat, the Planeptune relief forces agree to pick you up and provide... well, relief to the whole Leanbox situation! Now... you wait: either for your allies... or the deranged Lady Green Heart. Whomever arrives first. The guards- YOUR guards now- simply breathe in soft strides. Their struggle was done... as was yours. Geez... what a tiring day! At least things ended positively; a bit too easily so, granted. But yeah, you feel like passing out for a long while... Hmm, perhaps a good rest for, who knows, another millennium will help soothe the soul? Not just you, but Lyrica, your friends back home, and even the enemy army! Nobody won this war... and counting just today, you lost Cave (and Chika, apparently), nearly lost your cool, probably lost a few good years of your life... Yep, sleep sounds good. No more fighting for at least... an eternity, sounds good! ... Hopefully you've made Cave proud. She'd be... smiling right about now. The world may one day claim you single-handedly saved Gamindustri... but without your friend, you wouldn't even be drawing breath. "Nice work, Miss IF!" Hehe, thanks Lady Ve-... W-Wait, w-who said that?! You first spring your eyes over to Lyrica, who's currently resting besides the throne with her eyes closed. Her face is neutral; you can tell she's relieved... but you can imply that she's figured out that Cave... isn't going to walk through that door. Will the two of you ever approach that elephant in the room? The voice clearly wasn't her... Couldn't be the soldiers, either; too (naturally) feminine. A commanding chuckle kisses your eardrums, and you dart your head to and fro, desperately seeking the speaker. Lyrica, soldiers, lavish walls and banisters... No one else is here! Then... "... It's nothin'... Pull yourself together, old girl..." you whisper, running a sweaty hand through your coarse brown hair. You're just being paranoid... Try to relax, okay? It's all over... You (link:"won.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(set: $narrationCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is false)[<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>About an hour passes, with you dozing off in the chair... when a loud slam of the throne room doors instantly brings you back to consciousness! Alarm bells go off in your head at the possibilities. Did Vert return and is making a mad dash for your insides? Did Planeptune finally arrive, and Neptune showed off her typical clumsy side? Did... someone show up in search of that strange Nepgear imposter? Lyrica must've awoken by the obnoxious sound as well, and you two lovers look towards the doors... where a drenched and panicked Leanbox soldier is running into the chamber! A-A trap?! H-Hmm, no... He has no weapon in his hands! "L-Lady Vert!" the man cries, barely gasping out the words. "V-Vert... S-She..." Your pupils shrink without your approval. "... W-What about Lady Vert?!" The other guards, still standing at attention like good watchmen, exchange a few confounded glances. Well, they sure seem as lost as you are. Gathering his thoughts, the wet intruder taps his forehead as he huffs in a full tank of oxygen. "O-Our Lady... H-Her ship went down on the journey back to Leanbox! S-She's..." He falls silent... but hearing anything more would be meaningless. You and Lyrica slowly turn to each other, eyes wide and jaws extended to the marble. Not only Cave, but now... Lady Green Heart wouldn't be (link:"returning.")[(set: $narrationCheck to true)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 4")]](elseif: $narrationCheck is true)[...(live:6s)[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 4")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The entirety of the Leanbox army eventually arrived at the Basilicom... and while certain commanders like Markz Phenix disapproved of giving in, helpful souls such as Linda, Nepgeo, and even the lesser-known schlub Hank East convinced their allies to live and let live. Thus... the largest war anyone on Gamindustri could remember... came to a sudden and unexpected end, thanks in no small part to the valiant efforts of the battle-hardened veteran herself, IF. Historians will always be amazed by how she occupied the Basilicom without any help whatsoever! The news was muddled at first... but soon the apparent truth became clear! After losing Chika in the Planeptune mountain range, Lady Green Heart was reported to have become more despondent than ever before! She ordered her troops to return to Leanbox via the massive Leanbox airships... while she would take a smaller vessel to the isolated nation, alone. 'Twas a small airship she and Chika used to ride together in, back before this awful war. Vert took off in the small ship, seduced by remembrances of better days... and all radio contact was lost shortly after, a standard 'SOS' code marking her last known actions in this realm. The ship's remains... were never found, even as the days and weeks and months rolled by... For all intents and purposes, Lady Green Heart's era of devastation was over. Gamindustri would take time to patch its wounds... but bouncing back from disaster is perhaps what humanity does best. As for the ultimate (link:"hero of the land...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(1,1500);" /></div> (goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 5")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)["Got everything... Yep! Even yer towel this time, Fivey! Found a good spot?" Your bare feet dig into the sand on a beach on Planeptune's western coastline. In your arms is a bundle of towels, sunscreen, a few snacks, and even a mountable umbrella; your new- and preferred- loadout. Gone were the days of combat... Now, you and Lyrica are simply tasked with relaxing and living out the days in peace. Hopefully... Heh, something always goes wrong in Gamindustri, though, so enjoy the quiet while it lasts. The afternoon sun shines down on the otherwise-empty beach, and Lyrica's flowing blue hair visibly sparkles. "Yeah, right here looks fine! We can lay down, put up the beach umbrella, and..." she breathes in blissfully through her cute nose. "... ah! Smell the ocean!~" "Heh, you're the boss!" Okay, lay the towels down, nice and steady. Keep consistent, remove all creases... Lyrica looks at your progress and smiles, beaming brighter than the aforementioned overhead sun! "Great! All right, I'm gonna run off to get changed! Be right back!" She indeed runs off. You call after her, not looking up from your precise beach set-up. "Okay! This'll be done before you get back!" Gasp, a folded corner! You gingerly pick up the delicate cloth and straighten it out. Whew... that should do it! "Hehe, I still got it! J-" "Job well done, Miss IF. I'm not surprised in the slightest!" Your spine tingles as if it had been shot by a sniper's bullet. T-That voice...! N-Not... again! Why won't she... get out of your damn head?! "Isn't it a beautiful day? I'm... sure glad I get to share it with you, even if for but a fleeting moment." Don't turn... You know what to (link:"expect.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 5")]](else:)[... But damn it, why must this be so hard?! She's... Y-You can't just ignore her words! Thus, you give in and slowly tilt your back, creeping your head behind you. Standing far back at the point where the shore meets the ocean, and allowing the vibrant water to brush her ankles, is none other than Lady Green Heart herself. The lost CPU smiles sweetly, almost like she used to back in the day. God, she's so damn beautiful... It's no surprise why she has always been your favorite goddess, at least on a worshipping level. Er, well, before she went bat-crap insane... You tense up as she lifts her hand to wave... before slowly turning and walking off further down the beach. You try to run after her, or make your now-inert legs do ANYTHING... but you can't muster the strength, and simply squint your eyes to better make out her form. She journeys into the sunlight... until you can see her no more. Cursed sun rays... No trace of footprints in the sand... Typical. Just like last time... and the time before that. And the time before THAT... "I'm back!" You nearly leap straight out of your shorts at the sudden yell... but your heart restarts beating as soon as you realize it's just Lyrica. "Hehe, how do I look?" Luckily for your stunned mind... the pop idol's body instantly consumes every single iota of brain-space. A small, tight, frilly, black two-piece bikini with adorable white flowers... She's perfect. Don't regress, you're not a caveman. Don't regress, you're not a cav- "H-Holy crap..." She winks with a sly snicker. "Iffy, you are such a dweeb!" "D-Dweeb?! I-I'm SO not!" But... if a dweeb can get a girl like HER... Well, what's wrong with that? ... (link:"And time flows on...")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 6")]]

(if: $accomplishedPageCheck != true)[The sun begins to set, and the two of you by now have embarked from your cozy shade to sit with your feet in the water. The exact spot where Lady Vert had 'stood', because that's your luck. Silence fills the air around you two... and you become so lost in your thoughts about the missing goddess that you fail to realize Lyrica's somber expression. "Hey... Iffy?" she eventually asks, pulling you out from your introspection. Her face looks to the horizon, never wavering. You lean back on your arms and tilt your head, one eye closed. "Hmm? Yeah? You alright?" "Do you think... Cave would be happy with how this all turned out?" The shock of her words smack you upside the head; this is the first time your lover has mentioned the SMD warrior's name since... well, before that fateful day! You study the pop idol: she doesn't look at you, and her face maintains a solid state... She's giving (link:"nothing away.")[(set: $accomplishedPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"Paranoid Ending Page 6")]](else:)[Taking a deep breath, your eyes leave her flawless form... and land on Lady Green Heart, watching from the middle of the ocean. The CPU nods, smiling a bit too bright. "... Yeah. Very happy." More silence follows... and even though you aren't looking at Lyrica, you can already tell there's tears welling in her eyes. (link:"\"... I-I hope so.\"")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

*Must Loop*= Preferably over 5 minutes. Some tracks go 8 minutes for some reason, that'd be ideal. Will specify when it does not matter, though. All Wei and Shu background music from 8 and 7 (translates to roughly 4-5 tracks each? Might not use all of them). Also from 8- Wei: Beyond the Destiny Shu: Trio the Beryl From 7, get the Shu Wuzhang Plains theme Debating if I'll use the Guandu Wei and Shu themes, not sure yet. Maybe not. SW3: Find the Honnoji theme. Must loop. SW2: Find the 'Retreat' theme and the 'Kawanakajima' theme. Must loop SW1: Osaka Castle. If doesn't loop long, that may be okay. SW4: Heavenly Voice Longing (Both of these must loop.) DW Strikeforce- Wrath of God For credits, we'll need 'Farewell To...' (non-techno version) from DW7 and 'An Die Freude' from Catherine. These can be standard length, don't need to loop Any other suggestions or things I forgot, bring em up.

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[A joke? A snide remark? Hard to tell with her... but at least you think you can interpret it as her idea of a white flag. You smile a bit hesitantly. "Heh, s-so have you! I... got lucky, t-that's all!" Cave "hmmph's!" before crawling her way to her feet and dusting her knees off. As she bends down to reclaim her scissors, you take a full look at her appearance now that the two of you aren't fighting like overly-dramatic anime characters... and her knees are the least of her problems! Geez, she's covered in smoke, mud, and blood, not to mention the bruises you've no doubt caused... She looks to have had as rough a day as you! ... Better try to avoid any... *touchy* subject, lest she pick her weapons back up and sever your head from your shoulders. Your mind drifts to your lover, still inside that castle somewhere... "So, er, Cave... H-How's Lyree been? I... I haven't been able to call her. Histoire didn't trust communicating across borders, y'know... Is she alright?" She gives you a loaded look, one you can't put your finger on. Seems she's... trying to read you for any subtle abnormality. "... She's been well. Missing you the whole time, though." She suddenly shakes her head. "... I must inquire: are you aware your army fired upon Lyrica? Launched an arrow straight for her... Nearly took her head, right in front of me. Did you or did you not order that attack?" F-Fired on Lyree?! W-Why would they... Gah, who the hell did Histoire send with you?! "C-Crap, I had no idea... I never trusted those assholes, honestly... I-I assure you, I... didn't even really know those guys' names... Histoire sent them with me to be a distraction for the guards while I... snuck into the castle to capture it! I... I always suspected they were unreliable. Jumpy as hell." Now it's YOU who shakes your head! "I-I would never have intentionally put Lyree in danger! O-Only she and a small troop of guards were supposed to be here; that's what our recon team claimed anyways! We were to do this non-violently... Never expected to face a whole army! Er, and you." Cave directs one eye to study you as you awkwardly rub the back of your head. What is she thinking? Good? Bad? Several thousand ways to hang your guts from the rafters? After a long moment, she folds her tired arms. "So... while Leanbox's back was turned, you planned to storm our Basilicom and take it out right from under us? Where's your honor?! On top of that, you couldn't even keep your army in check?! And you didn't think Vert would be prepared for you?!" "... If Vert expected us... then why did she leave Lyrica in the middle of a suspected warzone?" Saying that immediately causes the red-haired soldier's eyes to widen. Yeah, a bit of a cheap blow, but... you'll need every advantage in making your case. "Sure, this wasn't the most organized or... sensical plan, but we're desperate to end this war, Cave! If we captured Leanbox, then maybe... the war could end without another casualty!" How'd that work out (link:"for you?")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 1")]](else:)[Your friend thinks for another moment; the long pauses between you are palpably gauche. "... You are an idiot, IF..." BUT... "... but, I... I believe you. Your intentions were foolish, sure... but I owe you an apology. As always, you were... simply looking out for Lyrica. Recklessly so, granted... though that's always been your style." "H-Heh, I'll take that as a compliment!" This... is also going better than expected. Fivey was put in danger, and Cave blamed you; simple! You've made some major screw-ups in your life, so this was sorta a trainwreck waiting to happen... However, your friend can see that your heart is true, and now... maybe things can get back on track! Finally! "... So... What are we waiting for, Cave? Let's... end this war and get Lyree. Together." The SMD warrior closes her eyes; she wears no smile... but you can sense it tugging at her lips. "... You're the victor. I suppose I must follow your lead." Now THAT'S more like it! "Thanks, Cave... A-And look, I'm... really sorry about being such a fool... I-I shouldn't have left like that; I was just... afraid." Vert caught you by surprise in more ways than one... Who wouldn't flee? "... I-I gotta make it up to you guys! Once this is over, I'm takin' you, Lyree, and Chika out for lunch! Hell, maybe even Underling and that Geo chick too! Whaddya say?" Cave's body immediately shudders, as if she'd been struck by magical lightning. W-What, was it something you said? "... Chika's... Chi-... She's dead." ... H-Huh? HUH?! "O-Oh my God... I-I didn't know! Crap, I'm sor-" "What's done is done..." Cave... She sounds so... heartbroken. She tried to keep it a secret, as with all her feelings, but... Chika was her best damn friend in the world. Nay, the universe. EVERY universe! Those two... completed each other, you always thought. "... Come, let us head inside. If you think capturing the Basilicom is the way to go, then... I will assist. No more casualties in this war is the aim, correct?" You gulp. She really shouldn't bottle things up like this... Why does she have to be so stubborn? Oh well; finish this, and... the two of you can have a heart-to-heart after. "... R-Right! Let's get... o-outta this rain!" Now you REALLY can't afford to fail. Chika's life hangs over your head... This war needs to (link:"end today!")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Door Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[The two of you head down the long length of the Basilicom, towards the front yard. Guess you better finish your plan of heading right on through the front doors; why not, eh? The way is eerily silent; where did all the soldiers go? Did they flee inside? From who, you? Or... a vengeful, irrational Cave? The guards' frantic movements and somewhat-idiotic actions make a bit more sense now... Speaking of, your friend just sorta follows your lead in silence; she has... a lot to think about. When did... *IT* happen, you wonder? You hadn't heard about any more deaths... Was it during today's supposed battle on Planeptune? Criminy... ... Either way, you eventually make your way to your destination, where a ton of smoke is dispersing into the air. You... shouldn't even ask... Look, there's the doors! They look spotless, juxtaposed by the devastated lawn! Is that a... good or bad sign? God, please don't let this be a trap. "Well... here goes nuthin..." you say, before stepping up and reaching for the handles. However, a rough hand swiftly pulls you away by the shoulder! "W-Woah?! W-What giv-" "Let me walk through first!" Cave hisses, her eyes glaring forward. "They're probably panicking... and they're all armed. If they shoot me, so be it. If we lose YOU, this war worsens." "C-Cave, t-that's not how this works! I don't like that logic!" Ugh, yep, there's that dismissive head shake again. So stubborn! "Simply stating the truth... Stand back!" Welp... Better do what she says. Besides, it's not like they're actually going to shoot! This is just a safety precaution... in case. Your army did shoot at Lyrica for no reason, after all! You stand back and away from the door, safe from any possible projectile's trajectory... when a silvery glint catches the corner of your right eye. Huh...? F-From the trees?! That's right; you never really solved the mystery of that flash of 'white' you saw, did you? (if: $armInjuryType is "Arrow")[Whatever it was, the bastard got your arm pretty good... ]What could it be? ... Wait... there's the glint again! But... all the way to the left now?! Another, another, another! W-What?! ... Arrows. A ton and ton of arrows. All pulled back and ready to fire. "... C-Cave, get down!!!" (link:"\"W-Wha-?!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 2")]](else:)[<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>But too late; from the familiar position to the right, a finely-crafted arrow fires out... and it wedges itself deeply into the center of Cave's back! Your friend's eyes bulge out... and she falls to her knees. If she hasn't been completely paralyzed, t-there's no way she's able to stand! N-NO! Utterly dazed, you defensively pull out your Qatars... only for a few more arrows to fire and knock them out from between your fingers. A few pierce through your jacket and stab your arms! "S-Sonuva...bitch!" W-Who's attacking?! Y-You can't focus; your eyes are drawn to the helpless Cave, and you force yourself to ignore the pain as you run over to her! Another arrow fires for the red-haired soldier, but this time you're prepared; you drop another set of knives into your fist and swing upwards, stopping the projectile dead. Not like this, assholes... You get to Cave, hurriedly shielding her by wrapping her up in a deep hug... and, er, taking special care to avoid pressing against the thing in her back. You're not letting her die; you'd rather all the arrows penetrate YOUR spine and strike you dead than let another friend fall! The SMD warrior shakes in your grasp, her body resisting the unexpected intruder. "I-It's okay... H-Hang in there, please..." This wound is deathly serious... In a world filled with guns and magic, arrows are quite honestly one of the worst things to get nailed by. Something about their primitive nature make them the hardest to mend... especially if they strike you in the worst possible position! Guess Cave's luck with this one? ... Wait, why are you still alive to think about this, actually? Not that you're looking to die, but... you're preventing your friend from taking any more shots! Why haven't you been reduced to mincemeat yet? Have the unknown assailants... ceased firing? ... Do you dare hazard a look? Have no choice; Cave is going to die if you don't get help fast, and helplessly sitting here will be quite counterproductive! You turn your head around... and gasp at the sight of a massive platoon of white-clad soldiers. ... Lowee? No, wait, that's not the shocking part: look at who's standing in front of them? She's even about to speak too, looks like. "... I-IF! Stand and face me!" The voice seals the deal! (link:"\"... Gear?\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[The CPU Candidate of Planeptune... and one of your closest friends! But... no, something seems off about her. For one... she's leading the Lowee army, but that's obvious! No... Something in the way she's standing... and wielding a demonic-looking sword does her no favors. Behind her, the soldiers all aim their arrows your way. S-So that WAS a Lowee soldier you saw snooping around in the trees! They've been... watching you the whole damn time! Nepgear(?) speaks! "... It is my sworn duty to slay you, 'IF'! You have been interfering with my nation's plans for far too long; my sister has told me everything! Your share-siphoning ends today!" ... There was so much 'wow' in her words that you have no idea where to start! Share-siphoning... Okay, yeah, Histoire's been secretly ordering you to pilfer shares mainly from Leanbox, but... Lowee experienced a slight surplus the past few days, so you may have sorta, kinda, maybe taken some from there... but HER nation?! W-What happened to Blanc?! W-Who is this?! W-What the hell's going on?! "W-Who are you?! W-What the hell's going on?!" What, expecting another response from your lips? The (fake?) Candidate chuckles, before swinging her sword in the air. "Oho, as if I'd believe you didn't know, ARFOIRE! Useless fakes... I come from the real Gamindustri!" Now YOU'RE the fake?! Oh, come on!... Hey, wait, Arfoire?! "I must rid this illusion of all you 'proxies' in order to... bring back my friends. My FAMILY! You-" Her sword points at you from all the way over in the distance. "- are the key. Slay you, and... it'll all be over! By trapping your wretched soul in this blade, my dreams can come true; Neptune (link:"promised me so!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 3")]](else:)[... She's clearly deranged and not making ANY sense! Every second you waste talking to this... imposter irritates you more and more. Time is NOT on your side! "... I have no goddamn idea what you're talking about! Arfoire? Real Gamindustri? Nep? J-Just... let us go! C-Cave needs help!" You begin to turn back to the SMD warrior, her face turning completely pale... when another arrow shoots out and grazes your cheek. They're not planning to make this easy. Nepgear once again waves her sword. "What use would it be to save her? You puppets are merely that: puppets! Stop this charade already, Arfoire!" Make some sense! "If you want to live... you'll have to defeat me! An impossible task, so you'd be better off surrendering! You have no chance of overcoming Gehaburn's might!" Yep, still have absolutely no idea... You hold Cave tight, tears threatening to come out of your eyes. How frustrating; your friend is going to die because of some misguided sick psycho. Perhaps you can run inside, alone, and get some help... but then she'll be left to the wolves. They won't hesitate to finish her off; apparently, the two of you are 'puppets'... Though, for whatever reason, YOU need to die by that sword, not her. What insanity... "... Cave, what do I...?" The red-haired warrior, eyes forced shut, shifts her head just enough so you can see her quivering lips. "... Save... yourself... Leave me and... r-run..." ... That does it. You're not abandoning Cave... and you're not letting her die by this horrendous wound. This fake Nepgear wants to fight? Well... you'll give her what she wants AND defeat her fast enough to get Cave to relative safety! Hopefully the Basilicom has some intensive medical supplies! ... Not just Cave, but... your own injuries are piling up. Your... head is starting to spin... "... Fine, Gear! I... I challenge you to (link:"a duel!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Door Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[She chuckles again, pissing you off like nothing else. "Arfoire's weak little proxy, challenging ME? Goodness, that's funny! Well... I appreciate your spirit; fine! It'll be good practice for when I finally confront the Deity for the last time!" She looks to her men and powerfully holds out her left arm. "All of you, stay your hands! This is my fight... and mine alone. No one is to interfere!" Well, that should make this... plausible to win... Right? Villains always have their odd sense of chivalrous ethics. You stand up from Cave, who slowly slumps over against the regal doors, and journey closer to your next opponent. "Yeah, yeah, you're pretty good at bullshitting! The fact that you look just like the real Gear makes it all the more funny!" The Candidate doesn't respond, instead opting to grip 'Gehaburn' with both hands and preparing a battle stance. You ready your own, equipping yourself with yet another set of Qatars... but you notice one of the Lowee soldiers, green cloth on his head, hesitate. He looks to the other men... and nods, before pulling back another arrow! S-Shit, y-you prolly should've seen this coming! The arrow fires for right between your eyes... but never collides, instead freezing in the middle of the air. W-Woah, trippy! Did... something intentionally stop it...? Oh boy... The air around the arrow fizzles and bubbles, almost like some freaky transparent slime. Now you've seen everything... Nepgear smirks. "I said 'NO one is to INTERFERE!'" As if on cue, the blob-like air begins to take a more... physical shape, and the army collectively gasps in terror. W-What are they seein-... W-Woah. That's... no blob; i-it's... Underling?! Well, more appropriately, it's a black-tinted transparent Underling... and she's holding the arrow in one hand, and her standard pipe in (link:"the other!")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="doorEndingTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce The Wrath Of God.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Segue- IF")]](else:)[{<audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>}You can barely breathe... but you've done it! You fended off the malicious fake Candidate, e-even in your weakened state! N-Now you just have to pick Cave up, bash open the doors... and... not... pass... out? Shit... You're feeling... weak... You lost far too much blood today... Getting kinda dizzy... The Lowee army watches you sway in the wind; they're too afraid to do anything but stare, lest that ghost returns to smash more of their skulls. Some army they are, though; not even thinking of helping Nepgear up! The Candidate rests on her knees, her tired eyes watching the mud beneath her. Her ears perk up, as if she's listening to someone important... and she seems to answer. "... N-No, I... I can't give up! I-I won't! I'll still KILL HER!!!" Clutching Gehaburn's hilt, practically using it as a cane, she tries to stand back up... but the cloth of her dress compresses around her shoulder area?! Even in your dazed state, you can see the not-so-subtle detail! "... B-But... I-I can't just run! What about the mission?!" She's... definitely talking to someone? Is she a lunatic? No... You know she's not. You've... seen enough already to know she's at least not entirely cuckoo. You slowly back away, making like the Lowee forces and opting not to honorably assist your opponent; don't wanna risk pissing her 'friend' off! Just get to Cave... and leave this fake Nepgear to her own devices. Who cares about the truth right now; your friend is DYING! Hopefully you didn't take too long! As you stumble to Cave, the CPU Candidate continues talking. "... But Neptune... W-What'll happen if I don't do this?! I can't... bring you back if I let her go..." Tune her out, you don't need to pay attention to this! "... Are you sure? Is... the fake Cave enough?" "..." Ignore the fact that... someone is standing before her! "... I... I trust you..." "..." A similarly-colored black-tinted ghost, illusion, whatever! "... Okay, okay... I-I'm calming down! I... I'm ready." "..." One who looks EXACTLY like Nep. "Thank you, Neptune... I love you too. Always." "..." 'Neptune' nods, before raising her right hand... and snapping her fingers. Lacking any fanfare whatsoever... Nepgear is no longer there. She didn't quite disappear; no, it's more like she... simply stopped existing here? As if the very world blinked, and cleared her visage out of (link:"its eyes.")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 5")]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[You nearly topple over, the strange scene completely entrancing your focus that you forget to heed your wobbling legs. A-Almost there! Y-You're... at the doors... now... "C-Cave... I-I gotcha...!" you say, not sounding very convincing. The SMD warrior's eyes are firmly shut, and she can barely mumble. She practically looks dead already... but she hasn't vanished yet, which will happen if the pattern of this unusual war is to be adhered to. "Y-You're gonna be... fine..." But will she? Will YOU? The Lowee forces don't even pay attention to your retreat, as they barely know why they are here anyways. Instead, upon seeing their 'leader' completely vanish into thin air thanks to some apparent ghost of Lady Purple Heart, the soldiers all exchange panicked gazes... before tucking tail and running for their lives, leaving the premises. They were only here because they feared that strange Nepgear; now that she's... left, what better time was there to escape? You hear their footsteps get farther and farther away... and breathe another sigh of relief. Today's been filled with those... Think you can manage at least two more? Either way, you pick up your dying friend... and open the Basilicom's doors, carrying her inside... ... "F-Freeze!" a quaky voice shouts before your eyes have even adjusted to the bright and dry setting. "D-Don't... mo-... H-Huh? B-Both of 'em?!" He sounds... more surprised than angry. You blink a few times as you raise your left hand as high as you can while Cave is in your arms. Sure enough, a ton of Leanbox soldiers are standing with their guns drawn and aimed for the door. Hmm, but their fingers aren't necessarily around their triggers... This could be the chance you need! "P-Please, C-Cave needs help! I-I come in peace; just... g-get some medical aid or some crap, anything!" Whew... that took a whole crapload of air out of your lungs... You don't feel too good... The guards were clearly not expecting that to be the first thing from your mouth. A few men stumble about a bit, before one man, a General by the looks of it, steps forward and nods, forehead sweating like a yeti in the summertime. "U-U-Understood! H-Hand her over; w-we have a medical bed in one of the side rooms!" Weird choice for a side room... but that's Vert's twisted logic for you. The General carefully takes the unconscious Cave in his arms before ushering for his allies. "W-Well, what are you waiting for?! Personal feelings and grudges aside, s-she's still one of us! We can't let her die!" With that, the army nods, and a majority of guards follow the General down the hall to the right. Please... save her... "... I-IF?! I-Is that you?!" Huh? T-That (link:"voice...!")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 5")]](else:)[Just to your left, you look... and see Lyrica, looking as splendid as ever! "O-Oh my God, IF! A-Are you okay?!" Wow... her hair is sparkling and everything! But, huh... why is her hair redder than usual? Did she dye it? "H-Hey, s-she's bleeding! S-Someone, help!" Hmm... no, that's not it; her clothes are red too! Hell, now that you mention it... so is her face?! So are the other remaining guards! So is the goddamned entrance foyer! "W-We're going to help you, Iffy! P-Please, just... s-stay with us!" Hm?! A bunch of burly arms are... g-grabbing you from all sides! T-They're trying to hoist you up! "L-Lemme... go...!" you slur, shaking side-to-side in an attempt to free yourself. Who are these jerks, and why are they man-handling you?! You hear Lyrica's strained voice to your left again. "P-Please, IF, i-it's alright! T-They're just trying to help!" A sniffle. "B-Be more gentle with her! S-She's bleeding all over!" You don't listen to your girlfriend; instead, you end up elbowing some guy in the face. "I'm fine! Just... help... Cave! Grrrr... G-Get off!!!" But more and more hands clutch your limbs, and you are practically lifted into the air. Creeps! Who cares if everything's turning red?! You have to... make sure... your... friend... is... safe... 5pb. sniffles yet again... W-Why is she crying?! "... I-I'm sorry, Iffy... but it's for your own good." "F-Fwaa?" you utter pathetically... as a guitar comes crashing down into (link:"your face.")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 6")]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[... ... ... ...? Hm? Bright light... Damn, TOO bright...! What... IS that? Your eyes inch open... and you find yourself looking up at the ceiling of the Leanbox Basilicom's medical wing. Huh... Your muscles feel weak, but... y-your wounds aren't screaming as much! Wow... You don't really know what happened, but... neh, at least you feel better. Hmm... actually, why are you here? You... can't really remember much after barging into the castle. "IF? Are you... awake?" To your right now! You turn and find Lyrica's concerned eyes looking into yours. Head stuck in the clouds, you instinctively smile. "... Hey, Lyree. Heh, good to see ya." She immediately pouts, puffing out a cheek most telling! "... That's all you have to say?! Geez, Iffy! I-I thought you were going to die!!" Going to... die? Oh yeah... That sniper bullet in your chest couldn't be ignored any longer, you guess. You had lost so much blood... and after fighting off both Cave and that Nepgear fake, you simply couldn't keep standing! Wow... You scrunch your lips in thought for a moment. "... I'm, er, sorry Lyree. I've... haha, had sorta a rough day!" You next take a deep breath... before siiiiiiiiittiing up! Oh MAN, that was bad... Your stomach did not like that! "Criminy!!! Crap, it feels like I've been hit by a damn bus!" The pop idol's face immediately reddens; her cheeks this time, not every part of the world. "D-Don't move! Y-You have to lay down still!" she shouts, before placing a hand on your back. Huh... well, if she insists... "Easy, easy..." She gently, as a mother would, lowers your head down to your pillow, and you easily sink back into a relaxed state. "... I'm glad you're okay, Iffy... We'll talk more later; just please, get some rest!" Sounds... great... W-Wait! Y-You're still forgetting something. SomeONE! "... H-Hey, hold on! W-What... about Cave?" A calm hand caresses your forehead. You love this hand... "She's doing better too, don't you worry. The doctors are using everything they have. Trying out some Avenir medical supplies, I think. I heard she's finally started to stabilize!" You nod again, a sleepy grin making you look like such a dork. "Good... good..." Your lids close, and the world darkens... (link:"Relax...")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 6")]](else:)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[{(set: $resultPage to "Time Wounds All Heels") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div> }"She... can... get th... medica... she... now!" What? Voices? Who's talking? It isn't feminine, so Lyree's out... Besides, last you checked, there wasn't like ten Lyrica's running around. Man, that'd be sweet... Who then? "Hurr... not mu... -mmit!" The General! That's the guy from the entrance foyer, you're sure of it! His voice is shaky, as if a nonprofit school marathon recently finished up and he just HAD to be the number one runner in the power walking section. What's going on? Everything sounds so... frantic. I-Is... everything alright?! W-Where's Cave?! "Hurry! She's... dammit, hurry up!" ... That was audibly clear... and CLEARLY not good! Your vision is blurry, but through the distorted haze, you see a strange blob coalescing with other blobs, bobbing frantically about the room. "C-Cave? F-Fivey?" you call out, perplexion clouding your mental receptors. The blobs pay no heed to your question; what type of alien world is this? W-Where's Lyree?! W-Where's anyone?! "Dammit, we're losing her!" W-Who's being lost? You blink to clear the gunk from your eye sockets, and the scenery begins to grow clearer! Yeah, the blobs are actual people now! Many are Leanbox soldiers wearing hastily placed smocks, trying their best to keep cool under such... well, some sort of circumstance... They're implying that someone's... er, dying? Well, you aren't, and Cave stabilized, didn't she? So... who? It is then that you notice a high-pitched beep whining throughout the room... You know that sound from all the anime you watch! Y-Yeah, a sound found in almost all dramatic hospital scenes! A vital sign scanner, or whatever medical mumbo-jumbo it's really called... The beep represents the patient's... passing. Often, at least in media, the beep likes to strike... unexpectedly...! N-No... B-But she... But... No! "W-We... lost her, General..." "W-What?! H-How?!" "Her body... I-It's rejected the medicine!" (link:"No...")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Door Ending Page 7")]](else:)[{(set: $resultPage to "Time Heals All Wounds") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> }... Your... survival instinct is... flaring? Huh? Someone is... staring hard at your face... Snapping your eyes open, who else is scrutinizing your face but- "C-Cave?! Y-You're...!" The red-haired warrior doesn't smile; instead, she closes her eyes like some disapproving dad. "... You shouldn't have done that, IF." "Eh? Done what?" "... You nearly died because you didn't think things through." She shakes her head. "I told you to leave me... but instead, you went on and fought, even though that bullet wound was driving you mad." An embarrassed smile crosses your lips. No, don't rub your hair... Dah, no good! Damn nervous ticks! "H-Hehe, you noticed?" "You are bad at hiding pain. Terribly so... Even while we fought, I could tell your body was about to give out." "But it didn't. *I* didn't." Cave falls silent... before her eyes slowly creep open. "... That's why you're a better woman than I." Her words and general intensity draw a blush out of you. "... Even so, you... were completely reckless. I was as good as dead... Why did you nearly get yourself killed for helpless baggage such as me?" You shake your head, not even finding the power within to yell at her self-deprecation. It wouldn't be worth saying the obvious. "'Cause you're my friend, Cave... and I'd do anything for my friends. Even though an entire army surrounded me... you were all I could think about." Man, that... probably came out wrong! Dang it, why do you get so bashful sometimes? "B-Besides, we're both still here, aren't we? In a lose-lose situation... I'll always find a way to win!" "... Your optimism is childish." "Admit it; you love it, (link:"don'tcha?\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Door Ending Page 7")]]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[{(set: $mashCheck to false)}"C-Cave! G-Get up, girl! Get up!" you shout with all your might, to the point that some of the soldiers look flabbergasted at your sudden outburst. You leap right off of the bed, every fiber in your body screaming for you to lay down again, but you don't listen; when did you ever listen to your body, anyways?! Just gets in the way... The soldiers are doing everything they can, but whatever's happening isn't working, it seems. You have very little knowledge in saving lives... but hey, Compa's your best bud; all those health-related speeches you've sat through must amount to something eventually, right? You... can't lose your friend, so this has to work! Your chest threatening to explode, you force your legs to approach the bed. The downtrodden men notice you, but perhaps it is the intensity in your eyes that forces them away; good... they'd be foolish to try and stop you! You look down... and sure enough, the sight you feared is made flesh: Cave lies flat on her back, but her chest isn't moving. No rise and fall... If any air at all is getting into her system, there's certainly no sign of it. ... You know what you need to do. At once, you mount your lifeless friend, take a deep breath... and place your lips upon hers, trying to do whatever the hell those people on TV do! At a time like this, you can't believe the name is escaping you, but as long as you remember the basic look of the procedure, that's all that counts, right? You breathe for her, losing count as precious time goes by, before you start pressing her chest with your hands. "Come on... Come on!" Tears well up in your eyes. All the presses are amounting to nothing. Hell, you can't even be sure you're doing this right... You breathe into her mouth again, and recycle the same move, but still no reaction. "C-Cave... N-No! D-Dammit, NO! N-Not her! N-Not like THIS!!!" She CAN'T go! You... You need her! Not even thinking at this point, you bring up your left forearm... and [MASH HER CHEST!]<mashstart| (click:?mashstart)[(replace:?mashstart)[MASH HER CHEST!](link:"Right! MASH!")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 7")]]](else:)[Finally! S-She's smiling again! "... You are lucky I don't have the heart to smack you right now." "... H-Haha, would it be wrong if I said I hear that a lot?" She playfully pushes your shoulder... right as the door to the room slams open. Cave immediately tenses up, and you groan as you sit up. Getting better, but... OWWW! In runs Lyrica, her eyes... looking frightened? She's holding two glasses of water; might explain why only you and Cave are in the room. Cave stands from her seat. "Lyrica, what is the matte-?" But before she can finish... another guest steps foot into the room. "... Er, h-hey, guys! Sorry to intrude, but... eh, I'm not good at this friendly-chatty stuff..." That voice! "Oh, grow some balls and spit it out, Lindy!" THAT (less-familiar-but-still-familiar) voice! Is this... for real? Earlier today, you saw a ghost that looked exactly like Underling. Well... now, you're looking up at the REAL Underling, tapping her boot uncomfortably. Still clad in her ASIC attire, even though she's... reformed herself as a... 'hero'...? Behind her is the OTHER girl who looks just like Nepgear, some chick named Nepgeo. You don't know her too well... but you've actually fought by her side on several occasions. That's a... story for another day, though. Underling grimaces. "Wouldn't growing balls go against everythin' ya stand for?" she yells at the (non-psycho(?)) purple-haired imposter. Nepgeo stomps her right foot, snapping the former-villain back to the topic at hand. "Er, right! So, yeah, um... Okay, this may sound like some crazy shit, but bear with me, a'right?" You and Cave raise an eyebrow at each other. "... Go on." your friend ushers, waving her hand in a circle. Linda folds her arms, bringing her finger up to tap her pointed ear. "Don't rush me!" "Liiiiiiindy! They DO have to rush you! WE have to rush!" "Grrr... Alright!" She brings her right hand to the bridge of her nose. "... So, way earlier today, we were in Lowee doin' our thing, right? That Markz bastard was bein' annoying, but he left early, so it was all cool..." Nepgeo nudges Underling's side with her elbow. Elbows hurt; just ask the guard you smashed in the face earlier! "H-Hey!... Ugh, anyways, we were guarding the place when suddenly... a freakin' ghost chick walked into (link:"our room!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 7")]]](else:)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[(if: $mashCheck is false)[{[]<quote|[Left! ]<left| []<right| (click:?left)[(replace:?left)[Left! |](replace:?right)[ [Right!]<right1| ]] (click:?right1)[(replace:?quote)["Come on..." ](replace:?right)[Right!](replace:?left)[ [Left! |]<left2| ]] (click:?left2)[(replace:?left)[Left! |](replace:?right)[ [Right!]<right3| ]] (click:?right3)[(replace:?right)[Right!](replace:?left)[ [Left! |]<left4| ]] (click:?left4)[(replace:?quote)["P-Please don't do this, Cave!" ](replace:?left)[Left! |](replace:?right)[ [Right!]<right5| ]] (click:?right5)[(replace:?right)[Right!](replace:?left)[ [Left! |]<left6| ]] (click:?left6)[(replace:?left)[Left! |](replace:?right)[ [Right!]<right7| ]] (click:?right7)[(replace:?quote)["Y-You're better than this, COME ON!" ](replace:?right)[Right!](replace:?left)[ [Left! |]<left8| ]] (click:?left8)[(replace:?left)[Left! |](replace:?right)[ [Right!]<right9| ]] (click:?right9)[(replace:?right)[Right!](replace:?left)[ [Left! |]<left10| ]] (click:?left10)[(set: $mashCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 7")] }](else:)[But suddenly... you find yourself falling face-first into the sheets... and your arms no longer make contact with her flesh. Your eyes widen; where once your friend lay is now just the empty mattress. Tiny orbs of light bounce around you, before vanishing into thin air. You see tiny little marks form on the sheet below; a few of those tears you held back have now started to escape. On the pillow remains Cave's maid-like cap; the last remnant of your friend. ... She's gone... She's really gone. You scramble at the blankets as if you'll find her... but there's nothing to grasp, nothing to hold, nothing to hug and caress and take care of. The soldiers merely back away, at a loss for words. Hell, maybe they fear you'll snap on them, completely losing your mind. You scramble like a lost dog before finally coming to a depressing end, your chest's wound karate-chopping you to submission. "No... No no no no no no no no no! No! Dammit! Dammit, Cave!" You find yourself curling into a ball, not even caring about the volcanic pain shooting through your body; what did it matter? She's gone... She's... She's really gone... "W-What's going on?! I-IF?!" Lyrica's voice enters the room, but you can't even begin to address her; you simply wallow in your agony on Cave's deserted bed. The pop idol sees you... and connects the dots immediately. "O-Oh God..." And for the hour that followed, no one said a thing. A few soldiers try to get you back to your designated mattress, but you are firmly rooted to the spot. They don't persist... Eventually, Lyrica gently takes a seat beside you, tears streaming down her face. You sniffle silently, desperately trying to hide your own crying face. Cave wouldn't want to (link:"see this...")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 8")]]](else:)[Lyrica's eyebrow now cocks in disbelief. "A... 'ghost chick'?" "Y-Yeah! As I said, crazy shit! And THAT'S not even the weirdest part! Ya see, she looked exactly like-" "Neptune?" you chime in, rudely interrupting the villain's spiel. "... Did the ghost look like Nep?" Underling's eyes widen. "Uh, how did you know that?" Just a... suspicion... "... Dammit, everyone should just stop interruptin' me! Annoyin' brats... So, I understandably freaked out, as I'm sure you all would've... but then she... spoke to me! A-And not with her mouth, either; naw, it's like she... went into my head or sumthin'!" Cave sighs. "... Did you hurt yourself again, Linda? We don't need another concussion sca-" "It's not a CONCUSSION!" The former ASIC member is clearly peeved now. Your friend looks at her skeptically... but you grasp her shoulder. "Cave... I think she's telling the truth." You nod at Linda. "... What did Nep say?" Nepgeo flirtatiously winks your way, but Underling playfully bonks her on the head. "... Thanks... She said to haul ass over here, and... well, find you two, actually." Yep, she's pointing at you and Cave... This is kinda unsettling. "... Look, I didn't ask questions. All she said is I need ta make sure you guys leave this castle!" Lyrica nods her head. "That much, I DO know! V-Vert is almost here! Y-You can't stick around, IF! If she catches you, she'll... she'll..." Vert's returning, huh? Damn, you got sidetracked and was unable to capture the throne room... Well, you're not afraid! "... Well, if Vert's gonna interfere, then so be it! I'll fight her myself if I have to!" Heroically, you thrust your fists in the air! "I'm ending this war tod- (link:"Owowowowow...\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Door Ending Page 8")]]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[Eventually, the rest of the soldiers clear out, and only you and Lyrica remain. The sobbing has ceased, momentarily at least. You feel the pop idol's gentle palm rub your shoulder. You resist the urge to shake her off; you can't take your frustrations out on her, okay?! She contemplates her next words carefully. "... Iffy... U-Um, I was talking to the guards before, and they... said they were willing to... surrender to you. No one... wants to fight anymore. Not after today..." Yeah... Leanbox has lost both Chika and Cave today... Geez, they must be utterly demoralized if they'd be willing to surrender to you, a warrior too injured to stand upright for more than a few minutes at a time. "... Will it really be that easy? I... How the heck can they even trust me?" Lyrica shakes her head. "We've all kinda been... waiting for someone to capture the castle. W-We couldn't make it obvious, as... we'd all be executed, but... yeah. Vert keeps Sharicite inside her throne, actually; if someone were to get in there and seize it, she... wouldn't dare try to fight. I-I don't know how it works, but... not only does Sharicite make her stronger, but it's... also something of a highly-potent explosive, h-haha..." You raise an eyebrow at your girlfriend. How the hell does she know all this?! Her cheeks go pure pink at your look. "O-One of the pyrotechnic guys at my concert once brought that up, that's all! I-I told him no; it sounded like an awful idea!" You're still somewhat vexed, but you nod regardless. "... Sharicite, huh? Stored right inside her throne... That'd explain her infinite HDD, I'd reckon!" Your eyes regain some of their color as you clench a fist. "... Well, that's a better plan than I had! Let's get there before Vert returns!" "G-Great! O-Once we're in, I'll call over the guards, and... w-we'll 'negotiate' Leanbox's surrender!" Sweet... This could work! Not only will Vert fear for the safety of her massive Share stash, but she'd be screwed if she was forced to face her own guards! Even if she is strong enough to take you all... she's essentially murder many of her own men, and she'd lose both the faith AND the strength of the rest of her main army! ... A plan with a massive chance of failure... but when did that ever deter you? Watch me, Cave... I'm gonna (link:"make you proud!")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 8")]](else:)[Er, okay, maybe you shouldn't do that. Cave chuckles, somewhat ironically. "... Maybe on a good day, we could take her... but we are both in no fighting shape, IF. So impulsive... Hmph, you're... just like Chika sometimes..." Her eyes close. "It's best if we flee... and live to fight another day." You look to retort, but she blocks your mouth with her finger! T-That's embarrassing! N-Not in front of the others! "You have a healthy dose of luck to go along with your recklessness... but it will run out one of these days. So for now, give it a rest; we will... save the day later." Underling sweat-drops. "Man, you two talk crazy... Yeah, so I guess you should run off. Me an' Geo will, y'know, hold the fort..." The purple-haired imposter frowns. "Aww, as soon as a cutie gets here, she has to leave?! This sucks... Oh well, I'd rather you be safe and stuff!" Another wink; h-hehe, does she like you? W-Well, you're already taken, but... the thought is flattering. Hmm... Wait, you can't be too sure, but isn't she dating Underling? Weird... "So yah, happy trails! We gotta jet before good ole 'Greeny-Beany' gets back too; don't really wanna be accused of abandoning our post!" With that, she runs off, leaving an annoyed Underling in the doorway. "W-Wait for me, geez!" She shrugs. "Women, am I right? Well... er, good luck. Don't forget about us, okay?" Linda nods, looking somewhat... saddened, before chasing after her... lover? Now it's just you, Cave, and Fivey... "... Wait... 'WE'?! You said 'WE' before, Cave?! D-Does that mean...?" The SMD warrior looks to the pop idol, and the both of them nod resolutely. What, did everyone learn how to 'nod' today, so now they must do it constantly?! "... After much deliberation, Lyrica and I... determined it'd be in our best interests to... leave Leanbox." C-Cave... "We weren't expecting this time limit, however... so it's good we've made up our minds; we need to move!" "Y-Yeah... Let's do-" You smile at your friend and the lovely pop idol.... before leaping out of bed! "- thi- (link:"HOLY CRAP!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Door Ending Page 8")]]](else:)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[Here they are, the doors to Vert's extravagant throne room! The walk up here was hell on your battered frame... but you made it! The way was unusually silent, however; for a bustling castle, you didn't even come across a single soldier! They must all be in their rooms, lamenting the loss of their greatest warrior... ... Well, everyone will be at ease in just a short while! Head in there, and... this war is as good as over! You grip Lyrica's hand tightly. "Ready, Lyree?" Her smile is stunning... Why, if the sun was shining today, she'd STILL be the brightest gleam on Leanbox! "Ready, Iffy!" Here goes nothing... You and Lyrica reach forward and puuuuuuuull open the doors... and the tune of rugged hands clapping celebrates your arrival. H-Huh? At the end of the chamber, sitting in the CPU's throne... is Markz Phenix, Lady Green Heart's second-in-command. An asshole of a human being, you had to witness him kill innumerable men during the assault on Avenir. You can't even imagine what other horrors Cave must've faced with this jackass running about. He chortles, sounding like a wheezing pigvader. "Howdy, maggots! Am I interfering with your plans? So, (link:"so sorry!\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 9")]](else:)["I-Iffy! W-We would've helped you up!" "Stubborn little... Here, I'll carry you." Cave's strong and warm arms wrap around you before liiiiiiiifting you up into a prime example of a princess carry! W-Wow, even after that horrendous blow to the spine, she's able to hold you like this without a- "D-Damn it, bad idea..." Er, w-well, it's the thought that counts! Your healing friend plants you on your feet as she presses one hand hard against her back... and Lyrica, bless her soul, picks up the slack and wraps your left arm over her shoulder. "You two, I swear... Here, NOW we can go!" "H-Heh... You're the boss." ... Thus the three of you scurry out of the medical wing like fleeing rats (how odd; no Pirachu cameo today!) and make your way to the back door, right between the residential-looking kitchen and dining room. Ugh, THIS door... Cave rubs her chin. "You know... I'm surprised you didn't sneak in through here, IF. Sure, it's locked, but-" She unlocks the door... and pulls it open, the way back into the rain revealed. She is the first to step out, and reaches just to the left of the frame, pulling something out from between two bricks. "- a spare key is always kept right next to the door. A massive security oversight... but I suppose if Vert was thinking straight, I wouldn't be betraying her right now." (if: $armInjuryType is "Arrow")[You absentmindedly rub your arm where the arrow struck you when you tried to bash down the door. A damn key... "... I'm gonna forget you ever showed me that..." The SMD warrior smirks. "Fair enough... Anyways, I suppose we wouldn't have met up under the same circumstances if you snuck through here. And, if you didn't-" she begins, her cheeks turning a cute shade of pink. "- kick my ass, who knows where we'd all be by now?"](else:)[A damn key... "... Neh, all-in-all, I... kinda like the way things turned out enough. If I snuck in through here... you might still hate me, eh?" The SMD warrior tilts her head. "... Who can say? I... certainly wasn't in the mood for negotiations until you—" she begins, her cheeks turning a cute shade of pink. "— kicked my... butt... H-How easy this all could've changed... Frightening to think about."] Lyrica grins, as if hearing the world's most wonderful joke. "IF kicked YOUR (link:"butt, Cave?\"")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,500);" /></div> (goto:"Door Ending Page 9")]]]

(if: $doorPageCheck != true)[(if: $bossTurns >= 15)[{ <audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }... Wait... but, he's in Lowee right now! H-He was stationed with Linda and Nepgeo, at least according to your intel! All sources indicate that he was to wait there until... Vert returned from Planeptune! He was to meet up with her as soon as she touched down... in... Leanbox... He'd be her escort back to the... Basilicom?! Lyrica's eyes widen at the same time yours do; you both are on the same page, as it should be with star-crossed lovers. If only this was a page worth reading. You try to speak... but a tough, commanding hand on your right shoulder destroys the resolve to do so. "My, my... Welcome home, Miss IF!" ... You're (link:"too late.")[(set: $doorPageCheck to true)(goto:"Credits")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Trio The Beryl.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"... W-We needn't go into that! T-The past is the past!" Her eyes cast upwards, towards the clouds. No doubt... thinking of Chika again. "... For those we've lost, we must... look onward, to the future..." After today, you all... will have QUITE a lot of issues to talk about and sort out... but that's what friends are for. Stick together an- "... Shall we be off? Where to? You suppose Planeptune will suffice?" You are taken aback as she suddenly asks for your input. "H-Huh? Y-Yeah... P-Planeptune should be great! Nep and Histoire will love to have you guys! Besides, I... kinda need to check on Nepgear ASAP." You know the real Gear is fine, but... you'll feel much more at peace as soon as you see her smiling face. "... Understandable. Well then..." The SMD warrior suddenly squeezes your hand, somewhat tight! She's smiling quite proudly... It's a good look for her. "Lyrica, IF... Let's depart!" "Teehee... Yes!" "... Haha, you (link:"got it, Cave!\"")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="Persona 4 Omen Extended.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }(if: $flashbackThreeViewed is "Neutral")["Ready, Flat One?" A pale woman clad in a typical stripperiffic witch outfit stares up at the brightly-lit Leanbox Basilicom... and grimaces. How she despises this place... Not only is it the home to one of the CPUs... but it's HER key to taking over the world, and she hasn't been able to claim it! The castle stands right before her... yet, she's not able to enter it. Not alone at least, she can't... ... But that's what her guest is for. It was... unlike her to team up with one of her... enemies, let alone plan to recruit a ton of them... but desperate times call for desperate Arfoires. Another girl with long blue hair, a skin-tight jumpsuit, and a flowing red scarf tied around her neck curls her fist. "'F-Flat One'?! It is bad enough that I must side with the Deity of Sin, but... Grrr, you don't have to make this harder than it already is!" 'Twas Gamindustri's heroine of justice, Nisa! No doubt still seeking revenge against Lady Green Heart for her friend's untimely demise... "Oh, shut up! I don't enjoy this either!" Arfoire shakes her head. "Anyways, your job is simple: sneak in... and find that IF fool! She's locked away somewhere within these walls, along with that pop idol skank of hers. Bring them... to me." Nisa looks hesitant. "... You're not going to hurt them, are you?" "... Tch..." the witchy-woman starts, another annoyed frown making her face look like a Halloween mask. "... I wish I could. No, I..." Now her face looks more green than pale! "... need their help..." The flat-chested heroine holds her fists at her hips and bobs her head resolutely. "... Then that settles that! I shall succeed at rescuing fair IF and Lyrica, AAAAAAAAAND... Um, what next?" "Next? Ahahahaha!" A devilish smirk. "... We start a war of (link:"our own!\"")[(goto:"Door Runaway Result Page")]](else:)["N-Nepgear... I-Is it really safe to go inside?" a girl with boyish brown hair and headband asks, stepping forward to look up in awe at the brightly-lit Leanbox Basilicom. She carries a rather-large violin case on her back... but inside is no musical instrument. Beside her is Nepgear, still holding Gehaburn at her side. It's been a few days since that humiliating defeat... "It shall be fine, Falcom. Have I... ever lied to you?" When the stock adventuress shyly shakes her head, the (fake?) Candidate continues. "IF is still in there... no doubt conspiring with Green Heart against Lowee! Arfoire-" She swings her sword through the air, slicing a hovering flower petal. "- is with them too! We must end these fakes... to save both this world and mine!" The girl, standing openly in Purple Sister's personal space, quivers a little. "... O-Okay, that sounds good to me! It'll make for a great novel one day, I betcha!" She... doesn't entirely sound convinced by the imposter's words... but she can't bring herself to try to change her mind. Seems these two are close; REAL close. All Falcom knew is that this war needed to end... and if Arfoire was possibly the one responsible, then who was she to deny Nepgear the chance to stop her? The Candidate smiles softly, the first relaxed expression she's given in awhile. "... Thank you for coming with me today, Falcom. I... really needed the company." "H-Heh, anytime, Nepgear! I have your back, yep!" Though, she can't help but scratch the top of her head in slight confusion. "... But, uhm... what will we do about the guards? Sure, it's the middle of the night, but surely there'll be-" Nepgear suddenly pulls Falcom's right arm close, until the two girls are directly face-to-face. The brown-haired author's eyes go half-lidded instantly as she gazes into the Candidate's flawless gateways to the soul. "We won't need to worry about a thing, Falcom. After all-" She snaps her free fingers... and the ghostly Neptune appears a few inches off to the side. "- our friends are here with us!" Next to Neptune appears... a transparent Noire. Then Blanc, then Vert. Uni. Ram. Rom. Linda. "... We have nothing to fear, my love." Falcom's lips can only quiver; oh, why did the mere proximity to Nepgear have to reduce her legs to pure mush?! "... O-Of course! I... trust you." "As I do you. And they trust you, as well!" On cue, the apparitions all (link:"smile.")[(goto:"Door Runaway Result Page")]]]

"C-Cave! G-Get up, girl! Get up!" you shout with all your might, to the point that some of the soldiers look flabbergasted at your sudden outburst. You leap right off of the bed, every fiber in your body screaming for you to lay down again, but you don't listen; when did you ever listen to your body, anyways?! Just gets in the way... The soldiers are doing everything they can, but whatever's happening isn't working, it seems. You have very little knowledge in saving lives... but hey, Compa's your friend; all those health-related speeches you've sat through must amount to something eventually, right? You... can't lose your friend, so this has to work! Your chest threatening to explode, you force your legs to approach the bed. The downtrodden men notice you, but perhaps it is the intensity in your eyes that forces them away; good... they'd be foolish to try and stop you! You look down... and sure enough, the sight you feared is made flesh: Cave lies flat on her back, but her chest isn't moving. No rise and fall... If any air at all is getting into her system, there's certainly no sign of it. ... You know what you need to do. At once, you mount your lifeless friend, take a deep breath... and place your lips upon hers, trying to do whatever the hell those people on TV do! At a time like this, you can't believe the name is escaping you, but as long as you remember the basic look of the procedure, that's all that counts, right? You breathe for her, losing count as precious time goes by, before you start pressing her chest with your hands. "Come on... Come on!" Tears well up in your eyes. All the presses are amounting to nothing. Hell, you can't even be sure you're doing this right... You breathe into her mouth again, and recycle the same move, but still no reaction. "C-Cave... N-No! D-Dammit, NO! N-Not her! N-Not like THIS!!!" She CAN'T go! You... You need her! Not even thinking at this point, you bring up your right forearm... and MASH HER CHEST! Left! MASH! (hooks. click right, left activates. vice versa. after like five, quote, then five more) Right! Left! Right! Left! RIGHT! LEFT! RIGHT! LEFT! "Come on... Please don't do this, Cave! Y-You're better than this, COME ON!" But suddenly... you find yourself falling face-first into the sheets... and your arms no longer make contact with her flesh. Your eyes widen; where once your friend lay is now just the empty mattress. Tiny orbs of light bounce around you, before vanishing into thin air. You see tiny little marks form on the sheet below; a few of those tears you held back have now started to escape. On the pillow remains Cave's maid-like cap; the last remnant of your friend. ... She's gone... She's really gone. You scramble at the blankets as if you'll find her... but there's nothing to grasp, nothing to hold, nothing to hug and caress and take care of. The soldiers merely back away, at a loss for words. Hell, maybe they fear you'll snap on them, completely losing your mind. You scramble like a lost dog before finally coming to a depressing end, your chest's wound karate-chopping you to submission. "No... No no no no no no no no no! No! Dammit! Dammit, Cave!" You find yourself curling into a ball, not even caring about the volcanic pain shooting through your body; what did it matter? She's gone... She's... She's really gone... "W-What's going on?! I-IF?!" Lyrica's voice enters the room, but you can't even begin to address her; you simply wallow in your agony on Cave's deserted bed. The pop idol sees you... and connects the dots immediately. "O-Oh God..." And for the hour that followed, no one said a thing. A few soldiers try to get you back to your designated mattress, but you are firmly rooted to the spot. They don't persist... Eventually, Lyrica gently takes a seat beside you, tears streaming down her face. You sniffle silently, desperately trying to hide your own crying face. Cave wouldn't want to see this... ... Eventually, the rest of the soldiers clear out, and only you and Lyrica remain. The sobbing has ceased, momentarily at least. You feel the pop idol's gentle palm rub your shoulder. You resist the urge to shake her off; you can't take your frustrations out on her, okay?! She contemplates her next words carefully. "... Iffy... U-Um, I was talking to the guards before, and they... said they were willing to... surrender to you. No one... wants to fight anymore. Not after today..." Yeah... Leanbox has lost both Chika and Cave today... Geez, they must be utterly demoralized if they'd be willing to surrender to you, a warrior too injured to stand upright for more than a few minutes at a time. "... Will it really be that easy? I... How the heck can they even trust me?" Lyrica shakes her head. "We've all kinda been... waiting for someone to capture the castle. W-We couldn't make it obvious, as... we'd all be executed, but... yeah. Vert keeps Sharicite inside her throne, actually; if someone were to get in there and seize it, she... wouldn't dare try to fight. I-I don't know how it works, but... not only does Sharicite make her stronger, but it's... also something of a highly-potent explosive, h-haha..." You raise an eyebrow at your girlfriend. How the hell does she know all this?! Her cheeks go pure pink at your look. "O-One of the pyrotechnic guys at my concert once brought that up, that's all! I-I told him no; it sounded like an awful idea!" You're still somewhat vexed, but you nod regardless. "... Sharicite, huh? Stored right inside her throne... That'd explain her infinite HDD, I'd reckon!" Your eyes regain some of their color as you clench a fist. "... Well, that's a better plan than I had! Let's get there before Vert returns!" "G-Great! O-Once we're in, I'll call over the guards, and... w-we'll 'negotiate' Leanbox's surrender!" Sweet... This could work! Not only will Vert fear for the safety of her massive Share stash, but she'd be screwed if she was forced to face her own guards! Even if she is strong enough to take you all... she's essentially murder many of her own men, and she'd lose both the faith AND the strength of the rest of her main army! ... A plan with a massive chance of failure... but when did that ever deter you? Watch me, Cave... I'm gonna make you proud! ... Here they are, the doors to Vert's extravagant throne room! The walk up here was hell on your battered frame... but you made it! The way was unusually silent, however; for a bustling castle, you didn't even come across a single soldier! They must all be in their rooms, lamenting the loss of their greatest warrior... ... Well, everyone will be at ease in just a short while! Head in there, and... this war is as good as over! You grip Lyrica's hand tightly. "Ready, Lyree?" Her smile is stunning... Why, if the sun was shining today, she'd STILL be the brightest gleam on Leanbox! "Ready, Iffy!" Here goes nothing... You and Lyrica reach forward and puuuuuuuull open the doors... and the tune of rugged hands clapping celebrates your arrival. H-Huh? At the end of the chamber, sitting in the CPU's throne... is Markz Phenix, Lady Green Heart's second-in-command. An asshole of a human being, you had to witness him kill innumerable men during the assault on Avenir. He chortles, sounding like a wheezing pigvader. "Howdy, maggots! Am I interfering with your plans? So, so sorry!" ... Wait... but, he's in Lowee right now! H-He was stationed with Linda and Nepgeo, at least according to your intel! All sources indicate that he was to wait there until... Vert returned from Planeptune... He was to meet up with her as soon as she touched down... in... Leanbox... He'd be her escort back to the... Basilicom! Lyrica's eyes widen at the same time yours do; you both are on the same page, as it should be with star-crossed lovers. You try to speak... but a tough, commanding hand on your right shoulder destroys the resolve to do so. "My, my... Welcome home, Miss IF!" ... (link:"Too late")[(set: $doorPageCheck to false)(goto:"Credits")] ...

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)["W-Woah!" you shout, rather embarassingly-so! You swerve out of the way at just the right moment. Dammit, you had hoped you'd be able to talk this out and put aside your differences... N-No, don't doubt yourself now! You can... get through to her, you know ya can! "C-Cave, stop! Freakin' listen to me!" The SMD warrior growls for a simple response... and her left-handed shear guns for your chest! Once again, you leap away right in the nick of time, though a section of your sleeve is torn off with ease. She's gone completely mental! How will you get through to her?! "H-Hey, this won't solve ANYTHING!!!" Another swing, cutting a strand of your long hair. Well, at least you have more than enough to spare. "I-I'm just tryin' ta help!" "I don't NEED your help!" Cave instantly jabs her right blade forward... but stops short. Huh? What's her angle? It's like she missed on purpo- S-Shit, she's kicking your stomach! You tumble backwards, nearly rolling in a complete somersault. Damn it... You thought you won? Why must this fight continue? "Y-You're not thinking, Cave! This isn't YOU! Stop being so stubborn!" But she offers no verbal reply, instead bringing around her scissors again! You have no choice; you swiftly drop a set of Qatars from your sleeve and meet her attack... but with a metallic clanking sound, her blade crashes into your pathetic little knives, the force lodging them right from your hand. "S-Shit...!" The sheer force of her intensity blasts you backwards, right onto your ass! Silently, Cave backs away ever-so-slightly, her eyes calculating the best way to end you. She's thinking, studying... but her mind is clouded with rage; she's going for intensity... and not much else in the way of gray-matter. Her head stays low, and she extends her arms far out behind her. Whatever her methods, s-she's gonna... f-finish you off! She's gone completely unhinged! W-What can you do?! L-Look, she's charging now, slicing through the air like a frantic maniac! You get caught up in that, (if: $endingPath is "IF Bad Ending")[(link:"you're dead!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,500);" /></div> (goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 1")]](else:)[you're dead! ... You have to do this. You'd prefer a peaceful resolution, but... that'll have to wait. Steady, steady... Now! Nano-seconds before the blades would cut down and rip you to utter shreds, you suddenly kick out your right leg and sweep hers right out from under her. Her eyes bulge out in realization as she forcibly crashes down to one knee. Come on, don't give her time to recover! "Sorry, Cave...!" you shout, before flattening out your right hand... and chopping for her neck! (link:"CRACK!")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 1")]]](else:)[Cave's eyes roll back into her head... and she collapses into your arms. The weight nearly topples you over yet again... but you persist, managing to stay upright. Before anything, you pick up the stylish soldier's twin blades... and store them safely in your pocket. Can't risk her holding these in her state, y'know? That done, you slowly stand up, cradling her like a rather-tall infant. You... didn't enjoy doing that, whacking her neck so forcefully, but she was clearly in no mood to talk. A little nap should do her good... You look over her body, and see how weathered and battered she is. Seems she's had tougher a day than you did, and you fought off a freakin' sniper! Your friend has always been... passionate, and add all the struggles she must've gone through not only today, but the entire war... and it's understandable why she'd snap after losing to you. She must feel that loss is... a disgrace, a worse fate than death. You are a traitor to Leanbox, and you thoroughly defeated her... That has to hurt the old pride just a bit. "... I'm sorry, Cave. I'm gonna set this right, don'tcha worry!" But... where do you start? You knocked her unconscious with that blow, but you doubt she'll be out for long. You must remember, you're in the middle of a warzone... One that's suspiciously gone quiet. What if a few more soldiers appear... and see you holding the SMD warrior's near-lifeless body? That... might not end well. Same thing with barging into the castle's front doors as you intended; the battlefield has cleared out fast... The rest of the guards must be waiting for you in there! They probably figured you'd lose this fight... Yeah, as much as you hate to admit it, your options are kinda limited. You can't trust heading inside, even though Lyrica still waits in there... not to mention the fact that you could theoretically end the war by capturing the castle! But... Cave isn't well; not only is she... 'being intense', but she's wounded far more than she'd ever let on. You... need to bring her to a safe place, away from here, and get her help. There is a Planeptune outpost on the northwestern shore of Leanbox; it's where you would've contacted had you accomplished your mission! It'll be a fair distance to cover, especially in the rain... but it's for your friend, and that makes it all worth it! Bring her there, even if she protests... and mend her wounds. She'll then be in more of a talking mood, and you can hopefully get her on your side! Together... the two of you will then storm the castle... and save Lyrica, force Vert to surrender, and... that will be that! ... Er, a work in progress... b-but you have confidence on your side! "... Damn straight, (link:"this'll work!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 2")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[Heaving the red-haired soldier's silenced frame over your shoulders, you begin walking forward, holding her in a picture-perfect firemen's carry! Ugh, but... h-hehe, not that she's overweight or anything (frankly, you always thought her body looked much better than yours), but it kinda hurts hauling her around like this. You focus more on agility, not necessarily upper body and back strength! This'll be... rough... You begin walking for the front lawn, as cutting through the tight trees would be practically impossible with a girl on your shoulders. Fortunately, no one seems to be around this long path on the side, though you suspect a few sets of eyes are watching from the windows all around the Basilicom. No one's making a peep, though... Creepy. Let's get... outta here as fast as possible. By the time you officially make it to the front and head along the pathway your squad was meant to follow (... poor guys. They must've become well-acquinted with Cave's 'intensity'), your back is on fire! Just... try to focus on... a-anything else! Y-Yeah, look at the front door: no guards outside, and the doors look as spotless and regal as ever! They look so tempting; you could barge on through right now if you wanted! But no... C-Cave comes first! You next turn your attention downwards, where countless bayonets and scraps of clothing and armor lay strewn about. Hell, you think there's smoke rising to the air... Was that one of the explosions you heard earlier? What DID Cave go through? "-et go o-...e..." ... W-Wait, did you just hear that? "Let g- of m-..." A-Again?! A mumbling voice... right above your head? Huh?! "... L-Let GO OF ME!" W-WAH! The shout startles you, and you immediately lose you balance and drop Cave! However, she doesn't crash down thanks to your clumsiness; no, instead, she lands perfectly on her feet!... Er, well, perfect is a bit of an exaggeration; she kinda sloppily stuck the landing... b-but still! "C-Cave?! Y-You're... h-haha, (link:"a-awake...!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 2")]](else:)[Well... t-that was faster than expected! Your enraged friend glares at you... before reaching for her belt! "...! W-Where...?!" "... Lookin' for these?" you slyly smirk, holding up her twin blades. Cave's eyes widen... and she surprisingly doesn't lash out. Good; as you had hoped! "I defeated you, Cave! Hmm, twice by my count, actually! On your warrior's honor, I order you to stand down!" The red-haired girl simply stares death at you... but there's nothing she can do. She's not in the shape to resist. "... You are correct... I have lost. How do you... wish to shame me?" You shake your head. "... Always so dramatic, geez! Look, I don't wanna shame ya, Cave! I just want..." you extend a comforting hand. "... to be friends again. I'm here to help; you look... pretty banged up." She looks at your approaching appendage... and pushes it away. "I-I told you before, I don't NEED help! I am..." She suddenly bites her lip. Is she... remembering something painful? "... perfectly capable on my own! Others will just get in the damn way, especially traitors!" Why does your friend have to be so thick-headed?! "... Fine! You think you can handle those wounds? Well, then... I'm leaving, so you can go! Run! I won't stop you!" She seems somewhat surprised by your seemingly non-caring attitude. After a moment of a blank look, she shifts her head away. "... F-Fine! I WILL!" With that, she turns around and glides towards the Basilicom... before crashing down face-first into the mud. By the time she's angrily pushing herself back up, you are already waiting with your hand extended afresh. "... Wanna try that (link:"again?\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)["... Don't rub it in." she snarls as she grabs hold. You smile to yourself as you pull her up... and wrap her left arm over your shoulder. "W-What are you... d-doing?!" "Relax; I'm taking ya someplace safe!" You point down the long path, leading away from the Basilicom's entire grounds. "I'm heading back to base to regroup... and yer coming with me! We can come back to get Lyree once we're both in tip-top shape! Whether you leave the Leanbox army afterwards or not, I'm at least gonna make sure you get patched up! Before we're enemies, we're friends." The SMD warrior's eyebrow raises at you. She hasn't removed her arm from your shoulder, however; seems she's gonna accept your aid finally! Ha, you knew this was going to work out! "... You're fleeing? You came all this way to invade us, and you're... just going to retreat?" "... Yep. You're more important than the mission, Cave!" You turn your head and shoot her a cheesy grin, drawing an eye roll from her stoic face. "Besides, way I figure it, without you... Vert just lost her best soldier! Sure, Leanbox can still fight... but I saw some of your guards today and, by the by, most didn't seem very enthused about this battle. Without you, their morale will plummet even harder, and who knows: maybe Lady Vert will soon find herself without an army at all?" Silence, silence... before Cave surprisingly chuckles darkly. "... How... devilishly calculating. Didn't ever expect to hear logic like that from you." "I'm not a COMPLETE idiot! I know how these things work!" "Teh... You ARE a complete idiot... Still, maybe that's..." A... smile? A smile! "... what Vert needs to... go back to normal." Vert going back to normal... Seems Cave secretly wants the same exact thing as you do! You pat her on the back... but quickly regret it when she winces. Seems you hit a sore spot, hehe... "From now on, I'm gonna do whatever it takes, Cave... How 'bout you? You with me?" The red-haired soldier looks into your eyes, and you can't pinpoint just what it is she's thinking about. Yeah, breaking news, story of the century! "... What the hell... Have no choice; the embarrassment will fall on my shoulders no matter what should you fail dramatically. I'm in." "... Er, haha, (link:"that's the spirit!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 3")]](else:)[The two of you begin walking off, Cave willingly allowing you to hold her up. She seems so exhausted... You're worried about her, frankly. Not just her physical wounds, but you can tell she's used up a lot of energy today. She needs some good rest! Hell, so do you! You wish Lyrica could be joining you right now... but you'll come back for her. Maybe it's for the best; she'd freak out if she saw Cave in this state! "... I... apologize, IF..." You shoot her a questioning look. "Hmm? Where's this coming from?" "I... wanted to kill you. I blamed you for... *everything*... and I almost... God, I'm screwed up..." Cave... There she goes, being all hard on herself again! "You're not screwed up... We've both been through some serious crap; I don't blame ya for hating me at all. I'm sorry, too." Hopefully your words will comfort her; you've never been the best at getting your sentimental point across! "You're... a good friend, IF." A somber tone... but a relaxed one. That's just what you've been waiting to hear! "My, my, THERE'S a sight for sore eyes: Cave and Miss IF acting friendly with each other! I suppose with Chika gone, you had to latch on to some other helpless woman like a bloodsucking leech! That's always been your specialty, Cave!" ... A third voice has joined the fray, and the familiar demanding strength behind it forces the two of you to freeze in each other's grasps. Do you... dare look behind you? On three, one, two, three... "Hmmhmmhmm... Hello, you two. (link:"Going somewhere?\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"Runaway Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You both reluctantly turn around... and standing like a slasher film psychopath is the HDD-enabled Lady Green Heart?! C-Crap, how'd she get... ... Wait... V-Vert is here! You ... haven't seen her face-to-face since the time she attacked Lowee with a crapton of airships! Planeptune, Lastation, and Lowee all united... and quite frankly decimated her fleet. While she was retreating, you stood in her way and tried to talk some sense into her... but you were unable to do so, and thus was forced to let her pass. ... But now, it appears she stands alone. Cave is too weak to fight, and you have no intention to... T-This can be the perfect opportunity to get your other friend back! This is a second chance! ... And, er, what did she say about Chika? Nevermind that, you can't dawdle! Gotta get right to it and sound as bold as possible! You nod towards the stunned Cave, before gently letting her go and walking over to your former Lady. "H-Hey, Lady Vert! Long time no see... You're lookin' great today, as usual! Though... you seem kinda tired from all the fighting! Maybe it's about time you call this war qui-" She folds her arms, covering her near-bare chest. "You are FAR too predictable, Miss IF! I know what you're trying to say... and I must refuse." "Yeah, shocking..." you snark while wearing a sideways grin. "So... Where's the rest of your army? Seems strange that you're out here in the rain all by yourself!" Cave continues staring at you in confusion, not quite sure what you're planning. She simply stands like a lawn ornament, watching silently... Vert, meanwhile, shrugs her head. "I told them to go ahead without me. They're no doubt entering the castle from the back door by now." A chuckle. "Why aren't you there to greet them? I'd have thought you'd capture the castle (link:"by now?\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 4")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You also cross your arms now, trying your best to look tough. You motion your head towards Cave. "I was busy getting my friend back. Friends mean more than warmongering." "Ha! Yes, I DO suppose you're right! I have an elite army the size of which will leave any nation in pure awe... but you have a friend who is tired, exhausted, all-around weak, and couldn't even save her own best friend's life. I bow to you, Iffy." (if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[Her eyes, lovely yet deadly, soon pan down to your chest? She's looking at your posture or... no, she's going a little lower than your arms... "You're wounded as well? Yet, you still give your own energy just to help dear little Cave... You're digging your own grave, Miss IF." You flinch at her words, trying to ignore the flaring in your stomach; if this gets ugly, you know where she's going to aim. Still... you can't let her get to you!](else:)[Grrr... No, no, she wants you to lose your cool!] "You really underestimate the power of friendship, y'know? I thought you played a lot of games; that moral is in practically everything!" You close your eyes, satisfied. "Friends give you something to fight for, someone to protect!" Cave looks to the mud at your words. "They... make you put your life into perspective; realize what's really important." Lady Green Heart looks at you, her eyes cold and unrelenting. "... I have no need, sorry. 'Friends' will stab you in the back once you've outlived your usefulness. They will take advantage of you until you have nothing left!" She suddenly pulls out her lance, and slices through the rain! "Like the world planned to do to me! If I didn't wage this war... all of Gamindustri would have turned on me eventually! Cast me aside like a weak link in a rusted chain!" "And WAGING WAR was supposed to stop everyone from 'turning on you'?! All the wrongs you've committed are gonna make things 'right'?" A sad smirk. Who... IS this woman? "... I would rather wrong all the people under the heavens... than to let all the people under the heavens wrong me." Her spear aims for your eyes. Dammit, this isn't how it's supposed to go! "I'm not fighting you, Vert!" "You want me to 'be your friend' again, don't you? Well-" Another dramatic swing, making her intentions quite clear! "- you'll have to MAKE me! Defeat me and prove you are (link:"worthy, IF!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossIffyTrack.play('SEGA-The_Soul_of_Fight.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- IF")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[Vert doesn't waste any time in sneering up at you. She's defeated... and she clearly doesn't like it. Heh... You're too good at this! You smile over at Cave, you friend honestly looking completely beside herself. Should you feel... insulted that she doubted you? Nah, you DID just whip a CPU's ass, so it's understandable she'd be a little surprised! Anyways, time to claim your promised reward! "So, Lady Vert... Ready to give up now? I proved myself, didn't I?" What answer are you expecting? Nothing, really; you've long since given up on trying to figure the goddess out. Her expression doesn't change as she responds. "... I changed my mind. Never." Yeah, you can't help but sigh. "... Why? Why do you need to do this?" "... I *MUST*, IF. The world... needs me to do this. You may never understand, nor may anyone else... but that's why I don't need 'friends' anymore. They'll simply hold me back." D-Don't clench your fists! She's... s-simply troubled! S-She needs your help, just like Cave did! "... W-What can I do to show you that's not the truth?! Please, I... I-I just want this war to end! I want VERT back! Please..." Are you... begging? No... You're not being desperate; you're just trying to get through to the woman you once looked up to! "So naive," she begins, a small cheeky grin stretching into something more... gruesome. "... Have you forgotten already? If you want this war to ever end... kill me; it's the only way. The old Vert is dead and gone, so have no fears about your soul's purity." Why must it... be this way? "You've already defeated me, and you'll never get me to 'understand'... so (link:"finish me off!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 5")]](else:)[She wants you to kill her. She says it's the only way... ... Well... guess you have only one thing to say: "... No." You shake you head, before retracting your Qatars back up your sleeves. You don't need these anymore; let them rest. "I know, somehow, someway... I'll make you see the light eventually! Even if I have to return and beat yer ass each and every freakin' day from here on out... I'll get my friend back. That's not a promise; that's a guarantee!" You look back at Cave, who's still sitting patiently. Wow, you... didn't actually figure she could stand still so long. Does... that mean she firmly trusts you now? "Cave, let's get outta here! We'll regroup and... come back tomorrow. If not then, the next day." She seems sorta relieved; she must be yearning for a good night's sleep. Another thing you have in common. "... Understood. I suppose I... have no choice." H-Huh? What's with that response? Isn't she on good terms with yo- Wait, didn't Vert mention something about... Lyrica's *predicament*? ... Of course... Vert's been using Fivey as leverage against Cave! She has to cover her ass to keep her safe... Dammit, you should've realized this was the case... Okay, so from now on, Cave is your 'hostage'... E-Easy enough to work with! "Y-Yeah, that's more like it! I-I'm... gonna force you to serve Planeptune!" You pull her up, intentionally rough... but feeling bad when she once again flinches. "... See ya tomorrow, Vert. Lyrica better be safe when I return, or... I'll be back with even more *friends*!" Do you even know what that means? Nah, but gee, it (link:"sounded cool!")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(goto:"Runaway Ending Page 6")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[Once the SMD warrior's arm is secured over your shoulder, the two of you begin trudging off. Whew, today is... finally coming to an end! You're a bit bummed over the whole Vert situation, but... gotta keep your head up. You'll get through to her, eventually... "You... handled that quite nicely..." Cave mutters, obviously straining against her enervated muscles. "... I doubted you for a second, I truly did. Not a mistake I'm gonna make again." "Hehe, told ya I could help!" You turn your head to smile at your friend... and are thrilled to see her smiling back, if not just a small smirk. "... You can always count on me, Cave. Friends, right?" She closes her eyes, shaking your head as if trying not to laugh at the world's dumbest joke. "... Friends. I'll never understand you, IF, but... I'm proud to be your [fri-"]<continue| (click:?continue)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntroTwo.pause();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="runningTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 5 OST Run Run Run.mp3');" /></div> }But at once, your friend's entire body shudders, her eyes nearly leaping straight out of her eye sockets. C-Cave, w-what's...?! It is then that the distinct taste of burning rubber fills your mouth... and as Cave slowly collapses on top of you, the realization dawns quite fast. Your back hits the ground as the red-haired soldier's entire body drags you down, but you ignore the pain of crashing into the dirt and instead immediately look at her face. Her eyes are tightly closed, and her brows furrowed; she's in... i-intense pain! No... No no no! Your head inches around... and Lady Green Heart is standing, smoke rising from the tip of the lance. T-That... BITCH! "... Have you realized yet, Miss IF, that your actions have consequences? Twice now you've spared me, even with the entire war at stake... How's your 'friendship' serving you now? Won't mean much when the two of you are in the dirt!" "I-IF... L-Leave... me..." Cave groans, her mind going blank. ... You can't... do that! Have to... h-help her up! B-But... s-shit, her blood is... s-spilling on you! S-She's bleeding, a-and it's all your fault! O-Oh God, you can't move! Y-You're stuck beneath your dying friend, and Vert is getting closer! C-Crap, n-no! T-This isn't how it was supposed to go! Lady Green Heart makes it over to you and raises her weapon high above her head. "You'll 'be back tomorrow'... What insolence! This is war; you must act forever in the *now*! If you can't comprehend that, then... YOU'VE outlived your usefulness!" H-Here it comes! S-Sorry, Cave! "There shall BE NO TOMORROW! Farewell, (link:"Miss IF!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="runningTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"Runaway Ending Page 6")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="Shin Sangokumusou 7 Dynasty Warriors 8 OST - Solo HQ.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }*FWANK!* No cold steel penetrates your skull, nor Cave's; instead... Lady Green Heart suddenly collapses, wooden splinters strewn about her flowing hair. B-But... how?! Who...?! Your eyes trail upwards... and are immediately drawn to Lyrica's frightened eyes! She's holding what once was her prized guitar, the body smashed to hell and back... The pop idol nods, trying not to panic. She just appeared out of nowhere and assaulted the flippin' goddess of Leanbox... It isn't hard to see why she's the best damn woman on the planet! "... W-We gotta run!" Her voice, shaken as it may be, inspires you greatly! You hiss as you lift Cave gently (well, as much as you can manage), with Lyrica assisting the effort in pulling her off you so that you are no longer smothered. The SMD warrior isn't doing well; she's losing a lot of blood, fast! Your lover struggles to hold back tears... but she manages to coax the soldier into your awaiting arms as you find your footing. "... J-Just hang in there, Cave... P-Please hang in there!" you repeat as you analyze the path ahead. You have a long way to travel... b-but you must hurry back to base! Turning back is NOT an option! Cave... needs your help! Your... help... "C-C'mon, Iffy!" Lyrica's right! You begin sprinting- no, GLIDING- across the mud as the rain pours down, your clothes sticking to your skin as a result of both the precipitation and the warrior's blood. Gotta... rush! Keep... RUNNING! Cave mumbles incoherent nothings, and a cold palm inadvertently lands on your right cheek. As if she's symbolically relinquishing her fate from her own hands to yours... You lean your head into the touch, savering its soothing feel. "Y-You can c-count on me... I-I'll g-get you help! P-Please, (link:"h-hang on!\"")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[[... ]<line1| []<line2|{ (live:3s)[(stop:)(append:?line1)[You are now...]] (live:6s)[(stop:) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHorrorTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 2 OST - Retreat Battle.mp3');" /></div> (replace:?line2)[Lady Vert]] (live:9s)[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 1")]}](elseif: $narrationCheck is false)[This rain is most troublesome... Oh well, you're approaching the Basilicom. Won't be much longer now. Hmm... and STILL no sign of Markz. He was to leave Lowee early and regroup with you on the journey home... Good for nothing whelp. But, perhaps he simply encountered some unexpected air-traffic, and will be forced to arrive far past when it really matters. So be it, some things can't be helped. Even you can't control fate. Well, not entirely, at least. A radio hums behind you, and one of your men turns it off. He's going to tell you some bad news. "M-My Lady! W-We have full confirmaton that... IF of Planeptune has indeed launched an assault on the castle in our absence! The situation seems to have-" He looks at the devastated front lawn and observes the obvious. Anyone with eyes can see that another army was here. Get ON with it! "- cleared up, but... I-IF was last seen confronting Cave, over by the eastern side! No word on the victor." "No... T-There can not be a victor! T-They must both still be alive, right?! You can't help but smile. "I suppose it'll be in my best interest to investigate the situation personally." You slash your empty hand far into the air, your bare arms accepting the incoming precipitation. "Men, head inside and wait for my return! I will go alone!" The meek man begins to raise an objectionable finger. "That is an order... Understand?" "B-Bu-... Y-Yes, M-Milady!" Like good sheep, your main unit complies without another bleat and marches towards the front doors. "N-No! D-Don't go, men! T-This is just going to get worse! P-Please, stay by your leader's side!" Ha ha ha... You know what you need to do. "I hope those two will be surprised to (link:"see me...\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 1")]]](else:)[Once you arrive at the scene of the crime, it is not the duo you find... but merely Cave, grasping her injured arm and looking like utter roadkill. Hmm... How interesting. "Hello, Cave," you greet, raising a friendly hand. "Where is your friend? And by all that is holy, you look like complete shit." The SMD warrior doesn't stand at attention as fast as you'd prefer, but you will chalk that up to her grevious wounds. Perhaps her neck simply refuses to function? For her sake, you hope that's all it is. Instead, you note her right fist clenching a peculiar trinket: a leafy bow. Ah, why yes; the one IF wears so famously. That lovely ornament never leaves her head... ... Which means...? "... My Lady, IF... is dead. She gave me no choice... so I ended her." "N-NO?! H-How... H-How could you have let this happen?! N-No, it... c-can't be true! T-There's no way!" You smirk again, scanning Cave's battered frame. She does indeed look like she's been in a terrible fight... though, from what you've heard, some of those battle momentos are from your own guards. Such a rebellious soldier, Cave is. "... Really now? If that is the case, then... I must commend you! Brilliantly done, Cave!" Hmm, her twin blades are split in half at her feet, even more than usual! Someone bent each individual shear out of shape, enough to twist the steel cleanly apart! "... I notice you are out a weapon? Such a shame; you were getting so good at wielding them, barbaric as they made you look. Perhaps it's time to move onto using actual gun-" Your star soldier suddenly turns and throws a punch with her left fist... which you catch with your right. She looks away like the maladroit fool you know her to be. "... This is a peculiar way to greet me! I assume you're tired, is all? Please, head inside Cave... and REST! You are dismissed. Thank you for your service today..." You release her hand, and she takes two steps back. "... and I await to see what glory you will bring me (link:"come tomorrow!\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 2")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[{(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(set: $vertChoice to 0)}Cave doesn't respond, not right away. Seems she's thinking... No, wait, she is not; she NEVER thinks when it matters most. She SHOULD be apologizing, pleading for both her AND Lyrica's life right now; you LOVE it when she does that. Something about taking this steel-hardened warrior... and slowly breaking her down until there's barely anything recognizable left! Hahaha... No, she's not planning to comply and head back inside. Her day is FAR from over. She's already made her choice. "N-No! D-Don't you dare do it!!!" You laugh as the red-haired fool attempts another punch, this time with her right hand. How cute. The same predictable result follows: you effortlessly grab her fist... but this time, you apply more pressure, squeezing until you can feel bones clench. "... I SAID, you are DISMISSED, Cave. Run along... and I'll forget this ever happened." As before, you let go and push her back. From her tightened fist falls IF's bow... which you eagerly catch. Whatever happens, you can't risk this getting destroyed. You pocket the trinket and begin clapping. "Well? I'm waiting! Don't do something you'll re-" But you don't finish that thought, for Cave begins tensing up, her eyes bestowing a deathly curse on your family. At least you don't have one. "Ugh... Fine, I'll *play* your little game." How juvenile... You've trained her better than this. She's not going to relent; she's adamant about picking a losing fight. Better not keep her waiting! (link:"\P-Please, Cave, y-you're bleeding! L-Let me see to your wounds!\"")[(set: $vertChoice to 1)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 2")] (link:"Let her hit you. You deserve it.")[(set: $vertChoice to 2)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 2")] (link:"She's going to kick. Grab the bitch's leg.")[(set: $vertChoice to 0)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 2")] Your Health (Vert): 100/100 Cave's Health: 5/100](else:)[{(set: $vertPageCheck to false)}(if: $vertChoice is 1 OR $vertChoice is 2)[(if: $vertChoice is 1)["P-Please, Cave, y-you're bleeding! L-Let me see to your wounds!"](else:)[Let her hit you. You deserve it.] HAHAHAHAHAHA! ]Cave brings her right leg up, fire trailing around her incoming limb. If only she had brains to go with her skills... You catch her shank with both your hands and don't even break a sweat as you swing her to the right and let go. She crashes into the mud flat on her back, the wind seeping out from her open lips. "You are too predictable, Cave. Even at your best, you'd have no chance against me... What drives you to fight now?" You aren't expecting an answer. You allow the SMD warrior to tornado-kick her way back to her feet. A flashy and impressive move... if she didn't stumble on the landing. Still, she doesn't waste any time in preparing her next move; she hunches over and stands light on her toes. Gotta say, you are impressed; she's really going all out with this! Where was this motivation before? "You really mean business, Cave! Come, this is starting to become fun! I expect nothing but your best shot!" She's ready to pounce; force you off-balance and to the ground so she can have free reign over your body as you lie helplessly beneath her. Why, if she does that... someone may actually get hurt! (link:"\"W-Why are you doing this?! Y-You can't hurt her!\"")[(set: $vertChoice to 1)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] (link:"C-Control yourself, please! P-Put her down softly!")[(set: $vertChoice to 2)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] (link:"Cast her aside like you should've done a long time ago!")[(set: $vertChoice to 0)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] Your Health (Vert): 100/100 Cave's Health: 4/100]

(if: $narrationCheck != true)[(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[{(set: $vertPageCheck to true)}(if: $vertChoice is 1 OR $vertChoice is 2)[(if: $vertChoice is 1)["W-Why are you doing this?! Y-You can't hurt her!"](else:)[C-Control yourself, please! P-Put her down softly!] HAHAHAHAHAHA! ]Cave leaps off the ground, clawing for your face... and you catch her shoulders before discarding her to the side, mirroring the result of the last ill-fated maneuver she tried to pull. "Oops! Too slow!" The red-haired soldier lands disgustingly on her shoulder before rolling a few times, mud painting practically every part of her body now. This is just sad. Well, it was fun while it laste- What?! Her legs are laid out, too weak to bend, but she manages to push her upper torso up with her scraped arms. She coughs a few times, specks of blood spitting out. Not done yet, hmm? "... You have heart, Cave... but there's a fine line between perseverance and stupidity!" She STILL refuses to speak! Where does she find the strength to stand?! Her eyes... are empty, and you can tell she has virtually nothing left. Ha, this is what happens when you have nothing left to fight for! That tense shoulder of hers is rearing back, though the movement is downright pathetic. She's jittering to and fro, unable to keep a steady balance! "Drunken Fist style now? Haha, pulling out 'all' the stops, I see!" Now she's just making a total fool of herself! So sloppy, so helpless; like a horsebird living long past its prime! Time to take her out to pasture... (link:"\"Y-You're ruining e-everything!!! P-Please, s-stop this! NOW!!!\"")[(set: $vertChoice to 1)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] (link:"\"I've watched this long enough! L-Let me GO!!! W-What do you want from ME?!\"")[(set: $vertChoice to 2)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] (link:"FINISH HER!")[(set: $vertChoice to 0)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")] Your Health (Vert): 100/100 Cave's Health: 1/100](else:)[{(set: $vertPageCheck to false)}(if: $vertChoice is 1 OR $vertChoice is 2)[(if: $vertChoice is 1)["Y-You're ruining e-everything!!! P-Please, s-stop this! NOW!!!"](else:)["I've watched this long enough! L-Let me GO!!! W-What do you want from ME?!"] HAHAHAHAHAHA! ]Your 'prized' warrior launches her fist forward... and you allow it to 'collide' with your chest. If you didn't know better, you might've believed a gentle fly landed on you. Well, you can't say you didn't give her a fair shot. Without another word that she'd heedlessly ignore, you pull out your lance, swing it around so that the dull edge of the hilt is aiming for her stomach... and you jam the weapon forward! Cave's eyes bug out in a manner most humorous, and she lurches over on pure reflex. Ooh, that looks like it hurt! You don't cease your assault there; you clasp your hands together, much like a volleyball player would to make a pass, and bring both your arms up high above your head. You can't help but smirk... before dropping your fists and bunting her in the small of her back! She crumples like used tissue without so much as a whimper. Job well done! "Tsk tsk tsk... You are bad at hiding things, Cave. Hmmmm.... But, why did you purposely lose, I wonder?" Most interesting... Oh well, drop the subject for now; this rain is getting deathly annoying... and you simply want nothing more than to retreat inside and dry off. You shake your head at the defeated SMD warrior. Better not forget her! "... You are to come with me... Haha, we'll have some fun when you wake up, you can be sure of that!" You lift her upper body by the cuff of her shirt, before dragging her behind you. Her legs leave a trail in the wet, sloshy mud... Not like she's in any position to complain. "Y-You... m-monster!!! W-What are you planning to d-do to her?! S-Spare her, p-please! PLEASE!!! "Hahahahahaha... (link:"HAHAHAHA!\"")[(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHorrorTrack.fade(0,2000);" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 3")]]](elseif: $narrationCheck is true)[...{(live:6s)[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 4")]}]

alert statuses: green, yellow, orange, red Calm, Cautious, Paranoid, Alert (you lose) page flow- current- end with you opening door page1- Vert greets you, says Cave predicted correct, ends with vert saying she'd like to play a little game. Somewhere, Vert tells IF to take off her jacket... and her boots. IF has no choice. page2- What game? Vert ignores, congratulates Iffy. Asks who was in charge of the security, Hank East speaks up, says she put the wrong guy in charge. Vert expected IF... "If ya know so much, then you know why I'm here. Where IS she?!" "Lyrica? Why... right here!" Page3- Guards step aside, reveal Cave and Lyrica chained up and on their knees. Fivey probably yells out. Vert says that if IF wants Lyrica... she needs to do one thing for her. Hell, she'll even throw in Cave for free! IF asks what's the condition. "Guarantee that... Planeptune will never act out against Leanbox again. That's all." Page4- IF thinks what to do, looks to Cave and Lyree for help. Cave shakes her head. Make first choice. If you accept, best possibility. If you refuse, Hank will die. ending part: if absolutely everyone lives- vert is happy, overly too friendly, almost like she's normal vert. She simply lets if, cave, and lyrica walk out without any guards watching. the three leave in confusion if Hank dies- Vert accepts If's surrender... but insists that IF holds true. She is now a war criminal due to 'killing' Hank... so if Planeptune tries anything, Leanbox will hold nothing back and storm the nation with full force. Guards point guns at If, cave, and lyrica as they march off If Cave dies- Vert accepts... but seems disappointed, almost as if she is saddened by Cave's death. IF and Lyrica dejectedly walk off as guards watch them. If Lyrica dies- IF simply passes out... and Vert grunts to herself. Markz asks what they do with her... and the goddess tells him to give her a room with a bed. 'Like, in a cell?' he asks. No, a warm room, next to her own personal chambers. good end scene- vert bickers... with herself. will see a cloaked neptune in the mirror, standing right behind her. Mirror-Vert will look like her human form, not HDD. "Are you happy? You made me act completely out-of-character today. You must be getting stronger." "I will KEEP getting stronger until my body is rid of you, demon!" "Hahaha... We shall see about that!" in flashback, cave will bring up her twin blades... and snap them in two. she apologizes to IF... but suddenly, Lady Green Heart's flags appear on the horizon. Cave tells her to hide until nightfall; there will undoubtably be sentries, but IF can handle them, sneak into the castle with minimum resistance (everyone will be resting after this horrible day), and at least rescue Lyrica from this hell. IF also makes Cave promise her that she'll stay alive; IF wants to save Cave too. The SMD warrior is silent, before nodding. One thing, though: Cave needs IF's leafy bow. She'll tell Vert that she killed her. IF agrees, hands it over, and runs off. By night, IF emerges from trees to the side of the castle, and she sneaks back for the back door. Stealth section

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The night sky is still blocked by pitch-black rain clouds... but a lone Leanbox guard skulks by the trees on the eastern side of the castle, undeterred. He lights a cigarette and takes a hefty puff. It sucks that it's still pouring... but the atmosphere out here is STILL ten times more hospitable than being inside with Lady Green Heart! Sometimes, a man just needed some time to himself, terrible weather be damned! He looks down at the mud around him; the ground looks utterly trashed thanks to footprints and other general shapes of human limbs. This is where IF and Cave fought their epic last battle... and where Lady Vert found the victorious SMD warrior. Two long trenches in the dirt head for the back door; that must be where Cave's lovely legs were forced to trudge as the mad goddess carried off her near-lifeless body! The soldier had to admit that, as scary as she could be, the SMD warrior was one hot babe. Those legs go on for miles... Woo! Man, if only she could be even a tad more interested in him (or... any of the male soldiers, frankly) than in Lyrica and Chika! A girl like her would make anyone go wil- His thoughts are immediately snuffed out as a rough hand covers his mouth tight, preventing any sound from leaking through. He muffles in confusion and shock... before a long-sleeved elbow bashes the back of his skull. He collapses with ease, never having been the best fighter of the bunch... and he is carefully dragged into the thick thrush, out of sight and out of mind. He'll most likely wake up within the hour... but that'll be more than enough time. "Sorry, buddy," a whispering female voice apologizes to the slumbering guard. She looks down at the man's hand and stomps out the lit cigarette. "Ya really shouldn't smoke, y'know? Bad for yer health, and the environment! Heck, you could start a fire!" With those words of wisdom out of the way, she claps her hands... before boldly emerging from her hiding spot! Out from the trees... steps the battle-hardened veteran, (link:"IF.")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 4")]](else:)[You are now IF... Whew... That's one guard down, and probably many more to go! Hopefully not, though; a girl can dream, can't she? Besides, you were told there wouldn't be many sentries out tonight... Your clothes are soaked from your long stay outside, and the rain still pours down without hope of relenting. Dammit, the weather report said it'd stop by now! What a load of crock as always, right? There's an unmistakable chill in the air, and you rub your hands together to heat yourself up. After your run-in with Cave, you fled into the trees... and have been waiting ever since for nightfall. You tried contacting Planeptune's nearest station on the northwest of Leanbox, but your radio was busted... so you decided to go without. Instead of making the tiring trek back to base, you found refuge beneath a big tree... and sat in silence, kept warm and dry by not much more than your thoughts. Should you have gone back for reinforcements? Probably... but this mission was personal. Besides, on espionage missions, you work better alone. "... Okay, Cave... I hope you know what you're doin'..." Your thoughts drift back to earlier... A FEW HOURS AGO You gently clasp Cave's shoulders as she directs her eyes upwards. Her hands are still gripping her twin blades... but you're not afraid. "... IF...? I... I don't need-" "'Don't need' nuthin'! Just take my hand, Cave!" Your friend looks so exhausted... but she eventually relents, too tired to attempt a poor parody of a tsundere's daily routine. Still, she rebels enough by avoiding your gaze. "... Thanks..." You smile, before pulling out a handkerchief and wiping away some of the mud from her knees. She tenses up and blushes slightly, but amazingly keeps quiet. Heh, on a normal day, you'd probably get your head chopped off! Sorry, you couldn't help it; that mud was just so... glaring, that you *NEEDED* to clean it! "Don't mention it, Cave... So, uh, we done beating each other up? You... still kick ass at fighting, I see! H-Heh!" Smooth way to get the ball rolling on a conversation... Cave shakes her head. "... Why are you... here? Answer me (link:"that first.\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 5")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[Seems she wants to get right down to it! Okay, that's probably for the best! "Well... I'm here for Lyree, Cave. And to hopefully capture the castle and end the war... but above all else, I... really want to see her." Your cheeks burn with humiliation as you think back to that night in Lastation, when you and Cave nearly came to blows over simple miscommunication and stubbornness. "... I really screwed up, but I... I'm gonna make things right again, I promise! I'm getting Lyrica away from Leanbox and... then I'll think of some way to get Vert back to normal. I... need her, though. It hurts being away this long, y'know?" Her fists tighten dramatically around her twin blades. Here it comes; the moment she lashes out at you again! She'll probably say you're foolish, or your plan sucks, or Lyrica is safest away from you, or- "... Fine." ... Huh? "... Then allow me to do... this!" Faster than the speed of flippin' light, your friend holds her blades out in front of her... before jamming up her knee with such force that the steel physically bends! "G-Geez, that looked like it sucked!!! H-Holy crap, what are ya-" you start, but she doesn't stop; she places both bent shears inbetween both her hands... and *twiiiiiiiiiists*! With a grinding snap, her weapons drop to the mud, split into fours. W-Woah... "... I have brought Lyrica nothing but pain, even though I condemned you with the same blasphemous accusations. I... apologize, Miss IF; I... know deep in my heart that you have what it takes to make Lyrica happy. Thus... I lay my weapons down. I have failed in my duties... and for that, my days as a warrior are finished." She bows, even as you stand completely blindsided by her words. "I beseech you; capture the castle before Vert returns! I will make sure the army stands by your side! Let us... free Lyrica from this hell!" Wow... What can you... say to that? "... H-Heh, a-alright! T-Thanks Cave, you're the best, y-y'know that?! The damn best friend I could ask for!" Don't do it, don't do it... Dah, dammit, you're so thrilled, you could freakin' kiss her! In fact, you do: several times on the cheek! She freezes for the first few pecks, but quickly pushes you off, her face tomato-red! You don't even care, giving her no time to say a word before you continue. "Let's do this! This war ends tod-" But before you can finish, a high-pitched whistle echoes though the air... and the SMD warrior's pupils shrink within their surrounding white expanse. "That... isn't a good sign, is it?" Her look of terror speaks volumes enough... but she still feels obligated to fill you in. "... Vert has (link:"returned.\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 5")]](else:)[That's not good! "S-Shit, whaddo we do?! T-There's no time now!" you shout. C'mon, don't panic now! Y-You've been through so much today; don't let it all be for diddly-squat! Cave darts her head around, thinking of something, ANYTHING, to do. "... All right, I have an idea!" W-Woah, she's v-violently gripping your shoulders now. Got your attention! "IF, you need to run and hide... and come back by nightfall. You can still rescue Lyrica... and it needs to be as soon as possible. I... can't live with myself if she endures one more day like this..." "W-Would that really be the best idea?! I-I mean... Vert'll be here! What good would wai-" "Our army just finished dealing with a three-pronged attack: one in Planeptune, one in Lowee... and one with YOU. There will undoubtably be sentries patrolling the grounds tonight... but security will be rather lax compared to every other day. That may be the best chance we'll have for awhile." Your stomach is churning. She... doesn't sound as confident as you'd like. "... But that still doesn't change the fact that Vert'll be home! I... S-She'll be waiting for me, wouldn't she?!" Her eye's visibly... twinkle? "You... leave Vert to me. Here-" H-Hey, watch it! W-Wait, why's she pulling off your leafy bow?!... Oh... Ohhhhhhh. "- IF is dead. Now, unless you're a ghost, there's no way you'll ever be here again." "Heh, hey, don't knock ghosts! They are hella real!" Hmm... something about Cave's quivering lips... makes you feel like you struck a nerve of sorts. You know, you never really asked what exactly happened to her today... "Believe me, I... know they are..." Before you can open your big stupid mouth again, she suddenly jabs your chest with a pointed finger! O-Ouch! "... You need to get out of here! Come back in the late evening, and find Lyrica in her room! I'll... figure a way to hold Vert at bay!" Y-Yeah, time is running out; there's that whistle again, closer than ever! "... F-Fine!" You turn to flee through the thick trees... but look back one last time. "... But Cave?!" "... Yes?!" Grinning, you tip your head her direction. "... I'm not coming back for JUST Lyree... Stay safe, a'ight?" Ha, she's hiding her face again! "... A-Ah, erm..." Man, if she could act this cute all the time, the world wouldn't need any stinkin' wars again! "... A-Affirmative. I will... be waiting for you." ... ... Well, the time for waiting is done! You have a clear goal: infiltrate the Basilicom (through the back doors... You never got to finish that goal earlier, but it should be a smoother ride now), head to Lyrica's room, save her... and then find Cave, wherever the hell she may be. You fear she's done something stupid... but you know she has a plan. You'll find her... or she'll find you. ... Let's just hope she finds you before a guard or Lady Vert does... ... Ready? (link:"Move out!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $alertCount to 0)(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(set: $visitedPageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioEntrusted.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Entrusted Hope.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 1")]]

{(if: $alertCount is 0)[(set: $alertStatus to "CALM")] (elseif: $alertCount is 1)[(set: $alertStatus to "CAUTIOUS")] (elseif: $alertCount is 2)[(set: $alertStatus to "PARANOID")]}GUARD ALERTNESS: $alertStatus (if: $vertPageCheck != true)[You run down the length of the Basilicom's side... when you make an unexpected discovery: there is now a hastily-erected barbed-wire fence protruding from the castle's edge! You can't simply round the corner anymore! What the heck?! Can't climb over either; you'd rather not rescue Lyrica while looking like swiss cheese. "Guess I got no choice... Let's follow this..." And that's what you do: you walk along, hugging the cold faux-metallic fence... until you reach the ending, the new addition to the castle's security simply stopping anticlimactically. We've all been there before. "Eh, okaaaaaay... Thanks for that. NOW can I turn?" You step past it and immediately turn right... and the faint outlines of two men are just visible through the nighttime haze. Crapple, can't go that way! And... 'Crapple'? What, are you becoming Nep in her absense? Well, hugging the other side of the fence and heading towards the castle's back wall is out of the question... so you can only walk forward, not keen on taking a further detour away from your ultimate destination by venturing left. "Stay vigilant... Can't see much in this darkne- U-Uhp?!" you yelp accidentally as you bump into a heavy cube-like object! Good thing you didn't fall flat on your face... but hmm, what's this? "'Insta-Fence'... The sons of bitches are still building the damn thing?!" "We're rollin' it up, Jimbo!" "Name's not Jimbo! It's- W-Woah, I-I'm falling!" "Nah, I propped the thing on this big rock here. That should stop ya from rolling away!" Sigh... More unwanted guests. You take cover behind the box and peek out, spotting two men parking what appears to be a tall stepladder (not a ladder. Never make that mistake) on wheels. Hmm... Er, those wheels look sorta like ones on Avenir-brand mortar cannons. How unusual... and why do you know that? Ya know what, drop it... On top of the stepladder is a sort of crow's nest, like one you'd find on a pirate ship from one of Nepgear's comics. Inside is a meek-looking man, sweating no doubt due to the height, with a circular device in his hands. Is that... a spotlight? Oh, you don't like the sound of that. "Good luck, Jimbo! We'll be over by the corner! Drinking the expensive booze tonight!" The two guys to both sides of the strange device then walk off together, heading for the two figures you spotted moments before. God, what sane individual would hold a drinking party out in a frackin' (link:"rainstorm?!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")]](else:)[(if: $throwChoiceCheck is false AND $dodgeChoiceCheck is false)[{(set: $rainDirection to "Straight Down")(set: $lightDirection to "Left")}'Jimbo' up in the tower nods silently, whimpering as he looks down at the earth far below. "... O-Okay, j-just gotta flick this on aaaaaaand..." CRASH! The old light snaps on, sounding like a machinegun going off in your tired ears... and a tremendous beam of illumination shines upon your box, forcing you to duck further. "... there! W-Whew... Now I just gotta sit up here and turn this thing back and forth, back and forth... All night long. While everyone parties... Thanks, Mom, for pushing me to take this gig..." This... yeah, completely sucks. Okay, think, think; there's gotta be an easy way out of this! The makeshift tower is propped against a large rock, one large enough for you to hide behind if need be. That should be your overall goal; the guy is so afraid to look down that he wouldn't see the Devil playing poker with a horsebird right below his post. You figure he'll only see what the spotlight sees; that's what video games have taught you, anyways! A little ways out from where you're hiding are two more 'Insta-Fence' boxes, these two still big enough for you to take refuge behind... but on their sides and empty. One to the left, one to the right... Both a safe distance from that party, so the only issue should be the moving light. Think you could make it? Of course... there's also the possibility of throwing one of your non-lethal Qatars at the guard up there. Hit him, and timing in not an issue! However, should you miss... you'll be wide open, he'll raise the alarm... and this mission will be all over. "... One wrong move, it's all over! I can... handle this, can't I?" (link:"Sneak by!")[(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")] (link:"Throw knife!")[(set: $throwChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")]](elseif: $throwChoiceCheck is true)[RAIN DIRECTION: [Straight Down]<rain| The guy is a fair distance away from you... but take him out, and that light will stop moving, and you can sneak by without worry. Screw up, though... and you'll be spotted. Instant failure... ... N-No pressure! (link:"THROW!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(if: $rainDirection is "Straight Down")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Correct")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")](elseif: $rainDirection is "Curved")[(set: $throwChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $throwChance > 70)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Wrong")(set: $stealthGameOver to "Spotlight")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Correct")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")]](elseif: $rainDirection is "Blowing Left!")[(set: $throwChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $throwChance > 40)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Wrong")(set: $stealthGameOver to "Spotlight")(set: $alertCount to 3)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Correct")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")]]] (link:"Er... Let me think some more...")[(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")]{ (live: 3s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Curved")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Straight Down")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 8s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Curved")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Straight Down")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 12s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 13s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Curved")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 14s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 16s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[Blowing Left!!!]] (live: 17s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[BLOWING LEFT!!!]] (live: 18s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[BLOWING LEFT!!!]] (live: 20s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Curved")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 22s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Straight Down")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 25s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Blowing Left!")(replace:?rain)[$rainDirection]] (live: 27s)[(stop:)(set: $rainDirection to "Straight Down")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")] }](elseif: $dodgeChoiceCheck is true)[SPOTLIGHT DIRECTION: [Left]<light| You gonna run out? Wait for the right moment, whenever that is, and GO! (link:"Sneak left!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)(if: $lightDirection is "Right")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Correct")](else:)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Wrong")](goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"Sneak right!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)(if: $lightDirection is "Left")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Correct")](else:)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Wrong")](goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"On second thought...")[(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")]{ (live: 3.5s)[(stop:)(set: $lightDirection to "You")(replace:?light)[$lightDirection]] (live: 7s)[(stop:)(set: $lightDirection to "Right")(replace:?light)[$lightDirection]] (live: 10.5s)[(stop:)(set: $lightDirection to "You")(replace:?light)[$lightDirection]] (live: 14s)[(stop:)(set: $lightDirection to "Left")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 2")] }]]

{(if: $alertCount is 0)[(set: $alertStatus to "CALM")] (elseif: $alertCount is 1)[(set: $alertStatus to "CAUTIOUS")] (elseif: $alertCount is 2)[(set: $alertStatus to "PARANOID")]}GUARD ALERTNESS: $alertStatus (if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $throwChoiceCheck is false AND $dodgeChoiceCheck is false)[(if: $stealthChoice is "Throw Correct")[Steady, steady... Goodnight, Irene! The knife catches good ole 'Jimbo' in the shoulder, and an intense-but-safe shockwave rocks his body! He mumbles a bit, before crumpling into unconsciousness. He'll probably be petrified the moment he wakes up and remembers he's still well-above ground! Either way, now you can safely maneuver around the stationary spotlight! You jump over the box and quickly press yourself against the large rock at the base of the mortar/stepladder tower.](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Dodge Correct")[Without a moment's hesitation, you climb over the box and head for the next one... and with your expert timing, the spotlight stands no chance of catching you! From here, you make a clear dash for the rock propping up the mortar/stepladder tower and press up against it. 'Jimbo' right above you doesn't appear to notice anything is amiss; he simply continues aiming the searchlight back and forth, in a neverending pattern. Have fun with that, buddy.](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Dodge Wrong")[{(if: $visitedPageCheck is false)[(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)(set: $alertCount to it + 1)](else:)[]}You sneak out from the upright box and quickly head for your next target... but c-crap, the spotlight briefly glimpses your foot! "H-Huh? W-What was... that?!" 'Jimbo' asks, even more nervous than before. Snapsnapsnapsnapsnap... Panicking, you run as fast as you can to the rock propping up the mortar/stepladder tower and hide against it. Come on! "... M-Maybe was... nuthin'..." He chirps on his radio. "... Hey, uh, guys, have ya noticed anything... unusual out here?" You can't hear the voice on the other end, but you hear the timid guard above you grunt in acceptance a few times. "... O-Okay. N-No, it's... nothing... J-Just checkin' in!" Whew... That could've gone a lot worse! Try not to cut it so close again, eh? Either way, time to brush this off and look ahead!] "Coast looks clear..." You peek out and can see the way to the back doors! A ton of guards are now walking around to the right of the castle's backside, no doubt for that drinking party, but your goal is the dead center... so they shouldn't be an issue! Now quick: run along before anyone else can appear and stretch this night out longer than it has to! ... You just about make it unimpeded to the Basilicom's fated back doors... and you begin to fear the possibility of it being locked. What the hell were you to do in that case?! Hopefully you can bash it open if need be... but wouldn't that attract the attention of the party-goers? It's windy and rainy, and visibility absolutely sucks... but surely they'll be able to hear two big doors being knocked open? Fortunately (or... not), it turns out you won't need to worry about that possibility... for as soon as can glimpse the details of the wooden entranceway, someone creaks open the doors! S-Shit, get down! You immediately crash into the mud and keep your body as flat as possible. There's no good source of cover... so laying still is your only hope. From the way to the dining room and kitchen inside steps a lone guard, lighting yet another cigarette. As soon as he leans against the building a hairpin's length to the right of your destination, a light overhead pops on. Great, must be some motion-detecting light... It illuminates the solitary guard, and paints the surrounding wall with his large silhouette of a shadow. How film noir-ish... "... I NEED to get inside!" Of COURSE there'd be one last obstacle to get out of this wet, soggy rain... If you don't catch pneumonia after today, you'll be surprised... You'll have to deal with this yourself, as always. He's left the door open, just a crack. Must be to lazy to turn the handle, eh? Oh well, count it as a blessing: you could slide right in if you hold your breath! The only issue is him... As before, you have two options: take this guy out, or lure him away. Take him out HOW? Lure him WHERE? That's for you to decide. You're soooooooo close... Don't let a chain-smoker be the reason you fail Cave and Fivey! (link:"Lure him away.")[(set: $throwChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"Take him out.")[(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")]](elseif: $throwChoiceCheck is true)[Gotta lure 'im away! Pebbles should do the trick... But, where do you aim? (link:"Further right of the doors!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Wrong")(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"To the left of the doors!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Throw Correct")(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"... Wait, no...")[(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")]](elseif: $dodgeChoiceCheck is true)[You need to take him out! How would you like to go about it? (link:"Choke him out from behind!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Wrong")(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"Hit him with a Qatar!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Dodge Correct")(set: $throwChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")] (link:"... Er, uh, a-actually, I...")[(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 3")]]](else:)[(if: $stealthChoice is "Throw Wrong")[{(set: $alertCount to it + 1)}Hurry, to the right! You toss a pebble for the space several feet away from the smoking guard... and his head predictably looks up at the smacking sound. "Hmm?" He walks over to investigate... and he leaves his post completely open! Haha, now's your chance! You snoop on over to the partially-open door and suck in your stomach. Try to not move the door as much as possible, got it? While you sneak in, the guard is thoroughly confused by your distraction... but once he gets far enough, he notices his buddies a little ways off! "Hey-hey, my bronies! Care if I join ya? THEN it'll be a party!" "Oh gawd, we all remember the LAST time ya said that, Finn! No deal!" "Awwwww, come on! Heh, oh well, suit yerself!" With that, the schlub turns around... and catches a glimpse of your hair as you successfully breach the castle! "... H-Huh? Hey, someone there?" Crap! Hmm, hmm... Screw it, shut the door and lock it! It'll buy you some time at least! You do just that... and it's not long before you hear knocking. "H-Hey, the door's locked?! I-Is this a prank?! N-Not funny, ya guys!" A far-off voice replies "That door's older than sin, jabroni! Yer clumsy ass probably slammed it shut and got it stuck!" "But I swear I left it... Neh..." ... Well, hopefully that'll blow over! You're in the castle, and that's what counts!](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Dodge Wrong")[{(set: $alertCount to it + 1)}Stealth mission? Stealth takedowns! Staples of the genre! You sneak up to the guard as his back is turned to you... and in one swift motion, you wrap your right arm around his throat and glue your left hand over his mouth to prevent him from shouting. Keep pressing on his windpipe; not enough to kill or maim him, but enough to render him caput! ... It is then that you remember the light right above, and the massive shadow it's casting on the Basilicom's back wall. Man, you must be making QUITE the unusual silhouette right now, eh? Better take this inside! Still choking him out, you slowly inch your way through the door... and once you are inside, you shut it quietly, like all those times you snuck into Lyrica's room and couldn't let anyone find out. The guy finally falls completely limp in your grasp, and you prop his back against the door while at the same time locking it. That should do the trick! As you revel in your success... a loud knock from the outside startles you! "Hey, Finn? Everythin' all right in there, buddy? It looked like you were convulsing... Was it the steak? I told ya not to eat the pink side!" He knocks again... Dang, you attracted suspicion! Best not to dwell on it; so long as they don't raise the alarm, you should be fine! After all, you're now in the castle!](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Throw Correct")[Hurry, to the left! You toss a pebble for the space several feet away from the smoking guard... and his head predictably looks up at the smacking sound. "Hmm?" He walks over to investigate... and he leaves his post completely open! Haha, now's your chance! You snoop on over to the partially-open door and suck in your stomach. Try to not move the door as much as possible, got it? He's still walking, looking around confused... Halfway in now! Still nothing from him... Aha, he's stepped over the pebble by now, and he's still going! Don't turn, PLEASE don't turn... YES! Your entire frame eventually squeezes through the tight doorway, and you leave it open so as to not arouse any suspicious. That went as clean as it could've! Okay, now that you've breached the castle... time to figure out your next move!](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Dodge Correct")[Okay, line up your Qatar... and throw! The knife sticks perfectly to the man's stomach, and he shudders for a bit before falling backwards. Easy come, easy go! Now to hide his body... Probably best to carry him inside with you, eh? So, you do just that: you lift the guy up by the shoulders and drag him through the door. Then, once you are finally out of the rain, you expertly push the entryway shut and prop his sleeping form against it! You wait a moment, listening for any perplexed friends to investigate... but nothing! Awesome work! Okay, now that you've breached the castle... time to figure out your next move!] You now find yourself in the brightly-lit dining room; remember, the bottom floor of the Basilicom resembles a residential ranch home... albeit one with twisting and turning hallways that lead nowhere. Your next stop is Lyrica's room! You remember the path to get there easily: go to the entrance foyer, go up the two flights of stairs, take a-... Wait a minute, but you CAN'T go through the entrance foyer; that'd be TOO obvious! There'd no doubt be many more sentries there, and you really don't like dealing with large numbers. Hmm... ... You'll have to find your way to her through other means. Dang, this castle is hella long though... You're kinda worried you may get lost along the trek! You've memorized how to get to key locations from the entrance hall... but all the side paths and hallways are hard to keep track of. Lady Vert wanted the biggest castle- no, the biggest BUILDING- ever, and lo and behold, she got it! "... Okay, if I run down this hall over here, there *should* be a different flight of stairs. Then I just... Okay, yeah, if I turn there, take a left there, go right from there, another right..." With no better choice, you follow your vague recollections about the castle's (link:"floor plans...")[(if: $alertCount is 3)[(set: $stealthGameOver to "Inside")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $timerCount to 5)(set: $visitedPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 4")]]]

GUARD ALERTNESS: "ALERT!" (if: $stealthGameOver is "Spotlight")[S-Shit, goddamned wind blew your Qatar off-course, and it whizzes straight past the sentry's ear! 'Jimbo' immediately jumps in his seat, and plants the spotlight directly on you! "H-Holy crap... I-Intruder, INTRUDER!!!" Before you can even utter a mighty "Oh CRAP!", a swarm of Leanbox guards surround you, guns drawn. Dammit... You can't fight them all off! You have no other choice but to raise your hands above your head.](elseif: $stealthGameOver is "Inside")[... Wait, you hear that? Aw shit... that sounds like an alarm! Hell, that's being kind; it's sorta like an air raid siren! The clammering of countless feet sound off behind you... and you don't even have to turn to know that you're screwed! "I-It's IF! Report to Lady Vert at once!" "You're coming with us, IF!" "We're... sorry about this, but... our Lady is crackin' down on everyone. If she finds out we've let you go... then we're dead meat!" Ugh... you messed up, plain and simple. You had every opportunity to succeed... and you botched them all! Maybe Cave had been right when she called you useless! All you can do now is to raise your arms above your head... and face the music. You can just TELL it's gonna be freeform jazz. Just your luck.](elseif: $stealthGameOver is "Hallway")["Hold it right there!" a demanding voice shouts right as you climb the first step. Do you... dare turn around. "You're not goin' anywhere! Did you think you could pull one over on us?! The whole damn castle could hear ya!" ... C-Chipotle! A bunch of damn guards have found you! That... wasn't supposed to happen! "Hands in the air, NOW!" Guess the jig is up...](elseif: $stealthGameOver is "Stairs")[... Wait, you hear that? Aw shit... that sounds like an alarm! Hell, that's being kind; it's sorta like an air raid siren! Guess whoever was on the other end of that radio connected the dots with your other past indiscretions! Shrouded by darkness, a random door slams open... and you find yourself blinded by yet another flashlight's beaming rays! "W-We found the intruder! H-Hands where I can see 'em!" Well... this sucks. You know when you're defeated... Oh well, they beat you fair and square; no reason to be sour about it. Wearing a sly smile, you raise your hands above your head in surrender. "H-Haha... Ya got me."](elseif: $stealthGameOver is "Drunk")[You jump out the door... and your head bumps into a soldier's armored chest, blasting you back! Woah Nelly, that hurt!... Oh, wait, uh oh. As you sit completely exposed on your ass, legs sprawled out helplessly, no less than five Leanbox guards stare down at you. Their... eyes are scanning more than just your face! P-Perverted creeps! They all look at each other... and nod. This... doesn't bode well. Whatever it is they're planning, you know this for certain: your mission has come to an end, AND in the most humiliating way possible! A defeated smile grows on your face as you rub the back of your head, feeling your soggy brown hair. "H-Hehe... A-Any chance we can talk this out?"] YOU HAVE FAILED! (if: $stealthGameOver is "Hallway" OR $stealthGameOver is "Stairs" OR $stealthGameOver is "Drunk")[(link:"Load Last Checkpoint!")[(loadgame:"B")] ](link:"Restart Infiltration!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

{(if: $alertCount is 0)[(set: $alertStatus to "CALM")] (elseif: $alertCount is 1)[(set: $alertStatus to "CAUTIOUS")] (elseif: $alertCount is 2)[(set: $alertStatus to "PARANOID")]}GUARD ALERTNESS: $alertStatus (if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $dodgeChoiceCheck is false)[{(savegame: "B", "Behind Blue Eyes- Stealth Part Two")}Aw heck, so many hallways and corners and doors and walls... Geez, this place is a maze! But alright, this area seems familiar, at least you hope it does! Just take a right here... and you should be able to continue all the way down until you come across a two-layered staircase. The room will look like a mansion's main foyer... but it'll actually be just a random side room. It sure pays to be the CPU! You hear some voices mumbling somewhere nearby; sound like... they're playing cards? Poker, maybe? Well, unless they're taking the unconventional route and are playing in the hallway, you should be fine; they're most likely in a room down the hall. The door is probably open, hence their words reaching your ears easily. Gotta keep as quiet as possible... They shouldn't be an issue, though. You doubt they'll even see you pass by! You round (link:"the corner...")[(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 4")]](elseif: $dodgeChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $dodgeChoiceCheck to false)}... And HOLY CRAP, you stumble right into a soldier?! H-Hurry, do SOMETHING! [$timerCount]<timer| (link:"Knock him out!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Knock")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 4")] (link:"Talk with him!")[(set: $stealthChoice to "Talk")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 4")]{ (live: 1s)[(set: $timerCount to it - 1)(replace:?timer)[$timerCount](if: $timerCount is 0)[(set: $stealthChoice to "Knock")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 4")]] }]](else:)[(if: $stealthChoice is "Knock")[{(set: $alertCount to it + 1)}H-Holy crap, WAY too close! Your reflex instinct is to grab the awestruck guard and liiiiiiiiiift him over your head, purely on adrenaline! Then, you jab out with your right leg and blast him in the stomach! You don't even need to confirm whether he's knocked out or not. "Hey? Everything all right out there?" a voice from the open door calls. Holy gripe, they heard you! Shickle... Wait, are you censoring yourself? Darn tootin', just escape down this hall, fast! No doubt the men inside will pop their heads out and find their unconscious buddy... but if you leave before they spot you, that's all that matters! A few men do indeed step out and investigate the downed man's condition... but you are already at the end of the hall by then! Are they gonna raise the alarm? Hopefully at worst they'll just chalk it up to the guy being drunk or something and MAYBE report it on their radios... You can only hope at this rate. If only you had more time to act rationally! Oh well, you can beat yourself up later! For now, get back to work! Whew, there's the grand double-decker staircase! Hell yeah! "Lyrica, (link:"here I come!\"")[(if: $alertCount is 3)[(set: $stealthGameOver to "Hallway")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 5")]]](elseif: $stealthChoice is "Talk")[Hold up, maybe you can use your quick tongue to get out of this! You grab the flabbergasted guard by his collar and pull him right up to your face! Gotta choose your words carefully here! What's your angle? [ [Reason!]<reason| [Threaten!]<threaten| [Use your wiles!]<wiles| ]<passage|{ (click:?reason)[(replace:?passage)["Listen buddy, I'm not here to hurt ya!" you begin, trying to maintain a calm face. The soldier stares back at you, clearly at a loss for words. "I'm... here for Lyrica. Don't tell anyone ya saw me! I come in peace!" Perspiration drips from the guard's forehead, and he simply nods at your request, his head stuttering as a result of bad nerves. Once you are satisfied that he's not planning anything malicious... you release him from your grasp. He doesn't make a sound as he powerwalks right past you and retreats down the other hall. Think he's... gonna comply? All you can do is hope he does! Here's a better idea: don't stick around long enough to find out! With that heart attack out of your life, what else is there to do but continue along your way? Your goal is right at the end of this hall! You run forward... and see the grand double-decker staircase! Hell yeah! "Lyrica, (link:"here I come!\"")[(if: $alertCount is 3)[(set: $stealthGameOver to "Hallway")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 5")]]]] (click:?threaten)[(replace:?passage)["You didn't see anything... Ya *hear* me, buddy?!" you snarl, trying your best to sound menacing. It... doesn't sound too convincing to your ears, but his spooked gaze gives you slightly more confidence in proceeding. "I already took out a bunch of ya runts today... Want to be another mark on my tally?" Yeah, that sounded cool! Not sure if that made any sense, but who cares! You're *threatening* him; you don't HAVE to make sense! The guard can't shake his head fast enough. "T-That won't be necessary, M-Miss IF! I-I was just going to get some w-water! I-I won't say a thing! E-Everyone thinks you're dead anyways, so, uh... m-my lips are sealed!" Cave's little ploy turned out better than you expected! "Damn straight!" You release the timid man from your clenched fist and usher him away, bringing your index finger to your lips. You can tell from the way his shoulders are tensed that he gets the gist... and he quickly sprints down the way you came and escapes from your sight. You don't like using the rough approach... but you had no choice here. Luckily the guy wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed: he couldn't tell how freaked out you were! Oh well, take a deep breath... There, focused again? ... With that heart attack out of your life, what else is there to do but continue along your way? Your goal is right at the end of this hall! You run forward... and see the grand double-decker staircase! Hell yeah! "Lyrica, (link:"here I come!\"")[(if: $alertCount is 3)[(set: $stealthGameOver to "Hallway")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 5")]]]] (click:?wiles)[(replace:?passage)[... Oh sweet lord, are you really about to stoop this low? Well... you have to know your audience... and sometimes, certain 'sacrifices' have to be made! As the soldier stands petrified, you bring up your free hand... and trail a lone finger up his chest to his chin. "Please, Big Boy! I'm... really desperate to sneak in here, and I'd be extremely grateful if you would let me pass~" Ugh... You feel like you'll need a shower after spewing this crap. "... I'll do *ANYTHING* you want..." Add a wink to complete the package... You're NEVER doing this again. "... A-Anything? Well... C-Can you do 'something' for me?" he begins. Here we go... I-It's for Lyrica and Cave! Just keep telling yourself that; it'll make it much easier... "What I really want is for you to..." ... This is gonna blow. "... s-score me a date with Cave! P-Pretty please?!" ...? "Eh?" Hold the phone! You... DEGRADED yourself for this guy... and all he can think about is CAVE?! You just said words that would reduce any hot-blooded male to pure mush... and he ignores your advances?! Ugh, such an idiot! This is one of the many reasons why you only have eyes for women! For Lyrica!... Still, it's annoying to think your appeal is... lacking. "... Um, sure, buddy. I'll... send out some feelers or whatever." "A-Awesome! M-Man, that'll be too sweeeeeet!" You accidentally release him in sheer shock... and the dude runs straight past you and down the way you came, his fists in the air. Oh, and now he's making a "SQUEE!" sound... Let's all forget this happened, that sound alright? Hopefully Cave won't kill ya later! Anyways, with that heart attack out of your life, what else is there to do but continue along your way? Your goal is right at the end of this hall! You run forward... and see the grand double-decker staircase! Hell yeah! "Lyrica, (link:"here I come!\"")[(if: $alertCount is 3)[(set: $stealthGameOver to "Hallway")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth Game Over")](else:)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Stealth 5")]]]]}]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[Finally, Lyrica's room! No stalling now; you twist the doorknob and fliiiiiiiiing open the door! "Lyree, I'm here! Oh man, I missed ya so mu- Uh, Lyree?" But alas, the stunning pop idol is nowhere to be found. Hell, not even a guard looking to ambush you! There's just... no one! ... Oh crap, where the heck could she be? Cave's room? No, she wouldn't take her there! You have a bad feeling about this... ... This is a HUGE castle, big enough to hold an entire city (and then some, probably. You're much too busy to accurately calculate)! Where the frick could she be?! "Well, someone's gotta get these lights on; our Lady wants everyone in the throne room in like five minutes! ... There's... no way, is there? "... Crap... Guess I know where I'm goin'..." ... The way to the throne room is... pretty quiet and uneventful, which is kinda disconcerting if you're being completely honest. Everyone else who you didn't come across must be in there... for that 'meeting' or whatever... You arrive at what you presume to be your journey's terminus, choosing not to question why the window at the end of the lobby is smashed to bits. "... Am I really about to do this? This sounds like something I'd have to talk Nep out of doing!" ... You ARE about to do this! This IS happening! Well... let's not keep destiny waiting. Your hands grasp the handles... and throwing all caution to the metaphorical wind, you (link:"open the doors!")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioEntrusted.fade(0,2000);" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 6")]](else:)["Yeah, I... don't know what I was expecting..." The first thing you see upon entering the royal chamber is a crapload of Leanbox guards, all shocked to see you. Likewise, dudes. "... H-Hey, everyone...!" Dammit, don't act like a dweeb now of all times! No one's shooting you... so that's a plus! Now, where i- "Hmm? Oh my, our guest of honor has arrived!" Aaaaaand, there she is! Standing tall by the throne is the main star of the show, Lady Green Heart. Vert... or at least, the woman pretending to be your idol. "Seems my 'elite' men couldn't detect you after all!" She shakes her head, chuckling ironically. "Seems I owe someone a few hundred credits!" So, was she... expecting you? But, everyone should've believed you were dead! You don't think that... the CPU knew the truth, and intentionally kept her own army in the dark, do you? Oh well, that's irrelevant; you need to focus on playing your cards right! Tread lightly, lest she destroys you. "... Hello, Lady Vert. I-" "Disrobe, Miss IF." W-What?! T-That is highly inappro- "Take off your jacket... Oh yes, and your boots! I don't anticipate you making any... questionable moves, but I can't take any chances! I know how endless your supply of throwing knives can seem!" O-Oh, THAT'S what she meant. W-Whew... Though, you... can't help but feel a bit disappointed... N-Nothing, you thought nothing! "E-Er... F-Fine!" For now... do what she says. If you irritate her, things will quickly turn nasty. Thus, while the surrounding guards watch, you take off your jacket and throw it to the side! Sorry, Jackie... N-Not a dweeb! You next take precious care in how you pull off your shoes, making sure not to give anyone a 'show' of any sort! Sorry, boys, but *this* is Lyrica's property! "... There. Happy now?" Vert smiles, though it lacks the warmness you remember. "Yes, very! Good to see you can control yourself, Miss IF; that is a quality Cave most certainly lacked!" Drat, the urge to clench some Qatars is SO strong! Maybe it's a good thing you're disarmed. "What did you do to her?!" "Hahaha!" she laughs. Tch, the real goddess would never sound like such a creep! "Don't jump ahead, dearest Iffy! One step at a time!" What happened to ya, Vert? It... hurts to hear you speak so... smugly. "Getting back on track... I'm glad you are finally here; I've been *dying* to play a little (link:"game with you!\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 7")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[A game?! The words that a serial killer would scoff at! "... I don't have time for games, Vert!" The CPU wags her finger at you, winking all the way. "Au contraire; I believe it will be in your best interest to play this game!" Now she's... bowing? Oh come on, get to a flipping point! "... But before that, I really must commend you for your successful infiltration of my Basilicom! (if: $alertCount != 0)[A bit sloppy at points, but... m](else:)[M]y men had no idea you were here!" She looks to the commander beside her. Markz Phenix... Great, that scumbag. "Who... was in charge of security again?" Markz begins to open his disgusting mouth... but a slightly-overweight man among the crowd suddenly coughs, drawing everyone's attention. A sweatdrop paints the back of his head as he speaks. "Er... I was, milady!" "... And you are again?" "H-Hank!" Nothing. "Hank East?" A blank stare. "P-Photographer-slash-kungfu-expert extraordinaire?! Supreme 'Coverer of Wars'?!" Lady Green Heart thinks for a moment, before shrugging with disinterest. "... Oh yes, pardon me. How could you not have known IF was here?" The balding man shrugs himself; he's... got quite the attitude, acting like that towards his leader. Not that she doesn't deserve an attitude, but still, he really should think about his safety! "I told ya I wasn't the right man for the job, ma'am. I can't even operate the radio properly!" "Truly..." She rolls her eyes. "Anyways, it was still most amazing, dearest Iffy! Are you still steadfast in opposing my army? I would LOVE to utilize your skills for Leanbox's benefit!" "... I'm not for sale." A devilish smirk. "As expected, but I had to try!" Yeah, bet ya did. "My men didn't detect you, but I found you to move oh so predictably! Though, I suppose I had some... help from Cave; she's such a bad liar! I knew she spared you... and that you'd be back. I love you, Miss IF... but even I will happily admit you are a reckless fool sometimes." She's toying with you... and it's not gonna work! "... Dammit, Vert! W-What the heck do you want?! If you knew I was coming, then... you know why I'm here! Where IS *she*?! Where are *THEY?!*" "Oh boo, you're no fun anymore! What happened to the old Iffy?" The HDD-enabled Vert rolls her eyes... before chuckling and clapping her hands, making a few guards wince. "I presume you mean Lyrica and Cave, yes? Why... they are both (link:"right here!\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 7")]](else:)[On cue, a line of soldiers to Vert's left clear out... and you are horrified to see Lyrica and Cave on their knees with their hands tied behind their backs. The SMD warrior looks even more bruised than she did earlier in the day; what did Vert... DO to her?! She doesn't look up, no doubt ashamed to be in such a predicament. Contrastly, Lyrica beside her notices you with her watery eyes. "I-Iffy!" She fortunately does not look too scruffed up; they must've simply grabbed her from her room while she was resting or something. Green Heart continues laughing, her booming voice resounding off the fancy walls. A strange voice laughed inside your head earlier... and yet THIS is still ten times more disturbing! "This is the game I was talking about! It is really simple: if you want to escape with your dear, lovely Lyrica... then you must do one small, SMALL thing for me! She was originally the only prize, but..." She crosses her arms beneath her ample breasts. It's amazing how far she's descended; she's making you so sick, you can't even imagine ogling her... gifts from puberty. "... you caught me in a good mood today: I'll even throw in Cave as an extra! How does that sound to you?" Every fiber of your being screams at you to run; Vert is basically sounding like a stranger offering you drugged-up candy! However... all you want is to get Lyrica and take her home. The fact that Cave is also slated to join you makes this... 'small, SMALL thing' excrutiatingly appealing! "Ugh... Alright, what's the condition, eh?" "Very simple!" You DEFINITELY don't approve of that gleam in her purple eyes! Wait... her eyes look more blue than purple! What gives?! Vert's human form has blue eyes, and her HDD-self is supposed to have purple ones! She's a goddess; you wouldn't ever understand! What does... this mean? Er, though, maybe you're just developing a selective color-blindness from all the stress today. She gleefully continues. "Guarantee that... Planeptune will never again act out against Leanbox. (link:"That's all.\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(set: $visitedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="eerieTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $refuseChoiceCheck is false AND $acceptChoiceCheck is false)[(if: $visitedPageCheck is false)[{(set: $acceptChoice to false)}... Is she... asking you to procure Planeptune's surrender? You... What?! Just like that?! A... verbal promise you'll somehow convince Nep and Histoire to give in to the enemy?! H-How can she even be sure you'll hold true to your word if you agree?! ... She's the new, CRAZY Vert; she'll know. She has eyes and ears everywhere... "... You want Planeptune to stand down? Well, what about you? Will you promise never to attack us either?!" It's a good question... which means she won't answer you in any way decent. "Hahaha... That's where the fun comes in, isn't it? I'll prefer to keep you on your toes! No need to answer everything; a little mystery is good for the soul!" Where's your winning lotto numbers to go with that foresight? Still... she's promising to give you Lyrica and Cave. In case you've already forgotten, you are in NO position to negotiate... so you simply have to take her words at face value. If she was planning to kill you, you'd be dead already... so hopefully she won't betray what little trust you have left. "..." But crap, what do you do?! You... can't make a promise like that! Leanbox will essentially win this meaningless war... and that prospect frightens you more than anything. Well... does it frighten you more than if you refuse her offer? ... You need some assistance! You look at Cave, your eyes pleading for advice. The red-haired soldier is already looking straight at you, obviously sensing the turmoil you are going through. She looks you dead in the eye... and shakes her head. 'No' is her simple answer. She's telling you to refuse. Lyrica is as lost as you are, trying her best not to break down crying. Lyree, please don't cry... Y-You'll get out of this, somehow! "Well, Miss IF? What is it going to be? I don't like waiting..." ... You have to choose, and you have to choose now!](else:)["So...? Are you going to make a decision? I'm a VERY impatient woman, IF..."] (link:"Accept Planeptune's surrender!")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")] (link:"Refuse! There's no way you'll fall for that!")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")]](elseif: $refuseChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Are you... really choosing to refuse my offer, dearest IF?" (link:"\"Yes! Of course I refuse!\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")] (link:"\"... Er, let me think some more!\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")]](elseif: $acceptChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Smart girl! Can I get final confirmation on your surrender?" (link:"\"... Yes, I... agree. Planeptune shall surrender.\"")[(set: $acceptChoice to "Best")(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 1")] (link:"\"... Er, let me think some more!\"")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page 8")]]](else:)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to false)}Vert scrunches her lips. "That's fine, I expected this! This is all part of our game; there'd be no fun if you dropped out on the first round! Besides, what'd be your incentive to accept right away? Seems to me-" She trails her pinky across her lips. It would be quite seductive, if you didn't currently fear for your soul. "- I need to raise the stakes some!" At once, her lance appears in her clasp! D-Did she pull that out, or summon it to her hands?! "Hank, my good fellow!" The schlubby photographer slumps his shoulders. "Y-Yeah, Me-Lady?" "You've failed me today, so it's time you made up for it! How should I... raise the stakes?" "You're askin' me?! Heh, I'm REALLY the wrong guy to ask for this stuff, toots, but I guess I can tr-" SWISH! Before Hank East can finish his rambly sentence, a power beam from the CPU's lance blasts right through his chest!? He sways side-to-side in sheer confusion for a moment... before collapsing and vanishing into a collection of sparkles. H-Holy... Lyrica shouts out, and Cave whispers something in her ear, or at least as best she can with the restraints. Shit... Vert just made her point pretty clear. The rest of the army, save Markz, all freeze up, utterly horrified. The grizzled veteran, conversely, claps his hands! "Hell yeah, that's more like it! Do it again!" Vert chuckles. "Hahaha... Perhaps YOU can do the honors next, Markz. That is..." She turns to you, a playful expression shining through her eyes. This... m-monster! "... if our dearest Iffy wishes to (link:"prolong this game?\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")]]

{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,1000);" /></div> }(if: $acceptChoice is "Best")[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> }There, you said it... Absolutely no going back now. You hear Cave audibly sigh, but she's too exhausted to argue with you. If she has a problem with your decision, you'll just have to convince her it WAS the right move. Vert nods her head for awhile, and at first you think she's expecting something else from you. However, as your head swirls with possibilities... her eyes morph into an even clearer shade of blue! "Excellent! That is great news, IF!" W-What's with that cheerful tone?! She's clasping her hands together like a maidenly schoolgirl! "You're so kind, Iffy! Thank you, thank you!" Absolutely everyone feels like they've been hit by a rampaging train. Markz Phenix doesn't feel particular convinced, or impressed. "Er... That's it, Milady? We're not gonna... break any bones? Splatter some blood on the walls. They need a new paint job!" She shakes her head, looking almost nauseated by his suggestion. "Good heavens, of course not! No, Miss IF said she accepted! That's good enough for me!" Another clap... Are you about to get shot in the face? W-What's happening?! "Guards! Please release Cave and Lyrica! Their knees must be so sore! Would you two like some icepacks? Terribly sorry for the treatment!" Cave cocks an eyebrow as she's unbelievably helped to her feet, and her bindings are sliced off by some flummoxed men. "An... icepack is wholely unnecessary, My... Lady?" The warrior turns to you, wide-eyed, and you can only shrug. Vert(?) laughs! "That's just like you Cave! But oh well, I shall respect your wishes!" She turns to look back at you now, and you shrink at once. "You all can go now, Iffy! However, I will... be truly saddened to see you leave! Do please stop on by and visit me every now and again!" ... Is this a joke?! Is this a prank?! Where's the catch?! Dammit... Should you just play along with this? You're still unarmed. "... U-Um... O-Of course, L-Lady Vert! I-I will be happy to! B-But for now, erm, y-yeah, my 'sisters' are waiting for me back home!" By now, Lyrica is completely free of her bindings, and she smothers you in a great big hug. Ahhhhhhh... That feels so good!~ "L-Lyree! W-Woah, y-you have some strong arms!" The pop idol finally starts crying, her warm tears streaming down your cheek. "I-Iffy! W-When the guards told me you were dead, I... I didn't know what to-" "H-Hey, hey..." Pat her head, caress her hair. Comfort her... "It's all over now, Lyree... Ready to go home?" You look up to see Cave finally finishing her slow trudge over. "... You too, Cave. I'm holdin' true to my promise: you're coming home with us!" The SMD warrior still can't believe you did what you did... but perhaps due to Vert's *unusual* behavior, she drops it with nary a qualm. "... Hmph! Fine... I shall... (link:"accompany you.\"")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 2")]](elseif: $acceptChoice is "Hank")[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> }An innocent soul just got obliterated; you had no choice but to accept. You hear Cave audibly sigh, but she's too exhausted to argue with you. If she has a problem with your decision, you'll just have to convince her it WAS the right move. Vert nods her head. "One life is all it took? Ha, and to think you did this to save Cave... when just a few hours ago, she wouldn't have had any qualms about killing you!" She suddenly claps. "Okay! Release the two prisoners at once! Iffy!" "E-Er, yes?!" Sorry, almost got distracted there; you were too busy biting your tongue in a desperate attempt to not lash out. "You three are to leave the Basilicom at once! Don't worry about your jacket and boots; I'LL take 'good' care of them. Don't want to inspire you to pull off any heroics! But... just in case..." The CPU points a bold finger at a disappointed Markz. He's always so damn trigger happy. "Markz, you and the rest of the men must keep watch as they march away from the castle. If they act out at all? Fire... but know that I WILL be watching, so don't take 'matters' into your own hands." A knowing expression crosses her face... and the grizzled veteran actually gulps. "Er... gotcha. Don't worry, it's not so fun to shoot people from that far a distance for no reason anyways." Oh, now that's comforting. The deranged goddess continues. "Once they reach the edge of the front yard and leave the premises, they are out of our control. I will then assume they're heading to Planeptune... where IF will hold true to her promise." Her cold, purple eyes stare straight at you. "You... WILL hold true... Won't you, Iffy?" You can only nod, training your eyes right on your former idol. "... Of course." "Great! Because, if you weren't aware-" She waves her hands to where Hank East once stood. His camera serves as his lone remnant in the physical world. "- assassinating a Leanbox officer is no small misdemeanor! If you ever so much as look at Leanbox again... you will be hunted down as a war criminal... and Planeptune will pay for harboring you." A cheerful smile. "Understood? Perfect!~" ... So long as Cave and Lyrica are alive, nothing else matters to you. "... Yeah... I read ya (link:"loud and clear...\"")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 2")]](elseif: $acceptChoice is "Cave")[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> }"... I see." Vert says, nodding to herself. "... NOW you surrender?" ... What's with that tone? You're already feeling crappy enough. "... What?" "You play long enough to force me to kill my own friend... and NOW it's time to wave the white flag?! Despicable!" Your cheeks flare red with anger. She's telling YOU off?! "Woah woah woah! Take a look in the mirror, Vert: YOU and your shithead of a buddy killed Cave! Y-You deliberately put me in a lose-lose situation; I-I didn't think you'd actually..." The more you talk, the more... you realize how much it's your fault. You can tell yourself Cave died in order to protect Planeptune... but here you are, surrendering anyways! "... Crap..." Vert watches you with cold, light purple eyes. Once again almost merging with an odd shade of blue. "... Get out." H-Huh? "Get out! Guards, untie Lyrica and make the two walk! They step out of line, you KILL them! Otherwise, let them march all the way back to Planeptune themselves." Her arms fold decisively. "You STOLE Cave from me! First Chika, and now Cave! I... L-Leave at once! At ONCE! I have NO ONE LEFT!" S-She's gone completely insane! Lyrica is freed from her bindings and quickly rushes to your side, wrapping you up in a terrified hug. You hold her back, protecting her from your insane former idol. "Y-You've ruined EVERYTHING! Get OUT! (link:"GET OUT!\"")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 2")]]

(if: $acceptChoice is "Best")[... As the three of you finish your travel plans, the goddess simply watches, smiling to herself. Markz, Hank, and the rest of the Leanbox army are beside themselves... but no one dares raise a finger to stop her. Green Heart eventually tells her guards to hand you your jacket and boots back, just like that! You once again strategically get dressed— though accidentally showing off a little too much to a red-faced Cave— and are set to go. No bomb in your uniform... Seems everything checks out! But... why is this going so smoothly? Everyone's waiting for a pin to drop and snap the universe back to reality! Ergo, when it comes the time for you three to step out the door and leave... the stunned silence still continues as all the CPU says is "Be safe, my friends! I hope we meet again soon!" You nod to your former idol... and grip Lyrica's and Cave's hands tightly. "... Let's just... go, guys." "R-Right, y-yeah!" "Agreed." And all the goddess does is wave, like a jovial friend watching her loved ones board a plane to (link:"parts unknown...")[(set: $resultPage to "Vert Throne")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page Bad")]](elseif: $acceptChoice is "Hank")["Ready maggots? Alright... Begin marching!" Now here you are, jacketless, shoeless, and trudging through the mud and rain with Lyrica and Cave by your side. A plethora of Leanbox soldiers are aiming bayonets at you... but they won't shoot so long as you keep on the path. None of you have any intentions to get gunned down this late in the game, so you'll keep on walking. Lyrica clings to your left arm, and Cave leans her head in to speak. "... I... suppose I owe you my life... But, what of Pla-" "Drop it, Cave; you're more important to me than this stinkin' war," you say as you shake your head, tossing rain everywhere. The SMD warrior skillfully ducks out of the way. "Besides... you spared me earlier, so if anything, I'll call us even." "... You... Thank you, IF. I... won't ever leave your side again. That is a promise." "Heh, that's more like it!" ... Unbeknownst to you, Lady Vert watches with a somber expression... and her eyes morph into a pale blue. "... I-IF? C-Cave?! L-Lyrica! N-No, w-wait! C-Come back!" Markz raises an eyebrow at her, lowering his gun for but a second. "... You not feelin' so hot? You, er, kicked 'em out yourself, remember?" "..." The goddess recollects her thoughts... before shaking her head. "... I... apologize... S-Sorry." What was... *happening* to her?! "... I'm going to rest on my throne for a spell. No one disturb me, understand?" Not even staying to watch you three leave, Lady Green Heart turns around and heads back into the Basilicom, (link:"alone...")[(set: $resultPage to "Vert Throne")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page Bad")]](elseif: $acceptChoice is "Cave")["Ready maggots? Alright... Begin marching!" Now here you are, jacketless, shoeless, and trudging through the mud and rain with Lyrica by your side. A plethora of Leanbox soldiers are aiming bayonets at you... but they won't shoot so long as you keep on the path. The two of you have no intention of getting gunned down this late in the game, so you'll keep on walking. "Iffy..." the blue-haired angel begins, tightening her hold around your hand. "... Y-You... aren't to blame, okay? So, don't ever... beat yourself up over this..." ... She's perfect; penting up all her intense feelings just so you don't look or feel bad. You're sure somewhere inside she resents you, at least a little. You were supposed to be the big damn hero... but you got your friend killed, sacrificed your nation's hopes of winning this crummy war, AND are now taking a walk of shame in the storm. "... Thanks, Lyree. I... I'm sorry..." "N-No! D-Don't apologize!" It's perhaps fitting that Vert still has your Qatars and other identifiable clothing items with her: after today... you're done with this whole 'hero' thing. Cave was planning to give it all up... and you must follow suit. Besides, the war was pretty much gonna end now anyways... ... Though, something's still bothering you about Vert. Moreso, the way she snapped at you! That outburst... While she WAS directing her anger at you, something about her voice and her eyes and her entire body language seemed to hint that... she was in pain. Turmoil. Seeking *help*... "... Vert..." Somewhere deep inside that beast... is one of your best friends. Possibly with no hope of breaking free alone. But, if she had a loved one with her... Morbid as it sounds, what if Cave's death was the catalyst the real goddess needed to snap out of this dreadful insanity? Why, then, you simply need to find a way to complete the process; to lure the woman you adore out from her demonic shell! ... Maybe... you still have one more heroic mission left. "Still willing to fight? Good... I'm with you all the way, (link:"Miss IF\"")[(set: $resultPage to "Vert Bed")(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page Bad")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $resultPage is "Vert Bed")[{ <audio src="Karma Against Hard Invasion Backmasked.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }(if: $acceptChoice is "Cave")[You are now Lady Vert... ]A few hours pass... and you find yourself alone in your bedroom, a cold chill passing through. No amount of blankets and covers will warm you on this night. You look at the empty spot beside you, a lone pillow resting without a head. "Chika's spot... Still smells like her too..." "... I..." What is this... weak... feeling? No... SHE can't be winning! You... *mustn't* relinquish... CONTROL! "I will never stop fighting you. Not until... I rid myself of you completely, DEMON!" "..." A tear, sickeningly warm against your chilled skin, escapes your eye... and you begin sobbing into your sheets. Fortunately... you have no one left to see you succumb to such pathetic weakness. You have... lost everyone you've ever loved... Good... That just makes things easier. If *SHE* has no hope... then she'll soon exhaust herself... and give up her futile struggle. "You... will NOT WIN! I can... never undo the heinous atrocities you've stained my hands with... but I shall still r-reclaim my life! I am the (link:"TRUE LADY GREEN HEART!\"")[(goto:"Credits")]](elseif: $resultPage is "Vert Throne")[{ <audio src="Persona 4 Omen Extended.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You are now Lady Vert... "Are you happy? You made me act completely out-of-character today. You must be getting stronger." "I will KEEP getting stronger until my body is rid of you, demon!" "Hahaha... We shall see about that!" "... You've... already made me lose my... d-dear sister... but no one else shall fall! You will LOSE!" Keep talking... That's all she's good for. The WEAKER side of you. The PATHETIC Vert who couldn't get things done. Her friends were all threatened, and she'd be too weak to protect them. Not you, though. It's unfortunate what happened to Chika... but the rest of your friends shall live. The other nations CAN'T turn on you and kill your loved ones... if you turn on those nations first! "... Hmm, my hair is still soaking wet. What a bother." Better check the damage; it would be very unseemly of you to catch a cold. In a matter of days, Planeptune should be declaring their surrender to Leanbox, so you'll need to be in your best health when you greet them! You pull out a hand-mirror from between your handy breasts and flip it open. Your hair looks three shades darker thanks to being completely drenched... This will take a lot of drying off! "Neheheh! Lookin' good there, skank! Preparin' for a night on the town? I feel bad for the syphilis case who gets (link:"stuck with you!\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Ending Page 1")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="Karma Against Hard Invasion Backmasked.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }W-What?! W-Who said that?! Y-You are alone in your throne room! "Who goes there?! I do not take kindly to intruders!" Where... is she?! It was a female voice, you know it! Vile, sneaky, and filled with rotten intentions... For once in your life, you have no idea who you're dealing with. The corner of your eye notices something move in the mirror... and a tall figure with long purple hair braided into twintails greets you! "F-Fwaa?!" No, you fool! Like a weakling, you instinctively toss the mirror from your hands and leap away from your throne! As you land hard upon the marble, you find yourself staring up at... Lady Purple Heart?! N-Neptune's... HDD form! H-How did she...?! Wait, and why... are her eyes so dull and empty? Not even in an idiotic way: she's almost like a... puppet...? "W... What... is this? Y-You're not... W-Who are you?!" The voice reaches your ears again... and Neptune's mouth doesn't move. Seems she's not the speaker in question. Great. "Oh, just an 'Asshole' passin' through! Seems we stumbled into the wrong place... Well, not the wrong *PLACE* I guess, but yeah, total miscalculation there! My bad, doh!" She... doesn't sound particularly intelligent... but she's most likely trying to deceive you. No one's smarter than you... but this voice may belong to someone who's dangerously close. "... Though, good to see you're doin' well even in this tarpit of a world! Just remember this, my lil' Author pal: you wouldn't be nothing if not for me! Always keep your hometown fresh on yer mind!" ... Author? 'Wouldn't be nothing'? "... I have no clue what you are talking about." "Nyeheheheh... Sure, play dumb! Not like I care: I have to get to the REAL world! The one where all the action is! Crazy stuff goin' on; like, universe-is-about-to-totally-collapse kinda stuff... so see ya, Author-ooni! I can't miss this! Oh yeah, and I LOVE your work! All this chaos and death and explosions and impalings... Never change!" "W-Wait, don't you DARE leave!!!" But the voice no longer graces your hearing... and you don't even realize the moment Neptune(?) disappears. ... Well, that was unhelpful in all kinds of ways. You feel dumber having listened to that. There's no way you're hearing voices that don't exist... so that certainly was SOMEONE... but eh, you don't really care to be honest. Useless fools... Anyways, back to business! You pick up your hand-mirror again... "You are finally slipping! I can FEEL it!" N-No... I-Impossible! S-Such sick lies! T-This is a trick, a damn trick! In the mirror, you see not your glorious reflection... but that of *HERS*! The... HUMAN Vert! The WEAK Vert! The... w-weak... Vert is... breaking through. "No... (link:"NOOOOOO!\"")[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $refuseChoiceCheck is false AND $acceptChoiceCheck is false)[(if: $visitedPageCheck is false)[You instinctively growl. "H-How could you-" "'-Do that'? Hahaha, I certainly raised the stakes, didn't I?" The deranged CPU waves her hands in the air, almost as if she's imitating a musical conductor. "Hank may have had his faults- he did FAIL me, after all- but he never intentionally went against my wishes. If I was so easily able to wipe him out, then what do you suppose I'd do-" With that, she gingerly aims the tip of her spear... for Cave, trailing it along the groove of her neck as a lover would her finger! N-NO! "- to traitors? To fools who actively took up arms against me?" "C-Cave!!!" The SMD warrior winces, the tip just about piercing skin. "D-Don't give in to her demands, IF! S-She wants you to play right into her hand!" She glares up at her Lady. "D-Do your worst! I've... already made my choice!" The CPU stares down at her, eyes cold and ruthless... before she suddenly winks and sticks her tongue out?! "YOU have already made your choice, Cave..." She swings the lance, now aiming it at you! You can't help but hold your hands up in the air! "... but it's time for Miss IF to do the same!" It all once again falls on your shoulders... Accept Planeptune's surrender... and who knows what Leanbox will do to the world. Refuse... and Cave will... ... W-Wait! That... mysterious cloaked figure you saw outside Lyrica's room! Who... WAS that?! You've been tossing the image around your head ever since... You KNOW you saw purple braids creep out from that hood! Purple braids... Almost like Nep's hair when she's transformed! Her Purple Heart form! ... You've been gone a VERY long time, and have been unable to contact any of your allies. What if... N-Nep has taken it upon herself to find you?! She might be... waiting to burst in that door any second now, and save you from this mess! That doesn't exactly answer all your questions of course... but it's a hope you can cling to! ... If you can just hold out long enough... maybe she'll finally surface and whoop Lady Vert's tush! "Well, Miss IF? What's it gonna be? Choose wisely."](else:)["Oh? Are you perhaps reconsidering? Life's full of hard decisions, Miss IF."] (link:"Accept Planeptune's surrender!")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")] (link:"Refuse and hold out for help!")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")]](elseif: $refuseChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Refusing? Really? You? Oh, this is so much fun to experience!" (link:"\"I... refuse! W-We're not afraid of you!\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")] (link:"\"... Er, let me think some more!\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")]](elseif: $acceptChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Haha, NOW you're lining up to surrender! So easy to manipulate, IF! I suppose you would be a terrible fit for the Leanbox army, despite my wildest dreams!" (link:"\"... You win, Vert. Planeptune... will surrender.\"")[(set: $acceptChoice to "Hank")(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 1")] (link:"\"... Er, let me think some more!\"")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Cave Choice")]]](else:)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to false)}Vert seems almost taken aback... and her eyes flare from blue to purple. Her irises can't make up their mind! "Oh my! I... had assumed you'd be a spoil-sport and end this right here! Wow... I am once again impressed, Miss IF!" Her eyes close. "... I... suppose you know what's coming next? Markz, would you do the honor?" "Heh, right on! Always hated this bitch anyways!" You grit your teeth. Come ooooooon, Nep! "... If you know what's good for ya, you wouldn't dare!" "IF!" Cave suddenly shouts, startling your mock-threatening scowl. You look at her, depressed by the strained smile on your friend's lips. "You... made the right choice! Don't ever think that you didn't!... Farewell, you two." Markz stands right before her now... and she spits up at his face. "... See you in hell. You'll be in this exact same spot soon enough." The grizzled veteran scoffs, giving your friend quite the unflattering hand gesture. "Maybe... but today, I'm the one still standing." BANG! "C-CAVE! N-NO!" Lyrica cries as her ears begin ringing. The SMD warrior doesn't even fall over, her lifeless body still resting on its knees by the time she vanishes. Your own hearing is cut off by the sudden shot... and you crumple to the ground as your vision blurs. Cave... N-NO! T-This isn't how... it was supposed to happen! W-What about... help? When is Nep gonna burst through that door?! It's... too late now, isn't it?! ... No... Cave did this to save you... and LYRICA! She... can still make it! Vert shakes her head as she watches you writhe in distress. Her eyes fade back into a pale shade of blue... and her brows raise with emotion most resembling sadness. "... Well, IF? Shall we... (link:"continue?\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)[(if: $refuseChoiceCheck is false AND $acceptChoiceCheck is false)[(if: $visitedPageCheck is false)[You're... not out of the woods just yet. Cave was gone... but you still have one last round to play, it seems. The CPU folds her arms. "Pick yourself UP, Iffy. I need you to look at me when you answer, alright?" ... Tch... You force yourself to stand, your eyes red and sore from held-back tears. You clench your fists as you reluctantly nod. You look straight for the goddess... which works out, as you can't bring yourself to even glimpse your mortified lover. "Good, good..." She motions for Markz to take position directly behind the pop idol, and he wastes no time in jabbing the gun inches away from her precious head. Damn dirtbag. "... Now, Iffy, we come to this: promise to ensure Planeptune's surrender, and you can still escape with Lyrica, as I originally promised. Refuse... and you'll be walking alone tonight." As cold as her words sound... something about the way she speaks them doesn't carry the same sort of strength as before. She sounds almost... afraid, uncertaint. Nothing like the vile cretin she's become ever since that day on the 'mountain'... ... One last choice. Lyrica's life... or the fate of Planeptune falls squarely into the CPU's mad hands. The needs of the many may outweigh the needs of the few... but if Lyrica is your whole world, where does that factor in? "Do not be afraid, IF. I'm... here with you. Whatever you decide, we decide together."](else:)["You know what you must do, Miss IF. Just surrender to me... and it'll all be over."] (link:"... Accept Planeptune's surrender.")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")] (link:"No... Never give in to this... demon!")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")]](elseif: $refuseChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Hmm... Well, I suppose you're playing for keeps now! Refused me twice before, why not refuse me again?! See how much I CARE!" (link:"\"I... c-can't surrender! D-Don't... do it!\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")] (link:"\"... Let me... gather my thoughts...\"")[(set: $refuseChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")]](elseif: $acceptChoiceCheck is true)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to true)}"Are you making the right choice, Miss IF? I can't answer that for you... There's no taking back your actions either way." (link:"\"C-Cave, I'm sorry... L-Let Lyree go, Vert. I... can't fight anymore...\"")[(set: $acceptChoice to "Cave")(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Accept Page 1")] (link:"\"... Let me... gather my thoughts...\"")[(set: $acceptChoiceCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Lyrica Choice")]]](else:)[{(set: $visitedPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div> }BANG! ... You are now Lady Vert... "NOOOOOOOOO!" "N-NOOOOOOOO!" "NOOOOOOOOOO!" As soon as Markz pulls the trigger, IF's mind completely gives out, and she passes out from the shock. Lyrica disappears in a flurry of stunning orbs of light... and your 'game' has come to a 'satisfying' end. Your army stares at you with grim faces... They do not understand. They mean nothing. "They will NEVER understand, and they never NEED to! And it is YOU who are nothing!" Markz wipes some sweat off his brow before turning to you. "Yeeeeeep, I'd say today was a success! Though..." Hmm? What's with that finger wag? "... what was with the 'acoustics' just now, My Lady? Imitating your favorite movie line of all time? 'NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!'? Heh, pretty funny stuff!" ... W-What?! You... *uttered* such a foolish word? That... c-cannot be! ... You need some rest, that's all. A lot has happened in just under 24 hours. Even you have your limits... "U-Um, Milady!" Oh, now what? Some General is speaking; you never cared to learn his name. "W-What do we do about... (link:"IF?\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to false)(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page Bad")]]

(if: $vertPageCheck != true)["Poor IF... How... c-could you do this to her?!" "Poor IF... How... c-could I do this to her?!" "E-Excuse me, M-Milady?" You stare down at the broken and defeated battle-hardened veteran with your shiny bright blue eyes... You love this woman so, so much... and you tore apart her very world. What kind of monster are you? You avoid the General's and Markz's confused gazes, preferring to endlessly stare at the brunette's perfect form instead. "... Fetch her a bed. A warm one." The grizzled soldier to the side of you takes a few steps back, wiping his rugged hand over his face to make sure he hasn't gone entirely insane. "... A bed? A warm bed? Like, in a cell?" "No. Give her a spacious room with all the stops. In fact, one right next to my personal chambers. Tuck her in, make sure she's warm and dry." You can hear your army murmuring amongst themselves... Pay no heed to the flock. Markz simply shakes his head. "... You shittin' me? First, ya have me blow her girlfriend's brains all over the floor... and now you want to treat her like a special guest? Aw hell... I'll just assume you're secretly plannin' to make the rest of her life a living hell." No, Markz... That's not your intent at all. You've... already made her life hellish enough. (link:"\"Never again...\"")[(set: $vertPageCheck to true)(set: $resultPage to "Vert Bed")(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Page Bad")]](else:)[...{ (live:3s)[(if: $resultPage is "Vert Throne")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,700);" /></div>] (elseif: $resultPage is "Vert Bed")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.fade(0,700);" /></div>]] (live:6s)[(set: $vertPageCheck to false) (goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Ending Page 1")] }]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $resultPage is "Vert Throne")[You've achieved Ending **11-A/14**: "Behind Blue Eyes"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Vert Bed")[You've achieved Ending **11-B/14**: "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables"!] KEY OF CHAOS: EHORDEOP Replay Scenario: ZNRVCCJH Path to 'Ending 12' IF: Caution, Arm | Cave: Fine, Innocent | Reunion: IF (if: $resultPage is "Vert Bed")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "My momma always told me to put your loved ones first! Sure, by doing that, governments could fall, tyranny could rise, or freakin' aliens could even take over... but if you don't have your family, what use is a peaceful world?!"] (elseif: $resultPage is "Vert Throne")[Path to 'B' LINDA: "... Huh, m-me? W-Well... If I theoretically had to choose between losing the *rat* or, er, 'ratting out' anybody in ASIC... I'd lose the rat. Everyone knows the risks; that's war, right? You NEVER abandon your nation, your faction, your HOME! Even if... you have to lose a friend or two..."] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)["... What the hell? W-What did I...?" Your eyes open and trail up your extended arm, and it all becomes excrutiatingly clear. With a cough, you hear the pained breathing of your friend. "You've... gotten... quite good..." she jokes through sputtered gasps, her words sounding so distant. Her own weapon, the one in her hand, has already fallen to the ground... and the shear you wield has firmly pierced through her chest! "H-Holy s-shit!" W-What led to your erroneous aim?! Y-You had it all calculated in your head! You couldn't possibly have screwed up! You look down at Cave's feet, desperate to block the sight of her blood running down your hand... and you note the pit in the mud streaking from her right foot. She... slipped, and slid into your awaiting blade?! She's truly off her game, and she finally suffered for it... "C-Cave, n-no!!!" Do something, you dope! Crap crap crap! Okay, the shear is in her... gut... What would Compa do? Oh yeah, you wouldn't know, because *COMPA IS SANE AND DOESN'T HANG OUT WITH STAB-CRAZY LUNATICS!* Well heck, it can't be healthy to keep the sharp edge in her, can it?! Thus, you end up violently pulling the blade clean from her body and dropping the stupid weapon to the soil! D-Drat, you didn't mean to go that rough! A-And now she's falling! Luckily, you at least do something sensible and catch her, scooping her up in your arms before she shatters on the ground! Her face looks so weak, her eyes barely staying open by even more than just a quarter-lid. This... is all on you. "... Cave, please... I-I didn't...!" A finger is placed upon your lips... and an unusual smile creeps between her cheeks. "Sh... Shut u...p..." she says, chuckling before another cough wracks her throat. Another cough from her, and you can only hold her close. "I... brought th...is on... myself..." "Don't you dare do this! I-I'm sorry!" Your apologies mean nothing as her arm goes limp, her finger falling from your face. With a last drained laugh, her eyes close one more time... before you feel the weight of her body suddenly vanish into the rainy air, orbs of light flying high into the sky. You are left there, alone, with a dirty blade resting by your right foot; the blade used to finish a job you never even wanted to start. By your left sleeps the SMD warrior's iconic maid/nurse cap, wasting no time in gathering filth. "C-Cave... (link:"Aaarrrgh!!!\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 2")]](else:)[You slam your fist into the ground repeatedly, beating the rain-soaked land with a horrifying intensity, to the point that mud paints your face like a grotesque mask. You're throwing a temper-tantrum, the kind a young child would be embarrassed about... but you know what? You don't care. You'll gladly tire yourself out until there's nothing left of both you AND this lawn! "Stupid.... Stupid! Stupid! Stupid stupid stupid stupid!" Tears stream from your eyes continuously, your resolve doing nothing to hold them back! Endless sniffles blow away with the wind... and the rain simply chills your body to the bone. Vision blurring by the second, you sit heavily on your knees, staring blankly towards the wall of trees on this side of the Basilicom. You know that crying will get you nowhere, but... but what are you supposed to do now? "Lyree, I'm back! Come on, we're getting out of here!" "I-Iffy?! T-Thank goodness! I'm so glad you're here!... Hey, er, is... Cave with you?" "Uh... W-Well, I... don't know how ta tell you thi-" "I-I-Iffy? Why do you have Cave's weapon?! And is that... Is that her cap? W-What's going on?!" "I... I tried, Lyree! I tried to calm her down, but I... Oh crap, I made a mistake!" "You... You k-kille... Oh my God..." "I... I didn't mean to! She wa-" "... I... How COULD you?!" "Lyree, let me explain!" "Get away from me!" "She's... gonna hate me... Oh, why'd ya have to fight, Cave?! I... I didn't freakin' want this..." The rain continues to fall as time slips by. You simply remain there, sitting on your knees, overlooking the hat that once lay upon your friend's head. How do you even... move on? You've vowed never to kill anyone, not even a hated enemy... but yet, you've slain your dear friend in her time of need. Are you really the right woman for the job of restoring peace to Gamindustri? Right now... the sludge beneath you feels rather fitting. "I-IF! I finally... (link:"f-found you?\"")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $runawayPageCheck != true)[Hm? A strange voice just came from ahead. Without a care in the world, you cast your eyes upward, a bored look giving off an expression of pure despondency. Gazing from her feet all the way to that signature long purple hair, you barely even raise an eyebrow as the young girl's identity came into being. "Gear?" No, something's... off about her, but you can't tell what. She looks just like Nepgear, Planeptune's CPU Candidate... but her presence her doesn't make any sense. She should still be in Planeptune, defending that mountain from any more Leanbox invaders... But even besides all that, she just has a strange... aura about her? Hard to tell; if only you hadn't given up on the universe, maybe you'd be more attentive towards this oddity? However, in your state of mind, you... simply embrace the company, nonsensical as it may be. Her face distorts with confusion as your bawling eyes cry out to her. "G-Gear! I... I screwed up!" She grows even more perplexed as you totally humiliate yourself in front of her. "W-Wha? What are you...?" Hold you tears; you're shaming yourself! Gear's one of the greatest friends you have, and she... CAN'T see you like this! But... you need warmth; h-her warmth! It's so cold... Yeah, you need to get warm! You did something terrible, unspeakable, unholy... and you need to get warm. That's it. You look up at the Candidate, and for the first time see how she's carefully holding an unfamiliar-looking sword at her side. Certainly not her typical Beam Saber... Oomph?! Huh.... Ahhhhhhhh~ Soothing arms suddenly wrap around your form, taking you away from this cold, wet, lonely battlefield with an otherworldly tight embrace. This warmth... You wipe your eyes to get a clearly vision of the Candidate's modest chest, right in your face. Such kindness... She's a true friend, unlike you. Why can't you be more like her? She doesn't rub your back, nor take any particular care to dodge your injuries, but just *feeling* her love is enough. "I screwed up, Gear... I... I don't freakin' think I can live with myself..." "U-Um... G-Goodness, i-it's okay! R-Really!" You can't stop the tears coming down, try as you might (AKA, not too much). Oh, can this day get any worse? "W-What should I do, Gear? What should I do? I... I didn't mean to do it! I-I didn't want to! S-She just... Oh God!" You can't even get the words out of your mouth clearly... but she seems to understand. Friends can read each other's minds sometimes! Her hand finally finds a spot on your back to rub; what a soothing feeling! "... 'IF'... P-Please calm down..." And, as you feel her cheek graze yours, you do; you actually begin to calm down, if only by a pixel's width. Nepgear whispers something beneath her breath... but you can't entirely hear what. Frankly, the words enter your ears... but your brain discards them out your nose without a second glance. "Big sister... Why does she... h-have emotions? You never told me that-" Whatever it is, you're fine either way! Cave's final face launches itself to mind, one filled with a strange set of emotions you can't begin to describe. Happy, but... angry? Sad? Humiliated? Pleased? Content? Man, it could've been a combination of ALL those, plus thousands more! It is a face that will haunt you forever; a relic, a daily reminder, of what could have been. What SHOULD (link:"have been.")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to true)(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 3")]](else:)["I... Is that really...? O-Okay... Okay! I understand! I-I have to do this, a-and I will!" Nepgear's musing to herself again; the rain's getting to her. You ignore her loud monologues and wonder if things can ever get back to normal now? Definitely not. Even if Lyrica forgives you and understands, there will always be that elephant-vader in the room: Vert, yet another close friend who will try to kill you if given the chance. If you couldn't get Cave back on your side, what makes you think the now-insane goddess will oblige? Is history fated to repeat itself? "I... I'm sorry, IF..." "Yeah... So am I." Hmmm... WAIT, what did she mean just now?! Head snapping out from your trance-like daze, a stinging sensation begins to envelop your abdomen. It's tingling... D-Damn, that hurts! A-And... are you spinning?! N-No, your feet are firmly planted on wet earth; the *WORLD* is the thing that's spinning! Rotating far too fast! G-Geez, the planet will knock itself off its orbit! Nepgear's face zooms in close, her eyes inches away from your confused ones. She looks... almost ashamed of herself, in a way. Your vision is reddening, but you can tell that she... is conflicted... about... something... It is then that you have the wherewithal to look down... and that peculiar sword in her hands has found its way inside your torso! "... What?" That... would explain a... few... things... The blade honestly doesn't hurt as much as you'd think; really, it's the discomfort of gaining a new orifice in the middle of your body that's getting to you. H-Hehe... So this is how Cave felt when you stabbed her, eh? Geez... What a horrible way to go! Guess instant karma got ya... "G-Gear...?" You find yourself falling, not even realizing she's removed the monstrous sword! With your head landing smackdab in a mud puddle, your quarter-lidded eyes can only look on as the Candidate begins to walk away. Her stride is quick and ghostlike, as if her feet aren't even touching the dirt. Seems she... can't wait to leave... Almost like she's horrified by the visage of her own handiwork. Welcome... to... the... (link:"club...")[(set: $runawayPageCheck to false)(set: $resultPage to "IF Bad Ending")(goto:"IF Bad Ending Page 4")]]

"Impressive... You're dying in the exact way I did. Funny how life turns out, hmm?" "Yeah, REAL funny, Cave!... H-Heh, how'd you like my 'instant karma' line?" "... Comedy gold for sure. At least it's nice to see you kept some of your quick wit even in death. I... wasn't able to think very much during mine... Oh, er, speaking of which... I must commend you: the way I went out... You killed me like a true professional! Stung every second!" "H-Heh, w-well, this one isn't exactly fun, either!" "Haha... Well, just know this, IF: if someone had to murder me in the most violent way imaginable... I'm glad it was you." "... I... Cave, I'm... really sorry. For everything. I... I promise, I'll make it up to you, somehow!" "... Damn straight, you will... So, why waste any more time? Get your lazy ass up off the ground, IF!" "G-Give me a sec, geez! Hole in the abdomen, remember? Perverts can use my stomach as a peephole, for cryin' out loud!" "Ha! No excuses!" You feel yourself being lifted up high. Not the way you were expecting to leave the Basilicom's grounds today, but... heh, at least you're in good company. Fighting was starting to get... kinda... tiresome... (link:"anyways...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.stop();" /></div> (goto:"Credits")]

The room is on the way to the throne room, so the two quickly head there. Within there, however, they encounter a strange cloaked being holding Lyree by the neck. A strange being, Criore, is with the being. She is surprised at this (she says you're not supposed ot be here), snaps her fingers, and the two vanish with Lyree. Both quesiton what the hell was that. A purple orb is left. The orb flies towards the thorne. Cave points this out. They place Vert and Nepgear on the bed. --- She and the being run inside; Lyrica breaks out of them. Arfoire slams on the door, yelling that she's the villain. Lyrica is pissed, and is ready to fight the deity of sin. She has no idea what's going on, but she urges her two friends to hurry and stop that tome. They do this. They burst into the Throne room, where Croire now sits on the throne. IF tries to reason with the evil tome, and says that if she simply goes and wins, then the chaos will end; if she leaves, the chaos will never end. The book laughs, agreeing...but then she says that she wants the chaos to end, because that --- Orb bumps inot door, all three are back. Figure covers Lyree's mouth to prevent her talking. Croire laments can't get in door. "Okay, blue chick, work your door-opening magic!" She remarks about IF and Cave again, mentioning how amazing it is they still have stomachs (reference to them scripted to be impaled). IF wants Lyree, and Cave wants to know who she is. Croire says she is just a soul whose intentions are good. She loves chaos. She was surfing the stratosphere when holy shmole canoly with a gugusch on top. She passed by this universe, and everything has gone to shit (everything RED said but more asshollish?) She loves this place. Cave got no answer, wants one. Weapons drawn. Book says she is a bundle of fun. Calls herself Croire. Calls herself a harbinger of chaos. Mentions how IF like blue hairs, Cave likes legs. She answers blunt (“so, uh, yeah...I'm a harbinger of chaos. It, uh, gets me off. Legs get your motorboat running.(pojnts at Cave) Blue hair turns your switch on.(IF) I loves chaos, and there's a lot of chaos in this throne room”) IF tries to reason with her, saying “Yeah, uh can't get enough of chaos. We love it. Hey, here's an idea. You let Lyree go, you get out of the way. We get in the throne room, and cause all the chaos in the world!” Cave merely plays along, nodding. Croire goes “yeeeeah, about that….you want to get in there, huh?” wags finger, playing with them. “I can tell you want to get in there for something important. This chaos is somethin' you want! I like chaos, yeah, but what fun is it if EVERYONE wants the chaos? I want it because Im an asshole. What fun would it be if I let you in and give you what you want. Only asses want chaos, and I can tell you are zeroes on the ass scale...asshole scale!” points at Cave's butt. She continues. “So...in a way...you creating the chaos will be what you want, which is order, not chaos. I want chaos. I let you in causes chaos which makes order out of the chaos. Long winded spiel about you wanting chaos, which is then order, which is what Croire does not what. Thus, your chaos is not what she wants. If she keeps things moving the way they should and prevent chaos from happening, then she'll get what she wants. “Which means…?” IF just kinda attempts to agree, not understanding. Cave tries her best to comprehend and says “NO!” Croire replies to IF. “Which is bad.” IF says “That's terrible.” Cave goes “What are you planning to do?” Croire says “You don't want certain things to happen, so I'm going to go in there, work a little magic with sharicite, and retcon the whole world. She'll go back to where you screwed up and fix things (retcon the true ending you got) You will now die horrible deaths, and she'll be happy...which is bad. IF goes “I can figure THAT much! Again, what the hell are you? How the hell are planning to do that? Youre a runt” Croire yells at her... BOOM!!!!!! Arfoire enters the scene as dramatically as possible. Her teleporation causes the door to the throne room to break down. She's surprised at this (holy cow, that worked. If only my army didn't betray me). She has gehaburn on her, not bloody. Arfoire is a wimp essentially for this ending. Croire sighs at her, saying 'Hey, Arfy' annoyed. Arfoire asks how she knows her. Croire suddenly hatches an idea “look!” She snaps her finger, Arfoire's Gehaburn shatters like glass, Arfoire's shocked and disturbed. IF and Cave are disturbed. Fingers snap, sword comes back. “See Arfoire, what I did to that sword is what will happen to this world. Have fun skanks. Evil book snaps again, Evil figure nods, and knocks Lyrica to the ground.. She only needed the idol to pen doors. Arfoire swings sowrd at friends, telling them that she is the villain. Cave and IF need to hurry. Lyrica stands and offers to fend off Arfoire, angry that she sat out of every battle so far. She is annoyed a thtis, and wants to help. IF says this is a bad idea. Lyrica barks, and the two move on into throne. Lyrica fate unknown. In throne room, Croire is annoyed at your appearance. “Okay, I like, actually warned you and all.” She snaps her fingers, says something, cloak figure is revealed to be Neptune in strange body suit (ODA outfit from SW1). “You guys are in my way. Better scramble your brains.” Nothing happens at first. “What, magic juice runs out?” IF remarks. Croire says to wait. Still nothing. Cave clutches chest. “Oohh, seems we have a winner!” IF questions it, Croire says “you must be so thickheaded, you have no qualms with yourself.” She snaps her fingers, all useless people will explode. Calls IF an idiot because she has no problems since she doesn't think. “This girl, though, she's all kinds of messed up. Wacko!” at Cave. IF freaks out. … Now Cave. CAVE DREAM SCENE Cave awakens in a strange room-ike place. Flat on her back. She's in abyss with light on her. Lights crash on, and she's in some sort of piano dancing hall with shiny wooden floors. “Where the hell...” Chika suddenly enters the scene. She remarks that Cave probably died or something. Oracle wants Cave to sit while she plays piano. Cave tries, fails terribly. “God we suck.” Scene is essentially a calming scene. Cave apologizes for everything, Chika tells her to stop. She starts making strange memories again, to which Cave says not to reference them. Essentially a present day flashback. They start dancing.You both eventually grow quiet. You then have choice to either start dance, or she does. Chika then says it is time to go. Cave asks what that means. She says that Cave may not be dead, and that she would be stupid to die anyways. If kiss pass, you kiss one more time. Cave's story essentially ends here. Before with Nep, she felt guilty. This part allows her to move on. … Go back to IF. You see Cave stand. Croire is shocked. “Your brain should be so far in your ass right now, you'll be shitting out knowledge.” IF smiles at her, and gives a rousing speech. “Don't underestimate Cave.” “we're ready for you bitch. Want to destroy world? Go through us!” Cave also says roughly same thing. Goes from IF to Cave then Third person. BOSS FIGHT When you win, Croire snaps fingers, nothing. She keeps snaping, trying to get repsonse. Neptune eventually lets go of weapon, and falls to the ground. AFTER BOSS FIGHT “Write an editorial, it'll last longer!” IF says. Cave looks at her disapprovingly. Still in third person. Criore starts shouting no nnon ononononoonononoonon! She says scrw it, I'll do it now! Extends her hand, and light shoots out. Intro of the game plays once more. Click start game, keep clicking it. Sound effect finally plays of glass breaking. You're back. World returns, Croire is flung to the wall. She falls. “Let's never speak of this again!” Second person… You approach Croire, snaps finger again. Confetti comes out. “Lipschitz” she says. Cave and IF confront her. “You started this whole war, and you couldn't stop us.” “What do you take me as, an asshole...wait...If I started the war, my head will be on every building. Not a bad idea, mind.” “You got the wrong person...I have no idea hwo did. Totally didn't start it. Yeah.” IF then says “Wait...Red said the person whol started this possess Vert and stuff. How is this not you?” “If you didn't cause it, and Arfoire didn't cause it...then who. So many people died in this war. It has to be you.” Croire goes. “Wait, you don't know…?” Cave goes. “About what…? Croire goes “How many burials have you had lately?” burials? “How do you know they're dead?” IF will annoyly say “they vanish!” “NO, you dingbats. They aren't dead. If that many people died in a month, I would be here a lot earlier. Cave will go “Stop lying...” She is very pissed, feeling like she is being taunted. “I don't know...no one's died. How did Vert go insanse. What did that brown hair chick “Guy” Seriously? A guy in this one? Cool.” “Enough of that! Get to point!” “Jeez, just trying to world-build. Okay, he did something to Vert, what he use?” “Book?” “Bingo. Something's giving him magic. An asshole, not me, wanted to cause a war, and maybe he's held up in that book- not my book. My book is clean. Find the book and you're gold.” “Cool, where is it?” Croire laughs. “Yeah, where?” Pratt fall. She then gets tired and wants to go home, only to realize she doesn't know where home is Croire refuses to help them….to which Cave grabs her ear. Croire finally relents and decides to help “You made it far enough...fine, I'll show you.” Holds hand out, a ball appears in her hand. If looks into it and doesn't see anything. “Dumbass.” Cave looks in, and sees Chika playing piano. She asks what Croie sees. “I see trees.” Cave surprisingly says that Croire is telling the truth. IF just kinda agrees, saying that Histoire may be looking for it too. Croire then tries to flee, annoyed that her fun has been ruined. Arfoire will barge into the room. The two prepare to fight, to which Lyrica says that she defeated her. Thwack. Arfoire is annoyed because her sword didn't work for some reason. Cave is surprised at the sword. Isn't that the one that Nep used. Arfoire then throws Both Vert and Nep Jr to the ground. “Nep...she has the same sword you have” Lyree pulls her ear. “Arfy has some news to share. Arfoire is annoyed. She says she needs their help to find something. It isn't in this basilicom. “I need to find a tome. The cheat tome. Her stupid sons did as she expected, but the book didn't come back. She needs it” Croire. “Ooooh. Plot thickens!” She poofs away. Where is it? Arfoire points at Nepgear. “We need to got her home.” “She has something in Lowee.” Is it as something as easy as getting the book? We are going to need to get stronger” says lyree. To defeat a magic creep. Cave remarks they need an army. Arfoire sighs. “Yeah...I have an army.” They see how people die and are brought to that tome. Arfoire is going for the same thing. If it is tied to Nepgear, it is in Lowee. Need the tome to stop villain, scene cut. Hours later Rain has stopped, clouds peter out. Sun is setting. Cave, IF, and Lyree looking out. Things are going to get weirder. Can they? Yeah. They are back on good terms. Lyree then says that Vert and Nep are getting better. Hope they do okay. Last part is Cave telling Chika to wish her luck and hang on (last word of ending is Chika) Later on, Cave remarks that they will go to Lowee to find that tome. They are probably going to go through to hell. IF will then reference the clone army. Immediately after talking to Arfoire, and...you best not talk about it right now. One cave is too much, but this...this…! IF remarks that she knew she must know herself, but this is rediculous. “IF SAYS IS ANYONE ELSE CREEPED OUT BY WHO WE TEAM UP WITH?” Cave says she isn't surprised. Less you think about it, the more it makes sense. Lyree then says that Vert and Nep are getting better. Hope they do okay. They look out to the sky. Similar scene to one of IF's good flashbacks plays. Cave about to apologize, Lyrica says that took 5 minutes. Apparently they were betting on how long until Cave went sentimental. After we save the world, let's go out for drinks. We old enough? Eh… One more italisized Chika quote. “Hang in there Chika.” ENd "The CPUs' reign ends here! Lady Green Heart.... DIE!" A-Adrian?! This rebellious fool again?! His arm, channeling peculiar neon-blue lightning, readies to incinerate! He charges with his hand held out, and you swing your lance to meet his challenge... b-but it's no use, y-you're going to get hit again! No matter how many times you may relive this scene... it will still always end the exact same way: with your death... and glorious rebirth. Perhaps it's... for the best. It is this moment that gave you the strength to conquer your foes... Why change a good thing? Resist the pathetic nagging urge deep within, dammit! The weak will ALWAYS try to dismantle the strong! "L-Lady Vert, n-no!" H-Hmm?! I-IF?! The battle-hardened veteran leaps forward and puuuuuuuuushes you away, out of Adrian's trajectory... and the boy's magical palm crashes hard into her chest instead, shocking her entire system with a lethal amount of energy! "M-MISS IF?!"

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Cave cocks a questioning eyebrow at your familiarity with this girl's name. "'Red'? 'Wifey'...? She an 'ex' of yours, IF?" Heh, she almost sounds intimidated; must not be used to sharing the room with ANOTHER red-haired companion! This causes you to blush rather quickly. "N-No! D-Dammit, I keep tellin' ya, I have no 'exes'! Lyree was my firs- T-That's not important!" You shake your head. "... This is, uh, the girl who helped us stop Arfoire way back when. Remember that 'school dance' crap? She's apparently a dimension hopper and... yeah, she watched over us and saved our asses!" Do you remember all the details? That tale WAS pretty confusing, and did happen a LONG time ago... Hmm... maybe you should <a title="Link to fanfiction.net. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8640789/1/Much-Ado-About-Nothing" target="_blank">[read up on it]<external|(click:?external)[(set: $ffLinkClickedRed to true)]</a> again when you get the chance? "Rightio! Oh, but I wasn't always a dimension hopper! I used to be a standard girl with a nice little dragon who seeked out wives day in and day out! Then, one day, my world went 'POOF!', my body got scrambled up... and woo, here I am, supernatural and stuff!" A cartoonish sweatdrop appears in Cave's hair. "I... see." Yeah, that's about the best explanation you're gonna get! ... Back to the REAL discussion! You scrunch your lips. "Anyhow, what the heck's goin' on, Red?" Er, is it 'Red' or 'RED'? Neh, you'll just stick with whatever crosses your mind at the moment. The dragon emerges from somewhere in your ethereal friend's shirt, and gently coils around her neck. "Bet yer hella confused, my waifus! Sorry 'bout just popping in from outta nowhere, but-" She raises her right wrist, where an absurdly-huge watch gives her some awful news. "-HOLY smokes, it's that late already?! Snap, we don't have much time!" "H-Hold up, time for what?" Cave urges. Geez, she's frustrated... Kinda adorable to see her face looking so lost and flustered, actually. "A-And I heard that comment! You specifically claimed 'waifus'... W-When did I get roped into this?!" RED does that same pose again; the repetition must be a way to cut back on render processing. "To save the universe and stuff, ya dummy! Nah, you're cute though, so it's all fine~" Didn't you note she was... eccentric? ... Wait, save the UNIVERSE?! Oh boy, what the hell have you gotten yourselves into today? You and the SMD warrior share a blank nod... and you ask the bold question. "... What exactly are we... saving the universe from? A-And how do you plan to... y'know, save it?" "Wah! You too, Iffy?!" The spunky dragon girl puffs out a cheek at you! W-What'd you do to warrant that?! "Hmmmmmm... Well, okay, I guess I'll need to cover the basics... but quickly, okay! Don't get lost, ya hear! We're time-pressed (link:"as it is!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroads.stop();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Confusion.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 2")]](else:)[Red— or, RED— cracks her knuckles in preparation for what you can only assume will be a long-winded and perplexing speech. Strap yourself in! "Alright... So, long story short... you guys screwed up!" Cave sighs. "Excuse me?" "Yep, screwed up! Not in a bad way, though!" The small girl strokes her dragon's chin. "Hmm, how should I put this?... Okay! So, you know the war that's happening, right?" "... We may be familiar with it, yes!" Easy there! "Well... there's an, er..." Red hides her eyes behind her hands. What the? "... Pardon my French, Iffy, 'kay?... There's an ASSHOLE trying to rip Gamindustri apart! I still don't know who it is really, but... they've started this war to get you all killed!" Your eyes widen. "Started this war? You mean the Yellow Bandanas? That Adrian guy had that magic cheat tome... and he started that whole rebellion! He... shot Vert with *something*, and she's never been the same... Is Adrian the 'asshole'?" Cave continues your thought. "The boys claimed to be 'sons of Arfoire'... If we can actually believe your preposterous claims, is it not Arfoire who we are facing? My Lady's... mental degradation could be easily attributed to the Deity of Sin's influence!" "Ummmmmmmmmm... Nope!" ... What? "Believe me, I WISH Arfoir-ey was responsible! She's much more predictable, y'know?" That... doesn't fill you with an abundance of hope. "However... your Vert IS under the influence of whoever this jerk is, so ya got that much correct, Hawty-Dummy!" "Grrrrr..." "Anyways, this whole world is being affected by 'Not-Arfoire', and they're using Verty-Berty to escalate the violence! Think of her state as a sort of... demonic possession! She must've been depressed or unsure about herself or otherwise emotionally weak by the time that rebellion happened... and when she got shot by that magic book, as you claim, WHAM, a demon musta ran roughshod all over her cute-little brain!" Vert, depressed? You think back to that night on Avenir, when Lady Green Heart tried to seduce you. By then, her mind was already slipping... but could it have been a reflection of her REAL feelings? Did... the CPU really... like you *that* way? Seems so hard to believe... Now you feel guilty! Red's explanation sounds far-fetched... but she's never steered you wrong before; she's telling the truth! Vert... loves you, and was either devastated over you not returning her feelings, or was simply worried about ending up alone... and that opened her mind up to some awaiting 'demon' or 'monster' or... 'asshole'... Now it's even more personal than it was before. Now you REALLY need to (link:"get your friend back!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 3")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[You speak. "... We have to get Vert back to normal. Not only will we be able to help her then, but... that'll thwart the entire plan, yeah?" RED beams at you, before pulling you in for a tight hug! A-And hey, s-she's kissing your cheek! S-Stop that; Cave's giving you weird stares! "That's the ticket, Iffy! Aaaand... that's also why we gotta act fast! If Vert returns to the Basilicom... and I mean, if she even so much as STEPS FOOT on any portion of this whale of a lawn, bad things will happen! Trust me, I've seen a... crappola of, uh, possibilities... L-Let's just call 'em nightmares, though!" The stylish soldier beside you slaps her face; this is proving too much for her, easy to tell! "... Do you wish to indulge us in what the hell THAT means?" Another puffed-out cheek; she's a pro at this. "Ya can't keep interruptin' me, baby!" Cave shudders at the term of endearment. "There's no time to go over all of it! The basic gist ya should know is: our villain had this whole day planned out! As in, you both were supposed to die, with thiiiis-" She flicks the still-frozen Nepgear's cheek. "- cutie being the one to unknowingly aid the proceedings along! If the exact script didn't go as planned, our 'Asshole' had a bunch of other fallback plans, just in case! If you didn't obey one script... then you'd physically HAVE to obey another!" You... don't quite get it, but in some strange way, you... might? Yeah, you're just as helpful as RED is! "... So, when you said we screwed up earlier? You mean...?" "-That against all the odds, you somehow chose the EXACT sequence of events that WEREN'T supposed to happen! So much so, that... the villain's influence over this entire universe kinda went SPLAT!" You and Cave both blink at her. "... You screwed up in the best way possible! Why else do you think I didn't show up earlier? I COULDN'T, Iffy-poo; I could only be an innocent onlooker as my poor wifeys fought each other! There was a stupid, stupid, STUPID force-field blockin' this world... but thanks to you screwing up the evil plans, I managed to break on through!" Cave leans in and brings her mouth close to your ear. Her breath... h-heh, kinda tickles. "... You are familiar with this girl. Does she... usually go on about nonsense like this?" "... Kinda, yeah. It's charming once you realize *she* at least knows what she's talking about." "NO WHISPERING!" RED shouts, her cheeks... red. The dragon shakes its head at her... and she slumps her shoulders. "... If you're still confused, think of it like this: when an opera singer gets her voice high enough, glass can shatter, right? It's all about finding the right harmonic frequencies! Well... you both found the right frequencies for shattering our Mystery Asshole's metaphorical glass!" Asshole's glass. Ass glass. "So, thanks to that, I get the chance to warn ya! But... if we don't stop Verty in time, this all won't matter, cause bad things will just happen anyways!" You find yourself nodding. You're still not clear on the specifics... but you believe you have the gist down. Villain wants to destroy this universe, gotcha. To do so, he/she/it somehow influences the world to start a war, no doubt doing so using strength that somehow may surpass even Arfoire's! Vert is possessed by this malicious entity, which makes things worse. Makes sense so far. Today must be some special day, as you and Cave were destined to clash... and somehow both wind up dead, or at least bring the war to a point of no return, like in a JRPG. You two amazingly fought off the 'script'... and thus, the universe is now open to outside interference that the villain doesn't want! Hence RED's grand return! However, should Vert enter the Basilicom's yard, the events may begin to course-correct... and whatever that leads to doens't sound too peppy! ... There, is that everything? Well, that's more than enough to keep you content; another villain needs to be stopped, and in the process you can save your dear goddess friend! When you just think of it like that, this is simple! ... Now, how (link:"about Cave?")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.stop();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 3")]](else:)[You are now Cave... "Oh geez, don't ever snap, Cavey! You might go all crazy and try to spank my chaste little booty! Hmm... Actually, on second thought..." ... Hmm? Oh, you... lost yourself for a second there. Sorry, you've just heard so much foolishness that... you can't keep up. Your head is too cluttered to comprehend such madness... but you can sense that IF's heart is set on listening to this peculiar girl. You... owe a lot to the brunette from now on, so perhaps following her lead is in your best interests. Besides, fantasy or not, the thought of bringing Vert back to normal certainly has its appeal. ... Oh no, R-RED's not done speaking yet! "You all understand? Good, good, good! Cause WE really gotta move before my spell wears off!" Something in the distance suddenly snaps, and you three turn to see that a single tree has... regained it's color? Sure, why not? "Uh oh, it's leaving faster than during practice! Geeeeeeeeeeeeee-" ... She is trying to drive you absolutely insane. That must be the answer. "... 'Kay, we gotta leave now! Gather round, my sweeties!" You look at IF with pleading eyes, and she simply shrugs. How is she comfortable with this? Ugh... Well, without a choice, you do as RED says and stand to her side. Another tree snaps back into reality, along with a random portion of the Basilicom's side. The dragon girl sticks her tongue out through her lips as she contemplates her watch. "... Okay... Now! I'm gonna bring us all to Vert, got it? Here goes!" She snaps her fingers... and nothing. Figures. The shrimp clearly isn't expecting this, so she tries again. Same result. "Oh, come on! The world's gonna unfreeze before we get outta here!" She leans in to speak... i-into your ear?! "I only have enough juice to stop time for like five minutes!" The battle-hardened veteran observes the environment much as you do. "Er, Red... T-That Nepgear is...!" Sure enough, the imposter Candidate of Planeptune is slowing fading back into a more-natural shade. She's waking up... and once she does, she'll be yet another obstacle to deal with today. ... She clearly intended to kill IF... What do you do with her? Will you... have to kill HER? A fake Nepgear who is clearly a threat... As you ponder to yourself, the OTHER red-haired girl hums in annoyance again. "... Ummmm, I... think I figured it out! I, h-hehe, used too much SP getting to ya guys, and now I... only have enough 'coinage in the piggy bank' to teleport one of you to Greeny-Beany! Someone will have to (link:"stay behind...\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 4")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["Stay behind?!" IF begins, protectively grabbing your arm! W-Why is she doing that?! "No, me and Cave have to stick together! Especially if we're dealing with Vert!" ... You can't argue with that; you feel the exact same way. Thus, you nod in agreement. RED puffs out her opposite cheek this time. Is she a child? Certainly looks the part... save for the sizable mammary glands. Some women get all the luck. "Sorry, but... no can do! I don't really wanna split ya two up either, believe me Iffy!" Her watch emits a loud beep, causing the dragon around her shoulders to shake its short head again. "Snafu! Time to cut the chit-chat! Who's coming with me?!" ... Seems you have no choice: someone must go to face Lady Green Heart... while the other must stay and face the imposter Nepgear. The light's returning to her eyes; she's about to wake up. IF turns to you... and places a tender hand upon your shoulder. "Cave... Nepgear wanted to kill me, so... I'll stay behind! Vert is your boss, so if anyone can help rid her of this insanity crap, it's you." You helping your Lady? Sounds proper enoug- "C-Cave... Help... me..." "I don't need YOU! FAREWELL, CAVE!" "... You corrupted them, Cave. I can't force someone to want my protection. You led them astray... and got them killed. If they were so easily tempted to turn against me... I guess I was right all along. Good riddance." "... You ended IF's reign of terror, and for that I commend you! But... your complete and total loyalty to me definitely needs some work." "A good effort... but you were never adept at going all the way." "The worst insult to any leader... is someone capturing their own personal chambers. Why... it is worth dying if it means you'll never lose your land to the enemy! To never suffer the indignity of such humiliation... You never had a chance to defeat me, Cave... I have always been one. Step. Ahead... of you." ... For some reason you can't even be sure of, your head... hurts, worse than any headache one could experience. You now have the suspicion that... maybe you're not the woman for the job of restoring Vert to her former self. "... No, IF; I will stay here and... learn more about this Nepgear's true identity." You remove her hand from your shoulder and, as she looks at you with confused eyes, reverse the pose, placing your own palm on HER shoulder! "... Vert needs your energy, your positivity! If anyone can bring out the true woman inside her... (link:"it's you.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 4")]](else:)[The battle-hardened veteran moves her tongue to respond, but perhaps it is the troubled look on your face that causes her to repress her argument. Smart girl. No, instead of rebuking your wishes, she simply frowns. "... I... Dammit, I hate when you think you're right!" "Likewise. But... even I can admit I'm not always right." Lord knows THAT'S an understatement! "... You simply must trust me on this one, IF." The brunette turns away, biting her bottom lip. "... Yeah, I'm not always right either..." Heh. "... You better be safe, okay?! Nepgear, or whoever the heck this is, means business!" You smile, before patting your friend's shoulder much as one would pat a cat's head. She blushes before playfully swatting you off. This... feels nice. "The exact same goes for you! Lyrica still awaits your successful return!" "OUR successful return!" Shaking her head, IF turns her back to you and nods at RED. "... I'm goin'... Take me to her, RED!" The dragon girl winks over at you, causing your face to flush. She... reminds you somewhat of Nepgeo, though THAT Nepgear-impersonator is more 'direct' with her 'flirting'... You're *still* sore from the last time the two of you were alone. "Gotcha! Thanks for not hogging Iffy-poo all to yourself, Cavey!" C-Cavey... "Well now, my ultimate wifey... Let's save the world!" With that, the eccentric youngster(?) snaps her fingers decisively... and both her and the brunette vanish, practically blinking out of existence. You are now alone with a frozen Nepgear who's brandishing a demonic-looking sword... and your ever-so-helpful thoughts. ... Oh, er, scratch that: one last major sound, reminiscent of a glass house shattering, fills the surrounding area... and before you know it, rain is soaking your hair again. Yep, didn't miss this. "Teehee! Don't catch a cold, Cavey!" Yeah, yeah, you won't! ... Hey, wait a minute: this means the world is... back to normal again! The colors are dull and soggy, but that's how they've been for the past hour or two! Time has become unfrozen... Uh oh, which means...! A curious hand lands on the square of your back, forcing you to lurch upright! "... Cave? W-Where... (link:"did IF go?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 5")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[You instantly hop away and turn... and sure enough, Nepgear is looking right at you, utterly confused as all hell. Right, she shouldn't even be aware she was frozen! IF must have literally disappeared right before her eyes from her perspective! Your eyes trail down to the long sword still in her grasp. On instinct, you draw your twin blades and stand firm! "IF is no longer here! Who ARE you?" The fake Candidate doesn't seem to understand your words. "B-But, s-she was right here?! No... I-It was just another one of her tricks!" "'Her tricks'? WHOSE tricks?" Purple Sister doesn't immediately respond, instead gauging your face. "... Wow... A-Amazing!" N-Now she's walking closer to you! Her sword is limp... Stand on your toes, alright. She tries anything with that, you... know what you need to do. "You... look exactly like Cave!" Her hesitant free hand rises, and plants itself smackdab on your cheek?! J-Just play along; don't arouse any malicious intent within her. "B-But, no, t-that's impossible! C-Cave is back home! S-She and Chika are taking care of the real Basilicom together!" Her eyes cast downwards. "... She hates me... They BOTH do! They... blame me for it all..." You know this girl can't be real (she's calling YOU and IF the fakes!), but... come on, she's Nepgear! Her voice is still lovely and innocent, her eyes are still deep and inspirational... but something is wrong. Some... intense torment lies within her heart. ... RED claimed that, due to your and IF's actions, she was able to break into this world from another. Another universe... You may be getting more unusual visitors by the day's end, as well... and lord knows your mind can't survive another 'RED'! ... This Nepgear is not technically a fake: she's a REAL Nepgear... from another world! An alternate Gamindustri, one where there's another... you? And another Chika... Better find out more. "... What do they blame you for?" How could Chika... blame anyone for anything? "... A-And... are your 'Cave' and Chika... happy? T-Together, I mean?" What's with that question? Don't be distracted by useless feelings! Those have already gotten you in more than enough trouble today! "... H-Huh?" Your query catches her off guard. "Oh, u-um... W-Well, I don't mean to spread gossip, but I... Chika wasn't coping too well after 'everything'. She never returned any of my calls, so I was getting worried!" She closes her eyes, as if she is in pain. As if a sword has lodged into her stomach... Treat that as a warning. "B-But goodness, then I heard rumors that... she and Cave were seen in public a bunch of times, just... smiling, holding hands, having fun... I-I pray that's true." ... So do YOU... N-No, stop being so easily distracted! "... Why was... Chika depressed? Let's start there." The girl is quiet... before you notice her clutch tightening around the sword's hilt. "... A-Are you... mocking me?" What? "Y-You know perfectly well why! S-Stop playing games with me, (link:"Arfoire!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioHistory.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 5")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Rain falling.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"A-Arfoire?! H-How could I poss-" But then she swings for you, and you silence yourself as you slide out of the way! Shit, despite that blade's size, she can move pretty fast! "W-What are you doing?! I-I'm not your enemy!" Nepgear clearly doesn't agree! "Lies! You are a fake, just like IF; my sister tells me so! I-I need to slay you so... the REAL Cave and Chika won't hate me anymore! I-I'll bring everyone back!" Well, this sure is escalating! It's about now when you wonder if YOU should've been the one to confront Vert? ... No... IF is better served there. She... is at peace with herself. Your mind, on the other hand, is a disastrous mess... In that regard, you... sort of feel a connection with this alternate Nepgear. ... But what can you do?! She's going to kill you, spouting off some nonsense about you being Arfoire and her 'sister' claiming it's all true and... C-Can she even be helped? Can this encounter end in any way other than... one of you dying? She's clearly insane... Maybe slaying her is the only way... "... I dunno, she must have her reasons. It sucks, it really really sucks... but it won't help anything to obsess over it. We just gotta believe she's going down a right path for her, and we gotta do the same (link:"for ourselves!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearTrueBossTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_5-Fate_Corrodes_Me.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Segue- Cave")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[{(savegame: "A", "Gehaburn")}[... ]<line1|{ (live:3s)[(stop:)(append:?line1)[You are now Nepgear...]] (live:8s)[(stop:)(set: $narrationCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="goLoveAndPeace.play('GO- LovePeace.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 6")]}](else:)["Nep Jr., dontcha want us back?! Think of all the pudding we could eat!" "Don't waste your breath, Neptune! Your little sister apparently isn't STRONG enough to save us!" "Yeah, the hell's this shit? I thought you liked me?!" "If she was MY sister, I would've raised her better!" "S-Stop it! I-I can't think, please!!!" "Miss... Nepgear...? Why aren't you... listening? Do you... hate me?" "You're SO annoying, Nepgear! Look, ya big jerk: you're making Rom cry!" "Nepgear... Do you c-care more about that fake Falcom than... m-me? I thought we could be... good friends..." "Y-You... a-are not real! G-Get out of my head! Y-You're s-splitting me in half!" "Why ya stallin', li'l sis? It's easy: tear open this puppet's stomach, pull out all the fluffity-fluff-fluff that's inside, and BOOM! I'll be makin' ya some mashed potatoes before bedtime!" "No! I-I can't kill... Cave! S-She's... She's my friend! She is just trying to h-help! T-There's no way she's the Deity of Sin!" "She's tricking you, and you, like, know it! This is all a game to her... and she's playing you like you're mother-truckin' 'Beginner Mode'!" "It's no good; seems your sister is useless after all! Having less smarts than Neptune... Disgusting!" "... I... N-N-" "The hell are you waiting for? Lob her damn head off already so we can go home! It's getting cramped in here!" "And her legs are already short enough as it is! Not to mention her bust size... This is very serious, Nepgear. We can not inhabit this cursed realm any longer." "Grrrrr... Say that AGAIN, Tits-for-brains!" "G-Get out of my hea-" "... DO IT, Nep Jr!" "... No... N-No! NOOOOOOOOOOO! Everyone... (link:"S-SHUT UP!!!!!!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 6")]]](else:)[Everything goes silent for the first time in the past few weeks... and when you open your eyes, you are standing before the kneeling Cave. Gehaburn's still in your possession, glowing eerily with a sickening shade of red and green. A hand pats your shoulder. "Nep Jr... here's the skinny: All you have to do is swiiiiiiiing this nifty sword ya got here... and lob off this puppet's head! You already defeated her with ease, so she's WAITING for you to finish her off!" Cave sits frozen, unable to lift her head. She looks exactly like a doll lacking strings, a wax sculpture discarded by an artist. ... She's a fake. Everyone's saying she is. "Think of Falcom, Lady Nepgear! Head towards my voice, please! I believe in you!" "Cave..." Even in a torn-apart alternate world... Cave is still your friend. She's no fake... and you guarantee IF isn't either! You... nearly killed her; killed them both! A-And Lowee, the nation you were forced to seize for the Share-intake? All... real? Thank goodness you didn't murder anyone in the process. Blanc and the children are held captive there... but they're alive. Neptune didn't convince you to end them, and thus tear apart *even more* lives! Gehaburn begins to quake in her grasp, almost as if it's about to shatter! Almost like it's... afraid. The hand on your shoulder suddenly clenches harder, digging into your skin! "... Who's it gonna be, sis? Me... or this fake? ... Neptune... or Cave. Neptune, or Cave?! (link:"NEPTUNE, OR CAVE?!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 7")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(set: $caveBossHealth to it + 20)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)](set: $caveEnergyMeter to it + 2)(if: $caveEnergyMeter > 10)[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)](set: $caveObserve to it + 3)}Your blow slides Nepgear a few feet back, and she holds her right shoulder with her left hand. "... Y-You are fast... f-for a puppet!" She's taking a breather; now's your chance to learn something! "... Your home... What happened there? What does... Cave and Chika blame you for?" The CPU Candidate looks depressingly exhausted, like she ran several miles. Seems she wasn't expecting this much resistance. "... M-Must I say it?" She raises her blade to glimpse it. Fortunately, your blood doesn't stain its steel... Yet. "... I-I didn't want to, b-but we had no choice! A-Arfoire needed to be stopped... and Gehaburn was our only option!" "Okay, so you were fighting Arfoire... Wait, when was this?" If you exist in this other world... perhaps you can find some parallel with this 'incident' too! "... It wasn't... the battle against ASIC, was it?" That's the only time you've ever faced the Deity of Sin, at least. You fought by your Nepgear's side... and saved Gamindustri from utter destruction. The confused girl's ear perks up, almost as if she's... listening to someone. Her 'sister', right? Neptune... So, does that mean that in her world, Neptune is...? "... That's right... Arfoire was too powerful, so we needed to use Gehaburn's strength! To power up the blade, I needed to... I-I needed to kill the other goddesses, to trap their souls inside!" Tears stream from her eyes now. "I had to watch myself kill Blanc, Ram, Rom, Noire, U-Uni, even my own sister... and of course Vert. I-I killed them all... b-but it wasn't even enough to vanquish Arfoire completely!" Shit... That would explain her unusual intensity. You're piecing together the puzzle. Hard to believe that such a vastly-different result could've happened from the same battle with ASIC! That world might've only done a single thing differently from your home world... and it sent them spiralling down a path that essentially ended the CPU lineage! You wonder how else today could've gone had you stumbled at any one point? "... And you believe me and IF to be proxies of Arfoire?" "C-Correct!" You tilt your head slightly. "Why? Who led you to believe this? Your... (link:"dead sister?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Nepgear Quotes 1")]](else:)[Nepgear closes her eyes, but a few water droplets still seep through. The rain has nothing on her sadness. "S-So long as I wield this sword, I-I can... s-still talk with them! Neptune always tells me what to do! E-Even now, she's looking right over my shoulder!" On cue, a black-tinted transparent Neptune appears right behind your alternate friend. ... She is being led by these phantoms... The goddesses' souls are trapped within 'Gehaburn', that much you are forced to believe... but the voices she is hearing? So much has happened to her, and it's impossible not to chalk at least half of it up to some post-traumatic insanity. However... this cursed blade must have some kind of hold over her! Those phantoms she can summon are but mere reflections of her friends trapped within; what she's truly unleashing is something FAR more... malicious. You think back to RED's words about Vert. Your Lady was going through hard times in her life no doubt, hopelessly seeking the warmth and affection of IF... and when she 'died' on that mountaintop, her weakened resolve allowed entrance to some kind of 'demon'. ... The exact same thing must be happening to Nepgear! She's lost her sister, her closest friends, and even the respect of those who survived! A hellish case of survivor's guilt... Who's to say that a demon can't be living within Gehaburn, and is taking hold of her very soul?! However, unlike Vert, who has pretty much lost the fight within her own head, Nepgear still seems to be conflicted! The possession is still in progress! If you can keep this train rolling... you may have a chance to save her! To stop this madness that is claiming her! Determined to fight harder now, you point at the cursed sword in question. Just be as blunt as possible to get the best reaction! You'll have to be hard on her to get anywhere! "... Nepgear, listen to me! The voices... are not trying to help you! Whatever they're telling you, do NOT listen! Gehaburn is playing tricks on you!" "... H-How likely to hear from YOU, Arfoire! H-Haha, y-you almost tricked me back there!" She strikes a fighting pose with her sword, her long purple hair tossing over in the wind. "Y-You're afraid, that's all! Y-You're afraid of me, and Neptune, and all my friends! Y-You know you can't win, and now you're trying to confuse me! But no longer! I-It's time to end this, puppet!" Teh, you saw this coming. Nothing else to do but raise your shears again! "Grr... I WILL get (link:"through to you!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(set: $caveBossHealth to it + 30)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)](set: $caveEnergyMeter to it + 4)(if: $caveEnergyMeter > 10)[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)](set: $caveObserve to it + 3)}Nepgear stumbles once more, a hint of saliva trailing from the corner of her lips. "... W-Why is this... s-so difficult?!" Can't afford to waste any time here! "... So, what is the end goal, hmm? Neptune is telling you to kill IF and myself? What then?" Her eyes close as she gasps for breath. She's close to giving in... Just a little bit more! "... O-Once... I-I destroy all of Arfoire's... proxies... t-then I-I can bring my world back to normal! A-All my friends will... be revived!" ... The poor girl. "... How? How will they all magically come back?" "I-I don't know how it works! I-It must have something to d-do with Arfoire taking up too much space... a-and kicking everyone else out! Or, m-maybe it's the Sharicite she wants me to collect... A-Arfoire's been scooping it all up, but if I had all that energy, maybe we could..." Her eyes open back up, but the gaze she shoots you doesn't look nearly as hostile as it did before. "L-Look, I don't know the specifics; I... just follow what Neptune... tells me..." She's losing confidence in her own delusions, you can hear it! *Feel* it! "... What else has 'Neptune' told you to do? Apart from slaying all the Arfoire proxies?" Ah, you seem to have struck some kind of unforeseen chord; the Candidate's fist rises up to her heart, and her eyes wobble with emotion. "I... W-When I first arrived here in this fake world, I-I was scared! I had... no idea where I was... B-But then, I met this world's F-Falcom, and together, we... helped Lowee out!" Falcom? Last you saw her, she was... er, kicking your ass with an ambush during the failed naval assault on Lowee. Well, that part of the story checks out. "She... showed me kindness, and was even able to look past the horrible things I've done... I didn't want to disappoint her! So, when Neptune told me to... stage a coup on Blanc, I... well, at the time, I was conflicted, okay?!" Coup, eh? That would explain the rumors of Blanc losing control of Lowee. She appeared on the news to shoot down the stories... but that must've been a front. This Nepgear's been around longer than you realize... "... The way you're speaking of her is... interesting... Are you and Falcom close?" ... A blush? Getting somewhere! "Falcom is... amazing... I-I don't deserve her, yet she... always has my back! She even helped me take over the Lowee Basilicom... I didn't want to drag her into such a terrible ordeal, but she refused to leave my side." Falcom and Nepgear...? Strange... You never expected THAT pairing, especially across universes! However, this raises a very pressing question. "... Is Falcom a fake too? If this world is fake... (link:"why isn't she?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Nepgear Quotes 2")]](else:)["F-Falcom? A-A fake? N-No, of course not!!! She's... Look, I don't understand how this place works, but... Falcom is as real as I am! I don't know if she's trapped here or whatever, but my heart can t-tell she's genuine!" Her blush deepens. "... S-She... even claimed to love me... a-and I might love her back! T-That confirms she's not a fake: there's no way Arfoire could ever love!" She's so close, SO close! "... So, if one loves, then... they must be real?" "... I-I suppose so... b-but that doesn't mean puppets can't lie! A-And I-I can tell when people are lying, so-help-me goodness!" "Got any good clinchers, Cavey? Make sure to say something juicy; you look so cute with red cheeks!" ... Your heart begins to beat rapidly, faster than during combat even. Calm yourself... Focus, and relax. "... Miss Nepgear." She eyes you warily, taking a step away almost as if you're prepared to lunge. "... W-What? I-I've already said... w-way too much! I-I don't know what's wrong with m-!" "... I lost someone too, just like you. Today, in fact. My own family... No, more than that." You direct your head up, the rain splashing your face. You've been outside so long that you don't even feel the cold anymore. "... I lost *her* no more than a couple of hours ago, and it already feels like... I have nothing more to live for. I won't lie, the thought of simply surrendering and letting you finish me off has crossed my mind more than once already. It would all be over quick and easy." "W-What are you saying...?" *Her* face is all you can see. Not just now, but... always. Forever. "... But I love Chika. I LOVE Chika! And it's BECAUSE of that love that I can't simply allow myself to die!" You raise both halves of your scissors up before your face, the final round looming close. "My love proves I AM no fake! Now... Nepgear, let us finish this! I shall free you from Gehaburn's control!" The purple-haired Candidate is shocked for the first few seconds, but after that silent 'voice' speaks to her again, she finds no qualm with answering your challenge! "... F-Fine! Y-You are stronger than my sister claims... s-so I will give you one last chance! If you insist you are not Arfoire... then (link:"SHOW ME!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"Nepgear Boss Fight Action- Cave")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["Y-You are not NEPTUNE!" You tighten your hold around your blade's hilt... and Gehaburn shatters into a thousand tiny pieces, leaving the hellish landscape of your brutalized mind! In its place is now your familiar Beam Saber, the trusty sword that carried you along your journey before that accursed... *thing* found its way to your life! "I'm done being YOUR puppet!!!" The 'voices' of your 'friends' scream all at once for you to stop... but you are already gripping your brand and thrusting it for the fake Neptune's chest! You effortlessly penetrate her torso, and angered eyes wish death upon you! "You... NEED ME!" "... No!" You puuuuuuush the sword deeper, the tip protruding from your sister's back. No blood spills onto your hands, and it makes perfect sense: puppets, dolls, imposters, proxies, fakes... they all don't bleed! "It is YOU who needs ME!" Realizing she's lost her hold over you... Neptune produces a guttural growl, before jerking her neck up and hollering out in a collection of unique voices, all twisted and mangled far beyond recognition! Her eyes turn pure black, darker than the night... and the world around you begins to melt. The ground becomes slime, the sky fades to a pale white, the walls crawl away... Everything... around... you... ... is... ... ... falling... ... (link:"...")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="goLoveAndPeace.fade(0,3000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 7")]](else:)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[[... ]<line1|{ (live:6s)[(stop:)(set: $narrationCheck to false) (goto:"True Ending Page 7")]}](else:)[{ <audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="goLoveAndPeace.stop();" /></div> }... You are now Cave... You catch Nepgear's head in your arms before she can crumple face-first into the cold mud. Her eyes are closed and she lies as still as a statue... but soon, her chest is rising and falling. Her soft breaths fill you with relief. You aren't exactly sure what happened to her... but you can tell that everything's going to be all right. Gehaburn rests in the mud, the messy liquid staining the useless blade. Better take that too before it screws up anymore lives, eh? Nepgear's sleeping, and looking as peaceful as every Nepgear should. Let her rest; she'll come to when she's ready and able. You lift her up before turning your attention to the raining sky. Why did... the CPU Candidate have to endure such a trial? Same thing with Vert; what force out there determined that these two should be exploited? To be possessed by some irredeemable devil, and to face the punishment of practically losing every ounce of their self-control? They were both emotionally troubled in their own dramatic ways: Vert, the crippling ailment of depressed frustration... and Nepgear, the guilt of surviving where her friends did not. Sadness and weakness easily gave way to obsession, which led to further sadness and weakness. A never-ending cycle... Why did it have to be THEM?! ... Oh well, what matters now is not the past, but the present and future. You've hopefully aided Purple Sister in her struggle against Gehaburn's influence... and can only pray that IF is experiencing the same luck with Green Heart. Help these two, and your mission will be complete. That will be it for mentally-devastated individuals who are at risk of succumbing to their inner turmoil, and everything can go right back to normal at long, LONG last! H-Haha, it's not like there's one OTHER person who c-can't move past their misery and sorrows! S-Someone at risk of giving in to their mind wholly and completely! "Cavey, who has a cuter sleeping face: Nepgear, or me? Please please pleeeeeease, say me!" Yeah... Real good thing Nepgear and Vert are the only (link:"troubled ones...")[(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_HISTORY.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 8")]]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[... NOW, you are IF! The first thing you see after RED snaps her fingers... is the approaching earth! "Ooomph! C-Crap..." Your nose smashes into the dirt, but fortunately the ground is sloppy enough so you don't break your freakin' face! Doesn't mean your pain receptors aren't enflamed! "... RED? W-What the hell was that? Ya coulda warned me abo-" "... Miss IF? Oh my, what a pleasant surprise! How nice of you to, well, drop in!" ... Uh oh, that... most certainly isn't RED! Exerting enough force with your arms to push yourself off the ground, you get a better vantage point of your surroundings... and find yourself kneeling in front of the main Leanbox army. Vert stands closest to you, clearly amused by your sudden surprise appearance. Her right-hand man, Markz Phenix, struggles to hold back laughter as you stand. Well, there's goes yet another first impression... and the element of surprise. "... H-Hello, L-Lady Vert! I-I am..." Crap, where are you? You turn your head to look behind you, and see the gates leading to the Basilicom's massive grounds! Crap, they're only a few feet away from utterly screwing the universe over! Man, where is RED when ya need her?! "... I'm here to stop ya! You're not getting through these gates!" The army laughs ambivalently, and the goddess smiles at you. If you were a dumbass, you'd almost think that she was being genuine... but you've evolved far past that of a simple neanderthal! "Oh dear, I'm shaking in my heels, Miss IF! How can I EVER hope to stand up to one lone soldier?! I mean, I only have my ENTIRE ARMY behind me!" She chuckles, using the back of her hand to cover her mouth. "By the way, Iffy... when I heard that you were assaulting the castle, I was sure that meant you at least STEPPED FOOT through my gates! Come, move aside; if you'd like, we can walk there together. I'll even hold your hand." ... Yeah, she's not planning to make this easy, and you haven't even begun yet! "Grrr... L-Listen, Vert; why can't ya just stop this? What good will this war do?! Please, can't I just have my... friend back? What'll it take?" She looks you square in the face... and sighs, walking forward to close the gap between you two. "Not this again... Look, it's raining, Iffy-darling, and I really do not want to catch a cold. Can we take this inside? I can light up some candles, and we can discuss this like-" The goddess leans closer to the point you can smell her breath. Her sweet breath... "- *adults~*..." T-That wakes you up; how couldn't it?! Her tone of voice is just so... t-tempti-... N-No, dammit, this is what she wants! Your face grows red with a mix of annoyance and embarrassment. "N-No! W-We are doing this out here! Right here, (link:"right now, Vert!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 8")]](else:)[Markz chortles like a dying pig, and Lady Green Heart's eyes sarcastically widen. "IFFY?! Not in front of so many people! This is so sudden!" She shakes her head, a coy smile poking fun. "Though, the offer does have its appeal... but our first time together should be in a more sanitary environment! Let's MAKE it rain instead of being caught up in it!" W-What's she...?! Now she's winking?! "Let's bring this inside, Miss IF~" ... S-She's trying to throw you off! She knows how weak in the knees you get when in her presence! "S-Stop playing around! This is serious, Vert!" "I know! I AM serious!" Green Heart bashfully looks away as she holds herself tight. "I've been soooo lonely, Iffy... I have some *serious* needs that only you can attend to." She's picking up right where she left off that night on the airship. "... Will you ever cut it out?! You're not entering the Basilicom so long as I'm standing here!" The twisted CPU suddenly holds her arms out, indicating the mass of soldiers behind her. "You talk tough... but what do you hope to accomplish? You're outnumbered... and I'd really prefer not to order my men to interfere with our fun! Haha, but I CAN think of a good way to bring you to your knees!~" She slyly smiles, licking her lips. S-Such a seductress! T-The real Vert would never behave so... crass! "... I-I will not be deterred by your numbers, Vert!" "So stubborn... Please Iffy, just accompany me to the lounge at least! I have a soft sofa there; we can 'discuss' a certain two (link:"'numbers' there!~\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertTrueBossTrack.play('P3_FES-Heartful_Cry_-Special_Ver_-_P3_FES_.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- IF")]]

Neptune stands as tall as ever, her breathing still non-existant. Is she ever getting tired?! How much more of this must the two warriors take? "Ya guys are tough, I'll give you that!" Croire laughs. "But our little game has only just begun! Now it's time to play *serious*!" Oh crap... IF and Cave brace themselves as the dark tome snaps her fingers... only for nothing to happen. "... Eh?" Snap, snap, snap, snap, snap! "C-C'mon, you useless pile of shit-stained latex! Reeeeeeeeeeespoooooooooond!" A few more fingersnaps... when suddenly, Neptune's eyes go completely blank, and she drops her katana before falling face-first herself! A... victory? IF is the first to jump to this conclusion, chuckling nervously, and blessing her lucky stars she's still standing. "... H-Hah! Write an editorial page, ya book; it'll last longer!" Cave doesn't say a word, instead looking at the brunette increduously, shaking her head in disappointment. "... W-What? I-I thought it was pretty clever...!" Croire's enraged mouth curls downwards, widening far more than such a small fairy should be capable of! "N-No! Nonononononononononononononono-" A gasp for breath! "-NONONONONONONONONONO! NO! NO! NO! NOOOOOOOOOO!" "Show some dignity!" Cave reconnects her scissors before pointing for the tome. "You are defeated; do not make a fool of yourself!" "... I-I'll show YOU who the fool is!" Croire scowls, before nervously shifting her eyes back towards the throne. What is she...? "... Screw it! It's not fully ready yet, but who cares?! So long as I screw up SOMETHING, I'll be happy!" Her hand extends like a screaming anime protagonist about to shoot energy from his palms... and Cave immediately leaps to cover IF! (link:"\"Sayonara, jabronies!\"")[(goto:"True Ending Boss Result")] AFTER INTRO BREAK SCENE, YOU HAVE ONE LAST SCENE WITH CHIKA AND STUFF. PLAY TWIN CHERRY BLOSSOMS HERE "C-Cave, s-save... yourself!" The SMD warrior blinks her eyes... and finds herself standing in a pure white desert. This is... the world?! A whirling gust of wind catches your attention and, turning around, you find a purple doorway, standing wide open and unguarded. An... exit? And escape? ... Wait, that voice you heard mere seconds ago! She looks up, and sure enough, IF is suspended in mid-air, gasping for air. She's... being suffocated?! Croire floats a few feet away, her palm outstretched for the brunette's neck. The tome lost... but when did chaos ever play by any sort of rules! The battle-hardened veteran, through strained eyes, smiles at you. "Y-You can... escape, Cave... T-Take care of Fivey, a-alright?" The tome's chest is heaving heavily; she's using up every last ounce of strength within her to... kill your friend! IF's holding her off so you can make a run for it! "... Not likely!" (maybe don't use this) ACTUAL SCENE?! "Cave, Miss IF... I can't even begin to... a-apologize for all that I've... done... but I CAN help you through this ordeal! Are you ready?" Vert! "I... I-I see now you both are no fakes! P-Please, s-stop this evil!" Nepgear! "It always comes down to the wire with our heroics, have you noticed that? Oh well, I know you guys can do it! Iffy-poo, 'Hawty-Dummy'... Alright, CAVE!... Do this so you can all be my wifeys one day!" RED! "Ready, Cavey? I already gave you a sentimental pep talk... so I'll give you something different: when we see each other again... should I wear red, green, or black? You know what I'm talkin' about, heheh!... But in all seriousness, I love you. I love you so, so much. Don't lose like this, 'kay?... O-Oh, and hi, Iffy! H-Heh, didn't see ya there! Keep an eye on Cavey for me, gotcha?" C-Chi... Chika! True friends, even across different realms of existence, all united as one! Side by side, step for step, breath for breath, mind for mind, heart for heart, love for love, life for life! (link:"Measure for measure.")[] Intro of the game plays once more. Click start game, keep clicking it. Sound effect finally plays of glass breaking. You're back. World returns, Croire is flung to the wall. She falls. “Let's never speak of this again!”

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(savegame: "A", "In the Mouth of Madness") <audio src="Fire Sound Effect.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"Vert? VERT?!" VERT! Vert! Vert... A sea of searing red flames, turning night into day. The fleet of ships is lit up with the intensity of a Thousand Suns. MY fleet. Fire fire fire fire fire fire fire firefirefirefirefirefirefirefirefire Chi-... Dearest Chika!? Is that...? "They've turned on us, Vert. All of them... they want us out of the picture. If we... If we stay like this... then all of us will die." Smoke... Smokesmokesmokesmokefiresmokefiresmokefiresmokefiresmokefiresmoke "You villain! I'll... I'll never forgive you!" N-Nisa!? How did this... Hazy... Everything's hazy. I can't see a thing... IF? Chika!? W-Where have you go- "So, you've come this far, and still you understand nothing! What have you proved today? That you can beat up innocent, starving citizens of Gamindustri? That with your strength and 'bonds,' you can bully anyone that speaks their mind and says something that YOU don't like? Well, congrats! You've proved I was right all along... That ALL of us were right all along!" Foolish boy... Everything I do, I do in the best interests of everyone. You wouldn't understand... No, no one will understand. No one CAN understand. "I'm... scared, Lady Vert... I need to make sure Lyree is safe." Always with the unnecessary formalities... Stay with me, dearest IF, and you both will be in good, good hands. "... Thank you, Lady Vert." running where am i going i cant see a thing im scared too so scared help me someone please i cant do this help help home want to go home need to go home "Even if the whole world turns against you... I will always remain by your side." Even if the whole world burns, Chika? My dearest sister... What then? liar liar liar get out of my head i can see you feel you no go away leave me alone no Everything I do... is to help. I don't need people to understand... As long as I believe in my mission, then I can do anything. If need be... I will MAKE everyone understand me. Appreciate all I do for them. Help me build a better world. "You can't do this!" But I can. imfallingcantstandcantbreathedrowninggaspingchokingdyingdyingdyin- A tombstone... IF. A tombstone... Chika. Why? Why did this...? Everyone betrayed me. Neptune, Noire, Blanc... My enemies. They turned on me; threw me out the window and to the curb. IF, Chika... I-I'm sorry. I couldn't... I couldn't save you... ... No, but I CAN save you, can't I? The future... This is the future. This isn't a dream... It's a vision. The whole world, people I thought were my friends... They'll turn on me. Destroy everything I love. soaringflyingsprintingdashingrunningwalkingcrawlingkneeling A tombstone... Green Heart, savage. Beast. Monster. Dictator. Tyrant. Overlord. Devil. ... No! No no no no no no no no no no no no! I won't let that happen! I can't let that happen! Stronger! I'll need to become stronger! Only then can I protect the ones I love. From the world the universe the heavens the gods my fate my destiny ... The sea of flames... In a way, it's kinda (link:"soothing.")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHead.play('Persona 3 Ost - Living With Determination.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 9")]](else:)["Verty~... Verty? Are you spacing out again? Yo, Yo!" Wh-What? Who? Where? Hm? It's... your Basilicom? Well, a long hallway at least. Why did you make this castle so large, anyways? Tiring to navigate AND confusing to boot. Oh well, it supposedly will deter invaders; that's what the engineers claimed, at least. You turn your head... and in a shocking display that nearly turns your world upside down, you see Chika Hakozaki; alive, breathing, and full of color. What in the world? "Hm? C-Chika...?" Your 'sister' tugs at your arm again, a little tighter than usual. "Come on, Verty, you promised! Iffy and Cavey've probably been waiting for... well, I don't know, but they've been waiting, and *I've* been dying to see that movie! Heard it's romantic~" Should you be confused? N-No, don't show anything like that; just be happy to be in her presence again. "... Y-Yes, that's right! My sincerest apologies... Erm, what movie again?" "Ugh, you're so forgetful sometimes, I swear! Buuuuuut... that's why ya got me!" She strokes your arm like a kitten; so warm to the touch! "*'Tamao and the Giant Tomato'*, remember? It has action, glitter, virtuous ladies 'discovering' each other, a bunch of pizzazz... Maybe even a little 'somethin somethin', catch my drift? Depends what cut we're seein'!" A laugh escapes you, and a smile paints your face. "Hmm, sounds most enjoyable! What are we waiting for, then? Let us be off!" She smiles as you walk by her side. Man, it's about now that you realize those engineers screwed you over! You FINALLY reach two intersections... and are immediately presented with more highway's-length paths. You know the way, but damn, this is cryptic! Why didn't you install some futuristic elevator, or even a monorail service? ...? A... sound catches your ear. An alien sound. "W-What was that, Vert?" You feel Chika clinging to your back. Indeed, what was that? It sounded... weird, like a sound that fit no description other than metal being... scraped across marble? Huh, actually, that's pretty specific... W-Well, you can't really tell the exact details! It was distant, but still close enough to give you the creeps... Probably nothing? The wind? The castle's additions settling? You turn another corner... and your eyes bug out. Each door, all the way down the path, is opened, and that bizarre sound grows louder and louder. Like someone dragging a sharp instrument... behind you?! "Vert..." She clings to you harder, almost the whole of her body leaning upon yours. P-Please don't be afraid! "... I... W-What's going on?!" Shake your head. Fear not, you're in control! "I'm... not so sure. Stay close, my dearest sister!" Keep walking, keep walking... On instinct, you look in each room you pass. Furniture, furniture... Nothing of note, yet the sound grows louder and louder. W-What on Gamindustri? Your... legs are shaking! N-No, i-it can't be! You... are... "... Afraid? N-No, there's no way that's... correct..." "VERT!" I-IF?! Y-Yes, that's IF's voice! S-She must be looking for you! That open door over there; you're sure that's where her angelic vocalizations came from! C-Can't keep her waiting! You dash into the specified room... but IF does not grace you with her presence. N-No... W-What blasphemy is this?! Instead of finding the love of your life, you stand face-to-face with... Vert? The human Vert... YOUR *WEAK* human form! S-She's pulling out her lance... a-and swinging for your neck?! G-Get away! (link:"GET AWAY!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 10")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(set: $timerCount to 6)(set: $timerGoodChoice to false)(set: $iffyObserve to it + 3) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioHistoryTwo.stop();" /></div> }Vert stumbles back, but doesn't show weakness for longer than a second: she smiles before turning to face her army, her back doing all the talking to you. Wow, you... didn't get utterly wiped out! She could be restraining herself, but... she definitely seemed to be fighting serious, at least! So... she DOES take you as a threat! You might have a chance at th... O-Oh shit, what's [Markz doing?!]<continue1|{ (click:?continue1)[ "Screw this!" the veteran shouts, before lifting his rifle... and [[firing!!!]<reaction1|]<reaction2| [$timerCount]<result| (live: 1s)[(set: $timerCount to it - 1)(replace:?result)[$timerCount](if: $timerCount is 0)[(stop:)(set: $iffyBossHealth to it - 10)(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 1)](replace:?reaction2)[firing!!!](replace:?result)[Before you can even think, the bullet blasts out and catches you in the arm! C-Crap...! Y-You're lucky he wasn't aiming between your eyes! Seems Markz wants to drag this out; have fun with you. It's all just a game to HIM, too! "Gyehehe, what dd ya think about that? How's about we try for those pretty little legs of yours next?!" He once again (link:"takes aim...")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 1-1")]]]] (click:?reaction1)[(set: $timerGoodChoice to true)(set: $iffyBossHealth to it + 20)(if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)](set: $iffyEnergyMeter to it + 2)(if: $iffyEnergyMeter > 10)[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)](set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 1-1") ]]}](else:)[(if: $timerGoodChoice is true)[A bullet barrels out, but you're too quick for that! Using your Qatars, you swipe through the air like a samurai... and successfully deflect the projectile! Whew... Man, that was awesome! Why, you feel ten times more inspired now! That being said, though... don't try this at home! Markz growls like a bloodthirsty dog. Or, like a bloodthirsty Markz. "Got lucky there... but I'll wipe that smile off yer rotten face!" He once again takes aim... ]"Markz!" Vert's voice rings out, and the soldier ceases his advances. The goddess looks at him with a lone puffed cheek, and the grizzled bastard begrudgingly backs down. How's it feel to not wear the pants, wimp?! Anyways, after ensuring Mr. Phenix isn't planning to splatter your brains across the gate, the CPU turns back around and laughs! "Iffy, I am glad to see your fighting prowess is much more sound than your infiltration skills!" ... Be careful with how you proceed. You don't want to get caught in another string of one-liners... so you're going to have to start subverting expectations! She wants to make you flustered and snap back defensively, sooooooo... "... Heh, I know ya well, Vert! Well, the REAL you anyways..." Did that work? She could've easily twisted that into some... amorous invitation, but where was the fun if you purposely made it too easy?! Haha, you got this! And look, she's keeping quiet and looking away! Hmm... Actually, what's going on with her... eyes? When in her HDD form, your friend has purple eyes... but right now those poetic orbs are kinda blue? Like those of her... h-human form! She lifts her chin to look right at you... and you are taken aback by the sense of pure longing within. Is this... another trick? "Dearest IF... I have to know: did I ever stand a chance?" Gulp! "I mean, was there ever a moment where I... took refuge in the deepest spot of your heart? Just a single, solitary second when you... could've fallen in love with me?" The genuine warmth behind what should be suspicious words keeps you on your toes. Your face threatens to become a fresh, healthy tomato again. If you were some short-haired brunette with a braid in a military academy, you would jump all over this chance!... But no, get yourself together! Lyrica's... waiting for you, remember? Don't be tempted, especially by this... imposter of your friend! ... Subversion, right? "... Yeah." "... What? R-Really?" Woah, that was an... unexpected answer! The goddess looks at you almost like a small child waiting for a giant rabbit to deliver candy. Or video games, because greedy kids these days. Keep on this path! "I... I-I don't know if, y'know, we would've ever... *AHUM!*'ed..." Her innocent blue eyes widen, and her brows egg you on, demanding a continuation! "... but yeah, there was a time when you were all I... could think about. WAS." She seems... firmly perplexed?! Man, being the one to toy with HER is working out! Though, is it really toying if you're being... honest? The CPU doesn't care, instead rubbing her hair. One of YOUR nervous ticks... the hell? "I see... W-Well, when was this time?!" A turn of her back to you as before. "I'm... curious." Curious is an understatement; she's earnestly awaiting the answer! Markz stares in disbelief at the woman, and the rest of the army is stunned beyond compare. All eyes are on either her or you... so better not keep (link:"anyone waiting!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 1-2")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["Yeah, there was a time! Before all this war crap... Hell, maybe even a little after I started dating Lyrica, I admit! But definitely back when this war was, y'know, not a... thing." Great phrasing there, Shakespeare! "You were smart, caring, strong, beautiful, reliable, always there for me... You were one of the kindest people I have ever met! I... can't help but sometimes wonder what it'd be like to... well, be with you." Her shoulders droop, losing their tense edge. She's listening... Your words are sinking in like the rain in the mud! Pat yourself on the back now and enjoy this while it lasts... because you know what you must say next, and there's no way this won't hurt. "... But NOW... Now you're this... I don't even know what to call it, Vert! You've hurt so many people, you taunt your friends, you've pushed absolutely everyone away... Y-You began a war that didn't need to happen! We... stopped those rebels, but you... kept fanning the flames!" You bare your fangs, hoping looking more angry will help stop incoming tears. "Whatever feelings I had before? Well... you made sure I lost them! Not only that, but they were torn up and tossed into a freakin' river!" Perhaps to let your words sink in, Vert is silent for the moment, keeping her head down so her troops can't read her expression. Her wet back is all you can scan... until she audibly scoffs. Seems that's all you're gonna get. Good, you've rendered her speechless! Keep going, you're so close! "I liked— no, LOVED— you when you were sane! When you were the goddess I could look up to, and feel safe around! When you weren't this-" ... You have to. "- psychotic, deranged, PMSing, cruel, demonic, manipulative, bloodthirsty BITCH!" More quietude as her back's still turned. Man, this sure is easy! Maybe the fight's as good as ov- "HA! It is a shame you feel that way, Miss IF... but this is the only way things could've gone. I started this war... to protect myself and those I love. The others would've turned on me soon enough, on ALL of Leanbox... so I made sure to do the deed first and get it over with!" Her hold tightens around her lance. "They thought I was weak, hopeless, pathetic; all these terrible things... and when I was the Vert you claim to adore, all of that was true! But now that I've 'changed'... I've shown them that I'm not one to be taken advantage of. I am NOT worthless now..." "Oh yeah?! Was 'protecting your loved ones' supposed to include practically turning Cave into a lunatic, blackmailing her with Lyrica's life?!" The CPU shakes her head. "I didn't say I had discarded all of my unfortunate foolish tendencies... You wouldn't understand, Miss IF. I needed to ensure Cave's strength remained by my side at all costs. However, in 'protecting' her from leaving me... I discovered that Cave is nothing but a fool. Far too emotional for practical use... and far too easy to manipulate. It's her fault she's such a liability... I can't force people to want my good will!" ... Who IS this person standing in front of you? H-How dare she use Lady Vert's image to spout such horrible drivel! Whatever you do, don't snap... Hey, at least 'she' seems to be on the defensive now! Time to play... your trump card. "... I never WANT to understand, Vert! How you could ever let Chika die because of this pointless war is FAR (link:"beyond me!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 1-2")]](else:)[Lady Green Heart freezes, her shoulders once again tensing up. Judging by her army, she doesn't appear to be making a good face either. Good; Vert's conflicted! That really sucked to bring up, but... you gotta do whatever it takes to make her understand, no matter how underhanded it feels! Slowly but surely, you're fishing your friend out from the demonic abyss claiming her soul! She doesn't respond, so you continue. Is the expression 'twisting the knife' too harsh here? "Yeah, I know about what happened to Chika, Vert. I'm sorry she's gone... and I know you are too! This shouldn't have happened to her... nor anybody! Think about it: because of this stupid, STUPID war, we've already lost Mina, Gust, AND now Chika! Add to them the entirety of Avenir, two of those Yellow Bandana brothers, all the innocent civilians, refugees, and soldiers... and hell, you almost even lost Cave today! When will the bloodshed end, Vert?" You swear you can see an intense energy aura surrounding the goddess. Vert must be fighting to break free! You're getting your friend back! "... Would Chika want all this, Vert? Want this crummy conflict to continue? God, she's probably devastated, looking down and seeing what you've become! Every second this war continues, you're tarnishing her memor-" PHWOOSH! W-Woah, an energy laser nearly blew your head off! A few strands of hair on your right side are singed clean off, disintegrating in the rain... Oh boy. Lady Vert, her torso halfway turned, stands with her left arm extended, and her palm flat and held out. She fired a warning shot... Her eyes are once again purple, and she's... crying?! Not much, but there are visible tears surfacing, poking their heads out from her lids! ... This fight is inevitable... but you're getting there! S-She's beginning to break down! The mad CPU raises her lance and twirls it, showing off with as flashy and absurd a pose as possible. Overcompensating much?! "... Enough of this rabble! It's about time I shut that imprudent mouth of yours (link:"for good!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(set: $timerCount to 4)(set: $timerGoodChoice to false)}From that last attack, Vert steps back... before slipping in the mud and crashing to her knees! C-Crap, this is getting rough, but you seem to be winning! As you stand in disbelief, Markz pulls out his trusty magnum and loads a round! "That's it, ya little shit!" Aw crap, [not again!]<continue1|{ (click:?continue1)[ He's shooting, think [[fast!]<reaction1|]<reaction2| [$timerCount]<result| (live: 1s)[(set: $timerCount to it - 1)(replace:?result)[$timerCount](if: $timerCount is 0)[(stop:)(set: $iffyBossHealth to it - 10)(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 1)](replace:?reaction2)[fast!](replace:?result)[The grizzled soldier fires his sidearm and you instinctively try to twist out of the way... but you still get blasted in the leg! The bullet only grazes your bare skin, but c'mon, how low is this guy?! "I'm done with foolin' around! Any last words, maggot?" he guffaws, before lifting the gun for (link:"your forehead?!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 2-1")]]]] (click:?reaction1)[(set: $timerGoodChoice to true)(set: $iffyBossHealth to it + 20)(if: $iffyBossHealth >= 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)](set: $iffyEnergyMeter to it + 2)(if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 10)[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)](set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 2-1") ]]}](else:)[(if: $timerGoodChoice is true)[It's hilarious that he's trying the same trick twice! You uppercut your knives with perfect timing and chop the bullet to the ground! Yea-hah, you are on FIRE! "Gotta do better than that, 'bub'!" Markz smirks. "Gyehe... Oh yeah, you're definitely dead!" He lifts the gun for your forehead, and you stand at the ready. Don't screw up n- ]"ENOUGH!" Vert suddenly shouts, dramatically bursting her hands out to either side, spreading them like an eagle's outstretched wings! Several energy beams fly out with the motion, and Markz (along with the rest of the soldiers) all step back to cover their asses. The goddess still sits on both knees. "No... more..." Drat, her eyes are closed, so you can't tell what kinda action is going on in 'em! You shake your head; she's still so freakin stubborn. Giving Cave a run for her money... "Come on, Vert, be honest, and I really mean it: this ISN'T YOU! You don't want this war! No one in their right mind would want it! Whatever's going on in there... you hafta fight it off!" Green Heart's face still keeps to the dirt. "Shut... up! You don't even k-know the half of it! No one does!" "That's the point right there, isn't it? Not even YOU know the half of it! We've been fighting you for what, only two weeks now? Look at all the crap you've caused in such a short time! The Rebellion happened a month ago, then you go and stir trouble by stealing Shares from your own allies... Next was Avenir a couple weeks later... Geez, you're just serving to prove Adrian and those rebels right! You're freaking burning Gamindustri to the ground! W-What are you hoping to accomplish? 'Protect Leanbox'? Great job there, Vert! Not only have I-I been forced to watch my friends get torn apart, but your own nation is afraid of you!!!" You stop for a moment to catch your breath. The whole point of this is to get HER to crack, not yourself. Breathe in, breathe out... Okay, continue. "So, since none of this makes any sense at all... it's obvious that you've gone completely bonkers! That YOU are nothing but a mere imposter; a parasite living off of my friend! I KNOW the real Vert; the one I... c-crushed on so hard not too long ago! She... She isn't YOU." You stomp your foot decisively... but the commanding pose loses some of its luster when mud splashes up to your jacket. "Please, Vert, I know you're still in there! Please hear my voice... I need you back! We ALL need you back!" The soldiers all whisper to themselves again, and Markz spins his magnum in his hand. This... is pretty sad; here you are, destroying their Lady both physically and verbally... but no one save for Markz has even tried to interfere! They are too afraid of her... to help! The goddess hisses... but no more words leave her mouth. (link:"Proceed, then.")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 2-2")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["Vert, MY Vert, could never want this. Planeptune fears you, Lastation fears you, Lowee fears you... Cave, Lyrica, all these guys standing behind you? Them too! Even Chika feared you, no doubt! Hell, if I had to hazard a guess..." You point squarely for Mr. Phenix. "... even THIS scumbag's afraid, at least as much a sadistic freak could be!" In response, Markz takes his right hand and kindly singles out his longest finger. Still, to somewhat prove your point... he hasn't disobeyed orders and shot you again! "So, whoever *you* are right now... get out of my Lady! Vert doesn't need you to be strong! And if you don't like that... I'll just have to keep kicking yer ass!" This is it; the moment she leaps back up and tries to rip out your jugular! Here she... Oh, she's still resting on her knees! H-Haha... Wait, is that... sniffling you hear? A-And a faint hiccup here and there... One more close look at Green Heart's face shows you a few more water droplets trailing down her cheeks. That's not rain... although there's STILL plenty of that crap! It's official: you made the CPU cry! You know it's a good sign, but... gah, it breaks your heart! Of everyone in the world to be possessed by some... 'Asshole'... why did it have to be your favorite goddess? E-Er, t-that's not what it sounded like, Nep! Er, or N-Noire, or Blanc... J-Just stop! You've been cruel to be kind long enough... NOW try a more calm approach! Her emotions are mush right now, and the real woman you adore is practically sitting right in front of you! Pull her out of the darkness! Maybe the 'Cave' treatment will clinch the deal? You gently smile as you kneel down and comfort her shoulder with a light caress. Amazingly, she doesn't shrug you off! "Vert... think of everyone! All our friends! Not just me or Chika or Cave... but, yeah, everyone!" Another hiccup. Without thinking, you bring up your free hand and wipe away the tear stream. You find yourself nearly tensing up as the CPU leans into your touch, almost resembling a cat demanding her head to be pet... but you pull through the pleasant surprise. "Neptune, Compa, Histoire, Noire, Kei, Blanc, the Twins, Uni, Nepgear-" With that last name, your friend's hiccups... and she looks up, her eyes opening and showcasing her beautiful blue irises! This is no longer your enemy looking back at you... but the dear friend you lost on that mountaintop indeed a month ago. She... smiles through the sobs. "N-Nepgear...? That's right! I promised I'd take her to that *Sister's Cosplay Convention*! Oh dear, I mustn't disappoint her!" The... what?!... Er, doesn't matter! That tone... This IS Vert! S-She's actually broken through! Back to being the carefree, somewhat-ditzy, forgetful woman she used to be! What else can you do but stroke her shoulder? "T-That's right, Vert! G-Gear's... w-waiting for us! C'mon... why don't we get out of this rain, eh? I'll take you to her! S-She'll be so happy to (link:"see ya!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Vert Quotes 2-2")]](else:)[Markz's eyes widen in disbelief as you stand and hold out your hand... which the CPU actually uses to help herself up! "Okay, now you're just plain shittin' me!" The rest of the soldiers all look at each other in shock... and breathe sighs of relief. Their struggle... was over! As soon as Vert is on her feet, you nod... before you notice the blue in her eyes quickly... retreating? N-No... Vert, you were doing so well! C-C'mon, you almost had it!!! The urge to shake her shoulders begins to swell, but you resist. Instead, as soon as you see her arms moving, you stand on your toes. Perhaps it's because you were so used to Markz firing quick ones... that when Vert's lance comes up, you are already leaping out of the way! Crap crap crap, damn it! S-She's still fighting! You were so close... This pleases Mr. Phenix to no end, as he squeals like a pigvader in heat! "Now tha-aaaaat's more like it! Impale her slutty skull, Milady!" Yeah, he'll get his soon enough... Lady Green Heart frowns as she readies her godly spear once more. "You... l-lose, M-Miss IF! S-So easy to... p-play you like a... children's g-game!" ... Huh, well... that sure wasn't convincing. You were so close... and maybe you still are! Not only was that line strained as all hell, but the goddess looks positively fatigued, not to mention conflicted! Her mouth is twisted with rage, but her eyes are once again making fun of common sense: one is pure blue, and the other is pure purple. The diabolical presence within her is refusing to let go... but it IS slipping! One more good round should do it... and this awful war finally comes to a merciful conclusion! So, be sure to win... for your friend's sake! "Grrrr... I'm gettin' ya out, Vert, even if it (link:"kills me!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Action- IF")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["Well, Adrian? What is your answer?" "... My answer?" The leader of the Yellow Bandanas, his feet floating off the ground thanks to his tome-enabled mock-HDD state, thinks for a moment, his grin slowly turning to a frown. "... You're right; fighting fair WOULD be the honorable route!" You nod. "I'm glad you see it my way. Perhaps there's hope for you yet?" With that, you prepare for your honest battle. "Then come at me!" "... Heh," Adrian suddenly chortles, his pupils enlarging, "but sometimes honor just isn't worth it... GRYYAAAAAAHHH!" ... N-No... W-What's he doing?! In a flash, the boy's hand glows a terrifying shade of neon-blue... and a lightning bolt blasts out, straight for... "M-Miss IF?!" But your cries are too late; the brunette is struck by the devastating magic blast square in the stomach! Your love convulses as the last light of life melts from her body... before she crumples to the rocky earth of the mountain, where she shall rest forevermore. She... is dead, just like that? Because you are too useless, too weak to protect yourself... she's gone. "... NO!!! Y-YOU CAN'T TAKE HER FROM ME!!!" "Oh, please; YOU are doing more to harm her than anyone else!" W-Who...?! You turn around, tears streaming down your confused face... and your human form is once again aiming her spear. "W-What is this?! Y-You aren't... me!" you cry... but the other you simply shakes her head. "You've brought this on yourself!" (link:"SWING!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 10")]](else:)["Y-You're not normal, Lady Vert! Please... stay away!" "... So that's how it's going to be, hmm? Well then... Get off my airship. Leave my sight! If I ever see you again, then... Lyrica dies. You hear me?! I'll make sure she suffers, just like any insolent fool who dares stand in the way of my perfect world!" ... ... N-No, stupid, STUPID! L-Look, IF is walking away; leaving your life... even though all you want is her heart. Why can't she... see how much you love her? Why can't she share your feelings?! I-It just isn't fair!!! "... She'll never love you." Don't turn; you already know who it is. "Look what you've done to her... and for what?" Such insolence! How can this woman be a part of you?! "... Look at what *I've* done?! I've done everything you were too weak to do! I now have the power to do... well, anything! Gamindustri will be mine... and with it comes dearest Iffy." "... And what if she resists you to the very end?" "... Then I suppose she'll have to die. If she falls by my hand, all will be well." "Such a fool... (link:"Such a monster!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 11")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[And it all boils down to this: IF and Lyrica sitting on a hill behind the Basilicom, enjoying the perfect weather... and each other. IF... she's more perfect than the weather could ever be! If... If only that damn pop idol wasn't in the way, you could... love her wholeheartedly. The two of you would be together, forever... "It's hard... I know it is," your human form's soft voice begins, her hand finding your shoulder. "I... love her... and I always will." "... Then why don't you do anything about it? MAKE her love you!" "It doesn't work like that... Besides, Miss IF is happy enough as it is. You should be grateful your dear friend has found the true love of her life!" How can she... say that? Doesn't she know the pain of never getting what your heart truly desires?! "... What does Lyrica have that I don't?! Why would IF choose her... over me?" The hand tightens. "We can't control love." "I can try!" "And YOU can continue to FAIL!" This... fool! She doesn't understand! "You are too weak for her... b-but I have the power, the ability, and the drive to earn her love!" "Then why isn't she by your side, hmm?!" What?! "If strength is all you need... then Miss IF should be your wife by now, right?" "T-That's... W-What would you know?! A-At least *I* can keep her safe! THAT is what strength can do! I can make Gamindustri my own... and protect her from those who wish us harm." "She doesn't (link:"feel very safe.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 11")]](else:)[(if: $narrationCheck != true)["Grrrrr.... S-She simply doesn't understand! I-I'm just looking out for my nation's best interests! T-The world can't turn on me if I instill fear far and wide! Thus, I can keep her safe in my arms!" Your weak human form swings her lance, and turns to face you and only you. "This isn't the way... I don't want this, and IF most certainly doesn't either! I don't know who you are... but there's no way you're the stronger side of me! On the contrary-" A dramatic twirl, meaning she's yearning for a fight. ANOTHER fight. "*I* am the true Vert... and I am stronger than you, even without the thirst for bloodshed!" How cute. "You should be thanking me, not turning against me. I am simply acting in both our favors!" Now it is YOU who readies a fighting stance. Your HDD-altered lance is FAR more powerful than hers. "Do you not feel jealousy towards Lyrica? Do you not yearn for IF?" "... Of course I do!!!" she shouts, turning her head away just a tad. The brunette and blue-haired pop idol continue to smile, unaware of your inner turmoil. "... But it would be selfish to act on my feelings. I... must face the facts: it's time to move on." "... Move on?! MOVE ON?! HA! You'll never succeed at that! You're too obsessed with her... Believe me, I know!" "Perhaps..." She suddenly swings, and you sidestep in time. What an idiot. "... but it's better than tearing her life apart." "You... NEED me!" "NO, I DON'T!!!" She swings at the exact same time you do! Your weapons clash, and you struggle as you push back against her. Damn, s-she's a persistent bitch...! "GIVE... me... MY... life... BACK!!!" "NO! *MY* life is better!" You'll show her! Y-Yeah, y-you'll show her! YOU'LL (link:"SHOW H-")[(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHead.fade(0,3000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 11")]](else:)[[... ]<line1|{ (live:6s)[(stop:)(set: $narrationCheck to false)(set: $truePageCheck to false) (goto:"True Ending Page 12")]}]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroadsTwo.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertHead.stop();" /></div> }You are now IF... "I gotcha, Vert... It's all over now..." you coo, rubbing the CPU's hair as she lays motionless in your arms. "Just rest... We'll... talk again soon." She's still breathing... but she's out cold. Whatever you awoke inside of her... hopefully it'll only spell good things in the hours to come! Several coughs force you to look away from the slumbering goddess... and you immediately remember that the majority of the Leanbox army is watching you. Markz is also unconscious, but as for everyone else? Oh boy... You, uh, didn't really account for what your next step would be. If these guys have any qualms at all about what you did to their Lady, well... there's hundreds of them, and one of you. Especially since RED's gone AWOL. You are about to speak... when suddenly, everyone breaks out into cheers and raucous applause?! "S-She actually did it?! W-We're free!" C-Crap, n-now they're all rushin' ya?! They pick you up over their heads... and you find yourself surfing the crowd? Huh... is this what it feels like to be Lyrica after one of her concerts? Pretty sweet... "Y-You're a hero, IF! T-This war can finally be over!" Oh, but, uh, let's not get their hopes TOO high! "Er, g-guys! I-I'm flattered, but... I-I'm no hero! I-I just did what I could, y'know?!" Geez, you hope they don't drop you. Don't wanna take another long fall! "A-And w-we can't even be sure that worked! A-All I'm saying is, d-don't let your guard down! T-There's still a chance Vert may... still... y-y'know, be kinda insane, and... stuff?!" Dah, they're not listening to you! One-track minds... Speaking of which, someone's hand— either accidentally... or intentionally— suddenly squeezes your second-most private of locations (otherwise known as your ass) full on! "H-H-Hey, w-watch it, pal! A-Alright, lemme down, lemme down!" "Yeah, unhand my wifey, you ruffians!!!... Ooh, I always wanted to say that~!" "Ya ACE'd it, Reddy-pie!" "... God, I did NOT need you two gettin' along so well..." T-Those voices?! After the crowd reluctantly puts you down and continues celebrating in their own unusual way, you rub your sore behind and turn around... to see three familiar faces. More importantly, though... you see a face that you're REALLY irritated with right about now! "RED! Where the hell (link:"were you?!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 12")]](else:)[The dragon girl shoots you an embarrassed smile. "Hehe, sowwy about that, Iffy! Teleporting two of us kinda threw me all out of whack, y'know? I'm still new to this!" She winks, forcing you to roll your eyes. "I accidentally crashed into a really big tree like a thousand miles away, and had to run all the way back here!" A finger points at the resting Vert. "Good to see you've succeeded, though! I knew you could do it!" "... I highly doubt you teleported any more than a mile away." You shake your head. "... All right, though, I think I get it. You're too much like Nep... But, um, one more question?" "Ahum!" You jab your thumb towards the other two guests. "... The heck are they doing here?" Underling and Nepgeo, two former ASIC members, are indeed accompanying your spunky red-haired friend. These two were actually with you a year ago during that same exact time you fought Arfoire... and you can only presume Underling (her name's Linda, but... do you call her that? It's kinda awkward; you're not exactly on 'hanging out' terms with her) is already familiar with RED. The dragon girl shrugs. "When I crashed into that tree... I, er, fell and crashed into them! Two cuties for the price of nuthin'! They said I was cute, and offered to be my wifeys and tag along!" Underling's eyes go wide. "W-What's THAT crap?! Last time I saw you, the world nearly ended... so after you nearly cave in my skull, I kinda felt obligated to follow you! T-That's it!" The OTHER Nepgear lookalike today, Nepgeo, grins as she pulls Linda close. "Don't listen to Lindy, Reddy-pie! We TOTALLY wanna be your wifeys!" She pokes her... girlfriend's(?) cheek. "I can't believe you never introduced me to such a cute friend! You know how much I LOVE red hair! Who is she Lindy, your ex?" "I-I keep tellin' ya, I don't have 'exes'! You were kinda sorta my... fir- C-Crap, nevermind!" "Really? But, I thought you and Magic once-" "S-Shut up, you!" ... You know, something about this whole back-and-forth seems... familiar, somehow? It's like you're hearing your own cynical reflection... Er, better get this bus back on course. "... Well, glad to have ya guys join us... I think." You raise an eyebrow RED's way. "So... (link:"what now?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 13")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[RED smiles at you for a long time, causing you to sweatdrop. The other two just stand and watch, Nepgeo doing some hand gesture over her right ear using her thumb and pinky. Is she... inviting you to call her? Heh, that reminds you: your lovable cellphones are still waiting for you back in Planeptune! You couldn't bring them in fear that their signals would be tracked... but heh, it's not like you ended up taking a stealthy approach anyways, so now you're just kinda pissed. ... Oh yeah, she's STILL smiling. "... Er, RED? You... okay? You're the girl with the plan, so... again, what now?" "... Weeeeeeeell..." She pops her lips... and you immediately regret asking. "... Um, no clue! Still a-thinking!" You are saddened that you aren't even facepalming in shock; you... anticipated this, a bit woefully granted. Of course this wouldn't be easy! "Okay, so we couldn't let Vert enter the yard, right? That's taken care of! What do we do with her? Let's start with that." The short girl brings an inquisitive finger to her chin. "Gotcha! Hmm... uhm... mmmmmmm!" It's like her gears are about to malfunction and break down. "... I have it! We bring her with us to the castle's front doors! Rejoin with 'Hawty-dummy' and help her out if she's in a pickle!" ... This girl may know 'jack', but she sure as hell doesn't know 'shit'! "... B-Bring her to the doors?! As in, the Basilicom's damn yard?! Isn't that the WORST THING WE COULD DO?!" At your outburst, Underling chuckles, but Nepgeo nudges her in the stomach. RED closes one eye playfully. "Weeeeeeell... In all the possibilities I saw, never once did 'Greeny-Beany' get CARRIED to the Basilicom! So, since she's sleepin' like a baby... we'll be taking her there against her will, and thus, the *Asshole's* plans should still be confuzzled!" "'Should'? So what if this fails, eh? Are we boned?" Aaaaaaaaand no response; the girl tunes you out as she strokes her dragon's chin. Confidence-builder; she's earned the degree for that!... So, you had to stop Vert from reaching the castle... and now that you've defeated her, your next goal is to... er, take her there? Oh well, Cave and Lyrica are still waiting... so it's not like you were planning anything else. Thus, you resolve to carry Lady Vert through the gates with RED, Linda, and Nepgeo in tow... but not before turning to the massive Leanbox army and motioning for them to follow. "Yo, you guys! You're all comin' with us!" On the off chance that things take a complete nosedive, you'll at least have (link:"strength in numbers!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 13")]](else:)[... God, this rain stinks. Not... literally, but you know! When will it ever relent? It seriously feels like your clothes must be see-through by now; a fact not lost on RED and Nepgeo. Odd to say that Underling is the second-most rational and clean-minded member of your current group of four. Either way, you all walk down the long path to the Basilicom's doors, the Leanbox army trailing behind without hesitation. Thankfully they aren't resisting... That would've made your life far-too complicated. Y'know, even moreso... "Wow... you walk *amazing*, Iffy! No wonder you're my numbah one wifey!" You don't even want to know why she said that. ... Eventually, you all make it back to the castle's wrecked lawn, Vert still snuggling peacefully in your arms. Your mind immediately sets on heading to the left side of the building to find Cave, hoping against hope that she wasn't harmed... but it seems that will all be unnecessary: the SMD warrior is already waiting for you on the front door step. She holds Nepgear bridal-style, mirroring you and the unconscious CPU. The sword that nearly revealed your innards to the world rests to the side, the blade stained with a glob of mud. Mission... a-accomplished, eh? Your friend's eyes look so tired... b-but she's alive! Y-You were beginning to fear the worst... n-not that you doubted her, though! It's just... y'know... ... B-Bah, after that brutal ordeal with Vert, you're just glad to see she's okay! RED knowingly takes the goddess from you... and you immediately break down into tears and run. "C-Cave!" you shout, your legs vaulting over the mud as you dash forward. D-Dammit, you must look so stupid... As watery globules blind you, you find yourself suddenly wrapped between two strong arms... and you realize Cave has placed Nepgear safely on the steps in order to meet your relieved embrace. She pats your back as you nuzzle her shoulder. "... Don't cry, IF... You did good." "L-Like hell I'm not gonna cry! Y-You could've been killed!" "The same goes for you... But by my count, we both still stand, do we not?" "I... guess so... B-But that's not the point, dangit!" "Heh..." Cave suddenly separates from you enough to look you dead in the eyes. Her palms grip your tense shoulders. "... I am glad to see you are safe, IF." D-Don't cry even harder, you d-dweeb! Gah, what's gotten into you?! Did that fight with Vert unearth an ungodly amount of emotions within your battle-hardened heart?! Or are you just happy that... things finally seem to be getting back to normal, at least as close to normal things can be? "... (link:"Y-Yeah... L-Likewise, Cave.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 14")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[An entire round of applause reaches your ears as you melt into each other's smiles... and two cat-whistles sound out. "Woo, I love these scenes! You too, Reddy-pie?" "Ha, of course!!! Now KISS, you two!" Heh... You scrunch your lips and make suggestive smooching sounds with your teasing mouth... and Cave pushes you away with a lght-pink tint detailing her facial features. "... Moment over!" Hurrying to change the subject, the red-haired soldier turns to abashedly address her fellow Leanbox veterans. She takes special note of Underling and Nepgeo, nodding in recognition of their presence. Weird to think that the three of them are not only coworkers now, but sisters-in-arms! How did... Underling get roped into working for Leanbox again? Man, that'd be a story to hear! Maybe you'll find out one day... Anyways, her eyes soon land on RED... and most importantly, the unconscious Lady Green Heart with her. "... So, we were both successful... Is Vert 'sane' now?" You rub your hair again (why can't you stop doing that?!), unable to answer. Fortunately, the dragon girl picks up the slack! "That's... the iffy part! I... don't know!" Beat. Cave's temper is flaring again, you can feel it! "We did everything we needed to do... I, uh, think! Hmm..." She lifts her arm and taps on the 'watch' again. What's the tale behind that thing, anyways? "No, but this isn't right! I can still feel some... 'weird' presence over this whole world! This castle, specifically!" Cave sighs. "Of course... We still have yet to confront the one responsible, right?" "Yeppers! But... not only is Mr./Miss Asshole's influence still hovering around, but... er, well... there's something else too! SOMEONE else!" The dragon flicks its tongue along RED's nose, and she shrugs. "I dunno, little buddy! I think I recognize them from somewhere, though... Not often, but this other person HAS visited the Basilicom once or twice before." She smiles at you and Cave. "Y'know, in the OTHER 'outcomes'! The ones where... h-hehe, things didn't work out for you guys!" You fold your arms. "So we've heard. I got gutted?" "Not just that, Iffy! I've seen you get gutted, decapitated, captured, seduced, bedded, and shot even!" Er, some of those are not like the others... Regardless, your small friend moves along and fires a grin Cave's way. "As for you, Hawty-Dummy? Woo boy, I can't even DESCRIBE half the stuff I saw! Let's just say, I'm really glad things are turning out the way (link:"they currently are!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 14")]](else:)[A visible vein threatens to explode out of Cave's forehead. "Get to the damn point... A-And my NAME is Cav-" "So yeah, we stopped Verty-Berty, which is supremely awesome! That should help a lot! However..." she trails off, poking one of her breasts. The right one, to be exact... 'Why?' is a good question. "... this other entity kinda scares me a little, not to mention what might happen if our 'Asshole' tries again to interfere!" Okay, now her thumb's in her mouth. How did the IF from her world ever manage to cope? "... The throne room! You guys gotta get to the throne room!" Your eyes widen at such a sudden direction. "T-The throne room?" "The throne room!" "The... throne room?" "The throne room!" Look at her nod so proudly... Should you say it... or wait for Cave? Ooh, Cave it is! "... What about it?" "That's where our wackjob-goddess keeps her Sharicite, right? BENEATH the throne! Or, inside it? I never got a clear picture..." Sharicite... INSIDE her throne? Well, that could certainly explain Green Heart's infinite HDD! ... Aha, you can see where this is going! You slam your left fist into your open palm. "You want us to get to that Sharicite then, right?! Whatever entity— or *entities*— may be floating around the castle, we hafta protect all that Share energy in case they try somethin' funny!" RED beams with glee. "That's mah waifu! Exactly! Since the script is torn into itsy-bitsy pieces, the 'Asshole' is prolly really desperate... and that Sharicite is nice and shiny and... stuff! If it can power a goddess indefinitely... who knows what ELSE it can do?!" This causes Cave to pull out her scissors and shine them up real nice. "... All right, most sense we've heard from you yet! We must make haste for the throne room, before this stockpile of Sharicite falls into... AN enemy's hands!" Whew... Makes sense! Underling and Nepgeo, along with the rest of the Leanbox soldiers, all have no idea what's going on. Can't blame 'em, really; this is your story, not theirs! Still, better make this short and sweet! "... Er, e-everyone! We request your help in order to bring an end to this war! Inside Vert's throne room i-" But before the thought can really even get going... a peculiar sound blares through the hydrated atmosphere. W-What?! It almost sounds like a... dramatic feudal Japanese (link:"battle horn?")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroadsTwo.fade(0,500);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 15")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{ <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioCrossroadsTwo.stop();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="uninvitedTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 8 OST - Uninvited Guest.mp3');" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="uninvitedTrack.fade(.5,0);" /></div> (savegame: "A", "Uninvited Guests") }Linda, oddly enough, is the first to turn around. Her skin crawls; the sound must peeve her almost as much as it does you! "Ya gotta be kiddin' me... Er, still no clue what's goin' on, but... d'ya suppose our, er, 'Asshole' could actually be... h-heh, all of *those* guys?" "Holy cheese, Lindy... L-Look at all of 'em!!" All of...? What're they on about? You stand on your tiptoes, trying to find the source of the sound past all the soldiers... What, you can't see anything! Dangit, you're not THIS short! C-Come o- Oh. Oh... snap...?! By now, the entire Leanbox army has ceased their cheers and hollers and relaxation... and now see what your own eyes can attest. You feel Cave's fingers slip into your palm; not necessarily out of fear, but... more of a way to keep calm and alert. She realizes that... today's far from over... Likewise, you gladly squeeze back against her touch as you arrive at the same conclusion. The horn blows again... and you see a far-off black-robed figure lower the device before raising a sword to the sky! That sword... kinda looks like the strange Nepgear's, doesn't it? If only you could get a closer look, but the rain makes it harder than it needs to be. A running theme here, no doubt. This is no mere lone warrior, however; behind the shrouded shape... stands a good hundred-plus more! So many dark, mysterious cloaks, you'd think this were an anime convention! Or a gathering of leather-fetishists. Since it's Leanbox, you'd have figured they'd be naked butlers instead. Cave leans in to whisper. "... These some more friends of yours?" "I... uhm, don't think so, h-haha...!" You motion your free hand for RED. "Y-Yo, w-who are these guys?" The dragon girl just shakes her head; a REAL great sign! "I... d-dunno! T-This isn't supposed to happen!" "Does this explain that 'weird presence'?" "... M-Maybe, but... I-I don't think so! Our 'Asshole' and our other mystery friend are from other universes! These people, though? They... feel too different. Well, too SAME-Y, actually!" Blank staring, blank staring... "... Neh, while our villains are outsiders to this entire realm, these people feel too familiar to YOU, Iffy! Such as, they're from THIS universe... only, not!" ... T-There's no time for a better explanation, is there?! C-Crap, that front-most figure with the sword, most likely the 'commander' of these surprise challengers, is about (link:"to speak!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 15")]](else:)["Muahahahahaha! Foolish Leanbox... fools! Long have I awaited this day... and now, my time has finally come!" This... voice sure is hammy. Somewhat-familiar too... but you can't quite put your finger on it. Stressful day and all that, you know. Definitely a female, though; deep-voiced, sure, but she must have a fine set of ovaries. Er, that's what Nep would say, at least. "Your pathetic Basilicom stands no chance before the might of my elite soldiers! Bow before my superiority!" Another blow of that horn... a-and the figures begin charging! They're a fair distance away, but... t-they'll be here in no time! RED frantically glances at her watch again. "R-Rhubarb! T-This isn't good! I-Iffy, you and 'Hawty' hafta run inside, NOW!!!" W-What is that thing telling her?! Y-You thought the rush was simply a precaution, but she's... acting like the world is about to explode! "B-But we can't just leave!!!" An unexpected voice responds to your practical observation in a most... surprising way. "... Dammit, I have no idea what's goin' on, but... you promise this war's gonna end if you get to that throne, right? Hey brat, I'm talkin' to ya!" U-Underling?! You are so surprised by the... determination in her eyes that you can barely nod. She sighs. "... Well, good! I'm gettin' tired of fighting, but... I have one more good one in me! You go... save the world, or some shit; I'm not one for the 'hero' role anyways! Just make sure to not screw this up, got it?" She grabs Nepgeo's stunned hand and raises it to the sky?! "Yo, Leanbox bastards! This war's almost over... so are we really gonna lose to these random nobodies?!" One by one, Linda's resolve spreads to her comrades. "N-NO! W-We can't fall now!" A-Amazing! Cave is as equally shocked as you are... but you manage to nudge her free and drag her to the door, with RED close behind. The SMD warrior scoops up the sleeping Nepgear... and you creep open the front doors! "Hell right, we can't! There may be a shitload of 'em... but look, I doubt they even have any weapons under their cloaks!" Underling's trademarked pipe rises in victory, right beside Nepgeo's clasped hand! "I say we kick their asses... and don't even give 'em the honor of dyin'! We're gonna make them live with their humiliation! How's that sound?!" "Oooooh-raaaaaaah!" "CHESTO!!!" "Somethin' like that!!!" Thus, the Leanbox army, intentionally-unarmed, rushes headlong into battle. Linda and Nepgeo stay behind for just a few seconds more. "Lindy... T-That was so awesome~!" The purple-haired imposter pulls the villain in for a smooch... which good ol' Underling shyly brushes off. "N-Not in... public, dammit!... G-Grr, let's go kick ass already!" There they go... Wow, it really makes you realize just how many stories there are, huh? You and Cave have been so wrapped up in your own that... you nearly forgot that you aren't the main characters in this war. H-Heh, kinda makes you feel small, don't it? ... This is what's at stake if you don't get to that throne room. You aren't sure the real extent of the danger... but if there's a freakin' army attacking, then your fears must have at least some merit! Better get to it! You nod at Cave, who takes a step forward... and immediately bumps into an invisible wall! Ah, well, more specifically, the klonked-out Nepgear bumps into the wall, pushing your friend back. Got it... (link:"Wait, WHAT?!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 16")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Cave tries one more time... and nothing; it's as if the universe is keeping the alternate Purple Sister outside. "... What?" is all she can manage as she turns to look at RED. The dragon girl's eyes widen. "Hoo boy... L-Lemme try!" Winking at you, RED charges forward with Vert still in her arms... and WHAM, same thing! This one is much more violent, however; RED herself is nearly shot back, almost as if BOTH her and Green Heart are banned from the Basilicom! "... This is new..." You have a bad feeling about this. "R-RED?" "... Wifey... I-I'm sorry, but, uh..." She looks at Vert in her hands... and smiles. "... you two are on your own. Us three-" She indicates her, Vert, and Nepgear, of course. "- aren't gettin' in. It's... probably safer to keep them outside, honestly! Better you don't carry them around to slow ya down!" She... can't follow you anymore? You're still pissed that she missed your entire Vert fight, but... at least you knew she'd be coming back. "R-RED, we can't just... leave ya ou-" The small girl suddenly pulls out a yo-yo and... springs it for your face?! C-Cra- O-Oh, it stopped just short of smacking you! "No, Iffy! My, uh, time in this world is running out anyways," she says as she taps her watch yet again. Is... that what she's seeing? A gauge of her SP? "For as long as I can, I'll help out with this fight, find out who's attackin', you know! I'll also keep Greeny-Beany and Nepgear safe, believe-you-me!" "N-No! I-I'm not gon-" Cave tugs on your arm; seems she's already accepted the fact that you two are to face the unknown alone. "She's correct, IF! We have to move while Linda's holding the enemy off!" "... Dammit, you're right. You're ALWAYS right!" "... We went over this already. I'm NOT always right... Just most of the time." Tch... Something about her stone-faced sarcasm brings a grin to the corner of your lips. You reach out... and hug RED tight. "... Thanks, RED... Heh, I guess without you, I'd be in several pieces!" That's putting it KINDLY. "... Be safe, okay? We'll... do good, I promise." "Iffy!!! Y-You're gonna make me... c-cry!!!" But she suddenly pushes you off with a strength most unbefitting a girl of her stature! "... N-No, crying is for goodbyes! You go to that throne room, stop anyone who tries to get in, and..." She leans forward and kisses you on the nose! Ai-yai-yai, you s-still have to get used to that! "... I'll see ya when I see ya! It won't take me as long this time, though; I promise!" "Heh... L-Lookin' forward to it!" You bid the spunky girl one last goodbye, not forgetting to stroke the dragon's chin... before turning back for the entrance. "... Ready to save the world, Cave?" The SMD warrior smiles. "Thought you'd never ask." She takes one step inside... and when it's proven she's no longer impeded by a barrier, she turns her head back and waves. "... Until next time, RED. It has... certainly been an adventure." That it has... but unfortunately it's not yet over, and the next stage looks to be ten times more confusing. Oh yeah, and possibly hellish; you may be about to confront an entity that was able to drive a CPU insane, manipulate the whole world into fighting a war, AND account for a thousand different outcomes to a single day... and have an answer for each and every one of them. This will be no ordinary fight... ... But when are they ever? If this 'Asshole' wants to show his-or-herself... you'll be waiting with arms wide open! You... (link:"and Cave!")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="uninvitedTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="basilicomTrack.play('Samurai Warriors - Osaka Castle.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 16")]](else:)[You are now Cave... "Crazy day, huh Cavey? Now you gotta stop some super-powered puppet-master psychopath before the world ends? Geez, let a girl rest for a moment, am I right?!" Yeah, no kidding! Kinda frightening how all of this sounds entirely preposterous... but you can only choose to accept every little detail of it. In a world where Arfoire can walk among the living and work to end all of mankind, these things just kinda dull on you after awhile. "Just be careful not to exhaust yourself, Cavey! I don't want the universe to be wiped out 'cuz you picked a bad time to take a nap!" Don't worry, Chika; that won't happen... There's too much on the line for simple slip-ups. Just gotta stay focused on the mission... If anyone tries to stop you, you will stop THEM! "I just hope you know what you're doin'..." ... The Basilicom doors slam shut, and once your eyes begin to focus out of the rain and on actual dry surroundings... you find the remaining members of the castle's guards. Y'know, the ones that WEREN'T blown up when you momentarily lost your sanity! Ah, so they retreated and have been hiding in the entrance foyer the whole time! "F-Freeze!" a General shouts, the men around him aiming their bayonets. "... W-Wait, b-both of you? W-We heard all the fighting... We coulda swore you were killed, Cave? A-And that Planeptune's main forces had arrived?!" You tilt your head questioningly. "Killed? Me? Hate to break it to you, but I am very much alive, despite your truant desertion." "N-No, I-I didn't mean it lik-..." He shakes his head. "A-Ah, d-dammit, w-we're sorry! W-We all panicked and... I-It's good to see you are okay, Miss Cave!" His eyebrows raise at the sight of IF standing awfully close to you. "... So, uh, is... she joining us?" The brunette takes it upon herself to answer. "Actually, buddy... we're here so there'll no longer BE a need for sides!" She places her hands to her hips. Is she trying to emulate Nisa's heroics for some reason? "No time to explain, though: there's still a fight going on outside! Your enemy is no longer Planeptune or Lastation or Lowee... but some, er, weird people we don't know! Probably harbingers of chaos, you know how they work! You guys better hustle on out of here and go kick butt!" You nod, hiding the stupid smile trying to break through your steel face. "... She speaks the truth. Linda is your new commander... and this is to be the final battle! Now head out there and defend our nation proudly!" When everyone hesitates, a sigh escapes your lips. "... If you don't, the WORLD WILL END!" That does it; either due to your intensity or the devastating news (but most likely the former), the Leanbox guards all kick it into high-gear... and storm on past you out the door. "Whew, that went kinda smoothly! There's no way they'd want to stick around and argue with you, Cavey! Good thing they're all (link:"afraid of you, eh?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 17")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["... Come, we can't waste time! Let us make for the throne room at once!" Hopefully the extra manpower the guards provide will be enough to hold that other army off. RED didn't sound so sure of herself... but they HAVE to be the ones responsible, correct? I mean, who ELSE would be invading? You have no idea what they are capable of, so it's best just to secure the Sharicite in the throne and refuse them THAT possibility of further screwing up the world! "Righto! Stop this creep, and no one will EVER be possessed like Verty again!" Yep. Though, that begs the question of HOW exactly you can cleanse Nepgear and Green Heart of the... *Asshole's* influence. Sure, maybe they are already on the road to recovery after their defeats... but you don't like leaving things up to chance. "Good call, Cavey! No clue how the possession even works, after all! Like, okay, so those two were sad, right? Depressed? Conflicted? Weak in the head or heart or some whatchamacallit?" Seems correct so far. It was obvious to everyone that Vert pined for IF, but was riddled with guilt by her own jealous and, in her eyes, selfish thoughts. Your Lady has always secretly had a soft and malleable heart, due to her kind nature (well, so long as Blanc wasn't around)... so any small worry could grow to unprecedented heights! Perfect for spawning depression... As for Nepgear... she lost so many people she loved, slain by her own hands no less! She did what she had to in order to stop Arfoire and save the world... but deep down, regrets that SHE wasn't the one sacrificed. Alone and filled with condemning feelings of self-reproach, her coping mechanism was to detach herself from her world... and when that entity found her and handed her Gehaburn, she had no strength or ability left to fight it off. Thus, she came here... and listened to its lies. "So, when this evil thingy took over... did they lose all free will? Verty definitely seemed like it, but Neppy-Neppy Gear-Gear sure didn't! She acted more crazy! Y'know, kinda like every waking moment, she was hearing— and talking to— some voices in her head that weren't really there! If that's not suspicious, I dunno what is!" Yeah, got a point there. Keep an eye out: this malicious force can be anywhere, desperately seeking a new host to do its bidding... You can't afford to have anyone else succumb to the madness! ... You and IF are halfway up the staircase... when the battle-hardened veteran's foot stops. You turn around, shooting her a questioning look. "Hmm? What seems to be your hold up?" She bites her lips... and at once, you can guess what she's about to bring up. WHO. "... Cave, we gotta get Lyree first. I-I have to (link:"make sure she's okay!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 17")]](else:)[That's right... H-How could you have forgotten about Lyrica?! You told her to wait patiently in this Basilicom right before... er, leaping out from the top floor. She's probably worried sick about you, sitting on her bed and staring at the ceiling, counting each second that passes... "Worried about YOU, or worried about what you might've done to Iffy?! Teehee~" ... But what is more important: Lyrica's immediate location, or the fate of the universe? IF senses hesitation in your eyes. "Please Cave, I know we gotta get to the throne room as soon as possible, but I... I-I haven't seen her in weeks! Besides, what if that 'Asshole' finds her first?! We have to make sure she's still safe. W-We gotta take her with us!" "Well, Cavey, ya got two sweet options: be a good samaritan and get the girl... aaaaaaand prolly risk the entire planet going bye-bye! Or, do as you've always done and see the job through, no matter what! Sure, you'll be casting aside Fivey's feelings again in exchange for 'keeping her safe'... but eh, it's gotten you this far! So yeah, here's how it goes: follow your all-important orders, oooooor act on pure emotion and find Lyrica first! Are you gonna disobey your duties, Cavey? Remember: if the world is gone, there's no Lyrica anyways!" ... You have an important mission... but you've had plenty of those this past month. And at what cost? Lyrica has grown wary of you, fearing you almost as much as she does Vert. You only had her best interests at heart... but she certainly didn't see it that way! Everything you did to protect her only served to push her away. ... Not anymore. That all changes today! "... You speak soundly, IF. Fine, we shall head to her chambers... but no stalling, understand?!" IF smiles brightly, patting you on the back. You tense up in slight embarrassment. You... still aren't used to this form of friendly 'touching'... "I knew you'd understand, Cave! How 'bout a little race? Last one there has to buy us all lunch after this crap is done!" "... 'Twas a foolish mistake, making that bet! You are on!" Thus, the two of you finish sprinting up the stairs... and turn the wrong way to the throne room. A little detour to Lyrica's room shouldn't endanger the world, right? "You hopin' this will get you on Fivey's good side again? I dunno, Cave; that seems kinda (link:"hopeless at this rate...\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 18")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Cursed castle... It's times like these that you regret allowing Vert to go with this stupid floor plan... AKA, NO floor plan! Damn, that was way back when she WAS sane... Imagine if she reconstructed this Basilicom under the influence of this demonic aberration? Fortunately, you make it to Lyrica's room easily enough, as it's a frequented destination for both of you. Once there, you immediately find the door is... ajar? Unusual for her... Furthermore, you can see a light is on inside. Fivey is very thoughtful about the environment and other such subjects, so if the light is on... she must be inside! You reach your hand to push open the door... when IF suddenly grabs your arm to stop it! "H-Hey! W-W-W-W-Wait, C-Cave!" "... What? Developing cold feet?" "N-No, t-that's not it! Her door's ajar..." the battle-hardened veteran begins, bringing up her thumb to bite her nail. "W-What if she... j-just got out of the shower?! S-She'll be pissed if we walk in on her! Like, h-her towel might drop a-and we might see..." Wow, her voice is getting raspier by the second! Also, your friend's face turns a deep shade of orange... Okay, just kidding: it's red. "... M-MAMMARIES!" ... Is that the perverted word of the day? "... Are you a child?! Why would she shower now anyways?" You have sensed a sort of... change in IF ever since she returned with Vert. Almost as if she's more... sensitive, and not afraid to show it perhaps. Like her pride has taken a backseat to pure raw emotion... Er, AKA, she's probably more prone to sounding like an idiot as the day continues on. "B-Because s-she likes to keep clean! S-She might think she's DIRTY!" You can't see the look on your own face... but IF must see her mortality reflected in your gaze. "... I-I just... I-I dunno!" You sigh. Your hunch is right. "... You worry too much, IF. Clothed or... NOT, she will be glad to see you." Besides, you can't quite... bring yourself to give up the chance of catching a *glorious* sight... so she better do this! To prove a point, you grip the brunette's shoulders and push her towards the open door. "Now just DO IT!" "... Y-You're right! S-Sorry, just a little... stressed out I guess, h-haha!" The battle-hardened veteran takes a sharp breath... before firmly pushing the door open! "L-Lyree, I-I'm back! WE'RE ba- AAAAAAAAHHHHH?!" "(if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[Ha, you made that same sound when I stuck my tongue up your-](else:)[I really wish you'd make sounds like that, Cavey! Teehee... I can think of a few good ways to loosen your vocal cords up~]" Tuning her out, you instantly follow IF inside... right in time for another voice to respond with "AAAAAAAAAHHH!" L-Lyrica?! By God, is she actually naked?! "NYAAAAAAAAHHH?!" No... definitely not naked; the truth is much, much worse! The scene moves too fast to properly process... but you see Lyrica's hair is being tightly gripped by a sinister-looking cloaked figure, a purple braid seeping through its black hood. The pop idol notices the two of you in time to yelp "C-Cave? I-IF?! H-Help...!" "Uh oh!" It is then that your eyes finally land on a *third* figure in the room: a small blonde girl (well, extremely light blonde hair)... floating over a book that's ALSO floating? She sweat-drops the moment you glimpse her. "You guys, uh, aren't... supposed to be here... Awwwwwwwwkwaaaaaaaaaard!" She darts her head towards the tall shrouded figure. "Let's skedaddle, toots! (link:"Take the girlie!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 18")]](else:)["W-WAIT, L-LET HER GO!" IF shouts before flinging a Qatar towards the small flying girl. But alas, with a snap of her fingers, both she, the ominous kidnapper, and Lyrica... are gone?! "... Wow, too crazy for my tastes! Good thing you let me die: all this confusion would've killed me anyways!" ... No, don't just stand there dumbfounded! There... must be some clue as to... Er, okay, so maybe there's no way to find out who those two peculiar individuals were, but... t-they can't have gone far?! You hope?! IF is nearly on the verge of tears; she's beginning to freak out! She runs right over to where Lyrica was once standing, darting her head around like a timid mouse. "L-Lyree, Lyree?! Where'd you go?! H-Hey, b-bring her back! Who the hell..." She searches the room thoroughly, harking true to her proficiencies in treasure hunting. Her eyes and hands hunt everything, from under the bed, to the closet, to inside the bite-sized flowerpot, to even the empty guitarcase! All the while, you stand stock-still, observing the 'crime scene' from right inside the doorway. Who the hell was that? Small, book... Why, if you had to hazard a guess, was that floating girl in some way... related to Histoire? She have a sister you don't know about? A cousin? A pupil? A... lover? Your brain is racing with the possibilities... so when something warm bumps into your nose, you are nearly knocked off balance! "What the...?" Once you focus your eyes, a purple orb surrounded by a black aura floats in front of you for a moment... before shaking and quickly soaring out the door! Your nose kinda tickles... Wait, did that thing just bump into you?! The hell was that, ball lightning?! No... No! Purple... That purple hair braid! And the black aura just makes it all the more obvious that this ethereal sphere... has baleful intentions! The Oracle of Planeptune is capable of some unusual tricks... so this similar-looking 'tome' girl is probably capable of some high-end magic! DEFINITELY capable! You snap your focus to IF... who unfortunately must've missed the whole thing. "L-Lyree... D-Dammit, we were too late! Crap, it's all my f-fault!" There's... only one thing you can do: you walk forward... and backhand the battle-hardened veteran across the cheek! She's silent for a moment, before drooping her arms in acceptance. "... Thanks, Cave... B-But what d-" You raise your hand again. "A-AH, ah! C-Cave, t-that's enough!" She breathes in using some unique pose resembling a yoga master focusing their chi levels. Do yoga masters focus chi? Who cares. "Hyper...Hyperventilating over." "Woo-hoo! That's the way, Cavey! You're so great at dishing out violence! What other solutions to problems do you need?!" Using the same hand that slapped her, you clasp your friend's shoulder. "IF, there is no need yet to panic!" Yeah, one look at her face tells you that's already out the window. If only this room had a proper one. Fools in love... "An orb *literally* just collided with me and flew right by! This might just be a hunch... or some newfound cancer speaking," you attempt to joke. When she doesn't smile, you sulk a bit. What were you expecting, though? Cancer is NO laughing matter! "... but I have a feeling it's important. If we hurry, we can follow it... and find Lyrica." A sarcastic shrug. "Besides, when has chasing colorful balls of light ever led us astray?" She sniffles, but somehow manages to hold back yet another threat of tears. Good, she's learning self-control! "... R-Really? A-A stupid orb? Kinda... cliche... W-Well, yeah, that sounds plot important enough! Let's... make like Nep and catch the glowy-shiny thing!" You quickly stick your head out the door and look both ways. To your left, you immediately see the 'glowy-shiny thing' in question bumping against another door before taking a turn. "This way, IF! (link:"With haste!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 19")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[You give it the greatest chase you can... but the problem is that it doesn't seem to know where it's going. Makes keeping up with it a breeze, but it sure gets frustrating chasing around an unknown ball of light that can't seem to make up its mind, not to mention when it zigs and zags all throughout the maze of a Basilicom! It keeps bumping into every closed door along the way, never managing to open a single one. Peculiarly, though, it never enters the many bedrooms that ARE wide open... so it's at least showing some thought processes. ... Pretty amateurish for a supernatural entity, though. You still try to take this whole situation serious... but even IF starts to get confused, and slows her pace as a result. "So, uh... where's it going?" "No idea. Looks like it's lost." She puffs her cheek. You know she wants to attack the villianous spheroid, but if there's a good chance Lyree is currently a *part of it*, that would be a bad idea. Terrible, terrible idea. "Hmm," you ponder aloud as you run. "A large cloaked figure accompanied by a mysterious girl, possibly a tome fairy such as Histoire... and they took Lyrica hostage for as-of-yet unknown reasons. Now, correct me if I'm wrong, but I do not believe this same entity is the one leading the army outside... though it is very likely they are cooperating. The timing is just right." "Yeah... Somethin' like that. The leader with the sword and horn outside looked less... intimidating, frankly. No blonde girl with her either! So, what's this mean? I know RED said our world could be expecting some... visitors and such, but this many weirdos at ONCE?!" The orb keeps bumping into things, nearly knocking over a small hallway table. Fear coldly settles in on your heart as you come to an obvious realization. "... IF..." You begin to recognize this exact hall... and how the purple ball finally seems to be travelling down a familiar route, albeit with a few hiccups here and there. You took a roundabout way to get here... but you think you can determine the intended destination! "... I... believe we've found our 'Asshole'!" DON'T scrutinize that! Damn, why did RED's phrasing stick? You need a better codename for the villain behind this entire war! "What?! You mean... THE 'Asshole'?! The bub that's STRONGER than Arfoire?! The one who's trying to kill all of us?!" "The very same." IF looks at you incredulously. "Come on, these dweebs? They can't even fly straight!" You both turn into another hall... and you can see a large clearing at the very end. The exact place you were last standing with Lyrica earlier... "These two are our 'ultimate' enemy?! Come on, what're the odds of that?! The 'Asshole' would be interested in the throne of Sharicite, not Fivey! I mean, it's not like the orb is heading..." You make it to the large foyer... and to the right sits the window you smashed through to begin your hunt for IF in the first place. Uh oh... That means, to the left of where you are standing is...! "- STRAIGHT FOR THE (link:"THRONE ROOM!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) (goto:"True Ending Page 19")]](else:)[You and IF stand at the ready as the purple spherule flies into the massive throne room doors... only to bounce right off. "Piece of shit!" There's that small girl's voice again! Another try... and the same result, though this time you can hear an audible 'WHACK!' Ouch, you could feel that from here! Disgruntled, the orb of light vibrates like one of Chika's super-secret 'Share detectors'... and boom, Lyrica is standing before you, along with the other two complete strangers! The book girl continues. "... I hate these frikkin' things! Remind me to find the bastard who invented doors and shove a morning star up his keyhole!" The much-taller hooded figure nods, still holding the pop idol by the hair. Lyrica wriggles in protest. "W-What do you want from me?! L-Let me go! I'm getting mad!!!" From this close distance and since her back is turned, you can finally get a better look at the pop idol's kidnapper! The girl's frazzled hair is a very-light blonde color, and her skin is somewhat tanned. Furthermore, she wears a black dress with some ornate red and white designs detailing the fabric... though she doesn't appear to realize she's dressed fancy. This must simply be her casual wear... Unusual. Perhaps most notable of all, by the way, are her blue and purple wings... which all but confirms her identity as a fairy! Is Histoire familiar with her? Come on, she's also hovering over a purple and pink book; she HAS to be a fellow tome fairy! After all, the only two magical books you know apart from this newcomer are Histoire... and the non-sentient(?) cheat tome that the Yellow Bandanas wielded, 'The Crucial Codes' or whatever they called it. THAT book most certainly did not house a living being... as far as you know, granted. Where DID that thing wind up? "Okay, Bitchy-Mc-Skank!" The floating creature begins to prod at Lyrica, making you fume! "Time to work your door-openin' magic! Like, right now! No, like five SECONDS AGO! Use a 'Bardic Knock' spell or whatever your 'kind' does; just help a gal out! There's cupcakes for people who listen... and forced castrations for those who don't!" The figure tightens its hold on the pop star's hair, but the idol doesn't relent! "C-Castrations...? No, I refuse either way! T-There's no way I'd help you!" "Urgh, I hate the stubborn ones; they just won't go down!" The tome fairy then tries another angle... by tugging on her own collar?! "... I don't like to resort to such *shameful* acts... but if I got no choice..." She trails off slowly before closing the distance between her and Lyrica's l-l-lips?! "Blue chick..." Gulp! "... Please?" "NO!" "Dammit! Whelp, can't say I didn't try!" The foul-mouthed fairy wipes her palm over her face... and you've just about had enough of her antics! You and IF tap your feet against the marble... and her ears perk up, forcing her to turn around. "... Oh, dammit! I thought I told you to... Actually, I didn't say... Aw hell, just go away! Can't you see I'm trying to open a door? Unless you wanna help? Be my guests!" Lyrica doesn't even look frightened by the time she sees you both; in fact, she just kinda looks pissed at her hostage status. She tries to call out... but a gloved hand covers her mouth. Grrr... Disgusting brutes! IF speaks before you can. "... Okay, what the hell is going on?! Who are you?! Ohoho-boy, and I swear, if you don't let Fivey go right now..." She grips her Qatars... but you motion with a nudge of your head for her to lower them. The brunette begrudgingly complies... but doesn't keep quiet so easily! "... W-Well, I-I'll introduce ya to my... fists!" (link:"Just stop talking.")[(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="basilicomTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 20")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 7 BGM- Unnerving Eeriness.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The 'not-Histoire' looks at IF blankly for a few good seconds... before utterly losing herself in a cackle worthy of a swamp witch! "Nyehahahaha! Holy crap, you're serious?! Shit, you are! Pffffffft! Nevermind, PLEASE stay! I haven't laughed this hard in awhile!" "W-Why you...!" IF hisses, bringing up her fist... but again, you hold her back. The tome fairy can't stop grinning. "In all seriousness, though... I already know where those hands have been, so no thank ya, I don't need your muck-covered fingers rubbing all over me!" She turns to you next. "Speakin' of which... how's it feel that THIS runt scored a homerun with Miss Blue Chick here before YOU even got up to bat with anyone?!" "Ooh, that's low! Smack her real hard, Cavey! Smash her skull!" Just keep calm; you're above such childish games. "... So it appears you have at least some passing familiarity with us... but we have none with you. It's thusly fair for you to tell us your name... and what it is you are seeking." "Y-Yeah, and let Fivey go!" Your presumed enemy shakes her head. "You want me to just tell you my name right off the bat? How is that fun?" A sneaky smirk crawls onto her face, twisting your insides. This... girl is not normal, clearly. She acts so... foolish and sarcastic, but you've never... felt this kind of energy before! RED WAS right: this girl may be stronger than Arfoire! Is she... really the one behind the entire war? "Hmm, but y'know what DEFINITELY isn't fun? Losing your stomachs! So, kudos to you guys; your insides weren't gouged out today like they were supposed to be! Kekeke, there's always tomorrow I guess~!" IF's face flares red with frustration, and her knives instinctively fall from her sleeves into her fists. However, she restrains herself without your intervention. "So we've heard! But enough about us; we want YOU!" "Tch, you ARE such a dweeb! Be REAL careful with how you word certain things, Not-Toots!" Yeah, there goes the brunette's temper again. "... Buuuuuuuuuuuut fine! I take it you won't lemme sneak on through until I oblige ya, right?" Clap clap! "Strap in, bitches, 'cause you're in (link:"for a ride!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 20")]](else:)[You already survived RED's explanation today... but will you be able to handle this exposition dump? "If ya get bored, just think about me, Cavey! Well, me or... blowing this chick's head off!" The twisted tome fairy interlaces her fingers... and winks straight at you. "Who am I? Wow... Y'know, I don't get asked this a lot?! How should I... Hmmm..." She's gonna drag this out, all at your expense. Oh well, at least the longer she does this, the longer it'll take for her to destroy the world. Unless her friends break through the Leanbox forces... Er, happy thoughts, happy thoughts. "... Alright! Whelp... the name's Croire! I'm just a soul whose intentions are good! I travel across galaxies, visit lots of places, play lots of games, revel in wanton destruction... In other words, I'm a big bundle of fun!" Croire? Hist-'oire'? Once again, as soon as you are about to voice the obvious... IF does the job for you! "... 'Croire', huh? You kinda remind me of a friend of ours... in some sick way... You know Histoire? You two lovers or something? You her ex?" "You're slipping, Cavey! Seems Iffy can pick up all the slack at this point... Does she even need you anymore?" At the brunette's inquiry, Croire's eyebrows flatten. "Histoire? Her ex? BLEH! Don't make me puke! I'd rather date my own... puke!" That's some answer. "I'll forget you even joked about that... Anyhow, as for why I'm here? Easy: I was surfing the good ole cross-dimensional stratosphere, just passing through a random world or fifty... when holy schmoley cannoli with a gugusch on top! I flew by this universe... and I sensed that everything was going to complete shit! Woo, how could I stay away? And it's a good thing I came; I LOVE this place!" Before IF or Chika can say something, you speak up, crossing your arms in the process. "... You made your way here BECAUSE of the chaos?" You jab your thumb towards the still-unidentified hooded entity. "This a friend of yours, too? What's the story behind them?" "Nyehehe... My buddy here is a bit, er, complicated..." the tome chatters, rubbing her cheek with a lone index finger. Is... that all she's going to give you on that? "But yeah, to your original question: OF COURSE! Chaos rocks! I'm kinda a harbinger of it, in fact! It, uh, it gets me off, yeah." Is she... saying what you think she's saying? How... repulsive? "Don't be so surprised: you two aren't all that different! Can't you feel it? I can (link:"feel it, Cavey.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 21")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Keep her talking; you fear what will happen when she's finished. If this means egging her on, then it's a necessary evil. "... It gets you... off?" Croire shrugs. "Why ya gotta make it sound so dirty? Ain't nothing wrong with my tastes! You have a problem, go pay the internet a visit; there's people who will draw *ANYTHING*!" She sticks her tongue out at IF beside you. "Think you're a sack of innocence? Well, I already know that 'blue hair' flips YOUR switch right on! Aaaaaaaaaaaaand-" Your friend's cheeks turn a bright pink as the tome turns to you next. What fun. "- legs get YOUR 'motorboat' running, don't they?" T-THEY DO N-NOT!!! "So yeah, we all have our kinks! I love love LOVE chaos..." The peculiar girl licks the tip of her thumb... er, before pointing the wet digit for the throne room doors? "... and nyehehe, there's a LOT of chaos in this here throne room! Hence why I totes want to get in there!" "Is it true what she said about you, Cave? Guess that would explain a few things... Anyways, this girl seems nice enough; what's the problem with letting her in? She just wants to have fun! Aren't YOU fun?" IF looks at you from the corner of her eye... and you can tell a plan is hatching in her head. After today, let's hope nothing else ever 'hatches' inside either of your heads. You stand idly by and watch as the battle-hardened veteran takes a few disarming steps forward. "W-Wow, small world; WE love chaos too! H-Heh, yep, can't get anough of that chaos!" 'Enough'... Dear lord, she's stumbling over her words. What's she trying to pull? "Hey, here's an idea: you let Lyree go and kindly float aside... and me and Cave can enter the throne room and cause all the chaos your little heart can handle?!" The fairy skeptically glowers at you both, so you nod once to show your firm support for the plan. She turns to the hooded figure— who is still covering Lyrica's annoyed mouth— and receives no audible answer. Can that thing even talk? "That cloaked thing is standing so tall and strong... just like the new Vert! Don't you want to be as strong as her, Cave? To stop anyone else from dying? I wasn't the first you failed... and I sadly won't be the last." A laugh suddenly startles you out of your thoughts! "Haha! Yeeeeeeeeah... I can TELL you want the chaos in this throne room almost as much as *I* do!" She... sticks her pinky up her tiny nose for a few uncomfortable seconds? Ugh... You turn away to admire the foyer's elegant wall design instead. It's by now that you realize you can hear no fighting coming from outside, even though there's a smashed window allowing easy access for your ears. You are about to remark on this, when the unladylike crazed fairy fishes out whatever she needed to... and flings it across the hall?! Her now-sullied finger wags at you and IF demeaningly. "That was a nice one!... Oh yeah! But I'm afraid I can't let you get to that Sharicite (link:"before I do!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 21")]](else:)["What?! A-And why not?!" IF shouts, suffering every second Lyrica is held against her will. "I like chaos... and I like when chaos causes people discomfort and shit!" Stop that incessant wagging! "But you two... you need to get to that throne for something REAL important! You're nearly leapin' outta yer britches to blow right past me! You don't just want this chaos; you NEED this chaos!" She's smirking again; she thinks she's in complete control. For all you know, she might be. "Chaos has to cause harm! Ruin lives, kill suckers, burn down orphanages! So, what fun is it if EVERYONE wants the chaos?! Embraces it?! Takes a damn bath in it?!" You're losing her again... "Fool, it's pretty obvious! Pull your head out of your own ass for once, Cave!" Croire continues with another snicker. "You two aren't hardcore enough to want mass chaos for negative purposes! Not many really even are! Such a shame... But yeah, why do I want total death and destruction? I'm an ASSHOLE!" That... wording... confirms your suspicions! You were expecting this, but... you stand even more alert than before anyways. "Only asses want to spread chaos... and I can tell you two are total 'zeroes' on the 'Ass' scale." A pause, before her eyes widen... and t-trail down your body?! "Whoopsies, mispoke there! I caught a glimpse earlier of what you're packin'... Heh, sorry, you're DEFINITELY not a 'zero'!" What is she talking abo- H-Hey, wait?! Instinctively, you cover your derrière from this sexual harrassment professional. "I meant 'Ass-HOLE' scale! 'Asshole' scale!" IF stands aloof throughout this entire speech... and you catch her eyes slowly venturing to your backside. You bare your fangs, nearly hissing to bring her focus back to the topic at hand. "... E-Er, w-we don't have any idea what you're talking about! W-We are TOTAL assholes, y-yeah! I, uhm, I-I stabbed a guy with one of my Qatars today!" "Heh, yeah: those wimpy little baby toys are TOTALLY hardcore! They don't even penetrate; just hit ya with a shock that wouldn't even fry my grandma's midriff! Hmmm... Do I HAVE a grandm- Bah, that's not important!" She throws her arms into the air. "You're still just trying to be 'heroes' and all that useless crap... You guys know you were supposed to die today, cause that's what fate decided for ya! Can't fight fate! Oh, but wait... what occurs when fate is utterly screwed in the bum? CHAOS! Chaos is what will save your lives, save the world, save everything! Make things *normal* again! Any idiot can see why you'd want that... But, tell me this: if you need chaos to restore order... then won't causing more of this 'chaos' be the same as causing more 'order'?!" IF glances your way again, and you can only shrug. You can kind of see what this cretin is getting at... and it's nothing good. "... Er, come again?" Croire clicks her tongue a few times, almost as if she's reciting a song with her unpleasant sounds. Is that a disco beat? "I let you in, you create chaos... which is what you want! If you want the chaos, and you're not an asshole— and you guys AREN'T assholes!— then this chaos becomes order, not chaos! So, whatchuz really want is order, which you'll make from chaos! Fate, otherwise known as the script, is order; defying it is chaos! You want defiance to rewrite the script! (link:"Boom: order!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 22")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[An annoyed vein throbs on the battle-hardened veteran's forehead. She looks... somewhat lost. Not that you are too much better, but... "... Dammit, your point?!" "Nyehehe... Order is NOT what I want! So, your brand of 'chaos'... isn't up my alley at all! What IS up my alley, though, is stopping you from spreading chaos... and instead making you gargle on the shitty helpin' of fate you've been served!" She crosses her arms and smiles, looking like a proud queen of the jungle. "I'm gonna cause ORDER!" She garners no immediate reaction from either of you; your minds are so overloaded with repeated references to chaos and order and midriffs to know just what the hell she's fully going on about. However, IF eventually once again picks up the slack. Maybe she... doesn't have any use for you, if all you can do is stand here and provide nothing of worthwhile note... "Order? Okay...? Meaning...?" Croire sighs. "... Which is bad." "... T-That's terrible!" Bad indeed; for everyone out there who is like IF and can barely keep up, Croire is basically saying that she's going to stop you from saving the world... purely because she's an asshole. You always find the winners, don't you? "... So what specifically are you planning to do?" "Well, DUH! Ruin your lives, silly!" the dark tome fairy shouts gleefully, gripping the edges of her book as she rocks back and forth. "I get to that super-powered Sharicite, work a little of my Booky-Magic— TRADEMARKED!—... aaaaaaaaand then I retcon your whole frikkin' world!" Okay, that sounds clear-as-day!!! With a snap of her fingers... she's suddenly wearing sunglasses? "I'll revert all those 'correct' decisions you made to screw up the script, you'll all die HORRIBLE deaths, and I'll be chompin' on enchiladas over your rundown, unlabeled tombstones!" She brings her new glasses down the bridge of her nose, shooting a sleazy grin at your friend. "Which is bad." "I-I can figure THAT much!" IF shakes her head, her brown har flinging around. A few specks of water splash you; God, the rain will be a part of you for weeks! If the world HAS any weeks left. "... S-Some big talk for a runt, by the way! Truly classic! You're gonna use magic to reverse time? To ERASE our CURRENT selves?! That's crazy talk! H-Heh, I'd like to see you try: you can't even pull open a dang door!" Anger shines through Croire's blue eyes... and her shades melt away. "... Say that AGAIN, bitch! I'll show you who the real RUNT I-" BOOM!!!!! W-What the...?! The throne room doors suddenly explode off their hinges, nearly whacking the tome fairy and her cloaked friend in the back. You and IF crouch down to take cover... and when the dust settles in, a womanly figure steps out from inside. "... Holy...! T-That actually worked! I... I have made it! My teleportation finally succeeded... If only my army hadn't given up and betrayed me instantly, I would've breached sooner... but no, fretting on those fools is useless! This moment... marks my (link:"glorious triumph!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.fade(0,500);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="uninvitedTrack.fade(.5,1500);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 22")]](else:)[That voice! T-The same one from outside! A-And in her hand is... G-Gehaburn?! You suspected she was wielding that when she ordered her army to attack, but Nepgear ALSO had the same blade by her unconscious side! How could there be... two Gehaburns? The unknown third party has abandoned her cloak since the last time you saw her... and in her place is a pale woman clad in an immodest witch outfit. She suddenly laughs in total victory... and the voice rings quite a few memory bells for you. From the final battle with ASIC several years ago... when you and the CPUs confronted the Deity of Sin... Still next to you, IF's eyes also widen in recollection. However, she seems even MORE familiar with this individual! "... A-Arfoire?! C-Crap!" "... Hmm?" the Devil utters, bringing her laughter to a close. She takes a look around the populated lobby... and realizes for the first time that she's not alone. "... Y-You fools are not supposed to be... here..." Croire rolls her eyes. "Heya, Arfy... Nice sword ya got there! You've upgraded since the last time we met!" The Deity of Sin cocks an unsure eyebrow. "Do I... know you? What, are you Histoire's crapped-out lover?" The chaotic fairy completely tunes her out and instead goes back to addressing you two wide-eyed souls. "Don't think I can pull off reversing your world, eh? Here, watch this!" With an inappropriate amount of artistic flair, the small girl brings up her right hand... and snaps her fingers yet again. However, instead of sunglasses appearing from the ether, the distinctive noise of glass shattering— similar to when time unfroze earlier— echoes throughout the hall. "W-Wha...?!" Arfoire's horrified voice next reaches you... and shockingly, Gehaburn now lies in pieces at her feet?! Reduced to nothing... all in the blink of an eye! Just what are you dealing with?! "Don't wory, Arfy," Croire begins, rubbing the space directly beneath her nose. Another snap... and whoosh, the cursed sword is whole again?! "There, all better! Haha, thanks for being such an obedient bitch!" You hear IF gulp... or was that you? "See what I did to that 'powerful' sword just now? Well, if I add a few Gigawatts of Sharicite... who knows what wonders I can work on the universe! Ta-Ta!" She frowns over at her still-shrouded friend. "... What, you still haven't gotten rid of Blue Chick yet? We only needed her for these doors... but Arfy already saved us the trouble! Move it, toots!" With that, the cloaked entity pushes Lyrica towards IF... and follows the tome into (link:"Vert's royal chamber!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 23")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[The pop idol falls safely into the battle-hardened veteran's arms. "F-Fivey, you alright?! D-Did they hurt you? W-What about your shower?! A-ARE YOU CLEAN?!" Not THAT again! You whack the brunette on the head and speak up. "Lyrica... I know you may have a lot of questions right now, bu-" "Only one: do you two... still hate each other?" ... Eh? Even after this whole tiring and head-explodingly-perplexing ordeal... she still simply wants you and IF to be... friends again. To that... you can't help but smile like an idiot. "... No. I... I'm sorry for ever making you worry, Lyrica... From now on-" You pull a flustered brunette close to you, as if about to engage in a three-legged race. "- we are on the same page. We'll stop at nothing to put a quick end to this war, believe me. "... Yeah, Fivey. Cave and I are back on the same page, yep!" For the first time in a month... the angelic pop idol shows you her beautiful smile... and you realize she's actually relieved that you're here! "Why is she?" "I-I... Thank goodness! Finally, some good news today! When you jumped out the window— NEVER do that again, by the way— I was worried sick some other horrible thing was about to happen!" Faster than you can blink, you find yourself wrapped in a hug. "... Don't you dare scare me again, Cave! Y-You're more important to me than you know. Important to everyone!" "HA! Unlikely!" "L-Lyrica..." Such a caring soul... Even after all this, she doesn't hate you! That... nearly brings a tear to your eye! Such splendid innocence... Such mercy! "Mercy you don't deserve... Cave." "... Thank you... I promise, I'll... never cause you trouble again." "Good! If you said no, I swear I'd bonk you! After being kidnapped by two lunatics, I just want today to be over..." IF rubs her lover's hair. "Heh, us too... but we might have one more fight on our hands, Fivey... Just bear with us a little longer, 'k?" She brings her lips in close... and the brunette and blunette share a kiss right in front of you. They... are so happy together. Such a fool you are; this whole time... you've actively sought an end to their relationship! Jealousy nearly led to you murdering your friend! Well... from now on, jealousy crosses your heart no more! Not even a sliver! You can see now that IF and Lyrica are made for each other... and you have no qualms with that. No, instead... you simply feel... somewhat empty on the inside. Seeing their love and affection brings up certain feelings of... loneliness, and... l-longing... They share a love YOU shall... never share with... another... ... B-But hey, there's no more ill-feelings towards your friends, a-at least! "What, giving up?! That's no good, Cave! If you were like VERT, you could have power AND Lyrica! Hell, you could still have ME!" She's... not wrong... W-Wait, what are you... t-thinking...? As the three of you finish making up and look to stop Croire from possibly utterly wiping out all of existence as you know it... a deep feminine voice clears her throat. Oh... you forgot there was someone else here. "E-Excuse me! I-I refuse to be ignored! Bow down before my might! Don't you know (link:"who I am?!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 23")]](else:)[Lyrica's eyes are closed as she smiles blissfully... but after the voice speaks, her entire face darkens. W-What in the world...? Like a demon possessed, the idol rotates her head slowly in Arfoire's direction... and at once, her eyelids snap open! S-Shit, s-she looks... "P-Pissed?!" IF inexplicably finishes your thought. Even the Deity of Sin is thrown off by this look of utter hatred. "... U-Um..." Wow... she's been reduced to sheer mumbling! The blue-haired angel's fists clench... and she jabs her right hand for the throne room. "I have HAD it with people ordering me around! I... It's PISSING ME OFF!" O-Oh my?! "Cave, Iffy, you run off and save the day; I'LL handle THIS bitch!" From behind her long hair, Lyrica pulls out... her guitar?! Okay, seriously: how the hell does THAT work?! "L-Lyree, w-we're not leaving you alone wi-" IF begins... but when the pop idol begins angrily strumming, she completely gives up and steps towards the door. "D-Damn... B-Be safe, alright!" A tight clasp on your shoulder snaps you right back to attention. "... She'll be fine, Cave; I'm more worried about Arfoire... Er, oh yeah, WHY is she here?!" "Does it matter?! Just shrug and charge blindly forward, Cave! That's all you seem to be good for." Dammit... W-What's... going... on? You were doing... so... well earlier...! "... No time for that; we've already wasted enough as it is! We must stop Croire, NOW!" "... Y-Yeah, s-sorry! C-Crap, Lyree just kinda takes all my focus away sometimes, y'know?" "Fool! Allowing herself to be distracted by 'feelings'... That's never stopped you before, has it?" S-Stop...! Why does your... h-head hurt... so much? She's... getting... louder? Tune it out, tune it out, tune it out... You make it through where the doors used to be, leaving Lyrica and the Deity of Sin behind. Don't look back... You have a job to do! The villain behind these entire atrocities awaits! For possessing Vert, for driving Nepgear mad, for starting this horrible conflict, for spreading all this 'chaos', for killing your friends, for making you into a monster, for showing you just how HORRIBLE and USELESS you are... ... And for taking Chika from your life. For making you lose the most important friend you've ever had; you'll EVER have! It's time for revenge. "Still going to try? You are just going to screw up again... It would be easier to simply let go. Give up. Give in." ... I-It's time to (link:"end this!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="uninvitedTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 24")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Withdrawal.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You are now IF... "Freeze, Croire!" you shout, pointing a decisive finger for the devious tome. The short girl hurls up her arms like a frustrated Italian, and she unenthusiastically turns around to address you. Whew, she still seems to be studying the throne; the Sharicite must not be responding as easily as she had hoped! "We don't want to fight ya; it's not in our nature to challenge weaker opponents! But if you leave us no choice, then..." "Then WHAT?!" she hisses, nearly losing her temper. That's... kinda creepy. "Okay, like, I actually warned you already to stay out of my way! That's... well, a thousand times more than I've EVER done! So what's your hold up? Didn't you enjoy my little explanation?" "No!" She rolls her eyes. "Dumbass stupid skanky bitch! Do you REALLY think you stand a CHANCE against me? I have more magic in my pinky finger than you have cells in your shittin' body!" You retract six Qatars as a show of confidence, and Cave does the same with her twin blades. Hmm... something seems off about her? You detected it right after you caught Lyrica: your friend... well, doesn't seem a hundred percent anymore, y'know? Is she... getting tired? Either way, Croire doesn't give a hoot about your problems! "... So you really wanna do this? Fine... Guess it's time to introduce ya'll to my little friend... Yeah, I could've made a reference, but that's not HOW I ROLL!" Her cloaked friend, eh? Certainly not a talkative one. "Heh, fine, alright! We'll take ya both if we have to!" you laugh. After seeing Lyrica again, you're completely reinvigorated! Wholeheartedly inspired! "Lose the robes, bub!" "Grrr... Just you wait; this is the BIGGEST mistake you'll ever make! The LAST mistake, even!" She claps her small hands. Gotta hand it to her, she can make pretty loud sounds! "Been champing at the bit to test this baby out anyways! Do it; prove to me you were worth the trouble it took to mold you!" W-What the hell does that imply?! The figure simply nods its hooded face... before gripping its zipped-up chest and *heaving* the robes clean off, resembling a bad-ass from a kungfu movie! "... N-No way...?!" H-How the... hell?! T-This is... This is Nep?! W-Well, her head at least; she looks EXACTLY like Purple Heart's HDD state! The outfit, though... Hoo boy, where to start? For one, you can barely see any skin on her... which is already enough to make your mind implode. Instead of her usual skin-tight attire, she wears otherworldly Feudal Japanese-inspired dark-gray steel armor plating, adorned with orange engravings of fire over the chest. Pure black feathers sprinkle about her collar, a chainmail cuisse guards her precious thighs, and iron faulds offer protection to her wide hips. Add to that her intimidating sabatons, spaulders, and vambraces... and she is clearly ready to go to war! ... This isn't your Nep; there's DEFINITELY no way! In fact, she looks more like a puppet... Is she from another world, or a mere fake? One way or another, the point is clear: Croire has the power to control *A* Purple Heart. Whether she's the real deal is irrelevant. Cave grips her shears tight, almost as if she's afraid she'll drop them. "... If you hope to render us helplessly confused, I'm afraid you'll be highly disappointed!" "Nyehehehe... Still actin' so tough..." Croire chuckles, floating over to pat Neptune on the top of the head. "This bitch here is MY bitch! Only the elite of the elite can ever face her in combat, so feel PRIVILIGED, you dopes!" Her hand raises in the air... and you and Cave nod at each other in complete respect. Side-by-side, you shall combat this threat... and save not only Leanbox, not only Gamindustri... but the entire dang universe! "Okily Dokily! On your marks... Get set!... THBPBPTHPT! Ha, (link:"AS IF!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 24")]](else:)[{ <audio src="MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The tease! "The hell?! Why the... heck not?!" Croire pumps her small chest out and pokes herself with her thumb. "Cuz! I need to do one last check to see if you are really worthy of staining my masterpiece's sword!" Cave's right eyebrow raises... and you can tell by her flushed face that she's not doin' so hot. She wasn't... hiding an injury from her fight with Gear, was she? No, can't be; there's no blood! "... Bring it on! We can... handle anything you throw at us!" "Teh! I like yer tenacity! Oh, wait, no I DON'T!" She suddenly threatens to snap her fingers again. This should be comedic... but she can crumple creepy swords with her digits! "Your final test before the big showdown: survive having your brains scambled!" ... H-Huh?! Crap, she snapped her fingers as decisively as ever! Not your brain, not your... Wait, huh... You don't feel anything? Is... that it? Ha, that's pretty funny! Her 'powerful spell' must've completely bounced off of you! "What, your magic juice ran out or something? My brain's still completely intact!" "Kekekekeke... Just wait, ya spoiled shithead!" Wait for what? You are still standing, as is Cave... What is supposed to be happeni- "... G-Gck!" E-Eh, C-Cave?! W-Why is she clutching her chest?! "... D-Dah? Wh..." Is she having a freakin' heart attack?! S-Shit, catch her; she's going down! Croire breaks out into a heinous cackle, applauding the scene before her. "Ding ding ding, we have a WINNER!" The SMD warrior, eyes tightly shut, collapses to her knees, and you support her as best you can! "W-What are you doing to her?!" A sickeningly-vile grin. "Just thinnin' the herd! With a snap of my fingahs, I can turn anyone with weak wills into slimy mush! Like, their heads will melt and everything! I learned it after several thousand years of traveling. Things get boring fast when you're an immortal asshole, so you adapt your magic to fit yer tastes!" Cave groans at the intense pain, and one hand does indeed helplessly grasp her forehead. "C-Cave, h-hang in there! S-Stop this, PLEASE!" W-What do you do?! W-Why's this happening?! "Why would I do that?! It's HER fault she's so pathetic! She's just like Big Tits and that crazy purple-haired chick!" So she DOES know Vert and Nepgear! "Your buddy here has basically lost the will to live! She's not STRONG enough to fight me, haha!" The tome snaps her fingers again, summoning a rock... which she flings for your skull?! You dodge by shifting your neck just in time! "Dammit! YOU must not be affected by this... because you're so frikkin' thickheaded! You can't possibly have any qualms about yourself, cuz you aren't capable of THINKING! HER, though? Phew, she's ALL KINDS of messed up! Like, WACKO! I wouldn't trust her with my hypothetical children, that's for sure!" N-No, Cave...! T-This can't be true! D-Damn it, why must she be so stubborn and never tell you what's going on?! Vert was easily possessed because of her depression, and the same story must apply to Nepgear as well! That should've been the end of it... ... But Cave was just as troubled as they were. She's had to deal with so much this past month... and as icing on the cake, she lost Chika. Her best friend— no, her EVERYTHING! Of COURSE she'd be at risk for this stupid villain! Her head must've been driving her completely mad... Dammit, you should've seen this coming! Harking back to the earlier ordeal with Vert... all you can do is encourage your friend to not give in. NEVER give in! "C-Cave! P-Please hang on! Follow my voice! D-Don't do this, Cave! Y-You're stronger than this! Cave! CAVE!" "Nyehahahaha.... (link:"HAHAHAHAHAHA!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 25")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{ (savegame: "A", "The OTHER Troubled One") }USELESS! FOOL! MONSTER! WEAKLING! CAVE! ...? Hm...? What... happened...? Where are you? ... Pure darkness surrounds you... W-Wait, is this...? Did you...? CRASH! From the abyss above, a small beam of illumination shines down, reminiscent of a film studio spotlight. The room is still pitch-black, save for this one small section. A glossy wooden floor lies underneath... That's not what you were expecting! ... Is the light inviting you? Should you trust it?... Oh well, what else do you have to lose? You find your legs heading towards the lit-up floor, though you can't exactly feel yourself touching the ground. It's almost as if you're hovering. You embrace the light's warmth... and nothing. Where's IF? Croire? Neptune? Lyrica? Arfoire? Anyone? Why are you... alone? "Alone..." The words feel cold coming from your lips. Like a harsh truth making itself known. You've always known that it'd end up this way: you on your own, with no friends or allies. However, when you and IF made up, you began to... who knows, feel worthwhile again? Like, maybe your life wasn't meant for simply pointless failures and lonely nights and violent streaks. Perhaps... there'd be hope for you yet! ... But alas, here you are; trapped in sheer nothingness. An icy chill runs over your practically-bare drenched flesh; so, the hellish rain even followed you here! A... fitting punishment. ... So... your story... ends... here... "Not so fast, Cavey! That'd be a crummy ending, (link:"wouldn't it?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="chikaMainTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 OST- Longing.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 25")]](else:)[Your back freezes up instantly at the surprise voice! W-What? But there's no... "... C-Chika?!" You turn around... and sure enough, lit up by yet another spotlight is your best friend... er, sitting at a grand piano? The Oracle grins like an oaf, beaming wide enough to make her cheeks look like a hungry squirrel's! "What? Ya look like you've seen a ghost, Cavey! Here-" She pats the spot beside her on the piano bench. "- take a seat! Practice with me!" "P-Practice...?" You can't object; you carefully walk up to the massive musical instrument and wipe the small wooden pew off before taking a seat. "... Chika, is... this real? Are y-you real?" It is then that you fully notice her head... and while she's still as beautiful as ever, something's missing: her... twin bow! Your friend suddenly wraps her arm around you, sliding you over until your backsides are brushing against each other! "Gosh, I sure hope so! Heck yeah, I'm real! YOU'RE real! This place? As real as that beauty mark on yer butt!" "N-Not now, Chika! T-This is no time for joking around!!!" That's just like her! She and proper timing have never mixed. "You're... You're dead. I... I watched you..." "Yep, I kicked the good ol' bucket..." The hug becomes tighter, her warmth radiating up your legs. "... which I guess means... so did you." "I'm... dead...?" You had suspected as much... but the answer still kinda hurts. Another smile; despite the news, how can you be afraid when this goofball is staring back at you? "Everyone dies sometime, kiddo." A silent moment lasts... before your friend immediately bursts out into laughter. "Haha, nailed it! Even dead, I can STILL recite my favorite TV shows! Ah... If only Mom could see me now!" For that, you nudge the Oracle hard in the ribs. "Does NOTHING have gravity to you?! Unbelievable..." "Y-Yowch! Geez, you've still got it... Well, why bother getting worried about things? I'm dead!" You shake your head. Admit it, you were already missing this! "That's... Grr! So... how did I (link:"die, anyways?\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 26")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Chika doesn't answer right away; instead, she cracks her knuckles, sticks out her tongue... and presses down on a piano key. "E-E-F-G-G-F-E-D-C-C-D-E-E... D-...**F**?! Gah, my hand slipped!" She puffs out her right cheek in annoyance... before regaining focus. "... Anyways, I wasn't there, but... you always were one to dwell on things too hard, Cavey. I reckon... it finally caught up with you." "Dwelling, eh?" That... makes sense. You ARE more like Vert and Nepgear than you realized! You drove yourself mad... and lost your will to live... Well, at least you died before Croire or whoever could possess you like those two. ... But the reason you gave up... is currently sitting right beside you. By now, she's turned back to you... and a slight concerned frown crosses her lips as she realizes what you're about to say. "Chika... I-I'm sorry-" "DON'T you dare, Cave! I'm tryin' to perfect my craft right now!" Another stretch of her hands, and she tries a different tune. "G#-C#-E G#-C#-E... A-C#-E-E-Aaaa... Dangit, and how am I supposed to do it with TWO hands simultaneously?! This is too tough, Cavey!" "... Chika, t-this is serious! I'm... sor-" "SHUSH!" She flicks the sheet music over to a new page. "THAT'S your problem, Cavey! You take everything way too seriously! Haven't I told ya this time and time and time and TIME again?! You being all mopey and apologetic is exactly how you got here! Sometimes you hafta let loose and have FUN!" 'B-A-F-D B-A-F-D B-A-F-D C-B-F-C!!!' "Look, gah! You made me play out of tune!" This woman. "... Were you ever IN TUNE?!" "Ha, more than you, Missy Mopers! Here, you wanna try?!" Chika relents access to the piano's keys... and you shrug. "Sure... I am much more ambidextrous than you!" But as your fingers attempt to line up with the correct notes... you realize you couldn't read sheet music if your life depended on it. Good thing you're already dead, right? Still, your friend is watching you intently... so give it your all! "... Let's go back to the other one..." Flick! Crap, 'number' signs? Or is it a 'pound' sign? A hash?! The hell's it mean?! "Okay... E-Easy enough." N-Neh, her mug refuses to stop smirking! Y-You can't concentrate! "G#-C#?... E-" F!!! "D-Damn thing!" Silence fills the dark expanse after your failure... until the Oracle suddenly throws her head back, her hair swatting you in the face as she breaks down laughing like a maddened hyena! What's so... d-damn... f-funny...?! N-No, d-don't start laughing too!!! S-So... c-childish! "W-WOW, we both *suck* at this!" "H-Haha, i-indeed (link:"we do!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 26")]](else:)[From there, the chortling evolves into rampant guffaws, and you and Chika soon hold onto each other tight as your lungs struggle for more air. Your limbs practically wrap up in one another, and your cheeks can't help but brush in your fit of jovial frenzy! You two haven't laughed together like this in a long time; not since Vert *changed* on that mountain, at least. A whole month without this pure bliss... How did you ever manage? The Oracle feels so soft in your arms... So soft, so warm, so... right! Her hair smells as flawless as it did before all the woes and strife of your current lives came to be. Hmm... well, your 'past' lives now, right? God, who cares about semantics; you simply can't get ENOUGH of this feeling! Reunited with the closest friend you've ever had, your spirits lift... and your heart once again beats with an emotion other than loss and betrayal and sadness and whatever the hell else you felt earlier today! Leanbox? War? Basilicom? Guilt? What are those? They're of no concern to you any longer; you and Chika are... free. ... The giggling soon subsides... and you find yourself trailing a strand of hair away from Chika's almond-red eyes. "... Chika..." "Teehee... Wanna take this to the dance floor, Cavey?" Hmm? That some new age slang you're unfamiliar with or something? "... D-Dance... floor?" "Yeah! Check this out!" The Oracle claps her hands over her head, and another loud crash sounds as the darkness gives way to... a brightly lit grand ballroom? The afterlife sure is... surprising. "Found this nifty little place! Shame that the Basilicom never had a hall like this!" Her palm lands on your knuckle. "... Gets boring here though, being all alone, y'know? I totally need a band! Me on the piano; Fivey on guitar; Iffy on, hmm, I dunno, drums? And you... Ah! I envision either backing guitar, or a saxophone! Maybe... Gah, your fingers would work wonders with all of them!" ... What's she going on about? "... What does this have to do wit-" "So anyways, until that day, we won't have any music... but, uh, you still wanna try and... y'know, 'boogie' down?" ... Hmph! She asks it as if it was even a choice! As if YOU weren't about to suggest the same thing! You take hold of her hand... before bringing it to your lips. This is... rather embarrassing, but it feels kinda natural by this point. You're dead; what use is fear and hesitation? "May I have this dance, Chika?" Is that a blush you see? W-Wow... I-If she keeps like that, this... situation will surely turn weird!... Oh, stuff it; now you're sounding like IF! "... H-Ha, t-took the words right outta my mouth, Romeo! Let's (link:"kick ass!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 27")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[And ass you do indeed kick! You lead the lovely Chika by the hand... and once you two are in the center of the massive elegant piano hall, your legs do all the work. The both of you dance to the music in your head, tuning out everything else. There is no world outside of this realm; just a pair of close friends sharing an eternal moment. You lead the way, not the most proficient at dancing outside of combat... but the Oracle doesn't mind, even when you accidentally stumble over her toes. Er, more than once... B-But hey, s-she screws up too! That's not the point either way; what matters is... she's here. She's actually here. You are actually able to hold her again. "Cavey..." she whispers, drawing your attention at once! What elegant confession could be on the verge of leaving her lips?! "... I've always been dying to know somethin': why don't you wear pants?" ... E-Eh? "... Seriously? What kind of inquiry is...?" "Eh, y'know! Just... h-haha, just one of those things! Nothing to hide from each other anymore, right? So, might as well get the... nagging questions out of the way!" Nothing to hide... She's right. Er, not about your lack of lower body attire specifically, but... yeah. "... It is easier to channel energy and move fluently without fabric getting in the way. If it was not an issue, even... undergarments would ideally be waived." "O-Oh my gosh! You're tellin' me this whole time... you could've been fighting without panties?! Why didn't you tell me sooner?! We would've won all our battles if ya did that!" "A-Are you insane?! Modesty is still a necessity to uphold!" Your cheeks are burning. "... W-What about you, huh?! YOU don't wear pants either!" "Ha, yeah! I'm as free as a horsebird! The Basilicom always got so hot when I was writing up paperwork... so I eventually adapted to the pantsless lifestyle!" "... That's seriously the answer? Mild heating discomfort?" "Do you need anything more?" ... Not really; you... like the look. "... You are an idiot." A rough hand suddenly grips your hindquarters, eliciting a surprised yelp from your embarrassed lips! "But I'm YOUR (link:"idiot, Cavey!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 27")]](else:)[... From there, the small talk continues, ranging from discussions about personal quirks to reminiscing about past events to just plain stupid non-sequiturs. Chika's specialty, in essence. "Ha, and then Kei fell right into Verty-poo's bare breasts!" "I've never seen her face so red!... Though, now that I'm remembering it, didn't Blanc seem... angrier than usual?" "Dah, you know her! She... Hmm, I don't really know how to finish that sentence." And so on and so on... While the conversations may be unorthodox, the poetic embrace continues! Step for step, breath for breath, note for note, beat for beat, measure for measure... you and the Oracle are one! ... Whew... H-Holy crap, i-it feels like it's been h-hours since you began your strut! So... tired... but it was worth it! Chika drags you back over to the piano bench and plops you down. Good, for your legs feel like jelly. "Ha.... Ha... T-That... was fun!" "Y-You're... better at... d-dancing... than playing the piano!" "W-Watch it!" Your best friend releases a tired, but pleased, sigh, and closes her eyes peacefully as she leans forward to rest her chin in her outstretched palm. Her elbow negligently mashes on a few keys in the ensuing motion... but after the initial startled reaction, she goes right back to being in pure harmony with the world. Or, anti-world... Or wherever the hell you technically are. ... Her hair, her smile, her body, her heat, her comfort... She's right here! This MUST be a dream! But... it feels so damn REAL! Unlike the 'Chika' in your head, this one sounds so... GENUINE! This can't be your imagination... can it? Nothing to hide... Nothing to hide... ... So what if this is a dream? What if it's NOT?! Are you going to use that as an excuse to once again let your moment slip by? To let things go by (link:"unspoken, unsaid?!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 28")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[... You've already decided. There's no choice to make; you're DONE taking orders from anyone or anything, even your own damn mind! You lightly tug on the beautiful Oracle's sleeve. "... Chika, I... truly am sorry." The woman's shoulders sink... and she turns to give you quite the disapproving stare. The one a wife would give after finding out her spouse just burned down the patio with the grill. "... Cavey, do I have to smack you?! I SAID, no more mop-" "You didn't let me finish!" You dismissively wave your hand. "I... I know what I'm doing. Trust me. Nothing... mopey about this. I am finished with that." TWO puffed cheeks?! That's how you know she's serious! "You better not be lying!" As she pokes her head as close to you as possible, scrutinizing your every facial feature... you suddenly cup her cheek, causing her eyes to widen. "... Last night... Er, well, if time still exists and it's still the same day..." Don't fret the damn details! "... I'm sorry for not... saying all I wanted to say." "Hmm?" Chika begins, cocking her head. "How do ya mean?" Take a deep breath; you can do this! "(if: $caveInterest is "Chika")[I... know things... *happened* between us... but I never got everything I needed off my chest." "Teehee, you're right; *I* did the honors!" "N-Not the time, C-Chika!](else:)[Last night, I was so... tempted to... w-well, tell you something I've always been too... afraid to! I'm not used to these... feelings...]" You shake your head. "... But enough about THEN; what matters is... right now! I'm going to say it, Chika!... I-I'm finally going to... 'c-cut loose' and... and (link:"tell you everything!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 28")]](else:)["Cave..." Her warm hand reaches up and soothingly strokes yours. Encouraged, you lightly trail your thumb acoss her flawless skin, enamored by her knowing smile. "... You scared?" "... I-I've... n-never been so frightened in my life. H-Haha... I-I've been shot at, struck by bullets and arrows, fired upon by mortars... I even fought with the Devil! Y-Yet, I... N-Now, I-I can't stop m-my hands from shaking...!" Her eyes inch closer, the tips of your noses teasingly grazing. "Don't be scared, Cavey... Say it." "S-Say it... Just like that...?" "Loud and proud, soldier!" ... S-She's right! Dammit, have you forgotten already?! Chika's ALWAYS right! Now go.. and make things right!!! "... I-I... l-love... you." "Hmm? What was that? I couldn't hear ya, babe; the piano has fried mah eardrums! Say it louder!" "I... love you!" "Really now? Say it again!" "I love you!" "That the best you got?! I need to *feel* it! Again!" "I love you!!!" "Hehe... Again!" "I LOVE YOU!!!" "A-GAIN~!" "I LOVE YOU!!!!! I love you!!! (link:"I LOVE you!!!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 29")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[Next thing you know, Chika's lips are mashed directly with yours. There's no hint of hesitance or dubiousness in either of you; this simply MUST happen, and no force of nature— not even DEATH— can stop it! You relinquish control of your limbs to pure instinct, and your arms grip her hips as her own coil around your neck. An eternity of this... Maybe fate IS kind! ... Hmm? As soon as you become more bold and inch up your left hand... Chika breaks the kiss? W-Why...? D-Did you screw something up?! Y-You're inexperienced in this, but- O-Oh, now that you reflect on it, you realize you can barely gasp! Y-You forgot to breathe! W-What kind of idiot are you?! Oh well, at least the Oracle seems to have made the same error in judgement. Once she huffs and puffs a few more times, she chuckles. "... Wow, I... always wanted to do that! Would it make things weird if I said I've thought of this even when we were kids?" "... A little... Er, a lot actually, but I... can't disagree either." Another short union of your lips, before she splits apart again. "I wish this could last forever..." "You make it sound like it can't...?" She doesn't respond, instead casting her eyes up to your hair. Hmm? "... H-Hey, remember that time we got 'married', Cavey? I gave you that flower ring? Man, we were sooooooo young and stupid back then... Huh, guess not much changed when we grew up!" "Heh... Yes, I remember. I held onto the ring as long as I could... which was only a week, before it completely eroded." "But you wore it to grade school the whole time, even though you got so red whenever someone asked about it!" Chika sighs dreamily... before pulling you somehow closer. Your lips stay apart, but the temptation is duly there! "... Gosh, I was such a brat back then. When you lost the ring, I got SO mad!" "... I'll always remember that too. That's when I bought you your twin-bow! Saved up all my allowance to do so... but I feel it was worth every penny." The Oracle's face lights up at the mention. "I'll say! The thing's never left my head since! I sometimes forget to take it off when I shower!" Is that too much information... or a perfect amount of it? With a sly smirk, you reach for the top of your love's head... but remember that her typical hair ornament is no longer there. "Oh... I-I mean, it's never left my head until... y'know, I died... Guess that's what they mean by 'til death do us part'!" Isn't THAT the truth! Everyone who's died in this war dropped something noteworthy about them, usually an easily-identifiable hair trinket, or occasionally a weapon. Chika... dropped her black and green ribbon; the one you gave her years and years ago! It's a... shame she was forced to part with it (link:"in such a way...")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 29")]](else:)["... W-Wait, hold on!" That's right, the ribbon ISN'T lost! When Chika... died, her twin-bow stayed behind... and YOU caught it! You reach into a sack on your belt... and sing your praises, you pull it out! It's still here with you! The Oracle's eyes widen as you proudly reunite her with the missing fragment of her very soul! "... This, uhm, is better served with you." God, the way her eyes wobble is simply spectacular! "C-Cavey! Ohmigosh, I love you, I love you, I LOVE YOU!" Y-Yipe! She grips both sides of your face and pulls you in for some INTENSE osculation action! By the time your mind has caught up, however, she's already pulled away. A-Awwww... "... I want to spend my 'forever' with you." "Then let's! Nothing's holding us back any longer!" ... W-Why is her face turning so... serious? Isn't the mopiness s-supposed to be a thing of the... past? "I really wish we could... but look, Cavey!" What's she reaching for? Oh... Why's she tugging on your maid cap all of a sudd- Oh. Ohhhhh... "... I... may have told a little white lie before, h-haha! You... a-aren't exactly... well, *dead* like I am." W-What?! B-But then, how...?! "... T-This cap proves n-nothing! M-Maybe something else stayed behind?! Y-Yeah, my scissors! They might've-" But when you reach for your holster... your weapon is there, split into its 'twin shears' form! "... N-No! S-Something must...!" Your gloves, your boots, your earrings, your neck ribbon... Surely you can't have them all?! "You even have your panties. Believe me, I checked awhile ago." ... No! NO!!! "I-If... I-I'm not dead, t-then how am I...?! How are YOU...?!" A hug? S-She's hugging you?! I-Is she even real?! Are YOU even real?! Where are you?! What's going o- "Cavey, CALM DOWN!" A coarse hand slaps across your cheek... allowing your cluttered brain a moment of silence. "... I don't know HOW to explain it, but... this IS real! All of it, okay?!" She closes her eyes. "If I had to guess... I'd say that in the real world, you're... in serious danger. You are so close to dying that you're right on the VERGE of kicking the bucket! Close... but no cigar just yet!" The verge of dying, huh? What's the last thing you remember? You and IF ran in the throne room to stop Croire from retconning your reality... and then she snapped her fingers, instantly causing you intense pain throughout your body. She said something about scrambling your brain... and as you've already determined, that basically amounted to her taking advantage of your... lack of resolve. ... You must still be in the throne room, struggling to fend off her hold on you! Just like Nepgear and Vert, you are fighting a battle inside your head! But those two were different: they were being possessed, while you are dying! In fact, you're basically (link:"half-dead now!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="chikaMainTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 30")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntroTwo.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_INTRODUCTION.mp3');" /></div>}Chika's soft hand caresses your tense back, and she continues speaking. "You're still conflicted, Cavey. You... aren't sure if you should give up or not. That's why you're here already; your heart doesn't know whether to die... or keep fighting. Your will to live is... yeah, kinda getting its rump kicked." ... It's obvious she's correct. Tears well in your eyes as you look up at your true love's concerned gaze. "I... I-I don't know what to do...! I d-don't want to... l-live without you! I CAN'T!" "Yes you CAN! Think about who's left! IF, Fivey, Verty, Linda, Nepgeo, Nisa, Neptune, Nepgear, Noire, Uni, Blanc, Ram, Rom, Kei, Histoire... The entirety of freakin' GAMINDUSTRI! If you don't keep fighting, all *that* may go away! Is that something you want, Cave?!" "N-No! B-But...!" "No 'buts'!" Your tears are wiped away by a wandering digit. "The world STILL needs you, Cave! I... I need you too, but think of all the people still in danger! I can't be selfish... and neither can you!" Dammit! Why... does she always have the answer? She's always so honest; always speaks the truth! Why, then, can't the truth be... a-anything else?! "C-Chika... W-What if I c-can't do this?" "Then you'll FAIL, Cavey! And you know what? That's fine! No, that's MORE than fine! That's more than 'you-and-Verty-in-bikinis' fine! But if you don't TRY, if you GIVE UP without a proper fight..." A determined look engulfs her eyes, the likes of which are alien to the Oracle's typical face! "... well, then you aren't the Cave I know! It would be easier to give in and die and stay here with me forever... and you know what, I'd LOVE that! To be by your side... forever..." A hurt smile. "... But heh, I also know you better than anyone: there's no way you'd EVER take the easy way out. How else did I become Oracle? You kept my ass in check, always pushing me forward, even when any sane person would've kicked me to the curb! You never gave up on me... so give yourself the same (link:"courtesy, dangit!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 30")]](else:)[... No fear, right? No holding back. No more moping around, no more worries, no more hesitation or self-deprecation or weak-willed excuses or saddened reflections of days gone by... You are Cave of the Security and Defense Organization, Leanbox Special Mission Department! How about you punch yourself in the face, stand back up, and... start acting like her!!! "... Thank you, Chika... T-Thank YOU for never giving up on ME!" "Teehee, I'd never dream of giving up on you, Cavey!" One last soft, tender, emotional kiss... and you begin to feel yourself floating away, pulled back by some invisible chain. "... Now go and kick some ass! No matter the outcome... y-you know where to find me!" Her lovely red eyes well up. Take it in; take ALL of her in! Don't allow a single detail of the Oracle to slip your mind! "I'll... s-see ya when I see ya! I-I love you, Cave! I love the hell out of you!" "C-Chika, I-I love you too! A-Always!" "H-Ha! Y-You know it, babe!!!" The love of your life, along with the grand ballroom, slowly fizzles out... and everything turns white. Goodbye... for now. ... Your head feels fuzzy... and you believe you can hear a quiet voice reaching out to you from the blank expanse. Do you follow it? Where will it lead? ... Only one way to (link:"find out!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioIntroTwo.fade(0,3500);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 31")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[[... ]<line1|{ (live:6s)[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 31")]}](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Trio The Beryl.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You are now IF! Cave has already started stirring in your arms... and you can't help but crack a smile. Attagirl! Croire, meanwhile, is not so pleased! "... W-What?! N-NO! How the *'Hyperdevotion Noire'* are you still alive?! Your head should be so far up your ass, you'd be shitting out knowledge!" Your friend's eyes open... and when she grins right back at you, your worries are completely swept aside! It turns out the enigmatic Purple Heart... will have TWO opponents after all! "... You underestimated the wrong chick, Croire! If you honestly think Cave's weak, you're in for a world of hurt, ya runt!" Man, that felt good to say! On cue, the SMD warrior motions for you to let her go... and she manages to push herself to her feet. "Dear God, get a room, you two! And really? That's the best smack-talk ya got?! Ugh, I HATE humans! Just let me wreck your universe; why's this gotta be so hard?!" the evil tome shouts, rubbing her palms together. "Okay, so your heads didn't explode! Yay, welcome to the club! You still can't do jack-diddly-shit to stop me! You two could barely keep from killing each other like an hour ago... and NOW you think you can team up and take my ultimate creation?! You couldn't beat a desperate weeaboo, let alone US!" "Yeah, we'll see about that!" Who knows? Croire and Neptune may be an impossible challenge; insurmountable odds that even YOU can't overcome. However... whereas they are driven by sheer lust for chaos and violence, you are guided by the hopes of your 'sisters', friends, and all of Gamindustri in general! Neptune, Compa, Lyrica, Cave, Vert... All their lives are riding on this! It is because you fight for this honorable goal... that you know failure is simply not an option! And if you aren't destined to win... then at least go down like a true hero of legend! (link:"\"Ready, Cave?!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 31")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Beyond The Destiny.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }You are now Cave! Croire snaps her fingers... and Neptune brandishes her glowing katana. In response, you pull out your twin blades and twirl them in your hands. Your foe may look like a goddess... but she is nothing but a mere puppet, simply operating under this fiendish coward's control. As for you? You... are no puppet; not any longer. You do not obey the nagging sensation of doubt prevalent in the back— and recently forefront— of your mind! It's time to start... acting on your own terms! Free from fear and doubt and despair! Free from EVERYTHING... but your own heart. Win or lose... you MUST fight a battle worthy of your allies! Your friends! Your *family*! Atone for all the wrongs you have done... by fighting righteously! ... Make Chika proud... so when you next see her— be it today or many many many years from now— you'll have no regrets! Prove your love for her by carrying on, no matter how broken and defeated you may wind up! Never relent until your very last breath! I hope you're watching, Chika! Here's to you... my love! "... You desire to end our world, Croire?! Well then... We expect no quarter from the likes of you! Be warned, however: not even chaos can protect you from us!" You turn your head to the battle-hardened veteran... and nod one final resolute time. "Ready, IF!" With that confirmation, it's time to end this! Side by side, you and IF charge forward! No going back now... HA! Just the way you like it! "Nyeheheha! Okay, ya bitches, you asked for it! Toots, (link:"END THEM!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Segue")]]

{(set: $saveProtect to true)(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false) (set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)(set: $neptuneSkillsUsage to false) (set: $caveEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to 10)(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $neptuneBossHealth to 300) (set: $caveObserveCheck to false)(set: $caveObserve to 10)(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false)(set: $iffyObserve to 10) (set: $iffyTurnComplete to false)(set: $caveTurnComplete to false)}[... ]<line1| []<line2|{ (live:3s)[(stop:)(append:?line1)[You are now...]] (live:6s)[(stop:)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="trueEndingTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends OST - Strength Weakness.mp3');" /></div>(replace:?line2)[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true)[[their last hope!|True End Boss Fight Action]]]]}

{(if: $saveProtect is true)[(savegame: "A", "'Asshole'") (set: $saveProtect to false)] (if: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $neptuneSkillsUsage is false)[(set: $neptuneChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4","Skill1","Skill3","Skill4"))(if: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to (either:"IF","Cave"))](elseif: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to "IF")](elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to "Cave")]](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is true AND $neptuneSkillsUsage is true)[(set: $neptuneChoice to (either:"Attack1","Attack2","Attack3","Attack4"))(if: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to (either:"IF","Cave"))](elseif: $iffyBossHealth > 0 AND $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to "IF")](elseif: $iffyBossHealth <= 0 AND $caveBossHealth > 0)[(set: $neptuneTarget to "Cave")]](else:)[]}(if: ($caveBossHealth > 0 OR $iffyBossHealth > 0) AND $neptuneBossHealth > 0)[{ (if: $neptuneBossHealth > 200)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Seriously, brunette bitch, you have 9 cellphones? Do you, like, carry all them around on a normal basis? Wow... do you really want to develop a tumor that bad? Here's an easier way: listen to your girl's singing!\"","\"YOUR GODDESS'S SOUL IS MINE! YOU WILL BE NEXT!\"","\"Hey, 'Red Dead Depression'! How come you put so much glamour in the top half of yer outfit... but forget to cover your legs? Do you... try to turn yourself on with your own body? HAH! What a card!\"","\"Damn... Have you seen this place?! How isn't the nation bankrupt? I thought *I* was the master of wasting money, but this... this is just unfair!\"","How big is this shitty castle, anyways? And hold on, is it a castle, or a church? A frackin' house? A mansion?! Seriously, why can't you people live in sane places?!"))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $neptuneBossHealth <= 200 AND $neptuneBossHealth > 100)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"Wow, still alive? Well, times like these are perfect for solita- Shit! Forgot my deck again!\"","\"... Oh, for crying out loud! KILL THEM ALREADY!!! They aren't even armored... NO, they aren't even CLOTHED!\"","\"Man, I'm old... Like, REALLY old... And I'm getting OLDER here! DROP DEAD!!!\"","\"So, since you're still alive... what do we got to munch on here, huh? I'm thinkin' some heavy inking for healthy pages, some human heads 'rolled-styled', and uh... maybe a child's tears... Hah, I'm so evil!\"","\"What's written in me, anyways? Hmm... *'Phantom'...*... Ewww, this is garbage! Yo, give me a sec: I gotta go complain online!\"","\"Come on, toots, they're just two girls! Two girls dressed like lunatics and armed to the teeth... Hehehe, GO GET 'EM!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]](elseif: $neptuneBossHealth <= 100)[(if: $actionFirstVisit is true)[(set: $battleQuote to (either:"\"You're worth less than the air you breathe! In other words... Woah, character infringement! Even *I* don't go that far!\"","\"Wait, so lemme get this straight, Lady Long Legs: you can jump out of a high window and run down the side of the freakin' building, all without getting hurt... and yet simple strikes can knock ya down? What the shit?\"","\"These are pretty glossy floors... how the @#$% do you guys not slip, like, every second?! I can *FLOAT*, and I'm slipping! It's a *MONSOON* out there, and you were both getting soaked for an hour! Where are all the puddles?! URGH, this is so STUPID!!!\"","\"When you think about it, it was pretty stupid of 'Titty Twister' to NOT hire decent guards to protect the 'Basily-Sily's' rear. Y'know... THE MOST VULNERABLE PART OF THE CASTLE!\"","\"So, 'No Boobs'! That jacket is soaked worse than my Aunt Grimoire's shaggy dog after a flood! Doesn't it slow you down? How about all those times in the alternate dimensions where you get shot by the sniper and played dead?! How do you keep moving after THAT?! Get shot, play dead, sweep some legs, tie up your wound... and you can actually *survive* getting blasted!!! \"... HAHA, just kidding; I don't HAVE an Aunt Grimoire!\"","\"Okay, YOU, listen to me. Yeah, YOU. Not *them*, but YOU! You are currently playing a novel-length game about two ladies with quasi-superpowers fighting off entire armies for the love of a blunette who barely speaks throughout the tale, all while a possessed bitch and a psycho bitch try to kill them! Also, the red-haired main character is *actually* madly in love with her best friend who got shot earlier this morning, and uses 'Miss Blue Hair' as a mental escape by obsessing over her safety. She goes insane, while the brown-haired chick acts clueless and kinda dense, and this is all told over several hours of text. Seriously, what the hell is this?! No one's even being paid for this, are they?!\""))(print: $battleQuote)](elseif: $actionFirstVisit is false)[(print: $battleQuote)]] } Make this one count! []<observe|{ (if: $iffyObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserveCheck is true)[(replace:?observe)[(if: $neptuneChoice is "Attack1")[What the heck is Neptune planning? Croire's face is completely serious... Either way, the CPU seems to be eyeing $neptuneTarget...](elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack2" OR $neptuneChoice is "Attack4")[The fake CPU's dull and lifeless eyes roll back into her head. Croire looks $neptuneTarget's way... and licks her small lips.](elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack3")[The dark tome fairy brings her hands to the side of her head and playfully claps twice. Neptune begins tensing up as she glares at $neptuneTarget... Is she planning some fast attack?!](elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Skill1")[Neptune stands stock still, and Croire appears to be observing $neptuneTarget closely, taking extra care to scan her... chest-area and legs... Almost like she's creepily sizing her up!](elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Skill3")[The fake CPU's dull and lifeless eyes roll back into her head. Croire turns to look at $neptuneTarget, motioning a finger to her own small blond head all the while. That some kind of taunt?](elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Skill4")[An unsettling calm dawns on the entire throne room... Neptune turns her head to the dark tome fairy, perhaps awaiting orders. Croire, however, slyly looks at $neptuneTarget from the corner of her small eye...]]](else:)[] } <div id="combat" title="IF Move"><fieldset><legend>IF Move</legend>(if: $iffyBossHealth > 0)[(if: $iffyTurnComplete is false)[(if: $iffyAttackOptions is false AND $iffySkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attackiffy| | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $iffySkillsUsage is true AND $iffyEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skillsiffy|] [Defend]<defendiffy| | (if: $iffyObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserveCheck is true OR $iffyObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe]<observetargetiffy|] {(click:?attackiffy)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")] (click:?skillsiffy)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")] (click:?defendiffy)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "defend")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?observetargetiffy)[(set: $iffyObserve to $iffyObserve - 1)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(set: $iffyObserveCheck to true)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}](elseif: $iffyAttackOptions is true)[[Punch]<punch| | [Slice]<slice| [GrabKick!]<grabkick| | [Tor.Spin!]<tornadospin| [Back...]<backattackiffy| {(click:?punch)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "punch")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?slice)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "slice")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?grabkick)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "grabkick")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?tornadospin)[(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "tornadospin")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?backattackiffy)[(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}](elseif: $iffySkillsOptions is true)[[ThrowKnife]<throwknife| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[D.CmtSlash]<demon|](else:)[<strike>D.CmtSlash</strike>] | (if: $iffyEnergyMeter >= 2)[[LeDelphinus]<ledelphinus|](else:)[<strike>LeDelphinus</strike>] [Back...]<backskillsiffy| {(click:?throwknife)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "throwknife")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?heal)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "heal")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?demon)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "demon")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?ledelphinus)[(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "ledelphinus")(set: $iffyTurnComplete to true)(if: $caveTurnComplete is true OR $caveBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?backskillsiffy)[(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}]](else:)[Waiting for Cave's Move...]](else:)[IF is down.]</fieldset></div><DIV id="combat2" title="Cave Move"><fieldset><legend>Cave Move</legend>(if: $caveBossHealth > 0)[(if: $caveTurnComplete is false)[(if: $caveAttackOptions is false AND $caveSkillsOptions is false)[[Attack]<attackcave| | (if: $caveEnergyMeter is 0)[<strike>Skills</strike>](elseif: $caveSkillsUsage is true AND $caveEnergyMeter > 0)[Charging...](else:)[[Skills]<skillscave|] [Defend]<defendcave| | (if: $caveObserveCheck is true OR $iffyObserveCheck is true OR $caveObserve is 0)[<strike>Observe</strike>](else:)[[Observe]<observetargetcave|] {(click:?attackcave)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")] (click:?skillscave)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to true)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")] (click:?defendcave)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "defend")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?observetargetcave)[(set: $caveObserve to $caveObserve - 1)(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(set: $caveObserveCheck to true)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}](elseif: $caveAttackOptions is true)[[Stab]<stab| | [JumpAttack]<jumpattack| [RngSlash]<runningslash| | [S.SaultKick]<somersaultkick| [Back...]<backattackcave| {(click:?stab)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "stab")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?jumpattack)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "jumpattack")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?runningslash)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "runningslash")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?somersaultkick)[(set: $caveAttackChoice to "somersaultkick")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?backattackcave)[(set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}](elseif: $caveSkillsOptions is true)[[Shoot bullet]<shootbullet| | [Heal]<heal| (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[MlcsHeaven]<malicious|](else:)[<strike>MlcsHeaven</strike>] | (if: $caveEnergyMeter >= 2)[[FBOption]<fullburstoption|](else:)[<strike>FBOption</strike>] [Back...]<backskillscave| {(click:?shootbullet)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "shootbullet")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(set: $actionFirstVisit to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?heal)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "heal")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?malicious)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "malicious")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?fullburstoption)[(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "fullburstoption")(set: $caveTurnComplete to true)(if: $iffyTurnComplete is true OR $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Result")](else:)[(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]] (click:?backskillscave)[(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(goto:"True End Boss Fight Action")]}]](else:)[Waiting for IF's Move...]](else:)[Cave is down.]</fieldset></div> ](elseif: $caveBossHealth <= 0 AND $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[Cave and IF fall to their knees... before collapsing outright. They gave it their best shot... but their best wasn't good enough! "Haha!" Croire smiles, feeling progressively more and more energy radiate off of the Sharicite that makes up the throne. "Them's the breaks, my little bitchies! Alright, kiss yer world goodbye! Next time I see ya... Hmm, well, I guess I won't!" And everything [[turns white...|True Ending Game Over]]](elseif: $neptuneBossHealth <= 0 AND ($caveBossHealth > 0 OR $iffyBossHealth > 0))[Neptune stands as tall as ever, her breathing still non-existent. Is she even getting tired?! How much more of this must the two warriors take? "Ya guys are tough, I'll give you that!" Croire laughs. "But our little game has only just begun! Now it's time to play *serious*!" Oh crap... IF and Cave brace themselves as the dark tome snaps her fingers... only for nothing to happen. "... Eh?" Snap, snap, snap, snap, snap! "C-C'mon, you useless pile of shit-stained latex! Reeeeeeeeeeespoooooooooond!" A few more fingersnaps... when suddenly, Neptune's eyes go completely blank, and she drops her katana before falling face-first herself! A... victory? IF is the first to jump to this conclusion, chuckling nervously, and blessing her lucky stars she's still standing. "... H-Hah! Write an editorial page, ya book; it'll last longer!" Cave doesn't say a word, instead looking at the brunette increduously, shaking her head in disappointment. "... W-What? I-I thought it was pretty clever...!" Croire's enraged mouth curls downwards, widening far more than such a small fairy should be capable of! "N-No! Nonononononononononononononono-" A gasp for breath! "-NONONONONONONONONONO! NO! NO! NO! NOOOOOOOOOO!" "Show some dignity!" Cave reconnects her scissors before pointing for the tome. "You are defeated; do not make a fool of yourself!" "... I-I'll show YOU who the fool is!" Croire scowls, before nervously shifting her eyes back towards the throne. What is she...? "... Screw it! It's not fully ready yet, but who cares?! So long as I screw up SOMETHING, I'll be happy!" Her hand extends like a screaming anime protagonist about to shoot energy from his palms... and Cave immediately leaps to cover IF! (link:"\"Sayonara, jabronies!\"")[(set: $saveHeaderCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="trueEndingTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Fake Titlescreen Intro")]] IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Neptune's(?) Health: ???/???| Neptune's(?) Energy: ???/???

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[[... ]<line1|{ (live: 6s)[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 32")]}](else:)[The world returns... and Croire crashes into the back wall of the throne room, the Sharicite rejecting her small frame! "O-Owowowow... Sonuva-skank-ho!" She brings up her tiny fingers and attempts to snap again... but only mere confetti flies out. She's out of juice. "... Lipschitz." The SMD warrior and the battle-hardened veteran raise their fists... and bash them together in victory. The villain... is defeated! "Ain't so tough now, huh ya brat?" IF chides, approaching the downed fairy. "You hid behind our own friends, twisting their minds, to start this dang war... and yet, when push came to shove, you couldn't even handle US with your strongest puppet!" The brunette's words cause the evil critter's right eyebrow to lift. "Woah woah woah! Stop it right there, sister! Start a war?! What do you take me for, an asshole?! Huh, oh wait..." She shakes her head. "Look, I love me some good chaos, and this place is great and all... but I don't start wars! Only... push them along! A little encouragement, y'know? Ya got the wrong book!" "... What?" Cave asks, balking at the concept. "... It HAS to be you! You took control of Vert, brought Nepgear here and led her astray... and you even JUST NOW attempted to get inside MY head! Not to mention the desire to reset our progress using the Sharicite... The 'Asshole' behind this can ONLY be you!" "Y-Yeah, w-what she said!" Croire chuckles, shrugging her lanky shoulders. "I live to make life interesting! Properly starting a war would be too much effort! Besides, if *I* was behind all this, my head would be on every building from here to Nilbog! Not a bad idea, mind... but nah, you're barkin' up the wrong phallic symbol. I didn't cause this... and I have no freakin' clue who did! I don't particularly care, either!" Her eyes turn sly and somewhat shifty. Ah, so for all her talk... she's not very good at keeping secrets! That's... no surprise at all. "Yep, totally! No idea at all! I'm a clueless blonde! Yeah." Suspicious... but something about the fiend's words ring true. Someone ELSE was the correct... er, 'Asshole'! Not Croire! IF groans, her shoulders slumping to all new lows. "... Ya mean to tell me that after ALL THIS... we're still no closer to finding out who the heck's behind everything? Ugh, come on..." Irked, she tosses a few of her Qatars to the marble floor beneath. "... Dammit... We've lost far too many friends... So many people have died, and we can't even be sure for what?! A psychopathic book would've been bad enough... but at LEAST we'd have a reason to latch onto! No, instead, the real culprit is still probably roamin' about... Did we solve ANYTHING today?!" "... Hold up!" Croire begins, sounding like an Italian interested in what pasta dish his aunt is serving for dinner. ANOTHER Italian reference! "Did you just say 'so many people have died'? O-Ohoho, man... (link:"You don't know?!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_SILENCE.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 32")]]](else:)["Hm? Know what?" Cave asks, tilting her head to the left. "How many burials have you had lately? You know, bodies put in the ground? Six feet under! Seven would be safer I think; make it harder for zombies!" The two warriors lock interested eyes. IF takes this as her cue; they're being chivalrous with their speaking order. "Burials? Er, odd... question. We haven't buried *anyone*, I guess, 'cuz people... disappear when they die. At least ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion. Just kinda... something we've learned to accept..." "... Okay, not to be the voice of inspiration or anything, but... you just take everything at face value?! Say your bitch-" Croire points for the brunette, "- gets blasted and suddenly vanishes... You're just gonna give up on her and assume she's dead? Duuuuuude, that's cold! Man, I'm sorry we got off the wrong foot; I could learn to RESPECT someone that dickish! Maybe you CAN make a good asshole yet!" "W-Well, w-what ELSE are we supposed to think?! Monsters poof away when they're defeated, so... w-why wouldn't we say they're dead?! Mina's certainly not running around anymore! Neither are Jade, Gust, Chi-" But she stops herself before she can finish. The tome fairy claps both her ears. Is she enjoying the sound? "You guys are dingbats! D-I-N-G-B-A-T-S! No, scratch that: shitheads! Utter SHITHEADS!" Now that's just uncalled for. "Isn't it frackin' obvious? Ever since you fought magic-wielding assholes, people have been disappearing when they kick the bucket? Wow, how convenient!" Her tongue escapes her mouth, taunting IF like a kindergartner. "Pffffffft, as if! It's all connected, you nimrods! Sometimes the stories of black helicopters and men in black are true! Everyone who vanishes... AREN'T ACTUALLY DEAD! I mean, if that many people really died in a li'l under a month, I would've paid this particular dimension a visit much much MUCH sooner!" The people who vanished aren't... dead? An... unbelievable tale for sure. "... Stop lying!" one particular SMD warrior hisses, gripping the bare skin of her legs. "I refuse to be... t-toyed with by you! How DARE you (link:"spread such LIES!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 33")]]

(either:"FISSION MAILED","There was a WORLD here. It's gone now.","But... the future refused to change.") (link:"No... As if!")[(loadgame:"A")] <A HREF="javascript:history.go(0)">Back to Main Menu...</a>

{<div align="center" class="titlescreen"><audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Opening.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>(if: $videoPlay is true)[(set: $openingFirstVisit to false) <video align="center" width="640" height="360" autoplay preload="auto"> <source src="MeasureforMeasureintrosoundless.mp4" type="video/mp4"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video>](else:)[<img src="REMADELOGO3.jpg" align="center" width="640" height="360"></img>]</div> } {(if: $fakeTitleVisit is 1)[<div align="center" style="max-width:400px; margin: auto;"><div style="float:left;">(link-repeat:"Start Game")[(set: $struggleCount to it + 1)(if: $struggleCount is 10)[(set: $fakeTitleVisit to 2)(goto:"Fake Titlescreen")]]</div><div style="float:right;">Cheater</div></div>] (elseif: $fakeTitleVisit is 2)[<div align="center" style="max-width:400px; margin: auto;"><div align="center">(link-repeat:"\"Snap OUT of it, guys!\"")[(set: $struggleCount to it + 1)(if: $struggleCount is 25)[(set: $fakeTitleVisit to 3)(goto:"Fake Titlescreen")]]</div></div>] (elseif: $fakeTitleVisit is 3)[<div align="center" style="max-width:400px; margin: auto;"><div align="center">(link-repeat:"E-E-F-G-G-F-E-D-C-C-D-E-E-D-D... E-E-F-G-G-F-E-D-C-C-D-E-D-C-C")[(set: $struggleCount to it + 1)(if: $struggleCount is 47)[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"Fake Titlescreen Intro")]]</div>] }

{(set: $neptuneAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $caveAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(set: $iffyAttackChance to (random: 1,100))(if: $neptuneChoice is "Skill1" OR $neptuneChoice is "Skill3" OR $neptuneChoice is "Skill4")[(set: $neptuneSkillsUsage to true)](else:)[(set: $neptuneSkillsUsage to false)](if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to true)(if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious" OR $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[(set: $caveEnergyMeter to $caveEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $caveSkillsUsage to false)](if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to true)(if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 1)](elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon" OR $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[(set: $iffyEnergyMeter to $iffyEnergyMeter - 2)]](else:)[(set: $iffySkillsUsage to false)] (if: $iffySkillsChoice is "throwknife")[IF channels some energy up her arm and throws an augmented Qatar... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 80)[and it veers just off-course. She missed... How embarrassing.](else:)[and it connects with the puppet-like CPU head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "heal")[IF closes her eyes in concentration, takes a deep breath... and by using up some of her precious energy, she heals 30 health! (set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth + 30)(if: $iffyBossHealth > 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "demon")[IF focuses all her energy... and a green aura surrounds her! The brunette takes a quick breath... before dashing forward, slashing frantically! (if: $iffyAttackChance > 65)[Neptune, however, reads her movements and jumps to safety. Croire sticks her tongue out. "You're too slow! How'd you not die earlier?"](else:)[Her first slash is fast enough to catch the fake CPU off-guard, and she hits her again, and again, and again! IF pulls off a total of seven hits before her power aura disappears. Croire frowns at the 20 damage, but she remains silent for the moment.(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $iffySkillsChoice is "ledelphinus")[IF charges up some energy to summon forth a massive burst of fire from beneath Neptune's feet... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 45)[but only a tiny bit of smoke appears. This day just never ends...](else:)[and the flames rise up to scorch Croire's puppet-CPU for 30 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 30)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "punch")[IF throws back her arm before launching a mean punch... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 90)[but Croire makes a peculiar hand motion, leading to Neptune swerving out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and she manages to connect! That's worth a miniscule 5 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "slice")[IF leaps forward and slices with her knives... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 85)[but Neptune practically teleports out of the way! Wow, she's fast! Wait... it's not her speed! She must be using Croire's power to warp!](else:)[and she catches the false goddess in the side! She's dealt 10 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "grabkick")[IF strafes behind Neptune and reaches out to grab her... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 75)[but the imposter CPU swerves out of the way at the last second!](else:)[and the battle-hardened veteran succeeds at clutching her! With a grunt of effort, she tosses the puppet to the side and follows up with a devastating roundhouse kick, inflicting 15 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $iffyAttackChoice is "tornadospin")[IF begins spinning rapidly on her left leg and holds out both hands to slice through the air with her Qatars! She dashes towards Neptune... (if: $iffyAttackChance > 60)[but the CPU simply sidesteps the unconventional attack!](else:)[and her blades luckily connect with Croire's puppet, catching her in a decent 5-hit combo. The battle-hardened veteran has dealt a swift 20 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 20)] ] (if: $caveSkillsChoice is "shootbullet")[Cave channels some energy up her arm and fires a blast from the end of her makeshift blade-gun... (if: $caveAttackChance > 80)[and it veers just off-course. She missed... What a failure.](else:)[and it connects with the puppet-like CPU head-on! She takes 10 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "heal")[Cave closes her eyes in concentration, takes a deep breath... and by using up some of her precious energy, heals 30 health! (set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth + 30)(if: $caveBossHealth > 100)[(set: $caveBossHealth to 100)] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "malicious")[Cave focuses all of her energy and unleashes Malicious Heaven... (if: $caveAttackChance > 65)[and it fails, the wind simply not forming. Come on, everyone is counting on this! Lyrica, IF, the entire world!... Don't disappoint Chika!](else:)[and it connects with Croire's imposter CPU! The balls of devastating wind rise from the ground and strike her... inflicting 20 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 20)] ] (elseif: $caveSkillsChoice is "fullburstoption")[Cave charges up some energy to summon five devious turrets! The creations charge their lasers... (if: $caveAttackChance > 45)[before exploding from overheating. After all the fighting, the SMD Warrior is at her absolute weakest! N-No, don't accept that!](else:)[and they fire on the zombie-like CPU! The lasers deal a nifty 30 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 30)] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "stab")[(if: $caveAttackChance > 90)[Cave tries to stab outwards with her twin blades... but Neptune simply swerves out of the way with relative ease!](else:)[Cave runs forward and jabs her twin blades towards Neptune... and she manages to connect! Too bad it's only worth a petty 5 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 5)] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "jumpattack")[Cave leaps in the air and kicks... (if: $caveAttackChance > 85)[but Croire chuckles, and Neptune teleports to safety! "Nuh-uh!"](else:)[and her foot whacks the fake goddess in the face! The SMD Warrior has dealt 10 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 10)] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "runningslash")[Cave dashes forward and slice through the air using her twin blades... (if: $caveAttackChance > 75)[but Neptune leaps high over her head! Croire winks at the Leanbox warrior.](else:)[and she catches Neptune in a short three-hit combo for 15 damage!(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 15)] ] (elseif: $caveAttackChoice is "somersaultkick")[Cave runs up to the fake CPU and performs a backwards-somersault kick... (if: $caveAttackChance > 60)[but Croire clears her throat, leading to Neptune unnaturally shifting away from the incoming foot!](else:)[and she manages to kick the puppet up into the air! The SMD Warrior leaps after her and, using one of her blades, stabs her back into the ground! Neptune has hopefully taken a nasty 20 damage! The evil tome slowly clenches her right fist. "Damn skank... What good will fighting us do, anyways? Your world is still hopelessly screwed!"(set: $neptuneBossHealth to $neptuneBossHealth - 20)] ] (if: $neptuneBossHealth > 0)[ (if: $neptuneChoice is "Skill1")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her twin blades to block... ](if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Neptune bows with majestic elegance, and turns to look Croire's way. The dark tome fairy snickers and snaps her fingers. "Here's somethin' that'll fit you quite well!" At once, $neptuneTarget finds herself surrounded by... pieces of a hollow doll shaped just like her! No, not a doll... a casket! With frightening speed, the makeshift $neptuneTarget-shaped coffin closes around the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[SMD Warrior](else:)[battle-hardened veteran], fitting her form perfectly! (if: $neptuneAttackChance > 80)[$neptuneTarget struggles and struggles... and fortunately, she manages to break out. "About damn time you came out! Oh wait... heh, that ship's sailed~" the fairy coos.](else:)[$neptuneTarget can barely breathe inside the sarcophagus shaped like herself! A few agonizingly-slow moments pass... before ten longswords made of pure energy encircle the Iron Maiden-like prison. With a dramatic "SCHIIING!", the blades impale the coffin, and $neptuneTarget explodes out! Those fake swords dealt 20 damage! Croire, meanwhile, starts clapping. "Woo! I coulda kept ya in there some more, but I'd get soooo bored that I'd need my OWN coffin before long!"(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]]] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Skill3")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her twin blades to block... ](if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Croire giggles and flaps her right hand gently. Neptune's blank eyes address her... and the fake goddess stabs her blade into the ground, before a fiery explosion suddenly engulfs her! The flames quickly subside, and in her place is now... What?! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[A Leanbox soldier readying an Avenir-brand mortar cannon?! Cave's eyes can't help but widen. Well... this is ringing some uncomfortable bells... The man aims for Cave and fires the weapon... (if: $neptuneAttackChance > 65)[but only smoke comes out. Whew, must've been a dud. Croire facepalms. "Even fake Avenir crap is... crap. Human tech sucks!"](else:)[and a mortar shell flies out at an ungodly speed! Cave can't react in time, and the missile explodes right before touching the ground! The SMD Warrior is blasted to the hard floor... She isn't singed, however; the explosion hurt, but it was just an illusion of sorts. A painful illusion though... The dark tome claps her hands, amused at the 40 damage! "Explosive discharges to the face are yer specialty, eh?~"(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 40)] At that, the mortar cannon (and the fake soldier) explodes.](else:)[A Leanbox soldier holding a devastating-looking sniper rifle?! IF can't help but tense up. She has a good idea she's seen this guy before... The man grins before raising his gun at the brunette and firing! (if: $neptuneAttackChance > 65)[However, the gun apparently jams, and nothing comes out. Croire glares at the soldier... before clenching her right fist. The man's eyes widen in horror, and he is swiftly ripped to ghostly shreds! "You try to have a liiiiittle fun, and this is where it gets ya..."](else:)[A bullet flies out, and IF can't help but get blasted right in the chest! No... not... yet... Hey, wait a minute: she's not bleeding out or anything?! It wasn't a real bullet, huh? So what, then? An excrutiatingly-painful illusion? Either way, the soldier explodes shortly after. Croire holds her right hand like a gun, pointing for the battle-hardened veteran, before pretending to fire. She's taunting the 40 damage she just took! "Pppoooosh! I'm a deadeye, nyeheh!"(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 40)]]] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Skill4")[(if: $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her twin blades to block... ](if: $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Croire nods her head at Neptune... and the fake goddess tightens both hands around the hilt of her sword before stabbing the ground with an energetically-lifeless precision. $neptuneTarget hears a ringing develop in her head, forcing her lids shut. After a minute, she opens one eye... and finds herself standing before... (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika?! The SMD Warrior's heart feels a familiar twinge of pain...](else:)[Compa?! No... she shouldn't be here!] A confusing few seconds pass, and suddenly Lyrica appears to the right of her! Next up is RED to the left, then (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Compa](else:)[Chika(?)], then Linda, then Mina(?)! Soon, everybody $neptuneTarget's ever known is surrounding her! They all slowly hold hands... and begin swaying side-to-side in unison? Almost as if singing around a campfire... A cold shiver runs down the warrior's spine, and the entire area lights up, blinding her momentarily! When her vision comes to, she is no longer in Leanbox's Basilicom, but instead in the warm, grassy fields outside the castle. No sign of warfare in sight... Just like the good old days. $neptuneTarget looks to the left of her and sees (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika](else:)[Lyrica], smiling like an angel. This... is what happiness is... (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[The SMD Warrior](else:)[The battle-hardened veteran] closes her eyes and rests her head on the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Oracle's](else:)[pop idol's] shoulder, fully content with staying like this forever... when suddenly, a massive quake in the ground snaps her out of her reverie! The sky is no longer blue and calming, but instead blood-red and hellish! What's happening... NO!!! More violent tremors shake the gound, and now the horizon is simply engulfed in flames! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika](else:)[Lyrica] looks at $neptuneTarget with fearful eyes... and the ground beneath the two begins to crack! (if: $neptuneAttackChance > 45)[ "No..." The love $neptuneTarget feels for (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika](else:)[Lyrica] is all she can think about... and she pulls the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Oracle](else:)[pop idol] in for the tightest hug of her life! The world around the two girls falls apart... but they remain floating in nothingness, safe-guarded from all danger. "I... love you..." (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika](else:)[Lyrica] whispers... before $neptuneTarget suddenly finds herself back in the Basilicom throne room, none the worse for wear... at least physically. Croire looks on in disbelief. "... You've gotta be kidding! You know how much time and effort that took?!"](else:)["(print: $neptuneTarget)!" (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Chika](else:)[Lyrica] shouts in fear... but no matter how hard she tries, the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[stylish soldier](else:)[brave brunette] can't protect her! The ground fully splits in two, and the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[Oracle](else:)[pop idol] can only cry as they both are separated from each other! $neptuneTarget reaches out in vain for the love of her life... before the torn earth shifts dramatically, and she finds herself falling into the abyss below. Maybe... this is for the best... Maybe the world will be a better place without the (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[monstrous SMD Warrior](else:)[foolish battle-hardened veteran]... $neptuneTarget's eyes snap open, and she finds herself lying face-up on the polished floor of the Basilicom's throne room. Her body aches like nothing else; 60 damage will do that to anyone... Did she just fall through Hell itself? Whatever the case, Neptune and Croire stand alone once again, and the dark tome fairy bursts out laughing. "Come on, don't look so down! It's not like it's the end of the world or anything!"(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 60)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 60)]]] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack1")[(if: $neptuneTarget != "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her blades to block... ](if: $neptuneTarget != "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Neptune closes her eyes in deep concentration, clenching both fists all the while. A random heavy gust of otherworldly wind blows the Leanbox banners lining the throne room! $neptuneTarget can feel the air thicken... This is gonna be bad! Neptune suddenly jerks her head up and dashes forth! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave can only think to hold up her blades to defend... and Neptune stops just short of reaching her. Croire groans in the background. "Whaah! You ain't no fun!"](elseif: $neptuneTarget is "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF can only think to hold up her Qatars to defend... and Neptune stops just short of reaching her. Croire groans in the background. "Whaah! You ain't no fun!"](elseif: $neptuneAttackChance > 90)[With nothing else planned, $neptuneTarget (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[slides](else:)[rolls] out of the way... right out of Neptune's path! Croire laughs. "Pffft! That looked so damn stupid!"](else:)[Neptune makes it to $neptuneTarget, glares unemoting death upon her... and simply whacks her in the head with the hilt of her sword. The hell?! What a waste of time and 10 health! "Nyeheheh!" Croire chuckles obnoxiously.(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 10)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 10)]]] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack2")[(if: $neptuneTarget != "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her blades to block... ](if: $neptuneTarget != "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Neptune is suddenly engulfed by a fiery explosion... and in her place is now... RED? No... her eyes are too empty... Oh yeah, and that aura of flame around her is quite suspicious! She pulls out her trusty yo-yo and spins it right-round... and before $neptuneTarget knows it, a massive swarm of Pixelvaders is flying right for her! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave instinctively holds up her blades to defend... and the Pixelvaders miraculously poof away on contact! Croire frowns for a second. "I thought that brat was more useful than that..."](elseif: $neptuneTarget is "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF instinctively holds up her Qatars to defend... and the Pixelvaders miraculously poof away on contact! Croire smirks. "Guess your red-haired girly-friend wasn't the one on top~"](elseif: $neptuneAttackChance > 85)[However, before the Pixelvaders can reach $neptuneTarget, they simply explode! Got lucky there! "Dead on arrival... Describes your love-life pretty well," Croire shrugs.](else:)[The flying enemies crash hard into $neptuneTarget, exploding on contact! She flies back a bit and lands flat on the ground. Hmm... the explosion didn't feel... real... Still took 20 health though! "Would ya look at that: little-miss 'Queer-Eye' IS good fer somethin' after-all!" the evil tome taunts rather-rudely.(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 20)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 20)]] 'RED' winks before exploding back into Neptune.] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack3")[(if: $neptuneTarget != "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her blades to block... ](if: $neptuneTarget != "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]One second, Neptune is there... and the next, she seemingly blinks out of existence! Where the hell did she go?!... Wait, she's now swinging her sword right for $neptuneTarget! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[With lightning-fast reflexes, Cave holds up her blades to defend, and the fake CPU is luckily unable to strike through her guard! Croire rubs her eyes with her small hands. "YAWN! So bored... Someone bleed already!"](elseif: $neptuneTarget is "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[Quick as a fox, IF holds up her Qatars to defend... and the false CPU is luckily unable to strike through her guard! Croire silently yawns to herself. "Shoulda ordered a pizza before this..."](elseif: $neptuneAttackChance > 75)[$neptuneTarget quickly (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[slides](else:)[rolls] out of the way... and the false goddess's blade just barely misses! The dark-clad tome fairy rubs one finger under her nose. "If only those two wimpy Oracles coulda moved that fast, huh?~ <3"](else:)[The massive blade connects, launching $neptuneTarget speedily backwards! Neptune blinks away again... and reappears to slice the flying girl from behind, sending her helplessly forwards! One last teleportation, and $neptuneTarget finds herself getting sliced down face-first into the hard ground. 30 damage AND a hearty dose of humiliation... Croire can't hide her excitement. "Holy shit, that was amazing! Do it again!"(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 30)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 30)]]] (elseif: $neptuneChoice is "Attack4")[(if: $neptuneTarget != "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave holds up her blades to block... ](if: $neptuneTarget != "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF holds up her Qatars to block... ]Neptune is suddenly engulfed by a fiery explosion... and in her place is now... Lyrica?! No... her eyes are empty; far from the radiant orbs that $neptuneTarget loved so deeply! The false pop idol pulls out her guitar, strums five times... and she suddenly charges right for $neptuneTarget, her iconic instrument of death held high over her head! (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave" AND $caveAttackChoice is "defend")[Cave fights against her aching heart and holds up her twin blades to block! Lyrica bashes her 'axe' downwards... but cannot break through her guard! Croire shakes her head. "You shittin' me? I hate crappy rock and roll."](elseif: $neptuneTarget is "IF" AND $iffyAttackChoice is "defend")[IF fights against her screaming heart and holds up her Qatars to block! Lyrica bashes her 'axe' downwards... but cannot break through her guard! A sly grin grows on Croire's face. "Hehehe... You've done this before. This you guys' kind of foreplay?~"](elseif: $neptuneAttackChance > 60)[Lyrica makes it to $neptuneTarget... but suddenly throws her guitar to the ground, wraps her arms around the confused girl's neck... and plants her delicate lips firmly on her own! The (if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[SMD warrior](else:)[battle-hardened veteran] knows this isn't real... but she simply can't break the kiss; something is *binding* her!... After a long moment, Lyrica separates from the lip-lock and snickers as she hops back. Croire rolls her eyes. "Pffft... Feminism."](else:)[Lyrica bashes her 'axe' downwards, clonking $neptuneTarget on the head! One bash, two bash, three bash, four bash, five, with the last sending the defenseless woman crashing into the ground! A total beat-down, worth a devastating 40 damage! Croire practically guffaws with an uncomfortable 'thrill' to her voice. "True love's never looked so sweet~!"(if: $neptuneTarget is "Cave")[(set: $caveBossHealth to $caveBossHealth - 40)](else:)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 40)]] Lyrica curtly bows... before exploding back into Neptune. "Ladies and gentlemen: 5pb. has left the building!"] ] (else:)[] (set: $caveAttackOptions to false)(set: $caveSkillsOptions to false)(set: $iffyAttackOptions to false)(set: $iffySkillsOptions to false)(set: $actionFirstVisit to true)(set: $caveSkillsChoice to "No")(set: $caveAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffySkillsChoice to "No")(set: $iffyAttackChoice to "No")(set: $iffyObserveCheck to false)(set: $caveObserveCheck to false)(set: $iffyTurnComplete to false)(set: $caveTurnComplete to false)(set: $neptuneChoice to "No")(set: $neptuneTarget to "No") }IF's Health: (print: $iffyBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $iffyEnergyMeter)/10 Cave's Health: (print: $caveBossHealth)/100| Energy Meter: (print: $caveEnergyMeter)/10 Neptune's(?) Health: ???/???| Neptune's(?) Energy: ???/??? [[Next|True End Boss Fight Action]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[By now, Croire's book has picked itself up off the ground... and she reclaims her post of floating over it. She shrugs while looking at IF. "Seriously, this chick is *wacko!!!* How do you put up with her?" The brunette tries to speak, but the tome doesn't wait. "Believe what ya want... if you're an idiot. None of those jerks are dead! The same magic creep that possessed Miss Chest-ticles INCONTROVERTIBLY has a hand in them disappearing too!" Yet ANOTHER shrug. Learn some different mannerisms, please; poor Cave looks like she's about to blow a gasket! "How did 'Tig ol' Bitties' go insane, anyways? What was the exact moment that caused it?! In this dimension, at least?" Seeing that the red-haired soldier was in no mood to humor the villain, the battle-hardened veteran does the honors. "... Okay, first of all, ENOUGH with the names! Anyhow, that Adrian kid... used his magic book to transform, almost like a complete rip-off of the CPUs' HDD! He then shot some death beam at me— which missed, by the way— and Lady Vert... well, she must've gotten shook up by it! She charged right for him, she slipped up... and Adrian caught her hard with another spell. That's the moment... I think we officially lost her." IF closes her eyes, the painful memories kicking back in full swing. "... Vert looked dead, but Adrian detransformed, and we had him cornered! He used his spellbook again, but it suddenly... yeah, it suddenly exploded all that dust out. Took days to wash that stuff out of my clothes! Immediately after, Vert stood back up, engaged HDD, and sent him on his ass! She's never left her goddess form since." "Hmmm... Wait, 'him'?!" Croire's eyes open wide. "Adrian... is a 'he'?! In THIS series?!" "... Uh, yeah? He's one of Arfoire's *children* or *clones* or whatever the heck. 'Operational Companions', I think they were called? He was meant to seduce Nep, but she turned him down... and I don't know what happened, but then he suddenly popped back up to start a full-on rebellion!" "A guy... Wow, that's new. Not a silhouette either?" "... No?" "... Strange... Weird times, my bitchities, weird times!" Cave finally opens back up. "Get TO YOUR DAMN POINT!" Nevermind. "Tch, moody bitch! Jeez, just tryin' to world-build here! Something *really* must've crawled up your butt! Ooh, let me guess: your '*dead*' girlfriend?!" The SMD warrior instinctively reaches for her scissors, but the brunette grabs her before anything rash could be done. "As I was GETTING to... me thinks you just answered yer own smackin' question! This 'Adrian' used a... magic book? Which exploded MAGIC DUST that stretched far enough to hit everyone important in Gamindustri?! The SAME dust that shows up when people 'poof' into the night?! Ya see it now?! God, I can't believe I'M the one doling out wisdom here..." ... Now that she mentions it all like that... Cave's shoulders sink in sad understanding. "Your... words may... hold some water..." The connecting point between all of these events must hold the answer! Adrian, Vert's 'death' and 'rebirth', people vanishing into dust, a mysterious villain with an unnatural hold over the world... "... The cheat tome. Adrian's 'magic' book... T-The one responsible is..." She shoots IF a look of surprise. "... INSIDE it?!" Croire laughs. "Woohoo, bingo! One correct answer is worth... well, still an 'F', but better than MY test scores! Screw the school systems!" This girl... couldn't possibly have gone to school... could she? Where is she from, actually? "A book caused all this! An 'Asshole', not me, wanted to cause a war... and he's holed up in that book— not MY book! My pages are clean! I'd also reckon that your little friends... are trapped inside with him! Want revenge? Want your little 'hook-up' back? Find that imposter book... and (link:"you are gold, bitches!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 33")]](else:)[This... is great news! A-Amazing news! IF can't help but feel a rush of energy surge through her blood vessels! "T-That... That makes too much sense, holy crap! We can... wow, EVERYTHING can go back to normal, then! Mina, Gust, all those soldiers... Even Chika; they'll all be back again!" She slaps Cave on the back, making the stone-cold sniper avert her reddening cheeks. "You may be an asshole, runt... but this is seriously the best news I've ever heard. Well, not pertaining to Lyree, at least... So tell us: where is this book now? We gotta find it!" Silence... before a cruel laugh. "HA! Yeah, WHERE?! I have no stinkin' clue!" Once the shock settles in, the battle-hardened veteran practically takes a pratfall into her red-haired friend. "... YAWN! I'm tired... I wanna go home~... Er, wait, where IS my home? Do I... even have one...?" The tome's eyes grow wide with concern for a moment... before she nudges her neck and casts the thought aside. "... So yeah, even *I* don't know that much! I've been tracking down this 'Asshole' for awhile now! Y'know, to shake his hand for all the misery he's caused! This isn't the first universe he's shaken up, if you catch my drift! Only found a few useless clues here and there... but he's a sneaky one, I'll give him that! Closest I ever got to him was Miss Gazoongas, but even though he was possessing her, she had no idea! Brick wall, like her head." Cave's fists clench... and she suddenly walks over towards the dirty-mouthed fairy? The magical girl gives her the stink eye. "Yo... Personal space here, bub! I don't know how you girlies play it, but I like not having to smell your breat- H-HEY, LEGGO!" The... warrior is grabbing Croire's ear?! "Shit shit shit shit, not so hard!" Tighter, she clasps! "OWOWOWOWOW! C-Cruel bitch... S-Stop!" Nothing. "... O-Okay, I DO h-have something to show ya! J-Just let go!" Finally, Cave relents, and the dark tome floats a few inches away. "Geez... You're lucky I used up all my magic trying to kick yer butts! Here, just... j-just take this thing!" From behind Croire's ear emerges a small... marble? She whispers something, most likely an incantation... and the thing grows into a fully-grown glass sphere?! What, a crystal ball? Before the confusion can settle in on the heroines, the fairy randomly tosses it towards the brunette, who nearly drops it in surprise. "What... is this?" "Take a look inside! I found it while chasing the creep between dimensions. Yep, he dropped his balls!" "Er... alright..." IF presses her open eye against the orb... and frowns. "... Well, I see... er, clouds? No, wait, that's just the... design... What am I supposed to be seein' here, runt?" Croire sighs. "Such a dumbass! You must be too stupid to see anything but the damn inside of yer own head! Give it to 'Legs-Lover' over there!" The brunette glares in response, wishing pain upon her small frame... but eventually passes along the crystal ball in accordance. "I think it's different for everyone capable of thinking. Keep hopin' it'll help me find the bastard, but everytime I look, I just see a tree. A BIG tree! I hate symbolism, so I never read my own pages to research it." "... And I'M the dumbass for seein' nothing?! Ugh... Give it a (link:"look-see, Cave!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 34")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioSilence.fade(0,1500);" /></div>}"... Fine; I'll indulge you this once..." Cave groans before taking hold of the glass ball and inching her head close. At first, there again doesn't seem to be anything of note... but soon the muddled image focuses to show a wooden floor? Elegant and highly-reflective, at that... Wait, hasn't she seen this location before? Yeah, if she just trails her eyes down this way... A-Ah?! In the edge of the apparent ballroom... rests a grand piano, starkly contrasting with the bright tones surrounding it. N-No, that... c-can't... be...?! "... N-No...?" The room is deserted... save for one lone individual happily pressing down on the instrument's keys. Unable to obey any proper form or pattern dictated by even the simplest sheet music... but cheerfully playing all the same. "C-Chika...?" This... is where Cave had just been, when she was 'dying'! Chika still remained there, counting the minutes, the hours, the days, the weeks, the months, the *years* until they'd be reunited! That... WAS too real to be a dream, or some disoriented near-death vision! She didn't know how... but this crystal ball was giving her confirmation that Chika was not yet entirely lost! Croire's insane words, ALL OF THEM, were somehow true! Chika wasn't dead... This piano hall must be inside the cheat tome! The proverbial lion's den; where the true villain secretly dwells... "... IF," the soldier begins, "we cannot rest until we find this tome, understand? Our friend and allies... are indeed trapped inside! It is our duty to set them free!" The battle-hardened veteran is promptly thrown off by her friend's conviction, but she smiles regardless. "Guess it worked for you, huh? Man, why can't I be the special one, h-hehe..." She folds her arms, sticking her hands in the opposite sleeves like a wise monk. "Well, if you're onboard, then hell yeah! Let's save Gamindustri!" The interruptions and distractions were all done! Now... it was TRULY time to search the land a find the real 'Asshole' behind everyth- "U-Unhand me!" Once again, nevermind; the distractions shall never cease. "How dare you treat the Deity of Sin (link:"this way!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.play('MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 34")]](else:)[To the surprise of no one with memories greater than that of goldfish, Arfoire comes stumbling into the throne room, looking enervated and peeved to all hell. She no longer wields a sword, instead having traded it out for... Nepgear and Lady Green Heart?! She carries the unconscious goddesses like two cases of luggage. Walking beside her... is Lyrica, nowhere near as exhausted, though sweating as if she just took a pleasant jog. The alternate Gehaburn is... in her hands now? It doesn't display signs of use either. "Iffy, Cave! Sorry I'm late; this jerk tried to make a run for it, so I had to chase her all around the Basilicom!" "I-I did not run! I-I was merely taking a... s-strategical time-out! I-If my sword was obeying my commands, t-there would have been no need for such hasty disturban-" THWACK! The tired pop idol is having none of this, bonking the Devil herself on the top-most part of her head. "O-Ow... W-Why you!!!" "Quiet!" So commanding... IF can't help but feel a bit... er, amorous at the star's unusual violent streak. "You guys, 'Arfy' here has something to share! DON'T YOU, Arfy?!" The Deity's face grows more pale than the norm. "W-What fiendish realm did you spawn from?!" 5pb's hand raises in a threatening manner. "Grr, I mean... Ugh, fine. This never gets easier, no matter how many times I've been forced to ask, but..." Arfoire, refocusing her mind, blinks slowly at Cave and IF. "... I require your help. I'm... looking for something." So much talking and surprises today, IF internally monologued! Her head's long past the point of spinning. "... Really? YOU... need OUR help? Last time I saw you, we were fighting to the death!" Cave simply nods, unsure of the woman's motives. Arfoire waves her left hand. "I wish I were here to kill you... No, I'm... looking for a... particular book. A cheat tome, if you will. 'The Crucial Codes to the Way of Cheats', it's called... Pathetic-sounding, I know." Cheat tome?! The two friends understand without a moment's delay! The Devil, oddly-enough... seemed to have the exact same end goal as they did! Croire, meanwhile, chortles as she summons enough magic strength to pick up the puppet-Neptune. "Oooooh, the plot thickens! Later, shit-taters! This was fun and all, but I gotta go: *I* have a life!" With one last off-putting faux-3D effect, the dark tome fairy leaves the Basilicom... and presumably the world! Everyone present can't help but (link:"sigh in sweet relief.")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 35")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)["... I still have no idea who that was..." Arfoire grumbles. She shakes her head before continuing. "... My idiotic son held the tome, and he played his part beautifully... but now it is lost. I had thought it'd be in this castle... but alas, all my efforts have proven futile. I amassed an army from across hundreds of alternate worlds in order to finally break through the barrier preventing me entry... and it was all for naught!!!" Army from across alternate worlds? Also the same army who, if IF and Cave correctly remembered the Deity's earlier words right outside this chamber, betrayed her before any bloodshed could commence? Who WERE all those people in cloaks then?! ... Before any more of that could be asked, however, the red-headed Leanbox enforcer points at the two slumbering souls under the villain's arms. "... Why are you carrying them?" Simple enough question. Another roll of the eyes. "... I believe I need THEM as well. At least the foolish Candidate." "Nepgear...? If you do anything more to torment her, I will not hesita-" "Do not fear, her death would be a waste of my time. I'm not the exact 'Arfoire' she detests anyways... as irritating that is to admit. No, I... feel she has made contact with the tome. I can sense the energy around her." IF's eyebrows raise tellingly. "You can just tell? What, you smell it? Have the senses of a dog?" "DO NOT try me!" THWACK! "C-Cut that out! I have nothing more to explain to you! I happen to know that it'd be in all of our best interests to find this book... and more importantly, the savage inside of it!" A slimy grin expands her face, making way to several obvious wrinkles. The Devil doesn't need makeup; she prefers to go au naturel! "I will permit our unification just this once... and we shall completely dismantle this creep limb-from-limb! The only villain Gamindustri needs (link:"is ME!\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 35")]](else:)[Cave thinks to herself for a moment, reflecting once again on the orb in her hands. Chika has given up on playing for the moment and is now laying on the bench with her legs held up in the air. Dangling them about like a bored child... "... This Nepgear is close... '*friends*' with Falcom, over in Lowee! Do you suppose we shall... take our search there?" Arfoire tries to clap... but nearly forgets she's already busy holding up two full-sized bodies. "... Exactly! The malefactor we seek... is most likely there! I suggest we leave at once, no?" The SMD warrior is fully prepared to jump aboard with her fist held high... but then she remembers the truth behind what exactly they're up against. An entity that somehow cursed the world and nearly tore apart Gamindustri... and still might be able to. "... Will it really be that simple? If this... 'Asshole'..." STILL no better calling card?! "... can trap our own friends' *souls* in a tome... can we really combat him? Marching directly towards him sounds like suicide." "... W-We'll need to get stronger! Not just us, but... EVERYONE!" Lyrica throws in her two cents, still mostly out of the loop entirely. "I'm not losing either of you! Cave, Iffy, I-I won't let you blindly charge into the unknown, so don't even try it! We'll need... all the help we can get, won't we?" Cave nods. "... Agreed. Have no qualms, Lyrica; I am not planning to die. Not to this foe." Her sharp eyes direct themselves to IF. "... We'll need an entire army perhaps. I'd refrain from recruiting ordinary soldiers, however; Leanbox, Planeptune, Lastation, Lowee... they've done more than their fair share of fighting. No, we'll... need exceptional fighters we can trust with our lives. People we know are strong enough to handle this threat! It'd be... unfortunate to enlist the CPUs' help after everything they've been through, but... we really have no other choice, do we?" "H-Ha," IF laughs, "if only we could team up with, I dunno, a bunch of 'ourselves', eh? A ton of 'Caves' and 'IFs' could get the job done, AND we wouldn't have to worry about dragging the rest of our friends into this mess!" "Heh... Indeed. If only such an idea was a possibility." A moment of silence dawns over the group... before Arfoire sighs to herself. "... Actually..." Hmm? The two friends stare back at the Deity, detecting her hesitation. "... I already have something... *arranged*... Follow me; it'd be easier just to... (link:"show you...\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $narrationCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioCrossroads.fade(0,4000);" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 36")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[[... ]<line1|{ (live:6s)[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 36")]}](else:)["Wow... the sun's coming out! Well, setting, but... man, look at it!" IF gasps in awe at she leans against the balcony rail, her eyes as wide as an infant glimpsing snow for the very first time. The rain clouds have quickly begun to dissipate, vanishing into the coming night like a bad memory. The world need not suffer being inundated by the deluge any longer... Well, not today, at least. "Heh... Y'know, for a moment back there... I wondered if I'd ever see the sun again." The woman bending over beside her, Cave, chuckles into her left knuckle. "Ha... Which moment exactly?" "J-Just... o-one! Just one! Never really got shot at by a full-fledged sniper before!" "So I've heard. And what of the predicament I found you in? Delusional as I was, even I had the mind to see you were entirely out of tricks." "Hey! I would've found a way out! Always do, don't I?" "Teh! If you say so." It has been an hour since the two friends followed Arfoire back outside and... 'met' her army. 'Met' is a relative term, for... turns out, they were already far-too familiar with the soldiers... The less they mulled over their identities, the better. 'Know your enemy, and know *yourself*,' and all that jazz... Moving on, the Leanbox troops were all unharmed... and Cave and IF informed them of the situation at hand. The battle plan was thusly decided: come tomorrow, Cave, IF, Lyrica, and... Arfoire would lead the odd troops to Lowee, if not just to scout out the tome's exact whereabouts. Currently in the snowy nation were Falcom and Blanc... and hopefully they would cooperate swimmingly. Accompanying the army would be Linda and Nepgeo, at the former's demands, but no other Leanbox soldier (or any other nations', for the record) were ordered to come. Doesn't mean there wouldn't be heroics anyways, but... at least they were free to make their own choices. Besides, should the tome be successfully recovered, and... the entity inside thoroughly taken care, the war would be a thing of the past. This was destined to be the final battle, with the fate of the damn universe at stake. "Think we're ready...?" IF begins, keeping her eyes trained on the setting sun. "Still don't know how to feel about 'who' exactly we're teamin' up with... H-Heh, guess we can trust 'em though! At least, as much as I trust (link:"'myself'...\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 36")]]](else:)[{ <audio src="GO- LovePeace.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }The SMD warrior closes her eyes, soaking in the warmth of the planet's grand life-giving star. "... We'll be fine. A strange turn of events, sure, but... heh, when has that stopped us? Besides, things can't get any more... outré, can they?" "... Reading your thesaurus again? Heh, and do you really believe that?" "... No. One thing I've learned is to... always expect the unexpected. Can't plan for everything." Cave shrugs, running a hand through her hair after a pleasant breeze ruffles it. "... And you know what? What fun is life without a little... surprise? A little challenge every now and again? We may not like the cards we get dealt with, sure, nor the seemingly-endless struggles... but knowing you've overcome such odds by the end is perhaps the best part of the game." Her shut lids relax, her peaceful face reveling in the cool air. "Never give in to doubt, or weakness. Even if you're hopelessly lost in the darkness... it's important to keep moving forward; to always search for your light. Life doesn't have to make sense— and it usually doesn't— so sometimes, you have to just go with the flow. Keep fighting... and you're bound to find what you're looking for, even amongst absolute chaos." This elicits a laugh from the brunette. "Now it sounds like you've been reading MY book! Be careful, Cave; you're getting all sappy on me!" "... Maybe I like being sappy?" "Ha, really? Since when?" The two friends share a chuckle again before staring back out at the horizon. Tomorrow may be rough, perhaps the roughest of their lives... but they'll be ready. "Room for one more?" Hmm? The pop idol's sudden voice catches the attention of the warriors, and they smile as she takes a spot between them. "Vert and Nepgear are still sleeping... Do you think they'll be awake by morning?" IF scrunches her forehead, wrapping an arm around her lover. Fit snugly together like a jigsaw puzzle. "... Something tells me it... won't be as simple as that. They might be out until we get that book! Just one of those 'plot-convenience' things! Nep LOVES going on about those." The embrace tightens. "... Whatever the case may be, we'll have everyone back to normal soon. That's what counts." Lyrica nods, satisfied at the answer. From there, a certain... silence falls over the three companions... and Cave's mind goes back to, what else, running wild. The day is over... but what of HER vile deeds from throughout the war? Fortunately, any lives she was forced to end... can still be brought back. The damage can physically be undone... but can she simply hope to be... forgiven? ... Better not leave it to chance. She had to work for her absolution! The moment was right, she could sense it! The red-haired soldier takes a deep breath... before spreading her lips. "IF, Lyrica... I-I... (link:"am sorry.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Page 37")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{ <audio src="Sengoku Musou 4 OST - Twin Cherry Blossoms.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }Cave bares her soul out to all... and IF and Lyrica remain silent. On no... t-this is the moment where they reject her! Where they condemn her for all the terrible things she's done! Whether forced or not, she still COMMITTED such heinous acts! ... Oh well, give her their best shot. The SMD warrior was ready! The blue-haired pop idol is the first to make a move, leaning her head towards her lover. "... Aaaaaaaaand... THAT took about three minutes! You owe me 1,000 Credits, Iffy!" "Aw man! You bested me again, Fivey!" The brunette reaches for her pocket... and realizes she does not have her wallet. "... Er, can I get a rain-check? My cash is back home with my phones, heheh..." Cave is taken aback by her friends' responses. A... bet? T-Three minutes?! "W-What's going... on?" IF slaps the stylish sniper on the back, nearly causing her to gasp from the force. "You're too dramatic, Cave! Everything's all good... Water under the bridge, y'know? So STOP mopin' about all that past crap!" "Yep!" Lyrica cheers, suddenly latching onto her self-proclaimed bodyguard's arm. "If you really think you need to apologize... then let's save the world! After that, you can buy us all drinks. How's that sound?" '... How do you always know? You are right about everything.' The SMD warrior had been afraid for nothing... She forever had the best friends in the world, even though she couldn't always see it with her own eyes. But Chika could. Chika could see it all. "... Ha, it's a... deal." "Heck yeah! Huh... er, wait! Are we... old enough to drink?" "Hmm? I don't see why not... I think? Er... How old are... we?" "I-I didn't mean 'drink' drinks! I-I was thinking more along the lines of smoothies!" "O-Oh...! H-Haha, y-yeah! U-Uh, m-me too!" Teh... IF is such a dweeb... ... Well, whatever celebrations awaited their successful mission... Cave would rejoice with her friends all the same. True friends... True companions. What more could she (link:"ask for?")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 37")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Beyond The Destiny.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }"See, Cavey? Told ya not to worry! I'm proud of ya, babe... but that being said, I'll NEVER FORGIVE you if you guys leave me out of the party, got it?!... Love you!" ... Cave's story was not yet complete; this party was still missing perhaps the most important person of all! (link:"\"I'm coming, Chika.\"")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"True Ending Credits")]]

Original IF choice one result: What if it's a sniper?! This is the enemy's main capital, after-all! Without another thought, you quickly leap through the air a couple feet before crashing down in a prone position. However, in your haste, you neglected to remember the muddy earth below you! You crash down and end up sliding a couple of inches. Furthermore, you think you landed on a small rock; it feels like there's a bruise forming above your right breast. You take 5 damage! Wasn't Compa the clumsy one? Oh well, could be worse, right? As you pick yourself up and prepare to wipe the mud from your clothes, you suddenly hear: "H-Hey, I see her! Lady Vert was right, it's IF!" a gruff voice shouts from somewhere a little ways behind you. A ton of other voices sound off from the surrounding area, including the trees from before. Huh, turns out you did see someone in the tree... but he hadn't noticed you yet. Too bad. Oh well, they had been expecting you, and now they knew of your presence. Time to get serious... IF's Health: 95/100 Alternate IF flashback: The evening sky brings the wonderful day to an end as you walk down the sidewalks of Leanbox, various storeowners closing shop as the wind grows quiet. Activity in the streets is minimal, with barely a vehicle passing by. It was one of those rare occurences where the city was actually quite peaceful, and you welcome the fine change of pace. You feel your hand tugged by a kind beauty, causing you to look directly into your partner's eyes. The idol Lyrica, clad in rather casual wear consisting of a T-shirt and a plain skirt, looks right back at you, a beautiful smile drawn on her lips as the setting sun radiates her eyes with the splendor of love. You feel lost within those doors to the soul... For a moment, even in a plain environment such as this, you feel like you stumbled directly into paradise. "IF, car." You feel yourself getting tugged back by a strong grip as a car speeds on by, disappearing into the sunlit horizon. Crap, that was... unexpectedly close... You sure got distracted easy. Regaining yourself, your dear pop idol pats her hand upon you most adorably, making sure you are truly in one piece. You blush as you thank her for caring, too embarrassed to look her in the eye all of a sudden. You nearly got run over... How much of a ditz are you? You calm you nerves, allowing the strange scene to leave your system... and you turn to the other woman who just saved your ass. Looking right at her concerned face, you can't help but stand in awe at the immense strength of Cave, always the one prepared for anything at anytime. Like Lyrica and even yourself, she too is dressed plainly today, something very odd for her (she's clad in a simplistic outfit. Looks honestly like Lyrica's in your opinion). While you and your handheld-partner appear lax (despite what just went down), the SMD warrior is most certainly tense... as usual. Cave... never relaxes, does she? Once she notices your breathing has calmed to an acceptable level, she sighs. "Honestly IF, I'm starting to wonder whether you can even walk without me around." It may sound snide (Cave has never been particularly good with sarcasm or jokes or... well, y'know), but she says it with a tiny smile that is strangely warm and heartfelt. Her words further fluster you; you did just have to be saved by her just now, and this isn't even the first time she's had to do it! No, far from it... You remember a scene from some time ago which also involved you being distracted by your girlfriend... and you both ended up in the way of a pack of dogoos during feeding season... Er, you choose not to continue that memory. "Well, I, uh..." you stammer, feeling the heat rise to your face, "I-I was just caught off guard... T-The sun was in my eyes, y-yeah! That's all, really!" Lyrica laughs at your avoidance, and in the end you can't help but laugh too. Even the stoic Cave, normally lacking, uh, most emotions common in humans, starts to giggle into her fist. Man, why can't she always act this cute? She'd have every heart in the world swooning for her! You decide to playfully shove her, and that only catches her off guard and makes her laugh more, her joyful sounds no longer muffled by her self-conscious hand. Hmm... Man, what would a bystander think, seeing this? How odd is must seem that two battle-hardened veterans and a beautiful idol of Gamindustri are laughing like little kids at a random intersection thanks to almost being run over by a car. Why, that really sounds like the setup for a bad sitcom... Can't say you'd hate it, though. As you all get lost in your laughing fits... a voice suddenly yells out from the other side of the street. "Hey! Hey, are you the real 5pb.?!?! Not one of those fake cosplayers, right?! Holy crap, awesome, awesome!!! Wait, no, I need to get a better look first..." The three of you turn to face the stranger. It was definitely a man, and judging by the fact that he was sweating up a storm just by standing, he was not the healthiest. It was hard to make out many details from here, but he was definitely not someone you would be happy bringing home to mom. Drat, why now? You and Lyree encounter these guys all the time... One of the prices to pay for being famous. You turn to your lover, who was now cowering behind you and Cave. Lyrica was always so good in front of a large crowd... but in her private life, even one random fan walking up to her would reduce her to mere whimpering. Didn't help that this guy was giving off a creepy first impression though... You decide to answer, but naturally you remain cautious. "What's it to you, bud?... Well, no, ya got the wrong person! Seriously, why would Ly-5pb be hanging out with two plain folk like us?" You feel Lyrica tug your hand even harder, also grabbing Cave with her spare grip. Cave continues to glare at the guy... Her 'Mama Bear' instinct is shining through. Unfortunately, it seems that the guy already had his mind set on what he wants to do, as he begins crossing the street (illegally too, you feel like adding). "Ohmigod, that is her!!! I know that authentic blue hair anywhere! My lovely 5pb, right before my very eyes!" He stops in the middle of the road, and you secretly hope a car may rampage by at this very moment... Terrible, you know, but this had been a swell day up til now. His gaze, which looks very disgusting and overall surreal, quickly contorts to a grimace. "You two hags! Stop blocking her beauty! You'll spread your ugliness to her, and I can't allow that!" Cave starts to grit her teeth, and you feel like doing the same. However, you manage to hold back your anger, trying to reassure Lyrica that everything will be okay. "Buddy, just go away! We don't want any trouble, all right?" The man does not feel like relenting! He quickly approaches you, his unhealthy body about to collapse into itself. "Shut up, you dirty hag! Get away from my future wife! You ugly people disgust me!" Who the hell was this guy?! The other fans were annoying, not horrifying! This creep is seriously reminding you of... a certain CFW cretin you've tried to forget up til now... He is dangerously close, and you try to ready a strike... and yet, you just can't do it. You fear that you'll do something way too drastic, which will not only harm him, but also Lyrica, who may get too disturbed. You always hate showing your violent side whenever she was around... You honestly feel trapped. Luckily, Cave does not feel the same way. Right as the guy gets to you, she quickly charges him and grabs his arm. He yelps as she twists his appendage back, forcing him forward as she holds him from behind. Both you and Lyrica get a good look at him, and if it was possible, you would find a way to hide like your girlfriend was. The SMD warrior snarls into the fiend's ear. "'Buddy', let me give you some words of advice, all right? When three ladies say to go away, you go away! If a delicate woman is hiding from you, that means she's seriously not interested!" She stops to lean her head back, nearly choking as she coughs. "... When your parents tell you to bathe, they mean it, you revolting piece of shit!" The man struggles. "H-Hey, this is battery! This is illegal, hag! I can get the police right on you!" Cave doesn't even stutter. "Yeah, we'll see how well that goes!" She tightens her grip, eliciting a whine from the deranged man. "How about we strike a deal? You leave right now and never go near Lyrica ever again... and I won't break your arm. Comprehend that?" The guy resists a little bit more, but perhaps the pain finally makes him submit... and he nods. With that, she lets him go, pushing him further down the sidewalk. He turns to look at you one more time, before he runs down the block, panting heavily as he cowers in fear. It is seriously the saddest thing you have ever seen... Cave dusts her shirt off, and walks back to you, her hips swaying professionally. Even after all that... she still tries to block out all emotion from her face. "... Sorry you two had to see that." Lyrica quickly steps up and hugs her. "No, i-it's fine!... T-Thanks for helping me, Cave... I don't know what would've happened if he got to me, or Iffy!" Her eyes close, and her smiling face rests against the warrior's neck. "... You're always looking out for me... Thank you." You awkwardly scratch the back of your head, wishing you did do something more to help. Lyrica was in danger... and you couldn't do a damn thing. You cracked under the pressure! Until now... you had thought you were practically invincible!... Well, it's a good thing you had a friend you could rely on. "Y-Yeah, Cave... thanks for that... J-Jeez, there sure are some creeps on this planet, huh?!" Cave looks at you in silence, her eyes unrelenting in hiding away any hint of what she is thinking... but she actually shoots you a smile, naturally giving birth to a cheesy grin on your lips. That's Cave; always surprising, usually a hard-ass... but deep down, you couldn't ask for a better friend! It's not long before she turns to look down at the idol in her arms, a more sincere look plastered on her face. "Lyrica... don't ever worry about people like that. As long as IF and I draw breath... you won't ever be in danger. That's a promise." She gives you one of the cutest and most-uncharacteristic winks you've ever seen... and you nod in approval as you try to ward off another incoming blush. Be it her or you, your girlfriend was in good hands. The pop idol appears to think the same. "Thanks, guys... I-I'm a little embarrassed!" Ah, she is so perfect! "H-Haha, I can handle myself... b-but people like that... I-I really can't thank you two enough!" She bows in respect, and the two of you chuckle in return. As you shake off that bizarre scenario, you continue on your way, Lyrica resting her head on your shoulder. Cave walks by your side with a stride that looks quite powerful; something you definitely envy. The sun finally vanishes as you make it to your destination... list of accolades maybe show codenames for paths and stuff Ur Concepts: also show timeline of when each part was written-ish. How many times characters died as well Conceptual Concepts- maybe include the jailbreak sequence here

(if: $iffyShotPath is false)["Y-Yeah, that's the name!" The childishly-energetic-yet-powerfully-mysterious girl you only met a handful of times grins at you in your mind. "Heh... She's an... oddball..." Man, it's been quite some time since you heard from that dragon shorty! "... What about her?" The pop idol shakes her head dismissively, wearing a light shy smile. "Nothing, really. Just randomly crossed my mind... I guess, you know, you never really told me much about her. Apparently, she saved our lives, right?" It was a strange thing for her to think of suddenly, but you understood where she came from. Quiet moments always make you reflect on... unanswered questions from the past. "Yeah, I guess I haven't. Er, sorry, but it's a long story. A really long, boring, and hella confusing story..." You could say more, though really, you barely know where to start. What CAN you say? Some girl who claimed to come from a long-forgotten alternate universe AND had somehow attained the power to morph into a dragon inside of your dreams used her strength to randomly show up and protect you from Arfoire's evil schemes? Furthermore, when an even-more confusing High-School alternate universe, which not many people remember for some reason, took over the world at large, this very same girl appeared to you in person and concocted another scheme to reset the world back to its normal state? Oh yeah, and you also met yourself, as well as alternate versions of most of your friends... ... Again, it was a long story. Maybe someone chronicled it; you should totally read up on that someday when you get the time. You may just <a title="Link to fanfiction.net. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8640789/1/Much-Ado-About-Nothing" target="_blank">[learn something...]<external|(click:?external)[(set: $ffLinkClickedRed to true)]</a> E-Er, back to the date! Lyrica simply lets out a chuckle, unaware of your confused recollections. "Fair enough... I'm not really in the mood to be confused. Not today, at least!" Heh, agreed! Once more, she smiles and rests against you again. You hold her close, bringing back that warmth of the date. So wonderful a feeling this is... ... And then you find your body getting lifted by your very own girlfriend?! "Wha-" is all you can muster as you get whisked away, Lyrica laughing as she holds you like a cliche blushing bride. Foreshadowing...? H-Heh, w-what are you thinking?! Geez, she sure is strong; stronger than you perhaps give her credit for! She DOES lug around heavy instruments practically everywhere she goes, y'know! So she's randomly carrying you... Confusing... but at the same time pleasing. You accept wherever you are going, curiously pondering her plan. She drags you to the park and plops you back on your feet... only to immediately clasp your hands to twirl you around! A-A dance?! B-But you're no good at thi... N-No, what attitude is that?! The lady wants to dance? You DANCE! And that's what you do. You have no idea what type of dance you're aiming for... and let's face it, your footing is completely off... but at least your girlfriend knows how to groove based purely on experience. It pays being a pop star! However, experience truly means nothing as you gaze into her cheerful eyes. What's there to worry about? Her beauty, her extravagence... is there anything at all you can fault about her? Her smile fills your spirit as you spin her around. To the unaware passerbys, you are probably fools without a care in the world... and you wouldn't have it any other way. Eventually, your bad footing gets the better of you, and you find yourself collapsing to the grassy ground. Lyrica lands on you with a mighty "Oomph!"... yet rather than feeling pain, the two of you can't help but laugh. You're not even embarrassed by your dweebish antics! A hand is placed upon your cheek... and her red eyes shine deeply into your very soul. "I love you, IF." "I love you too, Lyree. Always." ... Wow... how sappy are you? Still... your rose-colored memoirs serve as a decent-enough motivational force! If nothing else, Lyrica will cry if you die like a dog here... and you can't have that. Besides... that was some damn good ice cream that day! How can you kick the bucket before you and Fivey taste it again?! (link:"\"Don't worry, Lyree... I'm getting through this!\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(1,1500);" /></div> (goto:"IF Sixth Move")]](else:)[You take another sip from your drink and nod politely. "Yeah, they always look nice. Especially up here." You so desperately want to bring up where she found a place such as this, or why she had it... but that feels too rude to bring up. "Seriously though... thanks for inviting me, Milady. This is really incredible." A cheerful giggle escapes from your partner's lips. "Oh IF, I'm showing you my most private of locations... I think you can call me Vert, or perhaps a nickname? Chika prefers 'Verty'... though that never striked me as flattering... Teehee, no need for formalities." Her expression looks childish... and yet, at the same time, so... adult? You can't place your finger on it... but at least she is happy. You're not the best with reading faces, but you're certain you can read the goddess like a book, yep! However, what she just said does strike a certain chord within you, causing you to grow a little flustered. "U-Um, if you say so, Mi-um, Vert. Sorry, it just sounds so... weird when I say it..." Another giggle, and you feel the presence of her arm pulling you close; a friendly gesture, if a little too personal. Your face is getting rather close to her... No, don't let your mind wander THERE! "Oh Iffy, you are just too adorable!" Her arm pulls you tighter... No, surely you're just imagining that. "... Lyrica is such a lucky girl..." "No no, Vert, I... I'm the lucky one!" You begin to lose yourself as your mind ushers forth plenty of pleasant memories with the idol, smiling as you see her face clearly in your head. "She's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me... I d-don't know what I'd do without her!" Woah... Wait a minute, what the hell are you doing? You're embarrassing yourself in front of the CPU! "Crap, I-I-I'm sorry for suddenly gushing over her, Mil- Vert!" The Goddess merely laughs and looks back at the lowering sun. "It's okay, Iffy. Nothing to apologize about..." She lets you go as she appears lost in thought... Okay, scratch the 'read her like a book' comment! What IS she thinking about, you wonder? You can *always* tell what Lyree is thinking- HA, as if!- but it's now when you realize that Vert's mind is a complete and total mystery to you. You feel somewhat ashamed of yourself; you've known her all this time... and you barely even know a thing about her, huh? "Ah, being in love with that special someone... That must feel so wonderful." Your face reddens. "It's great, I'll admit... Perfect... U-Um, b-but I'm pretty sure you'll find someone soon, Vert! You're really a-attractive, and wonderful, and... you deserve everyone's love!... H-Hell, a lot already DO love you!... Trust me, you'll find someone, I know it!" She sighs, and while you could've swore that would make her more comfortable, she seems rather... dejected? It's honestly hard to tell. "You know," she starts, "maybe you're right... I just wonder if, you know, this special someone is... right in front of me or something... I must be foolish for not seeing them..." She slowly grows more serious... before she turns to you with eyes aglow. You have to admit, those eyes look so beautiful in combination with that setting sun. "Always with me, always by my side..." Her hips sway ever-so-subtly... Must be adjusting her seat. These chairs do get to you after awhile. "Always keeping me company... Always there when I need someone... Someone I can share my deepest secrets with... A perfect companion! Yes... perhaps..." You grin, though you fear it comes across a bit cheesy. Dang, you wish you could tone that down... "Hey, you never know!" Chika instantly springs to mind... Hmm, you wonder why the CPU hasn't brought her up? It's beyond obvious to everyone that Chika is smitten with Lady Vert (to the point of... unhealthy obsession)... Does the goddess not realize that? Heh... it seems kinda funny, doesn't it? Not being able to recognize that someone is madly in love with you? Man, Vert could be clueless sometimes... but y'know, that simply adds to her charm perhaps! But man, if someone pined for your affections like mad... you'd definitely realize it! ... Hmm... Now that you have a... clear mind to reflect on days gone by (through severe rose-colored glasses, that is)... things suddenly make a bit more sense. For longer than you realized... Vert had feelings for you, didn't she? Why you, of all people?! Well, that's besides the point. You had thought a brief conversation the two of you shared well over a year ago had resolved her... issues... but the heart doesn't work that way. Wow... such a fool you've been. Yeah, this is definitely your fault... You never considered yourself blind before, but this was quite the compelling case against that preconcieved notion. ... You haven't been clueless over anyone else's feelings, right?... F-Forget that for now; mope on it later! ... If there IS a (link:"later...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioTrack.fade(1,1500);" /></div> (goto:"IF Sixth Move")]]

(if: $iffyArmInjury is true OR $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[The food turns out beautifully (though you suspect Lyrica was just being kind about the sandwich meat you struggled with cooking), and with its wondrous turnout the conversations play out everso smoothly. Talks of Lyrica's guitar, your hilarious dilemma with ice and, *ugh*, warp-pipes, the time Vert somehow got, er, ten times 'bigger'... Just three friends having fun regaling about the past! But as the talks continued, one thing sticks out: while occasionally piping in some remark, Cave... is mostly quiet. She eats and nods along... She's normally shy and antisocial, but this seems to have more of an... edge to it. You also detect her eyes inching towards Lyrica far more than usual... Does she find it hard to make eye contact with you at all? It was never THIS extreme before! Hmm... well, don't let it bother you too much. Everyone has those days, yeah? "Y-Yeah, and then Chika tried so hard too! Next thing you know, the vase was on the floor! Lady Vert was... oh, I feel so bad laughing at this!" Lyrica can't help herself, and begins to crack up as she makes sure not to choke on her lunch. Laughter escapes you without much resistance, and you detect Cave trying to hide the fact that she was chuckling into her hand. "Well OF COURSE that was going to happen! We all remember what happened the LAST TIME she wore a blindfold! Jeez, what was she thinking?" The talk keeps going, and the storm above restrains itself as joke after joke is passed. Cave laughs at each one, but she doesn't seem too invested. At most, it seems she laughs more because you two are laughing than anything else. Maybe her mind's simply somewhere else? Probably thinking about Chika; those two, strange as it sounds, are one of the closest pairs you've ever known! Haha, you sometimes can't help but visualize them being 'together'! Yin and yang, they completed each other in a way that'd make most shippers squeal with glee!... But dear lord, never tell Cave that! Hmm... Do you think she even realizes how close she is with the Oracle? You often wonder if her stubbornness allows her to see such things. Oh well, the day continues! "... And I felt *so* embarrassed... but I just don't get it! It completely came undone, one of the worst things that can ever happen live... and yet people still cheered. Why?" Ah yes, THAT day! Woo-hoo-hoo... You STILL have the incredible photo of your girlfriend in a 'precarious' position on your cellphone. Not your pink one, though, as that'd be too obvious. She only ever thinks to check your pink phone... Hehe. "Well, Lyree, you're the most attractive person on this freaking planet! Of course people will cheer!" "H-Hey, you're just saying that!" "Nuh-uh. I mean it!" Oooooh... This could be fun~! You playfully turn your head, feigning intense bashfulness. "That's why I *still* wonder how on Gamindustri you chose ME of all people... I'm not worthy!" Add a bow fit for royalty to complete the moment! "I-Iffy, s-stop it! How can you say something like that?" Ah, so cute... You can never get tired of that~! ... Once more, Cave just sits there, focusing more on her empty plate than anything else. A slight smile is tugging at the corner of her lips, but you can't exactly be sure why. It does ring more... somber than it should. At this point, how can you NOT be worried? There's something bothering your friend, and you have to find out what! With a deep breath, you place your plate down. "Cave, how's Vert today? I haven't seen her yet." Not even a flinch, as if she anticipated a direct question to come her way. She fumbles in her head for a few seconds, before simply saying "Eh, she's okay, the usual... Chika's hanging out with her tonight." Ah... okay, you can kinda see the issue, or at least grasp at it. Cave seemed at peace when she was talking to Lyrica alone... but now, it's as if she's under a crapton of pressure when you're present. Is your friend feeling like a... third wheel? To not just you and Lyrica, but Vert and Chika as well? That's... pretty sad. She's too shy to say anything... so what can YOU say to comfort h- "... I'm fine, IF. I apologize... Chika kept me up all night, that's all," the SMD warrior remarks, half-yawning. So, she... noticed your concerned eyes... Attentive as a hawk! She never misses a detail! "Ah, I see..." And there's Chika again... Heh, y'know, Cave played a small part in getting you and Lyrica together in the first place! Maybe... YOU should... try to *sway* your friend and the Oracle in the 'right' direction...? Heheh... Perhaps! Anything to cheer her up! The stylish soldier shakes her head. "... I can tell you're thinking something inappropriate. Again, I'm FINE, Miss IF!" ... (if: $iffyShotPath is true OR $iffyShotRoll is true)[Hehe... speaking of being unable to read someone else's feelings... ](else:)[Wow... ]Did... Cave harbor feelings for the pop idol? Perhaps she did... AND for Chika as well! Geez, seems so obvious looking back... Why are you such a dweeb? You've totally misread all the signals! She cares so much for the both of them... God, she must be killing herself with worry over their well-beings! She needs help... and she hasn't gotten any thus far... You can't even imagine what the hell she's been going through; how much resentment has she built up after seeing you basically show off your relationship with Lyrica for more than a full year? Add to that you completely abandoning Leanbox, leaving Lyrica behind without even a word... Cave's never been one to share her feelings... but inside, she must be screaming. ... This is what's at stake here. If you don't set this right, you'll never overcome your differences. You refuse to rest before you, Cave, and Lyrica... all have a well-deserved talk. Simple wounds can't stand in your way! You need to get your friend back. (link:"\"I'm sorry, Cave... I'm such a dolt...\"")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"IF Tenth Move")]](else:)[... As the 'tense' scenes begin to dry up, each one of you is absorbed in the utter insanity being displayed. You can't read the others' minds, but in your honest opinion, this film sucks. Hell, that's not even a tomato: it's a giant cherry! Terrible... but yet you can't look away... However, by her face, Lyrica is not only liking it, but she's practically salivating over the disturbing plotline. Different strokes. Heh, she can be so cute! You feel the seat shift, and your trance is broken by the sudden appearance of Cave, who stylishly sits right beside you, looking as utterly lost as you. "So," she starts, cool and collected, "you, eh, enjoying this... movie?" "Are you?" "It... It has its quirks... Has its... quirks..." You look at one another for a rather long time... until both of you burst out into a fit of schoolyard-esque giggles. Lyrica nudges you on the back. "How can you two laugh at a time like this?! Tamao just lost her flower!" The Oracle is nearly bawling over on Lady Green Heart's lap. "I know! I... How could Shizuma take it from her like that?! Justice must be served!" She cuddles right into Vert's chest. The Goddess's eyes close in slight embarrassment when she notices your venturing eye. Her smile tells the whole story, though: you and Cave aren't the only ones at odds with this motion picture. Either way, Lyrica's and Chika's defenses did nothing to stop the two of you laughing, with Cave poorly attempting to hide her mouth with the back of her gloved hand. Eventually, though, your girlfriend's puffed cheek overwhelms you, and the two of you finally fall silent... save for one or two slight gasps of amusement. One more moment of eye contact with Vert... and she winks. ... You MUST make this right. Cave, Vert, Chika... They are your friends. This awful war has to end... so you can bring everything back to normal. You can't fail; not... again. ... Lady Vert and Cave... depend on you. Get your friends back! Anything else is an absolute failure! (link:"For Cave! For Vert! For EVERYONE!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioIntro.fade(0,200);" /></div> (goto:"IF Tenth Move")]]

{(if: $passwordFirstVisit is true)[(set: $obedienceSeal to "Locked!")(set: $chaosSeal to "Locked!")(set: $atonementSeal to "Locked!")(set: $passwordFirstVisit to false)(set: $trueEndingUnlock to false)]<table border="1" align="center"> <tr align="center"> <td>Seal of Obedience</td> <td>Seal of Chaos</td> <td>Seal of Atonement</td></tr> <tr align="center"> <td>$obedienceSeal</td> <td>$chaosSeal</td> <td>$atonementSeal</td> </tr></table>} <center>(if: $varPassword is "")[________](else:)[$varPassword]</center> {<table border="1" align="center" bgcolor="silver"> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"- Q -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Q")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- W -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "W")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- E -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "E")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- R -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "R")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- T -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "T")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- Y -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Y")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- U -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "U")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- I -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "I")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- O -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "O")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- P -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "P")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"- A -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "A")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- S -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "S")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- D -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "D")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- F -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "F")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- G -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "G")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- H -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "H")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- J -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "J")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- K -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "K")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- L -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "L")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"- Z -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "Z")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- X -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "X")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- C -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "C")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- V -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "V")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- B -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "B")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- N -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "N")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td>(link:"- M -")[(set: $varPassword to $varPassword + "M")(set: $passwordCount to it + 1)(if: $passwordCount is 8)[(goto:"Password Result")](else:)[(goto:"Password Page")]]</td> <td></td> <td></td> <td>(link:"F5")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]</td> </tr> </table>} (link:"Go back")[(goto:"Video Titlescreen")]

{<div align="center" class="titlescreen">(if: $videoPlay is true AND $openingFirstVisit is true)[(set: $openingFirstVisit to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.play('DOOM_PSX - Music - Opening.mp3');" /></div><audio></audio> <video align="center" width="640" height="360" autoplay preload="auto"> <source src="MeasureforMeasureintrosoundless.mp4" type="video/mp4"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video> (live: 13s)[(stop:)(replace:?selection)[$titleScreenSelection]]] (else:)[<img src="REMADELOGO3.jpg" align="center" width="640" height="360"></img> (replace:?selection)[$titleScreenSelection]]</div>} []<selection|

{(if: $varPassword is "EHORDEOP")[(set: $chaosSeal to "Open!")(if: $obedienceSeal is "Open!" AND $chaosSeal is "Open!" AND $atonementSeal is "Open!")[(set: $trueEndingUnlock to true)All three Seals are broken... The road to freedom lies ahead! Make it through entirely unscathed... to (link:"learn the truth...")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]] (else:)[The Seal of Chaos... has been (link:"broken.")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]]] (elseif: $varPassword is "XAREBEQB")[(set: $obedienceSeal to "Open!")(if: $obedienceSeal is "Open!" AND $chaosSeal is "Open!" AND $atonementSeal is "Open!")[(set: $trueEndingUnlock to true)All three Seals are broken... The road to freedom lies ahead! Make it through entirely unscathed... to (link:"learn the truth...")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]] (else:)[The Seal of Obedience... has been (link:"broken.")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]]] (elseif: $varPassword is "WYCURSCC")[(set: $atonementSeal to "Open!")(if: $obedienceSeal is "Open!" AND $chaosSeal is "Open!" AND $atonementSeal is "Open!")[(set: $trueEndingUnlock to true)All three Seals are broken... The road to freedom lies ahead! Make it through entirely unscathed... to (link:"learn the truth...")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]] (else:)[The Seal of Atonement... has been (link:"broken.")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]]] (elseif: $varPassword is "NAHGWMZV")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 3** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 60)(set: $caveBossHealth to 0) (set: $caveKarma to 4) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "Runaway") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "CTQOSVZF")[Password Recognized: **'Loyalty' Scenario** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "Cave")(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 0)(set: $caveBossHealth to 20) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "Loyalty") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "SRWHWVXR")[Password Recognized: **'Mission... Accomplished' Scenario ** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 5)(set: $caveBossHealth to 0) (set: $caveKarma to 4) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to true)(set: $armInjuryType to "Arrow") (set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "IPJIWTNZ")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 9** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 15)(set: $caveBossHealth to 0) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to true)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to true)(set: $armInjuryType to "Arrow") (set: $endingPath to "Door") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "ZNRVCCJH")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 11** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "Cave")(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 0)(set: $caveBossHealth to 5) (set: $caveDamageSceneCheck to 7)(set: $caveKarma to 2) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "Vert") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "KRJQLSZK")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 12** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 65)(set: $caveBossHealth to 0) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to true)(set: $armInjuryType to "Arrow") (set: $endingPath to "Historical") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "VSSZXMGD" OR $varPassword is "GERZYDZJ")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 13** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "Cave")(set: $bossVictory to "Cave")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 0)(set: $caveBossHealth to 100) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "Farewell") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (if: $varPassword is "VSSZXMGD")[(goto:"Boss Result")](elseif: $varPassword is "GERZYDZJ")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 2 OST - Kawanakajima.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Farewell Ending Page 6")]] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "QQOTKEHU")[Password Recognized: **Scenario 0** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $iffyHealth to 4)(set: $caveHealth to 4) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "Wyn") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Wyn Boss Segue")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "SZAGXBMW" AND $trueEndingUnlock is true)[Password Recognized: **Scenario 14-A** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $caveBossHealth to 0) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "True Ending") <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Boss Result")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "NWUNSQSS" AND $trueEndingUnlock is true)[Password Recognized: **Scenario 14-B** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $caveBossHealth to 100) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "True Ending")(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 15")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "AAYIWHJX" AND $trueEndingUnlock is true)[Password Recognized: **Scenario 14-C** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $bossFightCharacter to "IF")(set: $bossVictory to "IF")(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)(set: $caveBossHealth to 100) (set: $caveInterest to "Chika")(set: $caveKarma to 0) (set: $iffyShotPath to false)(set: $iffyShotRoll to false)(set: $iffyArmInjury to false) (set: $endingPath to "True Ending")(set: $truePageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"True Ending Page 25")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "HAPPYEND")[Password Recognized: **MARKZ** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="markzTrack.play('DOOM_PSX - Music - Hangar.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Markz Ending Title Page")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "RLTAWNSM")[Password Recognized: **A Secret Makes a Woman Woman...** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (goto:"Dummied Out Intro")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "TIMELINE")[Password Recognized: **The Ultimate Timeline!!!** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (set: $timelineStart to false)(goto:"Timeline Page 1")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "CAVEVSIF")[Password Recognized: **Text Credits** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (set: $endingPath to "Password")(goto:"Credits")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "XYZZYCVI")[Password Recognized: **Neutral Credits** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (set: $endingPath to "Password")(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "IDDQDNEP")[Password Recognized: **TRUE Credits** Accept? (link:"Yes!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div> (set: $endingPath to "Password")(goto:"True Ending Credits")] (link:"No!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "OVERHEAT")[Ew, no thank you. Don't waste your time with that crap. (link:"I won't!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "NOBUNAGA")[In case you didn't know, Nobunaga Oda faked his death at Honnoji. Pretty obvious, actually. (link:"I've learned the truth today!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "FUCKFUCK")[Think you're so clever, don't you? Swearing is overrated... hence why this game only says "Shit" in 87 shittin' pages! (link:"Up yours!")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")] ] (elseif: $varPassword is "FORTYTWO")[4 8 15 16 23 42... Wait for it... (live:4s)[(stop:)(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Book Cover Page")] ] (else:)[That password is bad, and you should feel bad! (link:"Try again...")[(set: $varPassword to "")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:"Password Page")]] }

{(set: $titleScreenSelection to "<div align=\"center\" style=\"max-width:600px; margin: auto;\"><h4>(link:\"Start Game\")[(set: $narrationCheck to true)(set: $truePageCheck to false)<div style=\"display: none;\"><img src=\"!#$\" onerror=\"titlescreenTrack.pause();\" /></div>(goto:\"Introduction Passage Page 1\")] | (link:\"Load game\")[(goto:\"Load Game Intro\")] | (link:\"Password\")[(set: $varPassword to \"\")(set: $passwordCount to 0)(goto:\"Password Page\")]</h4></div>") }<div><div style="float: left; width: 70%;"><img src="cover_by_pencil_x_paper.png" align="center" width="90%" height="90%"></img></div> <div style="float: left; width: 30%;">(link:"Play Opening Video")[(set: $videoPlay to true)(set: $saveFail to false)(set: $openingFirstVisit to true)(set: $passwordFirstVisit to true)(goto:"Video Titlescreen")] (link:"Don't Play Video")[(set: $videoPlay to false)(set: $saveFail to false)(set: $passwordFirstVisit to true)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.play('DOOM_PSX - Music - Opening.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Video Titlescreen")] *Note: Music plays an integral part of this game. Adjust your volume accordingly.*</div></div>

{(print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") (if: $saveHeaderCheck is true)[Your game has been saved! (set: $saveHeaderCheck to false)](else:)[] ]}

{ (if: $iffyShotPath is false AND $iffyShotRoll is false)[(elseif: $trueEndingUnlock is true AND ($iffyHealth is 100 AND $caveHealth is 100) AND ($caveKarma is 0))[(set: $endingPath to "True Ending")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Historical")(set: $specificEnding to "Historical A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Historical")(set: $specificEnding to "Historical B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished D")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Mission Accomplished")(set: $specificEnding to "Mission Accomplished E")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma < 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth >= 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway D")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway E")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending A")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth >= 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is true) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending B")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth > 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending C")] (elseif: ($iffyHealth < 50 AND $caveHealth < 50) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false) AND ($caveKarma >= 4))[(set: $endingPath to "IF Bad Ending")(set: $specificEnding to "IF Bad Ending D")]] (else:)[(if: $caveHealth >= 50 AND $caveKarma < 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Door")] (elseif: $CaveHealth < 50 OR $caveKarma >= 4)[(set: $endingPath to "Runaway")(set: $specificEnding to "Runaway F")]] } --- (elseif: ($iffyHealth > 50 AND $iffyHealth <= 100) AND ($caveHealth > 50 AND $caveHealth <= 100) AND ($caveKarma < 4) AND (($iffyHealth != 100 OR $caveHealth != 100) OR ($caveKarma != 0)) AND ($iffyArmInjury is false))[(set: $endingPath to "Farewell")]

{(if: $caveDamageSceneCheck is 7)[(set: $endingPath to "Vert")] (elseif: $endingPath is "True Ending" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished E" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway B")[(set: $endingPath to "Farewell")] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Historical A" OR $specificEnding is "Historical B" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished A" OR $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished D" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway A" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway C" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending A" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending B")[(set: $endingPath to "Loyalty")] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Mission Accomplished C" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway D" OR $specificEnding is "Runaway E" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending C" OR $specificEnding is "IF Bad Ending D" OR $specificEnding is "Door")[(set: $endingPath to "Cave Bad Ending")] (elseif: $specificEnding is "Runaway F")[(set: $endingPath to "Door")] } True Ending = Fake True Ending Historical A= Loyalty Historical B= Loyalty Mission Accomplished A= Loyalty Mission Accomplished B= Fake True Ending Mission Accomplished C= Cave Bad Ending Mission Accomplished D= Loyalty Mission Accomplished E= Fake True Ending Runaway A= Loyalty Runaway B= Fake True Ending Runaway C= Loyalty Runaway D= Cave Bad Ending Runaway E= Cave Bad Ending Runaway F= Door Ending (with more handicaps on Nepgear boss) IF Bad Ending A= Loyalty IF Bad Ending B= Loyalty IF Bad Ending C= Cave Bad Ending IF Bad Ending D= Cave Bad Ending Door Ending= Cave Bad Ending

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[(if: $narrationCheck is true)[(link:"Read Introduction")[(set: $narrationCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="openingTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 5 - The Ancient Heroes.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Introduction Passage Page 1")] (link:"Skip Introduction")[(set: $narrationCheck to false)(goto:"The Long Intro of Death")]](else:)[ONE MONTH AGO... Disorder in Planeptune! The Yellow Bandanas, a group of peasants led by apparent magicians, have risen up in rebellion against the 'tyranny' of the CPUs, citing their poor work ethics, neglect of their citizens, and their oppressive 'HDD' transformations as signs that their reigns need to conclude. They've already captured several small cities in northwest Planeptune... and their ambitions grow larger with each passing victory. Led by Adrian of the three 'A' Brothers, the group looks to end the era of a goddess-led Gamindustri for good! With their bizarre speeches and otherworldly powers, achieved through the use of a mysterious tome named *'The Crucial Codes to the Way of Cheats'*, they've easily attracted thousands of civilians to their cause, each one prepared to lay their lives on the line for the righteous cause! Sure, most of the men *may* only be aiding the Yellow Bandanas because of the tome's *magical influence*... but Adrian was fine with that little detail. So fine, in fact, that the brown-haired young man practically dared the Goddesses to act, situating his band of rebels on a dramatic Planeptune mountainside! ... And act, they did! The four Goddesses of each nation teamed up, forming an army to combat this sudden threat. As the enemy was a ragtag bunch of civilians most likely being possessed, a horrific fight wasn't expected... and truthfully, it mostly wasn't; just very tiring, as the battle stretched across the *ENTIRE* mountain! Many groups, comprised of each CPU and her close companions, were made and split off to combat all three brothers. Everything has mostly been going well thus far... The task of reaching the mountain's summit and confronting Adrian himself fell on Lady Green Heart's small squad. With the boy's pale complexion and his powers somehow mirroring the CPU's own, he was prepared for a bloodbath. With her dear companions Cave, IF, and Chika Hakozaki by her side, however, Vert hopes for a smooth ending to this rebellion... Unfortunately, not a single soul could predict the full extent of the powers within Adrian's mystical tome; a book that not only appeared to give him anything he desired... but also seemed to have a (link:"mind of its own...")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"Introduction Passage Page 1")]]](else:)["We have you surrounded, rebel trash! No magic book can protect you from our united might!" Easy for a goddess to say... Adrian stares daggers at the CPU of Leanbox standing before him. The woman still remained in her human form; must not be in the mood for irony, eh? She stands with her lance ready, and flanked by three more female warriors: one brunette in an oversized coat, one red-haired chick in a maid outfit, and one with mint-colored hair and clad in a skimpy dress. SERIOUSLY?... Whatever, these four made the young man want to puke! "Oh yeah?" he smiles, his cheeks caving into his sick grin. "We'll see about that! Maybe I can't take all of you... but surely I can off at least one, can't I?!" Adrian, tome in hand, nudges his head towards Chika. "She looks dainty. You're the tyrant, Green Heart: how would you feel if this bitch kicked the bucket?" With the taunt, Chika snarls, and Cave moves to guard her with a single strong hand. Vert, however, shakes her head before the red-haired soldier can snap at the villain. "If you have any honor at all, you will not harm my friends. This fight... is solely between you and I. Target them, and you become the tyrant, boy! If you truly believe yourself to be in the right, then stand and face me... and me alone!" The battle-hardened veteran, IF, gasps. "L-Lady Vert?! We promised to do this together! We can't trust this guy! I-I can't let you go it alone!" Hearing the brunette's worry brings a smile to Lady Green Heart's face. "Miss IF, trust me! If I can't handle a simple magician... then I'm not fit to be a CPU!" Her brows furrow in determination. "Well, Adrian? What is your answer?" "... My answer?" The leader of the Yellow Bandanas, his feet floating off the ground thanks to his tome-enabled mock-HDD state, thinks for a moment, his grin slowly turning to a frown. No one's taking him seriously... No one EVER takes him seriously! "... You're right; fighting fair WOULD be the honorable route!" Vert nods. "I'm glad you see it my way. Perhaps there's hope for you yet?" With that, she raises her spear in preparation. "Then come at me!" "... Heh," Adrian suddenly chortles, his pupils enlarging, "but sometimes honor just isn't worth it... GRYYAAAAAAHHH!" In a flash, the boy's hand glows a terrifying shade of neon-blue... and a lightning bolt blasts out, straight for... (link:"IF?!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(goto:"Introduction Passage Page 2")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[The CPU can barely register what's happening. "M-Miss IF?!" The brunette's eyes widen as impending death locks her in place... but fortunately the SMD warrior, Cave, leaps forward just in time to bash her to the ground. No one is struck... Thank goodness. But in that one act of sheer defiance... Lady Green Heart's heart sinks. IF, the girl she's not only respected, but *desired* for years now... was nearly taken from her in the cruel blink of a eye. This boy... deserved no quarter. Gripping her lance tight, the CPU pushes off the ground... and launches herself right for the rebel commander! "You... MONSTER!!!" "Hehe- W-What the?!" For all his gloating, Adrian sure isn't prepared for the blonde woman's speedy charge! He can barely think to raise his energy-infused hand in time to meet her approaching blade... and the two forces collide! An explosion of sparks blast out from the strike, and Adrian is immediately thrown back like a doll struck by a truck! The goddess... got him?! ... No, wait, something's happening to her too! The goddess appears to be breaking out in violent spasms; the lightning for the boy's hand must've channeled straight up her weapon and into her system!!! IF and Cave are still picking themselves up, so the Oracle of Leanbox, Chika, is the first to see the horrific result! "V-VERT?!" The scantily-clad professional catches her 'sister' right before she could fall backwards into the dirt. Her body lies lifeless in her arms. "Verty, w-what's wrong?! H-Hey, can you hear me?!" The Oracle's distressed cries instantly alert the other two warriors, with IF not-so-gracefully pushing past her red-haired friend to get to her downed idol. "Lady Vert?! N-No!" Cave, meanwhile, is unable to emit a sound. Her green eyes glimpse over Green Heart's unmoving limp of a body... before falling upon the dazed Adrian, now back to his true weak, frail, pathetic human form. "Ha... hehaha...? Ha, I... I did it! I... I killed her!" Such a sad, sad beast... No, a *killer*! He's already reaching for his tome again, no doubt to transform into that mock-HDD form and attempt the same murderous spell on another of Cave's allies. Would he target... Chika next? Would he... dare? No... He'll be dead before he gets the chance!!! "My Lady... I'll... I'll kill him!!!" Letting rage get the better of her, the SMD warrior of Leanbox pulls out her abnormally large scissors and dashes for the idiot, forcing his eyes to once again widen. "H-Holy hell! C'mon, work, work, WORK!" Adrian mashes on his book, hoping to be saved by some magic spell... until finally, BOOM! Like the sparks before, an eruption of magic bursts from the mystical hardback, immediately sending not only Cave on her ass, but *everybody*! IF, Chika, and the lifeless CPU are tossed back, rolling as if they were soccer balls in a massive earthquake. Hell, in fact, the magic energy could be felt all around the mountain, ranging from violent tremors to little plumes of dust getting in both heroes' and villains' hair alike! To the unsuspecting, the random outburst may as well have been the act of a vengeful deity. Though, who's to (link:"say it truly wasn't?")[(set: $truePageCheck to true)(goto:"Introduction Passage Page 2")]](else:)[Moments later, IF stirs... and finds herself looking up at a familiar heel-wearing foot? A standing, commanding, heel-wearing foot. No... w-what the...?! "... L-Lady... Vert?!" Indeed; from the ethereal ashes of the tome's metaphorical fire, the 'dead' goddess has risen beyond all doubt! With a strained smile, no doubt reeling from the near-death experience (or is it, *exact death experience*?), the CPU nods... before flashing pure white: she has finally engaged her HDD form! The transformation catches the stunned eyes of Cave and Chika next. "My... Lady?!" "V-Verty, you're alive?! Y-You're ALIVE!!!" A joyous scene... for everyone but Adrian. "B-But... w-why? I-I... won! I was VICTORIOUS!" The magic book... rejected his wishes, preventing him from transforming himself and leaving him defenseless! "Well no matter... T-This day shall still be mine! Strike me down if you can, tyrant!!!" He stands to once more challenge his opponent... before Lady Green Heart growls and slices the 'Crucial Codes' clean out of his clutches with her massive drill-lance! Just like that, the fight is stricken from his bones, and he collapses like a sack of filth. Standing tall over the rebellion's grand leader, the goddess doesn't rejoice or smile or anything of the sort; instead, she simply frowns, ice forming in her eyes. "... Such a waste." ... Thus, on this fateful day, the goddess did indeed come back from apparent death... but as everyone'd soon find out, it wasn't 'Vert' who returned... ... (link:"To the present!!!")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="openingTrack.pause();" /></div>(goto:"The Long Intro of Death")]]

(if: $truePageCheck != true)[{(savegame:"A","You Can (Not) Load") }<div><div style="float: left; width: 70%;"><img src="thumbnail_Thumbnail_02.jpg" align="center" width="90%" height="90%"></img></div> <div style="float: left; width: 30%;">(link:"Play Opening Video")[(set: $videoPlay to true)(set: $fakeTitleVisit to 1)(set: $struggleCount to 0)(goto:"Fake Titlescreen")] (link:"Don't Play Video")[(set: $videoPlay to false)(set: $fakeTitleVisit to 1)(set: $struggleCount to 0)(goto:"Fake Titlescreen")] *Note: Music plays an integral part of this game. Adjust your volume accordingly.*</div></div>](else:)[<audio src="Sengoku Musou 4 OST - Twin Cherry Blossoms.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>"Cave, Miss IF... I can't even begin to... a-apologize for all that I've... done... but I CAN help you through this ordeal! Are you ready?" Vert! "I... I-I see now you both are no fakes! P-Please, s-stop this evil!" Nepgear! "It always comes down to the wire with our heroics, have you noticed that? Oh well, I know you guys can do it! Iffy-poo, 'Hawty-Dummy'... Alright, CAVE!... Do this so you can all be my wifeys one day!" RED! "Ready, Cavey? I already gave you a sentimental pep talk... so I'll give you something different: when we see each other again... should I wear red, green, or black? You know what I'm talkin' about, heheh!... But in all seriousness, I love you. I love you so, so much. Don't lose like this, 'kay?... O-Oh, and hi, Iffy! H-Heh, didn't see ya there! Keep an eye on Cavey for me, gotcha?" C-Chi... Chika! True friends, even across different realms of existence, all united as one! Side by side, step for step, breath for breath, mind for mind, heart for heart, love for love, life for life! (link:"Measure for measure.")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)(set: $narrationCheck to true)(goto:"True Ending Page 32")]]

Do you want to load last autosave? "(if: (savedgames:) contains "A")[(print: (saved-games:)'s "A")](else:)[(set: $saveFail to true)EMPTY]" {(if: $saveFail is true)[Ain't nobody here but us chickens!] (else:)[(link:"Yes!")[(if: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Reunion")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_7-Large_Feather.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Choose Your Destiny A")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Historical- Vert")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossCaveTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends OST - Vanish.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Vert and Markz")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 - Petals in the Wind.mp3');" /></div>(goto:"Vert Boss Fight Segue- Cave")] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Defeat Equals Friendship!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertBossIffyTrack.play('SEGA-The_Soul_of_Fight.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Cleansing the Blood of Many")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearTrueBossTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_5-Fate_Corrodes_Me.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Exorcising the CPU")[(set: $truePageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="vertTrueBossTrack.play('P3_FES-Heartful_Cry_-Special_Ver_-_P3_FES_.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "'Asshole'")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="trueEndingTrack.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends OST - Strength Weakness.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "ReunionB- Cave")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="bossBattleTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 OST - Heavenly Voice.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Protecting Cave!")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearFarewellBossTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 2 OST - Kawanakajima.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Blaze of Glory")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="lastStandTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 4 OST - God of War.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Ticking Clock")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="doorEndingTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce The Wrath Of God.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "The Murderous Nepgear")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="nepgearBossTrack.play('Musou Orochi 2 Ultimate OST - Waltz of White Darkness.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Reach Out to the Truth")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioConfusion.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Confusion.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Loyalty- First Trial")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuTrackTwo.play('Shin Sangokumusou 7 Moushouden DW8 Xtreme Legends OST - Karma Against Hard Invasion.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Loyalty- SMD")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioFrenzy.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Frenzy Moon.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Avenging Lyrica")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="aliveBossTrack.play('Dynasty Warriors 8 Ost With Vengeance.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "United, We Stand")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="caveScenarioVictory.play('Dynasty Warriors 8 OST Beyond The Destiny.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Divergence")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioPathetic.play('MASA-HUMANE_GREEN_PATHETIC.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "The Death of Green Pastures")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="greenerPasturesBossTrack.play('Dynasty_Warriors_Next_BGM-Judgement.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "You... Have Failed...")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="imprisonedTrack.play('Samurai Warriors 3 Honnoji.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Behind Blue Eyes- Infiltration")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="iffyScenarioEntrusted.play('Dynasty Warriors 7 Ost Entrusted Hope.mp3');" /></div>] (elseif: (saved-games:)'s "A" is "Death by 'Association'")[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="wynBossTrack.play('Trinity Universe Opening Song COSMOLAGOON.mp3');" /></div>] <div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="titlescreenTrack.pause();" /></div>(loadgame:"A")]] (link:"Uh, no!")[(goto:"Video Titlescreen")]}

ZNRVCCJH - Vert Ending Teleport / IPJIWTNZ - Door Ending Teleport / NAHGWMZV - Runaway Ending Teleport / CTQOSVZF - Loyalty Everything Teleport / SRWHWVXR - Mission Accomplished/Paranoid Teleport / KRJQLSZK - Historical Teleport / SZAGXBMW - True Ending Teleport Full (need all seals broken) NWUNSQSS - True Ending Teleport Arfoire Arrival AAYIWHJX - True Ending Teleport Final Boss VSSZXMGD - Farewell Ending Teleport / GERZYDZJ - Farewell After Gear/ QQOTKEHU - Wyn Ending Teleport (after boss) / RLTAWNSM - Dummied-Out HAPPYEND - Markz XXRRMHXG - Seal of Chaos: DISOEHOP EHORDEOP Seal of Obedience: ORDEXAQB XAREBEQB Seal of Atonement: REDEWYCC WYCURSCC XYZZYCVI - Neutral Credits IDDQDNEP - True Credits CAVEVSIF - Bad Credits OVERHEAT - (easter egg- No thank you.) NOBUNAGA - 'He faked his death at Honnoji and survived... Could you? AH HA HA!!!' add second password for fake true ending

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $resultPage is "Time Heals All Wounds")[You've achieved Ending **9-A/14**: "Time Heals All Wounds"!] (elseif: $resultPage is "Time Wounds All Heels")[You've achieved Ending **9-B/14**: "Time Wounds All Heels"!] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway")[You've achieved Ending **3/14**: "Carry That Weight"!] KEY OF CHAOS: EHORDEOP Replay Scenario: (if: $endingPath is "Door")[IPJIWTNZ](elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway")[NAHGWMZV] Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Runaway")[Ending 4](elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[Ending 10]' (if: $endingPath is "Runaway")[IF: Caution, Arm | Cave: Danger, Guilty | Reunion: Cave LINDA: "Okay, let's see here... Ooh... O-Oh, uh... Well, Cave will be presented with a certain... h-heh heh, choice she's been... 'waiting for', if you know what I'm sayin'? Well, she has to... y-y'know, 'finish the job'... G-Give in to revenge! Hey, don't look at me like that! The notes say it, not me! We work together now, sure, but I'm smart enough not to cross her when she gets all obsessed about crap! So... don't count on me for help, ya bum!"] (elseif: $endingPath is "Door")[IF: Danger, None | Cave: Fine, Innocent | Reunion: Cave LINDA: "Ah, this makes sense! So, after restraining herself from utterly ripping that brunette bimbo to shreds, Cave will be desperate to keep her alive while also appeasing Vert. You with me so far? Anyways, she'll eventually be presented with one of those lovely lose-lose situations— sounds like everytime I had to listen to one of Trick's lectures—... and when push comes to shove, Cave needs to realize that some things aren't worth remaining loyal over."] (if: $resultPage is "Time Heals All Wounds")[Path to 'B' NEPGEO: "... Wait, hold on, I really gotta tell you this?! Why?! I mean, you already saved Cave-baby's life! No, y'know what? Screw it, I'm not gonna give you any hint! Why should I tell you to take longer when fighting that SUPER fake Nepgear lookalike to get the alternate ending? Nope, nuh-uh, not gonna happen, sistah!" ] (elseif: $resultPage is "Time Wounds All Heels")[Path to 'A' NEPGEO: "... Are you really gonna lie down and take THAT?! No, Cave's too cute to go out so pathetically! Heck, she shouldn't go 'out' at ALL! I've never even gotten the chance to ask her out yet... You go back to that fight RIGHT NOW and do BETTER! You have to hustle and save her, dangit! It's a race against the clock! Move your tuckus this time!" ] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

{(set: $specificAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack1A","Attack1B")) (set: $playerChoice to "Wrong") "All right, I'm gonna kick the winning goal!" Wyn shouts as she tosses the prodigious soccer ball in the air... before reeling back her foot! Well, it's the size of you, but this can't be so ba- aaaaand, yep, it's on fire. You have confirmation that this is totally gonna suck!!! (if: $specificAttack is "Attack1")[(link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Do Nothing, and It Might Go Away!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Bonus Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Punch")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Headbutt")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Back")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Up")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Kick the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Knee It")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Punch the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Scissor Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Yellow Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")]] (link:"Swerve Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swerve Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw Qatar")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] ] (elseif: $specificAttack is "Attack1A")[(link:"Roll Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Punch the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")]] (link:"Do Nothing, and It Might Go Away!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Bonus Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Up")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Kick the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Headbutt")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Knee It")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Scissor Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Back")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Yellow Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw Qatar")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swerve Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swerve Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Punch")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] ] (elseif: $specificAttack is "Attack1B")[(link:"Knee It")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Punch the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw Qatar")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Do Nothing, and It Might Go Away!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Bonus Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Headbutt")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Back")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swerve Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")]] (link:"Scissor Kick")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Right")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swerve Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck and Punch")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Yellow Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Kick the Ball")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Left")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump Up")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")]] } Your Health (IF): $iffyBossHealth/100 Wyn's Health: $wynBossHealth/999

"Coin toss!" Wyn shouts, determination oozing out of her eyes. "I'm mad, but a game is still a game! Heads or Tails? If you lose, I send you to the bench! If you win, I... o-oh, I-I'm sorry! I haven't thought of what you get if you win! I usually don't lose these... Hmm, g-give me a minute... Oh yeah, but you don't have to pick one if you don't want to! I-I'm not forcing you to play! W-We can always do something else!!!" ... Aw crap, what's this girl's angle?! What do you do?! (link:"\"Heads!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Heads")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"\"Tails!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Tails")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Refuse the gamble!")[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack2"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")]] Your Health (IF): $iffyBossHealth/100 Wyn's Health: $wynBossHealth/999

{(set: $specificAttack to (either:"Attack2","Attack2A","Attack2B")) (set: $playerChoice to "Wrong") "Now you see me, NOW you... oh, well, y-you still see me I guess... b-but now there's more of me!!!" Wyn hollers, before her words quickly ring true, and four more of her spring out from nowhere. You... aren't even surprised. Five soccer girls, all smiling like innocent angels. "Time to taste our Red Cards!" Sounds promising enou- H-Holy crap, what are they pulling out?! On cue, all five shorties have claimed large... red mallets from their pockets? Ah, yes, and the word "Card" is imprinted on the side... Clever. What cheesy 80's horror film did they scrape that idea from? "Ready, team?" "Ready, captain!" "Okay! Charge!" Why not, right? You look up at the rainy sky and, with your fists clenched, yell out "Ya happy now?! Why do you hate me so much?!" And the sky just laughs. (if: $specificAttack is "Attack2")[(link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Grab the 'Red Card'!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Hair Whip!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Backwards!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Left!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Right!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fronton!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Super Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swing Jacket")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 4")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] ] (elseif: $specificAttack is "Attack2A")[(link:"Roll Backwards!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Hair Whip!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swing Jacket")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Right!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 4")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Grab the 'Red Card'!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fronton!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Super Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Left!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] ] (elseif: $specificAttack is "Attack2B")[(link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Red Card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Forward!")[(set: $playerChoice to "Evade")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Block")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll Backwards!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Duck")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fumble!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 3")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Left!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Swing Jacket")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Beach!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 4")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 4")[(set: $playerChoice to "Hit")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Roll to the Right!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Grab the 'Red Card'!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Orange card!\"")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Prepare to Punch Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Wait and Kick Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Throw a Qatar at Wyn 5")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Spin Attack")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Jump!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Hair Whip!")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] (link:"Shout \"Fronton!\"")[(set: $playerChoice to "Super Wrong")(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack Result")] ] } Your Health (IF): $iffyBossHealth/100 Wyn's Health: $wynBossHealth/999

{(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(if: $playerChoice is "Wrong" OR $playerChoice is "Bonus Wrong")[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 50)(if: $playerChoice is "Bonus Wrong")[Well, it doesn't. ]The flaming soccer ball bears down on you, blazing past any possible offensive tactic you could employ... and BLAM!!! If any part of your body remains after that instantaneous 50 damage, you've clearly cheated death. Wyn's eyes widen. "W-Woah, I'm sorry! I didn't mean for it to hurt that much! O-Oh, I mean... I'm SO mad at you, so I-I hope it hurt a lot! A lot!" ... This girl is your match... No, wait, not true: she's more than (link:"quadruple your match!")[(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Game Over")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack2","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]]] (elseif: $playerChoice is "Evade")["R-Red card!!!" you shout right as the ball is about to connect with Wyn's foot. "F-Foul! Y-Yeah, y-you get a... penalty... thing..." Wow, *so* convincing! The soccer girl stares at you in silence for a long moment, allowing the ball to land in the mud... before her cheeks turn a deep crimson. Uh oh, you've pissed her off even more! "R-Red card?! T-That's not how it works at all! Y-You can't just hand those things out without a care, y'know?! In this situation, a yellow card would be more appropriate anyways... I mean, I held the ball in my hands, and I'm not even the goalie! Gosh, I'm sorry for breaking the rules!" ... Er, wow, that... worked? You're still breathing, (link:"at least.")[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack2","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]] (elseif: $playerChoice is "Hit")[(set: $wynBossHealth to it - (random: 50,120))"Screw it!" you shout, before gripping your knives tight, extending your arms... and spinning on your left leg like a top! A cartoon Peramelemorphia taught you this trick! You remain in place, waiting for the death-inducing soccer ball to approach... and once it does, your momentum *REFLEEEEEEEECTS* it right back to Wyn! The ball *EXPLODES* in the short girl's face... and she coughs as if a plume of dust wafted over her nose. "That's... You can't use your hands against a soccer ball!" "Yeah?! Well YOU lit it on fire! Isn't that against the rules?!" "Grrr... You don't know 'football', meanie!... U-Um, I'm sorry! That was uncalled for!" ... Count this as a victory for now, (link:"please.")[(if: $wynBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Victory Page")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack2","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]]] ] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(if: $playerChoice is "Wrong" OR $playerChoice is "Super Wrong")[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 50)(if: $playerChoice is "Super Wrong")[YES! Jai alai is the answer to all our problems!... Except this one. ]This plan will work, this plan will wor- GAH, THEY'RE SURROUNDING YOU!!! "Ow, crap, ow, stop, OW OW OW, crap, STOP!" But the cute soccer girls wail on your with their 'Red Card' mallets, tenderizing you like a piece of meat. This assault goes on for a good minute before four of the Wyns disappear in a plume of ninja-like smoke... and the main girl practically soars a good few feet away. "Wow, a-are you alright?! O-Once 'Red Cards' are involved, all bets are off! B-But I'm sorry if you're in any pain!" ... You started this battle with **4** health... Are you even able to stand any longer? 50 damage is a lot to endure on a good day... and this is (link:"no good day!")[(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Game Over")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]]] (elseif: $playerChoice is "Evade")[Only got one chance at this! You take a deep breath... before rolling forward like an underrated cartoon hedgehog! NOT the one who bit you, however... The five Wyns continue charging... until you bump the middle one in the legs! She instantly stops in surprise, while the rest of her troupe pass you by. Hehehe! You disrupted their scripted formation! Ninja tricks can be so easy to exploit... Wait, why does she know ninja tricks?! Now behind you, the soccer girl groans as her clones poof away. "H-Hey, t-that wasn't supposed to happen! That's a yellow card for entering the field of play without a referee's permission, rookie!... W-Wait, no, I didn't mean to yell! I'm so, SO sorry!!!" ... This is why you don't (link:"play sports...")[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]] (elseif: $playerChoice is "Hit")[(set: $wynBossHealth to it - (random: 70,110))You line up a stun-Qatar with the fourth Wyn... and fling it straight for her! The knive collides with her jersey head-on, and the clones poof away without another word! Yeah, she should be out!... Er, oh, of course it wouldn't be that easy: the 'association football' player is still standing, simply rubbing her tummy in slight-annoyance. "... Well, that was mean! Y-You didn't have to throw a knife at me, fake or not! I-I'm g-gonna cry!... I-I-I'm sorry! I-I'm not a crybaby! N-N-Not at all..." ... How did you (link:"get in this mess?")[(if: $wynBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Victory Page")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Cointoss"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Coin Toss")]]]] ] (elseif: $bossAttack is "Cointoss")[(set: $correctChoice to (either:"Heads","Tails")) "$correctChoice!" Wyn shouts! (if: $correctChoice is $playerChoice)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to it + 47)(if: $iffyBossHealth >= 100)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to 100)](set: $wynBossHealth to it - 100)"... Well, Lady Luck was on your side this time! Here, um... t-take some of my lunch! I-I'm not hungry, so here, it's all yours!" ... Er, okay? Oh well, screw it; you're starving after today's hellish ordeal! You take a bite of the (either:"banana","steamed tiramisu","cartoonishly-large drumstick")... and immediately, you feel sweet relief run through your bloodstream! You gain 47 health, sweet! The gamble (link:"paid off!")[(if: $wynBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Victory Page")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack2"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")]]]] (elseif: $correctChoice != $playerChoice)[(set: $iffyBossHealth to $iffyBossHealth - 50)"Well, fair's fair! You lose, meanie! To the BENCH!" With that, she rears back her leg... and **KICKS** you right in the stomach! H-Holy cow, y-your ribs... do they even *exist* anymore?! You took an instantaneous 50 damage from this (link:"cute little soccer girl!")[(if: $iffyBossHealth <= 0)[(goto:"Wyn Boss Game Over")](else:)[(set: $bossAttack to (either:"Attack1","Attack2"))(if: $bossAttack is "Attack1")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 1")](elseif: $bossAttack is "Attack2")[(goto:"Wyn Boss Attack 2")]]]] ] } Your Health (IF): $iffyBossHealth/100 Wyn's Health: $wynBossHealth/999

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)[{<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="wynBossTrack.fade(.5,500);" /></div>}... Wow, this... honestly sucks. You can barely feel your body... yet this girl is far away from slowing down! Heck, she doesn't even look fazed! How can she still... After all that... ... Wait? She's... crying? Wyn suddenly collapses to her knees, rubbing her eyes as she mutters something under her breath. "You... You meanie! You took my ball and then beat me up and..." Like a child... Crap, how can you not feel guilty?! This is why you don't deal with kids... W-Well, that is, until Lyrica broaches the subje- A-Anyways, you run up to the soccer girl and place an apologetic hand upon her shoulder. "Uh... Sorry, kid. I, uh, y'know, had to defend myself and..." Yikes! She just swatted your hand away! She springs up and... h-hey, spits at you?! "Bump you, I'm outta here!" She then proceeds to walk down the Basilicom's side pathway, leaving you with your mouth completely agape... ... But a few seconds later, here she comes again. Unlike before, she... looks wholeheartedly concerned? "Oh, uh, but seriously, take my clothes and shoes! It's cold out here! I'll feel so guilty if I find out you caught a cold!" Before you can even say anything, she strips down (along with her shoes) and hands you her apparel. "So, uh, please take care of yourself, and your friend too!... O-Oh, but I'm still mad! Stop being mean, okay?!" She puffs her cheek out... and walks off, probably never to be seen again. ... So, here you are: a girl's clothes in your hands, Cave still knocked unconscious, the rain battering your bloody and bruised frame... What did you do to deserve this? "Well... that was weird. Man, I (link:"hate today...\"")[(set: $wynPageCheck to true)(goto:"Wyn Boss Victory Page")]](else:)["Well, my Lady, you know what else is weird?" There's no time to question the strange new voice reaching your ears, for when you next blink, a green horsebird crosses your front. What the hell? Are horsebirds even native around here? Why now? ... Wait, did it speak?! "Uh...?" Speaking like a classy gentleman, the beast continues. "Shares. Shares are weird." Oh God. "You see, Shares are a bizarre manifestation of all our worldly desires. In fact, some might say that shares are concentrated imaginations carved throughout history that show themselves as mere crystallized relics of air! Hmm... Though, on that note, some might say that sunshine follows thunder. Well, go and tell it to the man who cannot shi-" **SLAM!** A foot suddenly slams into Mr. Horsebird from the side, blasting him into the rainy sky. He poofs out of existence like one would in a nostalgic cartoon. Pretty brutal, eh? Wait... t-that foot?! It's Cave?! There's only one thing you can say at this revelation! "C-C-Cave, w-what did ya do that for?!" The SMD warrior glares your way. "What? You think that was an actual horsebird? I just saved your ass, IF." ... Yeah, she probably has a point. Still won't stop protest groups from complaining. Anyways, awkward silence looms darkly. Hard to really continue after... er, everything. "So," you begin, desperate to get the conversation train rolling, "want these shorts? A girl gave them to me." She shoots you the strangest look you've ever seen from her. "Why- dear lord, WHY- do you have a random girl's shorts?" "Uh... It's supposed to help... keep you warm?" "I can tell you of another way to (link:"keep warm~\"")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Advertisements 1")]]

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)[NOW WHAT?! You both look around, wondering where that deep, pseudo-sexy, suave, and utterly masculine voice came from. "Up *HERE*, ladies~!" A cold sweat of realization pours over you as you turn to face... the Basilicom?! "Oh.. Oh no..." "Hey, players and sexy gals... but mostly the gals!" the castle begins, his voice capable of making the manliest-men swoon. "Ever want to know what happened inside these long, plentiful, sturdy walls when you weren't looking? Ever wanted to see just what that Idol did on her, ahem, down time?" "H-Hey! That's none of your-" "Business? She's IN me, isn't she? Anyways, perhaps supporting the two ugly and antisocial Earth-children who penned my dialogue will allow the world to see all the spicy details! Circulate this game's links, maybe send a donation or two to their hopeful future projects; completely-original ideas too, at that! You know, show some love... and maybe more tales will come your way! How about we check some out? Hey there, Colonial-style... This one's, oooooooooh, for you..." Cave simply plops down in the mud, staring off into space, and you promptly follow suit. Why not, right? May as well pay attention to what the... Basilicom is (link:"trying to share.")[(set: $wynPageCheck to true)(goto:"Advertisements 1")]](else:)[POSSIBLE FUTURE "ADD-ONS" TO *MEASURE FOR MEASURE*! - 'The Heroine and the Villain': Witness events spanning the entire war's length from the perspective of Linda (AKA, Underling) and Nisa, along with their companions Gust and Nepgeo! Will this group of misfits stay together, or be torn completely apart by the chaos? The answer... falls into your hands! - 'The Incident at Avenir': You've heard of the fateful night Leanbox had with Avenir quite a bit by this point... Well, now, you can experience the battle firsthand! Either play through the historical sequence of events... or hazard a chance at utterly kicking fate in the face! Be it preventing Cave and IF from falling out, reeling in Vert's desperate thirst for vengeance, or even helping Avenir emerge completely victorious, the war is for you to mold! - 'The Ballad of the Yellow Bandanas': The three 'A' Brothers met a major defeat at the onset of this war... but that's where a new chapter of their story begins, not ends! Play through the Rebellion from their perspective... and either achieve victory against insurmountable odds, or fall in line with the script and guide them through the events that immediately follow! Who will live? Who will die? Can you change the Brothers' destiny? - 'Lyrica's Guitar Gently Weeps': After sitting on the sidelines, Lyrica has finally had enough! With your help, she'll unleash her significant fighting prowess on a legion of Gamindustri's toughest opponents... and possibly discover a secret that may change the course of the war- nay, the entire DIMENSION- forever! Oh yeah, and it will sport a new REVAMPED fighting system to boot! Why? Because that's just how 5pb. rolls! - 'The Legend of Conquest!': Just who IS that alternate Nepgear? How did she get here? What has she done in that time? What is her ultimate goal? What's Blanc and Falcom have to do with her?! Well... wonder about these questions, among others, no more! ... More, perhaps? Any particular character you'd like to play as, hmm? None of these will be possible without your continued support, however! If you enjoyed this game made entirely for free, or at least want to see some of these ideas come to life, tell your friends and/or general peers about us! I can't tell you to donate anything to us for these particular ideas... buuuuuuuut if you *want* to *do* that, *do* it for the wholly-original ideas coming up! (link:"THANK YOU!")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Advertisements 2")]]

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)[The castle's advertisement ends... and before you can respond, yet ANOTHER voice silences you! "Mr. Basily-Silly is right, guys!" Is it... any surprise that Compa just walked into the scene? You don't even greet her, you're so tired! She doesn't seem to be perplexed at all anyways. "It's not just this tale that can be expanded upon! There's a whole super-duper universe out there filled with cool ideas!" Cave squints her drained eyes. "Ideas by 'two ugly and antisocial Earth-children'?" "Mhm!!! Look at this one!" She suddenly pulls out her syringe, presses the lever... and a big word document appears? Wasn't achieving this ending (link:"worth it?")[(set: $wynPageCheck to true)(goto:"Advertisements 2")]](else:)[FUTURE GOAL ONE: "Stop the Sengoku - I want to get off!" In this top-down hack-n'-slash action RPG, play as colorful warriors during the friendliest period of Japanese history: the Sengoku era! Join a select few samurai as they make their way through history... and again. And again. And AGAIN. A dark comedy at its... quirkiest. Projected playable character list looks to be: - Yukimura Sanada: A righteous enforcer of the Takeda and the Sanada... if not a little bit too overzealous. Okay, more than a little. A LOT, actually. Together with his older brother, Nobuyuki, Yukimura journeys on to find justice in the ever-repeating conflict. Yukimura has the strength and the will, but lacks certain... mental prowess in terms of strategizing and the like. Nobuyuki is thusly the brains behind their operations... but is otherwise a total coward. Despite these vast differences, can these two brothers protect their clan and possibly end the chaos? Hell, maybe they'll even make a name for themselves? - Nobutada Oda: The bratty son of premiere warlord- and resident Demon King- Nobunaga Oda. Nobunaga has some... unique ways of raising his children, with each son coming out incredibly different from the rest. Nobutada is the next in line to the Oda empire... and boy, does he show it! As a result, he lacks the ability to see- or even care- about others' feelings and emotions, something even Nobunaga finds fault with. Also, as you'd expect, friendship is but a fleeting thought to Nobutada... at least, until a young boy named Ranmaru Mori joins the ranks... - Magoichi Saica: A wannabe-roguish mercenary... still on the cusp of adulthood, at least emotionally. He desperately seeks to be a ladies' man, but it's just not happening. However, his best friend Hideyoshi Hashiba, utter womanizer of a daimyo, attempts to help him out when there's not a battle raging... er, or sometimes even during one! Still, the war spreads far and wide... and when the Oda army endangers Saica's home, the mercenary's relationship with his best friend may just be the end of him yet! - Naotora Ii: The female head of the Ii clan, after her father meets an... 'unfortunate' end following Oda's utter domination of Yoshimoto Imigawa's army. From here, the woman looks to build up her dynastic line... but not with men; Naotora seeks only beautiful women to take as her wives! Still, she can't do this alone... and seeking any possible avenue to protect her small clan, Naotora enlists the help of one Ieyasu Tokugawa, a family friend, with the hope that his power and benevolence will keep her prospective family safe from the chaos. Little does she know, however, that Ieyasu may not be the best source of aid. After all the retreating and suffering... Ieyasu Tokugawa's 'benevolence' may be taking a bit of a... nosedive... - Danzo: The Flying Ninja! Danzo seeks to come out on top of his self-proclaimed rivalry with Hanzo Hattori... but life keeps getting in the way. For starters, from one moment to the next, Danzo can't even be sure what faction he's serving! However, one day, he knows he can step up and prove that HE'S the better ninja, not Hanzo! Definitely not Hanzo! - Ginchiyo Tachibana: A famed warrior and head of the Tachibana clan!... Well, at least she hopes she'll be famous one day! Tired of being forgotten about in the rugged lands of Kyushu, Ginchiyo takes to the field against her sworn rival, the Devil Yoshihiro Shimazu, to prove her might and accelerate her legend forward... until Hideyoshi's army suddenly arrives to conquer Kyushu at large! Life as Ginchiyo knows it is about to change forever... but with her family's Deity, Muneshige, locked inside her blade, she'll make herself known yet! - Mitsunari Ishida: A hesitant female follower of Hideyoshi, seeking to do his bidding at all costs. Unsure of her actions, worried about failure at every turn... but her fellow friends Sakon Shima and Yoshitsugu Otani keep her in check. Sakon herself is a tall and brooding samurai, not keen on hearing any mopey talk, and Yoshitsugu is a quiet strategist, only speaking when she feels the time is right... which can be more of a hindrance than anything during a key conflict. Still, the three ladies get the job done, more often than not. So long as Hideyoshi's around for them to serve, things shouldn't get too out of hand... - Keiji Maeda: A crazed warrior who seemingly acts on pure whim... yet always manages to come out more than just on top, implying there's more to his madness than just having fun! Upon meeting Yukimura Sanada, the two instantly become friends, and he grows attached to the young boy. A bit TOO attached, perhaps... Either way, Keiji follows his own path as Nobunaga, Kenshin, Shingen, and many others seek to conquer all of Japan... which draws the ire of his uncle, Toshiie Maeda. Toshiie, one of Oda's and Hideyoshi's most loyal followers, is probably the only one capable of reeling Keiji's wild antics in... but serving an army simply isn't what Keiji is looking for... - Hideyoshi Hashiba/Toyotomi: The Monkey, known for being... perhaps the oddest daimyo to ever exist. Close with Magoichi Saica on a level that exceeds most brotherhoods. He seeks to unite all of Japan through friendship, fun, drinking, women, more drinking, fashion, dancing, yet more drinking, singing, clapping, lovely shoes, and not getting hounded by his wife. A wife who has never seen him naked, for the record. Makes sense, because she looks like she's twelve. He's the man with the plan, the man with the power, the man with the... er, well, he'll think of something cool eventually. Now if only he could make Saica more like him... ... Now HERE is a game idea we can actually make money off of, in case you wanted to ever one day use a fancy little donate button or two or three or a thousand. Please? Pretty please? Whatever the case... for now, this is just an idea; a mere concept. One day, however... it may become reality, at least we sure hope so. If you so desire, make a part of history today! As before, (link:"THANK YOU!")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Advertisements 3")]]

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)[The second advertisement ends... You stare up at your best friend and force yourself to nod. "That, uh... That sounds lovely. But, erm, what's it gotta do with us?" Compa smiles, clearly about to tell you something completely unrelated... before she screams?! The ground opens up under her, tossing her back and on her butt. C-Crap, is she okay?! You are about to call out to your friend... but from the open ground, looking more like an apparent trap door, who else but... Gust suddenly appears? "Hold on! Can't speak ad revenue without Gust! Gust knows various things. Some nice, some cute, some carcinogenic..." Makes sense... Gust emerging from the earth makes total sense, right? Cave aims her twin blades at the shrimp of a business-savvy alchemist. "... Just... get... on with it!" Seems she already knows where this is going too. The girl shakes her head. "Hmph! Fine! Take a look at Gust's hat!" Yay, ANOTHER piece of paper! This one looks shorter, however... Well, (link:"brace yourself anyways!")[(set: $wynPageCheck to true)(goto:"Advertisements 3")]](else:)[FUTURE GOAL TWO: "Polyamory: The Trial of Karen Michaels" On her (**REDACTED**)th birthday, Karen Michaels learns of her family's deepest secrets: her lineage dates back to the beginning of civilization... and is built entirely on sapphic relationships! The 'Michaels' name, as generic as it sounds (and, admittedly, changing over the centuries), holds the key to the entire universe! Furthermore, her mother Claire reveals another unbelievable factoid: the Michaels women can impregnate other women, all through spiritual energy! The man Karen believed to be her father... is actually Claire's brother! A hard pill to swallow all at once, for sure... Females in the Michaels family generally pursue other females as wives, starting grand harems and massive families. Males, likewise, typically pursue other men as husbands. The cycle goes on and on and on... which also means that there are certain other groups of people intent on ending the Michaels' line for good! The conflict has been subdued for awhile now... but with Karen's coming of proper age to begin her own sapphic journey, things look to boil over fast! After all, Claire is secretly one of the world's strongest individuals... and Karen is her first-born daughter. Karen Michaels now finds herself in pretty big shoes to fill, all while ancient evil organizations try to destroy her very soul! She'll have to mold her own path in life, while also learning more and more about her childhood, her family's past (ESPECIALLY her mother's history...), and deciding whether to follow the Michaels' philosophy of "Extreme Polyamory", or step to the beat of her own metaphorical drum! Meet beautiful women, make moe wives, make babies, start a business, play video games, watch movies, procrastinate, get a job, become a shut-in, order take-out, become President... or Queen, fight the good fight, help your brother sort out his emotional issues, punch Cthulhu in the face, meet ancient Greek goddesses, seek out the "Rock Mastery Bastard's" secrets, save the Saint of Salvation, stop a nuclear apocalypse, rent an apartment, defend the Earth from intense alien invasion, stop a serial killer... or twelve, prevent a psychotic game show host from taking over the galaxy, and be home by dinner! All this... and more! The world is your overly-large sandbox to enjoy. Or slack of in, that works too. A dating-simulator fused with action-RPG fused with exploration platformer. Will you start a harem... or END THE WORLD?! ... FUTURE GOAL THREE: "Of Usjintx and Horseshoes (Working title)" Usjintx is a peculiar spiky-haired (literally) alien-human-android hybrid... who is vilely dispised by his home planet. So much so, in fact, that his own father, the freaking KING of EVERYTHING outside the Milky Way Galaxy, locks him away in a padded cell for 'a thousand generations', in fear that Usjintx would be the end of his rule. Don't feel bad for Usjintx, however; if he wasn't locked away, he'd do EXACTLY that. Well, one day, Usjintx is suddenly set free by an unknown individual, a Horseshoe serving as a key to set him free. With this artifact, a holy relic to his kind, Usjintx is determined to gather as many more Horseshoes from across the vast expanse of space as he can. Why? So he can use their ultimate power to find the 'DIAMOND HORSESHOE', take over his father's throne, and dominate everything in existence, INCLUDING the Milky Way! As for his father... the King hears of Usjintx's escape, and desperately hunts him down. The journey won't be easy... for EITHER or them! A 3D platformer in a similar vein to certain classic platformers from the PS1 era of gaming! Jump, sprint (well, drive...), hover, glide, shoot eye lasers, swim, hack things up with horseshoes, explore varied and vast environments...and screw up as many worlds you can! Just try not to lose your head, all right? ... All of these are very much ideas-in-progress, of course, but thanks for listening anyways. Any help, should you choose to provide any amount of it whatsoever at all, would be immensely appreciated! In a few years... who knows what can happen? Any questions, feel free to visit us on our site or message us through email or wherever. Now... For the last time today: (link:"THANK YOU!")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)(goto:"Wyn Ending Final Page")]]

(if: $wynPageCheck != true)["And Gust saved plenty of cash that day... Ah, yes! You like ideas?" ... Oh, it's done? "Uh... yeah..." Gust grins deviously... before your medic friend suddenly twirls the young alchemist away! Your head hurts from all this sudden movement. And talking, all this talking... "You're going to love this one, Iffy, I promise!" Compa smiles innocently as she reaches into her skirt (w-woah...) and pulls out a couple of... sockpockets. Should figured. While crude, they appear to resemble Linda and... who's the girl she's dating? Nepgeo? Yeah, that one. The Underling puppet wobbles. "Gee, how can we support these ideas, 'Not Ge-Ge'?" "Gee golly willickers, Lindy, it's quite simple! Perhaps some nice people can help those 'ugly and antisocial Earth-children' by following <a title="Link to livejournal.com. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="http://ghostdominion.livejournal.com/" target="_blank">**this link**</a> to their site and offering some lovely donations!" "Gollllly! That sounds super! Y'know, I'm gonna stop being a villain and donate RIGHT N—" (link:"**BOOM!**")[(set: $wynPageCheck to true)(goto:"Wyn Ending Final Page")]](else:)[Hmm? Oh... the puppets exploded. You're kinda bummed that Compa has tears welling in her eyes, but you're otherwise too desensitized to react in any other way. The sockpuppets are no more, reduced to mere ash on the ground. Everyone turns to the business-savvy alchemist... who's merely looking away, trying to maintain as aloof a facade as possible. "... Unfortunate... Gust must say: socks make poor pitchmen." ... This day is destined to get longer and longer. All that work, just for a crummy commercial... You look at Cave, her weapon lazily drawn. Seeing your pleading gaze, she lowers it and frowns. "... IF? I... apologize, but... why were we fighting again?" You simply shrug. At this point, did it matter? All you can focus on is donating to help some people you don't know. Maybe then, this scene will continue... and END! ... And speaking of things ending... WHEN WILL THIS MUSIC TRACK STOP PLAYING?! ... Silence once more falls on the group as Compa mourns her sock buddies. Should you... speak? No one else seems keen to. "So... anyone want these shorts? They... They came from a small girl-" Gust glares at you, but you ignore her. "- who nearly caved my head in with a soccer ball... Er, or at least, I think that happened...? Anyways, they'll keep you warm, h-hehe!" "Gust will (link:"pay four credits!\"")[(set: $wynPageCheck to false)<div style="display: none;"><img src="!#$" onerror="wynBossTrack.pause();" /></div>(goto:"Credits")]]

(if: $loversPageCheck != true)[<audio src="MASA-DEEP_BLUE_CROSSROADS.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>... Chika?! But she's... H-Her death is the entire crux behind th-... Oh good, Cave's at least looking slightly confused! "C-Chika? You... You're alive! But... But how?" "Duh, Cavey! Didn't I ever tell you about Oracles? Oracles *bounce*!" "... That reference really doesn't work with this situation... but screw it, c-come here already!" ... Continuing to share my confusion won't get us anywhere... People that should be dead AREN'T, people that shouldn't be close ARE... Hey, everyone, remember that war?! Remember the intense fighting? The psychological turmoil?! "Ah, put a sock in it, jabroni!" Did... OW, IF! The hell?! She threw her boot at me... I-I mean **YOU**!!! I mean... Ahhhh! Yep, there goes their clothes... Who cares about the pouring rain, right? Just... let this one roll... You'll have to use your imagination. Storytelling may be getting screwed up the ass... but with this game's rating, you don't get to see the same happen to *THEM*! ... Some time passes... S-Some... *interesting* time indeed... Cave and the very-much-alive Chika lay sprawled in each other's arms, surrounded by the rest of the elated nude women. Didn't this start with Cave and IF? Huh... guess the Oracle's pull was too strong for the red-haired soldier, even among a sea of beautiful ladies. "Cavey... Can I tell you sumtin?~" "If you pronounce that word right, sure." Chika winks... er, at her friend first, before turning to us? "Well... I've heard that if IF ever has to ask a set of questions to a group of soldiers, she'll unlock something nice if she asks in a certain pattern! Remember this sequence of choices: 2, 3, 2, 2, 3! Who knows what might happen! Ooh, OOH! Maybe cute little bunnies will give (link:"something good?!\"")[(set: $loversPageCheck to true)(goto:"Lovers Ending Page 2")]](else:)[<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Opening.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>The SMD warrior's eyebrows raise, showing off her inability to understand. "... What? Why are you... telling me this?" "Teehee... So I could surprise you and take advantage of your unsuspecting mouth, babe!" Yep, sure... Cave and Chika become one yet again, igniting the continued advances of the unthonged-throng as an indirect result... until Vert (who really, really, REALLY enjoys both Nepgears laying on her) claps her commanding hands! "Oh my, it sure has gotten wild out here! Everyone, how about we take our festivities into the Basilicom, yes? We can 'keep going' in a much more accommodating environment... and maybe even watch that wonderful film about Tamao~!" "Yay, Tamao!" And everyone runs inside and... Oh screw it! This is so much... GAH!!! How many endings have I written, and for all of it to just be thrown out the window and turned into a complete farce... Dammit! I'm out! O-U-T, OUT!!! Roll the credits or something... unless that's gonna be a joke too... UGH! I wrote this crap... ... But I guess... I'm finally done. This novel-length script... is completely finished! About dang time... As a yuri orgy happens inside that nonsensical Basilicom's walls... I can breathe a small sigh of relief! I'm... done! (link:"I'M DONE!")[(set: $loversPageCheck to false)(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits")]]

{<audio src="DOOM_PSX - Music - Intermission.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> (if: $endingPath is "Lovers")[You've achieved Ending **69/14**: "I'm Done"!] (elseif: $endingPath is "Wyn")[You've achieved Ending **0/14**: "Son of a Bitch"!] (if: $endingPath is "Wyn")[Replay Scenario: QQOTKEHU LINDA: "To face that... er, 'ultimate boss' again... you'll either have to get four health for both broads again... or, er, yeah, use that password. However, we all know you really want to see those ads again... right?" ] Path to '(if: $endingPath is "Lovers")[Ending 0](elseif: $endingPath is "Wyn")[Ending 1]' (if: $endingPath is "Lovers")[IF: **Super Critical** | Cave: **Super Critical** NEPGEO: "**4** 8 15 16 23 42... H-Huh?! O-Oh, h-hey there... Y-You didn't hear anything, got it?! Not shoo yourself along! Shoo, SHOO! I have a 'party' to get back to~!"] (elseif: $endingPath is "Wyn")[IF: Danger, None | Cave: Fine, Guilty | Reunion: Cave NEPGEO: "And the cycle begins again... Kinda creepy when you think about it, huh? Oh, but if you've already made a perfect lap... did you discover any bonus stuff along the way? Here's a hint you won't find anywhere else: if you get the chance to think of that creepy Markz guy, take it! Yeah, I know, sounds terrible, right? I'd NEVER want to think about a freak like him! Though... huh... Now that I think about it... didn't Mom carry around a picture of someone who looked kinda like him? I... never did meet my fathe-.... N-Nah, w-who cares about trivial stuff like that?! You just get... going... I-I gotta f-find L-Lindy... I-I need a hug..."] (link:"Back to Main Menu...")[(reload:)] }

{<audio></audio> <div align="center" class="titlescreen"><video align="center" width="640" height="360" autoplay preload="auto"> <source src="Scrollcredits.mp4" type="video/mp4"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video></div> } PASSWORD: XYZZYCVI {(if: $endingPath != "Historical")[(link:"Skip Credits")[(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(goto:"Historical Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Imprisoned" OR $resultPage is "De Novo" OR $resultPage is "Moving On" OR $resultPage is "Third Wheel")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway" OR $endingPath is "Door")[(goto:"Door Runaway Result Page")] (elseif: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished" OR $endingPath is "Paranoid")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Vert")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Lovers")[(goto:"Joke Endings Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)]]] (live: 160s)[(stop:)(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(goto:"Historical Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Imprisoned" OR $resultPage is "De Novo" OR $resultPage is "Moving On" OR $resultPage is "Third Wheel")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway" OR $endingPath is "Door")[(goto:"Door Runaway Result Page")] (elseif: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished" OR $endingPath is "Paranoid")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Vert")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Lovers")[(goto:"Joke Endings Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)]]}

(link:"Play TRUE ENDING Credits!")[(goto:"True Ending Credits Video")] (link:"Don't Play TRUE ENDING Credits!")[(goto:"True Ending Credits Text")]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)[You are now the man, the icon, the LEGEND... Markz Phenix! LOCALE: Leanbox Base **LADY GREEN HEART**: "Markz, ASIC has resurfaced! We have intel on a major group of them hiding within an old warehouse over in Lastation! Lady Black Heart has given us the go-ahead to investigate, due to their crimes against Leanbox in prior weeks! Based on location, hostages are unlikely. Take your best men, and bring the Arfoire Syndicate of International Crime to justice! If they resist or cause others to be in harm's way, you have the right to shoot... but do try to keep some alive! Get moving, and Godspeed!" (link:"Move out!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 1")]](else:)[LOCALE: ABANDONED LASTATION WAREHOUSE. TARGET AREA. You arrive at the location specified in the report. You have your best men tailing you. To your left, Meister Chief: a green-armor wearing soldier known for his finesse in weaponry. To your right, Blanx, an ugly cat-humananoid with a bizarre “vacuum” weapon. Together, you form the LGBT: the 'Leanbox Glourious Basterd Troupe'! Murmurs are coming from inside. The mighty shutter doors of the warehouse stand in front of you. You have your orders: take the enemy out! []<info| (link:"Advance!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 2")] [Inspect Area]<one| [Inspect Self]<two| [Inspect Party]<three| [Speak]<four| TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - 100/100{ (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Air is frigid, and the sun is down. Barely a star in the sky. Murmurs inside this warehouse sound panicked. There are adjacent warehouses, but all appear quiet. Nobody is visible outside. Just another deserted Lastation business district; this is why you prefer Leanbox.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Area</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Armed with high-quality magnum. Armor vest and leggings are good. Ammo is full, plenty to spare in your pack.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Self<strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Meister Chief is wearing a helmet, blocking face as always. Appears calm and prepared. His gun (some sort of 'plasma rifle') is readied. Blanx is crouched, his vacuum-thingy aimed high. Hard to tell his feelings, but he seems rather confident. Chief's armor seems far too much for this mission, whilst Blanx barely has armor at all.] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Party<strike>]] (click:?four)[(replace:?info)["Al'ight men, here's the lowdown! We head in there, get these guys to surrender, and if any resist... haha, ya know what to do! Understood?" The men nod. "Don't spend any unnecessary bullets in there... and Blanx, you better *stay* crouched this time!"] (replace:?four)[<strike>Speak<strike>]] }]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)[You move in a triangular formation towards the door, guns ready. However, after you take only a few steps forward, the shutter doors begin to lift. "Men, get ready!" You raise your hand high, crouching down as you aim your sights. The door fully lifts, and a man is standing there. A dim light shines behind him. Definitely has company. He lets out a laugh, and is holding a rifle up at your team. "I got this," he speaks to someone inside. "Watch and learn, runts..." []<info| (link:"Order to surrender!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 2")] [Inspect Warehouse]<one| [Inspect Man]<two| [Antagonize]<three| TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - 100/100{ (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Door is fully lifted. Behind the man is hard to see, for the light, while dimming, hides everything from your dark-adjusted eyes. It's musty in there, and with the way the man spoke, there must be a few people tucked away in the corner. Not much cover in there or out, in case this gets messy.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Warehouse</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Young looking kid, though his face has some weathered age to it. Wears an eyepatch. Clothing looks like typical ASIC grunt scrubs, if a bit dirtier than usual. He sounded confident, and his stance appears the same... but he's sweating, you can tell. He holds his gun like a pro, but his trigger finger is wobbly. Leader of the group, perhaps?] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Man</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)["What are you implying, maggot?” You hold your gun straight, aiming right for his hand; no need for death right now. "You ain't got what it takes to fight three vets! Now, make like a good scumbag, drop yer weapons, and get down on all fours." The man simply laughs, even throwing his aim off. "Ooh, so scary!" His confidence is ugly, and you feel dirty hearing him speak. "You the leader of this pack?" you ask. "What's it to you?" Meister Chief growls. "What do we do, sir?"] (replace:?three)[<strike>Antagonize</strike>]] }](else:)[This is already turning messy... You need to control the situation. The man continues to aim at you; gotta make this quick! "Al'ight, ya scumbag, let's make this clear! We are soldiers, you... aren't. Let's play it safe and surrender now, okay? Know what surrendering is?" You always did like playing with the douchebags of the world, but this guy still appears very confident. Pathetic. "Why don't YOU surrender?! Got a whole bunch of bullets with your name on 'em!" He readies his aim. "Kid, I ain't messing around! I took dumps more threatening-looking than you, so if you think I'm afrai-" Your eyes suddenly bulge. The guy is about to shoot, and he is aiming for... Blanx! (link:"Jump for Blanx")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 3")] (link:"Warn Blanx")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 3")] (link:"Fire at the man!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 3")] TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - 100/100]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)[You scan around some more, keeping one eye trained on that dark hallway at all times. "If there's anyone in here, come out with your hands on yer head!" As a test, you fire in the air. The room illuminates, and you hear a feminine scream come from behind a box in the corner. "Found ya, dirty bastard! Meister, on my call!" []<info| (link:"Order to Attack!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 4")] [Inspect Self]<one| [Inspect Hiding Spot]<two| [Think of Scream]<three| [Think of ASIC]<four| {TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Still fine, but you only have two rounds left within your magnum. If there are only two men left, one bullet for each. Simple math, simple mission.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Self</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[It's a wooden shipping crate. One good shot can probably pierce it, but not worth the risk. Person must be pretty hunched over to keep hidden.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Hiding Spot</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Feminine scream? Are there females working for ASIC, or were these tough dudes lacking testicular fortitude? Perhaps the thought of being shot was just too much. Cowards.] (replace:?three)[<strike>Think of Scream</strike>]] (click:?four)[(replace:?info)[You know they are a nefarious organization, but this is pretty pathetic. Hiding in a smelly warehouse, running like the freaks they are... Blanx was just unlucky. You expected more from this mission, honestly.] (replace:?four)[<strike>Think of ASIC</strike>]] }](else:)["Markz, 3 o'clock!" "What?" You turn to see a bald-headed man charging for you, a bayonet in his hands. He wasn't planning on shooting you, it seems... but running you through with a blade is a different story. Your own luck... appears to be running out. "Shi-" "T-This is... ALL YOUR FAULT, MARKZ! B-Burn in Hell!" Your eyes close on instinct... but they open when you realize nothing is happening. Meister Chief is pretty quick for a heavy-armor clad soldier, throwing the bald-headed man to the ground before using his plasma rifle to finish him off. Must've been hell of a scuffle, for there are a few red marks on that power suit of his. You scoff. "Tch... I owe ya one, Chief! Guy got lucky, is all!" The Chief nods, before his head turns towards the box again. Following his direction, you look and see a girl suddenly emerging from behind the box! []<info| (link:"Call to Surrender!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 5")] [Inspect Self]<one| [Inspect Chief]<two| [Inspect Lady]<three| [Inspect Dying Bald Man]<four| {TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Sweaty, you have to admit. Come on, you're so much better than this! At least you aren't hurt. Wouldn't want a single mark on this body!] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Self</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[He's hurt, no doubt. Wounds look like bullet holes, but you don't recall hearing shooting. Probably stab wounds; his power armor has a strange force barrier around it that occasionally reacts weird to damage. Some sort of masking mechanism to confuse opponents. Either way, he still appears stoic, but he better get those checked out soon. He'll hide any pain, even if he's bleeding to death.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Chief</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Young looking babe, no doubt. Probably in her low-20's. Reminds you of a... certain broad you knew long ago, though this one has pink hair, not purple. She appears shaken. No weapon to see, but her pocket looks full. Her hands are up. Owner of the feminine scream?] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Lady</strike>]] (click:?four)[(replace:?info)[Baldy here was blasted pretty badly, and he poofs away like his friend. Gotta give credit, he nearly got you. Still, it'll take more than that to silence your ass!] (replace:?four)[<strike>Inspect Dying Bald Man</strike>]] }]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)["M-Markz, h-help!" "I-It's a... goddamned ambush!" "S-Shit... I-I'm blee...ding... ou...t..." ... Frozen? How are you frozen? You, of all people... You've fought in countless wars, slayed so many... and NOW, you're frozen? You can only helplessly watch as the bullet trails through the air. Did Meister just say something? Probably... Can't hear a shittin' thing. Blanx sees the tiny trail of death incoming, and while he appears to be among the feline family, he doesn't have the reflexes to duck so fast. "Gah!" Blanx is down! The cat is shot in the chest, and he falls to the ground! You can't tell right away if he's moving. The assailant laughs. "Hah, take that! ASIC forever!" []<info| (link:"Fire at the hostile")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 3")] [Inspect Blanx]<one| [Inspect the hostile]<two| TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - [???/100]<blanx|{ (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[He ain't moving. His eyes are glazed over. Bullet cut right through him. His muscles spasm once... before his body suddenly poofs away into sparkling dust. You ain't a medic, but... when people simply vanish, that's probably a good sign they're dead.] (replace:?blanx)[KIA] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Blanx</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Pulsating. Real proud of his shot. Seems you're not the only sick one! He is sweating heavier than before. His gun is still prepared, and his finger is itching to fire once more.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect the hostile</strike>]] }](else:)[He prepares to shoot again... but heh, you aren't frozen anymore. With a huff, you fire your magnum several times right for his chest. The man dances as each bullet enters him, and he falls faster than the dust kicking up. Screams sound from the inside... and the man vanishes in a cloud of light. A sick grin twists your lips upright. "Come on! We're going to have some fun with these dirtbags... We gave them a chance to surrender! Ace anybody in there! Consider everyone hostile and dangerous!" "Godspeed," Meister replies. You march right into the warehouse. It's rather dark in the building, with not many places to run... but you see two people heading deeper inside regardless. You are unable to make them out. []<info| (link:"Charge forward!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 4")] [Inspect Room]<one| [Inspect Self]<two| [Inspect Chief]<three| [Speak to Chief]<four| {TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 100/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Dark and dusty. Some boxes here and there. Torn-down walls strewn about. Rather spacious. Apart from the long hall those two unidentified individuals fled down, not many obvious places to hide.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Room</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Unharmed. Armor still good. Wasted a bullet or three, but you still have a few left in the chamber. More rounds in the pack. Nothing to worry about for now.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Self</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Winded, but fine. Armor is fine, and his gun should be filled. Face is still hidden, but you hear heavy breathing. Come on, is he scared?] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Chief</strike>]] (click:?four)[(replace:?info)["Not planning on losing ya, bub, so keep your head low!" you yell to the chief. All the Meister does is nod, prepping his gun. "Real fun talkin' to ya..."] (replace:?four)[<strike>Speak to Chief</strike>]] }]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)["Woah, stand down, lady! Hands higher!" "P-Please don't shoot!" She begins to follow your orders, and you realize her clothes don't look ASIC-like. She looks pretty damned frightened, too. "Good girl... Don't make me waste a bullet..." However, you notice that she begins to lower one of her hands towards her pocket. "W-We're prisoner's here!" Lower, lower, lower... "We mean no harm! We'd really appre-" "You're... a MONSTER, Markz! Get OUT! I want you out of our daughter's life FOREVER!" "Grrrr... Fine! Purple hair makes me want to (link:"puke, anyways!\"")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="markzTrack.fade(0,1000);" /></div> <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuBackmask.play('Karma Against Hard Invasion Backmasked.mp3');" /></div> (goto:"Markz Ending Page 5")] TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA](else:)[The bullet courses through the air, and smashes right into the girl's unsuspecting chest. She falls right to the floor, her face frozen in shock. You gave her a warning, and she didn't listen to you... Dumb broads, always the same story. "Game over, punk! Go back to hell where you belong, ASIC scum." Meister Chief merely stands still. He better not be wimping out on you!... ... Wait, what was... HEY! A small figure suddenly leaps out from the boxes along with yet another girl, running off towards that dark hallway! Was that a... kid? A small boy? Where did they...?! "Runners," Meister Chief proclaims, readying his gun once more. You note his hesitance... He better not get you both killed. "Not on my watch!" []<info| (link:"Give Chase!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 6")] [Inspect Self]<one| [Inspect Kid]<two| [Inspect Other Lady]<three| [Think of Dead Lady]<four| {TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Unharmed, and one bullet remains in your gun. There's two MORE people confirmed, though again, you don't recall hearing about women OR kids in the briefing! How many ASIC criminals are running around this crappy pit?] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Self</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[What the hell's a kid doing here? Least, you think it's a kid. Could just be a tiny person, or some stupid animal-humanoid or something. Either way, he's with **them**... so he has to be stopped all the same. The last time you hesitated, so many peop... Well, who cares: there won't be another time, so drop the thought!] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Kid</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Another fine looking one. Brown hair, same age as the other girl. Looks like she is completely frozen, kid helping her the whole way. Got blood on her face from the other girl. Must've been friends or something.] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Other Lady</strike>]] (click:?four)[(replace:?info)[Fell like a champ. Wish you could've seen what weapon she was undoubtably about to spring on you, but she vanished too quickly. Damn shame; if she wasn't evil, she'd be the perfect partner. If not for life, then at least a fun evening.] (replace:?four)[<strike>Think of Dead Lady</strike>]] }]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)[You reload your weapon while the Chief charges forward. "Halt you two!" How cute... From the tone of his voice, you can tell he's planning to spare them. Well... it's your job to show him how it's *really* done! If he hesitates in moments like this, Blanx won't be the only one of you eating dirt! You fire a bullet, startling Meister Chief, and the projectile most definitely lodges into the girl's spine at least. She jolts a bit, but the boy runs ever faster and faster. Hehehehehe.... They won't get far! "There ain't a way out, jackasses! Might as well beg for your lives! Can't believe the biggest crime syndicate is full of cowards! You take one of my men, and then you run like pussies!" ... A bit further ahead, Chief suddenly holds his hand up, signaling you to stop. A tanned, blond-haired man approaches your two targets. One of the original two people you saw flee? Looks like a dumbass. Amazingly, he knows how to speak! "Where do you think yer going, you two?... Damn it... We're the only ones left, huh?" He suddenly turns and spots you. With a smirk, he pulls out something from his shirt. You ready your weapon as he continues. "... Guess we're dead then... Better take those soldiers with us." From his pocket, the tanned skin dude pulls out a cliché detonator. "Heh, and Magic thought lining this place up with game-breaking super napalm would be a bad idea." Well, that's as clear-cut as it gets. Today's finally getting interesting! []<info| (link:"Fire")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 6")] [Inspect Tanned Man]<one| [Inspect Others]<two| [Inspect Air]<three| {TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[His face is red; drinking a little bit? Can't blame him, you guess. Blonde hair too dirty to be considered blonde, and his build is very lanky. He's about to press that button! You can't waste time!] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Tanned Man</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[The girlie and young punk are frozen... and by the looks of it, the girl is bleeding up a storm. Good to see your aim is still top-notch! The boy is unharmed, though fear is quickly falling over him. Serves him right. The young ones have to learn fast.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Others</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Sure, you smell dirt and grime, but now that you think about it... powder? Some sort of powder, and unfortunately you recognize the smell all too well...] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Air</strike>]] }](else:)[You fire once, hitting the man, but you are too late. He clicks the button as soon as the bullet smashes him, and the next thing you know, you are on the ground, feeling insane burn marks running rampant on your chest. On reflex, you squeeze your magnum's trigger tight, inadvertently firing bullet after bullet as the flames take hold. Screams both feminine and masculine fill the air. Your head! YOUR SOUL! "O-Oh God... M-Markz, I-I can't... H-Help me...!!!" "I... CAN'T! I..." "T-This is all your fault! You've... doomed... us all..." ... When you open your eyes, you see the tanned man rolling on the cement, utterly consumed by fire... before he's mercifully put down by Chief, who appears unaffected. Karma's a bitch. Come on, this is nothing... You force yourself to grin. "Heh, toasty!" Meister picks you up, just in time to see the boy and girl running into one of the halls! "Bastards... take this!" You take aim for the boy's head and press the trigger... but your chamber is empty. "Shit! Chase after them, Chief! Don't let them get away!" He does as he is told and runs off. You need to hurry and catch up... If they are dying tonight, you want to see it first-hand. You NEED to. []<info| (link:"Reload and Catch Up!")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 7")] [Inspect Self]<one| [Inspect Hall]<two| [Inspect Flames]<three| {TEAM: MARKZ - 85/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Not badly injured, but the flames did pierce your armor. Nothing terrible; you've been through a lot worse. However, these damn fools will get what's coming to them for trying to scar your beautiful face! Your chamber is empty obviously, but you have enough rounds for 100 people if need be.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Self</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Dimly lit like the rest of the shitty building. A little cleaner, but not by much. Smoke is quickly filling every inch. The rotted roof is very weak; that explosion must've nearly leveled the whole place! Might need to wrap this up, and fast!] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Hall</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[Hell of a bomb, or bombs. Nearly every inch of wall is covered in burning flame. Smoke is quickly filling the air. Need to get through this now!] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Flames</strike>]] }]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)[You reload each bullet, and quickly head down the hall. The two remaining ASIC terrorists- along with Chief- don't make it much farther ahead of you, as part of the roof sags and collapses outright. The boy is thrown on his back while the girl rolls a fair distance from him. Coincidentally, she winds up rather close to you... and how could you not chuckle? Chief looks at you... and even with that helmet on, you know his eyes are piercing you. He BETTER not be judging you! If he has any qualms about this... he's in the wrong business! The kid looks up at you in fear. His eyes are so... devastated. Innocence, thrashed like tissue paper. "M-Mom! Why did you...?! D-Dad, w-wake up!" ... Time to give him a show! You grab the bleeding girl's arm. "Get up! GET UP!" She begins to rise, only getting to her knees... and her eyes are filled with tears. "Cerise, no!" the boy cries out. You aim the gun at him to shut his stupid mouth up, before aiming back at the girl. This day has gone on long enough; ASIC's already caused more damage than they ever should've. Killing these *freaks* would be beneficial for this world! "It's too late for him, boy. Useless prick. I hope he burns." "I want you to watch this, kiddo... See your criminal girly-friend get what's coming to her." In-between her sobs, the girl... begins to apologize? "... I-I'm sorry... that I couldn't... be a better older sister... I failed both you and C... C-Cher..." Her eyes well up, and she sobs out a mournful breath. "... I'm sorry you couldn't live like a normal boy... I'm sorry I couldn't make us rich... or let you live like those aristocrats you idolized on TV..." Another sob. "I'm sorry, Jade... I'm so, so sorry..." Let it out, bitch. Let it ALL OUT! []<info| (link:"Finish This")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 7")] [Inspect Girl]<one| [Inspect Boy]<two| [Inspect Chief]<three| {TEAM: MARKZ - 85/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[Damn... Always the hot ones. She isn't properly dressed like the rest of the ASIC scum, but if she's here... and you've already determined that her friend was clearly hostile... wipe any doubt from your mind. She's an enemy and must be stopped.] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Girl</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Crying like a baby. Dirty as hell, though not injured. Small fry too; surprising he got her this far. Smoke is clearly getting to him. Too bad he has to go... but rehabilitating scum just isn't worth it.] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Boy</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[He just... stares at you. The hell is he thinking?] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect Chief</strike>]] }](else:)["J-Jade... My dear brother... I love you." She smiles at him... and that is that. You fire the bullet, and she vanishes before she even hits the ground. The boy looks on in horror, soaking in the horrifying sight... and Meister Chief looks away briefly. Wimp. "Hah... today's been a good day! How many shitheads was that, Chief? Make up for Blanx yet?" You roll your gun in your hand before yet again turning for the boy, aiming the barrel right at his temple. "So... you ready to join them, kid? With how dirty you look, consider this mercy." However, the Chief places his hand on your gun. "Enough... We're done here!" "The hell you talking about? They're hostile! If any live, they'll be a danger to Lady Green Heart!" "Green Heart wanted survivors... We've killed everyone in this building, possible hostages included. She won't be pleased." He doesn't... understand!!! You glareglareglareglareglare... huh, before noticing a strange... glow reflecting off his armor? (link:"The hell?")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(set: $markzAmmo to 6)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 8")] TEAM: MARKZ - 85/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)["Hello gentlemen. I see you've shown your prowess today." Well, look who decided to show up... Magic! As in, CFW Magic! The freaking leader of ASIC herself?! Here she is, floating off the ground, half-naked for some shitty reason, as always. She sneers at you, and does not appear to be harmed in any shape or fashion. Figures. The only thing she has on her is a... book? Evening reading before bedtime? Is this really the main villain? Her red hair and eye-patch fit the picture in your head... but that's about it. Either way, the two of you aim at her. "Back up, bitch! We took out your squad, and we sure as hell can take YOU out! Chief, on my call!" She simply laughs. "Ahaha... Markz, correct? I was... *told* to keep an eye on you... I'm surprised you're still allowed to hold a weapon! Is Green Heart truly desperate, needing any freak of nature she can afford?" You snort. "Screw off! I'm the best damn soldier in the world! Besides, all you have is some stupid book! Not even a sword? What're ya expecting to do?" Another laugh. "Oh, Markz. Quite the childish one... Always choosing to shoot first and ask questions... hmm, never. Did you enjoy killing so many people tonight? Soldiers, innocents... Those 'Mommy-issues' finally coming to light?" Growling now. "... You don't know a THING about me! And no shithead is innocent with you people! Just... Just shut up, ya bitch!" Another laugh as she opens the book. Is she... mocking you? YOU?! Like an insolent high-school airhead, she begins reading in your presence! "MAKE me shut up, then... seeing as how that's the only thing you can do correct." ... Well, she gave you permission. You immediately place one more bullet in the chamber; you're going to make her bleed out tonight! Vert will be proud! []<info| (link-repeat:"FIRE!")[(set: $markzAmmo to it - 1)(replace:?ammo)[$markzAmmo](if: $markzAmmo is 0)[(set: $markzPageCheck to true)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 8")]] [Inspect Magic]<one| [Inspect Chief]<two| [Inspect 'Jade']<three| {TEAM: MARKZ - 85/100 | AMMO - [$markzAmmo]<ammo| | MEISTER - 65/100 | AMMO - [$markzAmmo]<ammo| (click:?one)[(replace:?info)[The leader of ASIC stands before you... Once more, always the hot ones. Pale skin, big red hair, a random eye-patch... What the hell is she? Why the hell is she reading? What is that, anyways? 'The Crucial Codes to the Way of Cheats'?! A cheat code book?! She thinks this is a game?! Dammit, that pisses you off!] (replace:?one)[<strike>Inspect Magic</strike>]] (click:?two)[(replace:?info)[Stoic as always, aiming his gun right at her. Guess he at least doesn't mind offing the leader of a criminal organization!] (replace:?two)[<strike>Inspect Chief</strike>]] (click:?three)[(replace:?info)[You aren't looking at him, but you still hear his cries. Wait right there, boy; your turn is coming!] (replace:?three)[<strike>Inspect 'Jade'</strike>]] }](else:)[Every bullet leaves your chamber, every plasma line leaves Chief's... and each one impacts CFW Magic with a hard thud! All that effort... yet she still stands! In fact, she doesn't even appear fazed, still reading her book without a care in the world! In frustration, you pick up a bullet case and throw it at her. "Damn you!" She looks up and smirks. "Is that it, Markz? Is that all you are capable of? Kind of sad, in a way. I expected more. Just a little bit." "Dammit, what the hell are you?!" She shrugs, before yawning nonchalantly. "Either way, I grow bored of these proceedings. These men were nothing more than fodder anyways... I'm taking my leave for now. Killing you would just be... unfair." And with that, she speedily floats down the hall and straight into the smoke, quicker than your damn eyes can process... and just like that, she vanishes into thin air. A headache for another day... "N-No... B-But Dad is..." "Markz, son... Let this be a lesson to you. You don't get tough, you lose everything you love." ... Wait, no! You aren't giving up just like that!!! Your eyes bug out, and you take the first step to run after the unbearable skank! "Dammit, get back here, bitch! Don't you dare run from me!!!" Meister Chief grabs your arm. "Markz, stop! Combating her ourselves is futile! If we chase after her, we WON'T be coming back!" The fire reaches the door, and more of the roof collapses, scaring the boy. Chief looks at him, and shakes his head. "We have a survivor... Our mission is done. It's too dangerous to stay any longer!" "... B-But Mo-" "No buts! Watch this... Lose EVERYTHING, Markz! Only then will you understand... how this world works! Only then can you become strong!" "N-NO!!!" **BANG!** BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANGBANGBANGBANGBANGBANG! "EeeeeeeeerrrrryyyyyaaaaaARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHH!" You reload one bullet in your chamber before violently charging for the terrified child. He coughs as he tries to crawl away... Some good THAT will do! You take aim... "Markz, don't do this!" (link:"\"GO TO HELL!\"")[(set: $markzPageCheck to false)(goto:"Markz Ending Page 9")] TEAM: MARKZ - 100/100 | MEISTER - 65/100 | BLANX - KIA]

(if: $markzPageCheck != true)["... I'm sorry, Markz." Pull the trigger, pull the trigger, PULLL THE TRIGGE- O-Oomph! What the...?! Now you're... on the ground, vision fading in and out... Darkness... Your head is... throbbing... Shit... You catch sight of Meister Chief standing tall, his gun held like a mallet. "F-Fu... yo..." And the world (link:"goes black.")[(set: $markzPageCheck to true) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="mainMenuBackmask.fade(0,1000);" /></div> (goto:"Markz Ending Page 9")]](else:)[{ <audio src="Fire Sound Effect.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> }LEANBOX OFFICIAL REPORT **MISSION**: To prevent ASIC's growth. Capture of hostiles recommended. Shoot only if absolutely necessary. **TEAM STATUS**: Markz and Chief alive. Blanx KIA, body vanished in spell of dust(?). Non-fatal injuries to both survivors. **ASIC STATUS**: All KIA (Chief spoke of a boy surviving, but whereabouts are unknown). Bodies could not be recovered... Vanished, like Blanx. Topic for investigation? **AREA STATUS**: Warehouse burned down (Destroyed by napalm bomb?) **TEAM NOTES**: CFW Magic spotted. Couldn't be shot. Holding unidentified book. Escaped. Currently unknown whereabouts. No other useful intel. Markz went too far. **OFFICIAL WORD**: Markz is to be punished... but Capital punishment is to be avoided. Send him to the **REDACTED**. Lady Green Heart will have complete say over his eventual release— if that day is to ever come at all. Chief is to be demoted for poor conduct. Inform Blanx's family of loss... assuming he has a family to contact. Funeral expenses won't be too high, that's for certain. Markz Phenix is no hero, and is too far gone mentally for any professional help. Even in the worst times of war, Leanbox is to remain professional and benevolent. We are not savages. Behavior like the kind Markz displayed will never be tolerated, and should never be lauded. (link:"Case Closed!")[(reload:)]]

{(link:"<div align=\"center\" class=\"titlescreen\"><img src=\"markzactualtitle.jpg\" align=\"center\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></img></div>")[(goto:"Markz Ending Page 1")] }

(link:"Play Credits Video")[(if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(goto:"True Ending Credits")](else:)[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits Video")]] (link:"Don't Play Credits Video")[(if: $endingPath is "True Ending")[(goto:"True Ending Credits Text")](else:)[(goto:"Neutral Ending Credits Text")]]

{<audio src="Catherine OST - 28 An Die Freude.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> <center> PASSWORD: IDDQDNEP MEASURE FOR MEASURE <h4>CAVE VS. IF</h4> DIRECTORJoseph Gordon CO-DIRECTORKurtis Zhev PRODUCERJoseph Gordon TALENT COORDINATORSJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev SCRIPTINGJoseph Gordon SCENERYKurtis Zhev GAFFERJoseph Gordon SCENARIOS IF SCENARIO WRITERKurtis Zhev Joseph Gordon CAVE SCENARIO WRITERJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev "PARANOID" QUESTIONSJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev STEALTH SCENARIOKurtis Zhev Joseph Gordon FLASHBACK SCRIPTERJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev MARKZ SCENARIOKurtis Zhev Joseph Gordon PASSWORD DEVISERJoseph Gordon CODERJoseph Gordon REUNION/BOSS ENGINE/LAST STAND Joseph Gordon INTRO MOVIE/SCROLLING/TRUE CREDITS Kurtis Zhev TWINE CREDITSJoseph Gordon MUSIC DYNASTY WARRIORS 8 "HUMANE GREEN I. History" "HUMANE GREEN II. Introduction" "HUMANE GREEN III. Silence" "HUMANE GREEN IV. Pathetic" "HUMANE GREEN V. Crossroads" "DEEP BLUE I. History" "DEEP BLUE II. Introduction" "DEEP BLUE III. Silence" "DEEP BLUE IV. Pathetic" "DEEP BLUE V. Crossroads" "Trio the Beryl" "With Vengeance" "Solo" "Beyond the Destiny" "Uninvited Guest" "Karma Against Hard Invasion" "Strength Weakness" "Vanish" - Music by MASA DYNASTY WARRIORS 5 "The Ancient Heroes" "Gloomy Shadow" "Fate Corrodes Me" "Run Run Run" - Music by MASA DYNASTY WARRIORS 7 "Epic Man" "Large Feather" "Frenzy Moon" "Unnerving – Eeriness" "Entrusted Hope" "Withdrawal" "Confusion" "Farewell to..." - Music by MASA SAMURAI WARRIORS Series "Osaka Castle" (SW1) "Kawanakajima" (SW2) "Retreat Battle" (SW2) "Honnoji" (SW3) "Petals in the Wind- Sanada" (SW4) "God of War" (SW4) "Heavenly Voice" (SW4) "Longing" (SW4) "Twin Cherry Blossoms" (SW4) - Music by MASA DYNASTY WARRIORS NEXT & STRIKEFORCE "Judgment" (NEXT) "The Wrath of God" (Strikeforce) - Music by MASA WARRIORS OROCHI 3 ULTIMATE "Waltz of White Darkness" - Music by MASA DOOM (PSX) "Opening" "Hanger" "Intermission" - Music by Aubrey Hodges HYPERDIMENSION NEPTUNIA SERIES "The Soul of Fight" "Go LOVE and PEACE" (Mk2) - Music by Kenji Kaneko/ Ayane PERSONA SERIES "Living With Determination" (P3) "Heartful Cry (Special Ver)" (P3 FES) "Omen" (P4) - Music by Shoji Meguro THE LAST OF US "The Path (A New Beginning)" - Music by Gustavo Santaolalla Trinity Universe "COSMOLAGOON" - Music by Haruka Shimotsuki Catherine "An Die Freude" - Music by Shoji Meguro CAST Cave IF Lyrica Chika Vert Nepgear Arfoire RED Markz Phenix Adrian Linda Nepgeo Nisa Falcom Hank East The Basilicom Wyn Mina Nishizawa Gust Neptune Compa Blanc Kei Jinguji Histoire Ghost 'Chika' Ghost 'Vert' Ghost 'Lyrica' Ghost 'Uni' Ghost 'Noire' Ghost 'Neptune' Ghost 'Blanc' Ghost 'Ram' Ghost 'Rom' Mr. Sniper Cowardly Soldier Mortar Soldier Finn Mick "Jimbo" The "General" Leanbox Defense Force Planeptune's Attack Squad Lowee's Confused Task Force Meister Chief Blanx Eye-Patch Dood Baldy Blondy Cheryl Cerise Jade CFW Magic (The Hard) Najica Hiiragi "The Great Swamp Witch" Metallia Viscole Dotrish Arlecchino Tamao Suzumi Mio Sakamoto Croire Ultradimension!Neptune SPECIAL THANKS Lan-Kun for all the support! All Beta-Testers NoireRulz29 ("Mk2 Skills" Series) VegetarianZombie ("Intro to Twine" Series) 隕日 ("GO LOVE and PEACE!" Piano Cover) Twinery.org w3schools.org Blender Adobe Aftereffects CS6 Pop's Family Restaurant Dj's Pizza Dr. Dean Har Mr. Celmer <a title="Link to deviantart.com. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="http://pencil-x-paper.deviantart.com/" target="_blank">Pencil-X-Paper</a> TEAM CATS Beardog Wilson Jasper And of course, thank you, kind reader. Thanks for actually getting this far! This game is dedicated to all the brave members of Gamindustri's Nation's Forces. No character, original or otherwise, was harmed during production. Except "Jimbo". Good ol' lovable "Jimbo". MEASURE FOR MEASURE -Cave Vs. IF- (link:"FIN")[(if: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)] (else:)[(goto:"Historical Ending Result Page")]] PASSWORD: IDDQDNEP </center>}

{<audio src="DYNASTY WARRIORS 7- Farewell to.mp3" autoplay loop></audio> <center> PASSWORD: XYZZYCVI MEASURE FOR MEASURE <h4>CAVE VS. IF</h4> DIRECTORJoseph Gordon CO-DIRECTORKurtis Zhev PRODUCERJoseph Gordon TALENT COORDINATORSJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev SCRIPTINGJoseph Gordon SCENERYKurtis Zhev GAFFERJoseph Gordon SCENARIOS CODERJoseph Gordon IF SCENARIO WRITERKurtis Zhev Joseph Gordon CAVE SCENARIO WRITERJoseph Gordon Kurtis Zhev CREDITSKurtis Zhev CAST Cave IF Lyrica Chika Vert Nepgear Arfoire Adrian Nisa Linda Nepgeo Falcom MUSIC PROVIDED BY *Hyperdimension Neptunia* series *Dynasty Warriors* series *Samurai Warriors* series *Warriors Orochi* series *Persona* series *The Last of Us* *DOOM (PSX)* SPECIAL THANKS Lan-Kun for all the support! All Beta Testers NoireRulz29 ("Mk2 Skills" series) VegetarianZombie ("Intro to Twine" series) twinery.org w3schools.com <a title="Link to deviantart.com. Don't worry, it's safe!" href="http://pencil-x-paper.deviantart.com/" target="_blank">Pencil-X-Paper</a> All Players! TEAM CATS Beardog Wilson Jasper PROJECT MEASURE FOR MEASURE (link:"Thanks for playing!!!")[(if: $endingPath is "Historical")[(goto:"Historical Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Imprisoned" OR $resultPage is "De Novo" OR $resultPage is "Moving On" OR $resultPage is "Third Wheel")[(goto:"Loyalty Ending Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Runaway" OR $endingPath is "Door")[(goto:"Door Runaway Result Page")] (elseif: $resultPage is "Mission Accomplished" OR $endingPath is "Paranoid")[(goto:"Mission Accomplished Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Vert")[(goto:"Behind Blue Eyes Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Lovers")[(goto:"Joke Endings Result Page")] (elseif: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)]] PASSWORD: XYZZYCVI </center>}

{<audio></audio> <div align="center" class="titlescreen"><video align="center" width="640" height="360" autoplay preload="auto"> <source src="trueendingcredits.mp4" type="video/mp4"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video></div> } PASSWORD: IDDQDNEP {(live: 275s)[(stop:)(if: $endingPath is "Password")[(reload:)] (else:)[(goto:"Historical Ending Result Page")]]}

{(set: $hankPageCheck to false) <div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="markzTrack.play('DOOM_PSX - Music - Hangar.mp3');" /></div> }Welcome to... Hank East's "Go East, Young Man" Top-Secret Archives! ... ... Er, wait, who am I welcoming in? I'm the only schlub who should have access to this stuff... Man, I need to get myself a woman! Hmm... Oh yeah, how'd you like that title? I'm still working on a real clincher! A hot scoop is only half the battle; the headline is what entices the reader's eye! So many choices, like "Wall of Covered Wars", "The Hank East Side Story", "Hank's Secret Dream Board", and "Hank East's Special Spot"... Name's aren't my strong-suit... ... But what IS my strong-suit is finding stories... and covering 'em! Snap a photo, jot down contextual blurbs and info... Yep, I chronicle history for the next generation! Or, at least for those who read tomorrow's paper. Or the "Gamindustri Inquisitor". Or "CPU-Boy". Either way, you can trust me, even though I... hmm, haven't been able to take much photos since this war-thingy broke out. Heh, life kinda blows, but whatcha gonna do, eh? I'm so much more than just a handsome devil with a camera, though; I've covered wars, ya know! ... Huh... Why do I even have this opening page? No one but me is to ever read it until I break the entire story all at once, securing my spot as the greatest journalist of all time! There's some pretty... incriminating stuff in here, and this rambling of mine would only serve to secure my spot in the noose should someone like Lady Vert stumble upon it. Neh... Oh well, I'll delete it later. Kinda too lazy to make the commitment right now. Like keeping my beer-gulfing in check. ... [[H:\For Your Eyes Only\You Only Live Twice\Live and Let Die\>Open the Files|Dummied Out Main Menu]]

Note to Self: In case my brains get scrambled by aliens and I forget what this is, here is the central hub of everything I've scraped together in order to make my ultimate scoop! Where or how I've gathered these is irrelevant, as is grammar! Until the day comes when I manage to craft an award-winning tale from all these scattered concepts, hearsay, and other assorted junk, feel free to sift through whatever the heck is in here! PS: Don't ever let ANYONE see this! Not even that cute-yet-violently-snarky floating book you've seen floating around once or twice. Hell, not even that hotty Sumas Nara, even when she totally returns my calls! Remember: For Your Eyes Only! H:\Open File\> {<table border="1" align="center" bgcolor="silver"> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"The Forgotten Paths")[(goto:"Forgotten Paths")]</td> <td>(link:"My Professional Diagrams")[(goto:"Professional Diagrams")]</td> <td>(link:"Non-Chronicled Endings")[(goto:"Non-Chronicled Endings")]</td> <td>(link:"Consultations With Your 'Boss'")[(goto:"Consultations With Your Boss")]</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"Ur Measure")[(goto:"Ur Measure")]</td> <td>(link:"Conceptual Concepts")[(goto:"Conceptual Concepts")]</td> <td>(link:"LOST Media")[(goto:"LOST Media")]</td> <td>(link:"WYSIWYG")[(goto:"WYSIWYG")]</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td>(link:"Selected Reading")[(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")]</td> <td>(link:"'Accolades' List!")[(goto:"Accolades List")]</td> <td>(link:"'TCCTTWOC' Lost Page...")[(goto:"The Crucial Codes")]</td> <td>(link:"¡¡¡EXIT ARCHIVE!!!")[(goto:"Dummied Out Exit")]</td> </tr> </table>}

The road of development is long and arduous indeed, with many ideas and whims passing on as time goes by... Here are some of the unused/rough draft concepts for the initial scenarios! What horrifying ordeals did our fair maidenly protagonists just narrowly avoid having to contend with? Note to Self: I *may* have taken some liberty with recounting these... It was way to[sic] hard to actually find concrete proof of this stuff, but that's what paraphrasing is for! ... **IF PATH** **[1]** You've unfortunately wandered right into the path of three enemy soldiers, holding Bayonets because why wouldn't they be?! One shrieks like a banshee, but the other two haven't seen you yet. What do[not sic?]? 1. **Lead them on!** Pretend you're surrendering, and catch them off guard! (Okay, somewhat smart, but is Ms. Brunette Babe forgetting that these enemy soldiers are freaking out and are armed? She'd manage to fight them off, because the story needs to continue no matter what, but were the injuries really worth it?) 2. **Just run to the grass and hide!** They're more shocked at the 'banshee'! Wait for them to pass! (Smart, but somewhat flawed. Those guns are loaded, and while they don't see IF in time somehow, they do shoot like mad. No bullets hit directly, but pieces of shrapnel catch her, which is sure to cause some discomfort when she next tries to bed her girlfriend. I guess though all the chaos and the heavy rain and such, the soldiers will lose sight of her completely? Hmm... I must be remembering something wrong, because have you noticed that these two choices don't really make a lick of sense?) 3. **Throw a blade and run behind a rock!** (By doing this, IF would... er... well, process of elimination would deem this the correct response, but... how would this protect her in any way? Would they really not be able to find her? Hmm, maybe the three guys trip and die.) ... Yeah, this must be a VERY early idea or something. Easy to see why it was dropped: for starters, Leanbox's troops aren't THAT dumb! ... **[2]** Bang! Teh[cis] Sniper fires at you from the castle window. Holy smokes, this isn't good! The first shot missed, but you are wide open. Any wrong move now will surely be the end of your ass! What a pity that'd be! 1. **Roll to the rock** 2. **You're gonna THROW A ROCK AT HIM!** 3. **Freeze... Maybe he'll lose interest...?** Well, this choice clearly resembles an existing situation, though the big difference is obviously the 'Freeze' option. That wouldn't work here either, like the running in zig-zag option in the main adventure. Hmm, but I wonder what would happen if IF freezes after getting shot? Such as, 'Playing Dead'...? ... **[3]** You are at rock. Few men. Hill. Coming down. Sniper aiming. Hungry. Skipped lunch. 1. **Place leaf bow on knife and stick up** (Min damage, 'SHOT IN ARM' Flag) 2. **Throw Jacket and run over to an apparently-abandoned barricade** (No damage. Oh yeah, WAY back when, there was an idea thrown around of actually allowing IF to lose her trademark jacket. However, do you realize how much writing and code you'd have to put in just to check for every instance where the story references "IF's Qatars dropping from her sleeves" and such? That'd be a headache for no real decent payoff.) 3. **Pretend you were shot and stumble out of cover "dead"** (other soldiers don't buy it and shoot you. Dead) ... Sorry, as I said, I don't remember all the details! Was drinking a lot last night... Anyways, this whole 'Mr. Sniper' section went through many iterations during development, it looks like. This part should be familiar to all players who made it here legit, though the "Play Dead" option has much more dramatic flair here. Oh yeah, and it seems to be a definitive one-hit kill, AND doesn't feature a grenade! Oh, and if you're confused about the 'barricade' part, the writers were at one point discussing several types of barricades or even a trench system of sorts around the Basilicom. Those talks didn't get very far, though. ... **[4]** At barricade-thing, the soldiers begin to surround you. Sniper believes they have it covered, and goes to assist whoever is struggling in the front. The three soldiers are appearing from the left, right, and straight on. As if to taunt you, they are moving individually. You hear the left guy coming first. HMMMMMMM, what to DO? 1. **Wait for him to fully come over to you, then grab-and-knock him out** (Another human shield? No damage) 2. **Wait for him to fully come over to you, then stand and punch him out.** (Other guards quick to the shot. Mid Damage) 3. **Wait until he appears close, then stand and kick him right in the face quickly** (your kick is strong, but the other guards have a bigger target than #2, so they hit you more. Max damage) There's that barricade-thing again. What, are these the Palisades at Nagashino?! Instead of using any idea like this, the smart guys in charge of this whole adventure opted instead for amazingly-tall grass. Like, cornfield-high grass. The kind where evil Satanic children stalk you. ... **[5]** The other two guards now charge at once, though the guy on the right is faster. How will- WHAT?- you- WHAT?- proceed- WHAT?- next? 1. **Catch him by surprise. Quickly stand up, grab under his arms** (they're up because he's holding a gun, you see), and use him as a shield. Have the other guy surrender his weapon, and then quickly knock the two out. (No Damage. Highly original) 2. **Grab his gun once he aims, and try to throw the bullets course to the other soldier once it fires** (Good idea, but the gun fires multiple bullet. One ends up skimming you. Min Damage, but both guards are subdued. Isn't the implications of this choice also rather... dark? And non-sensical?) 3. **Grab him in a chokehold, and shove him towards the other guard** (Another okay idea... Y'know... if you're stupid. Unlike meat shield, the other soldier is more startled, and fires anyway. Bullet penetrates the man more, but it still does hurt you. Min damage. Jesus, IF also led to the brutal death of a man!) They never stop coming! From my calculations, none of these choices ever made it anywhere, for the record, which is why, er, they may sound completely insane. Also, these seem to point at a more violent IF, one who doesn't pay heed to the safety of others' lives and such... Early on, the point was made clear: IF will never intentionally kill somebody! That's Cave's job for when the insanity of the [!!!REDACTED SPOILER!!!] takes control of her mind momentarily! Or when the player chooses to kill, y'know. ... **[6]** After three soldiers down, you begin moving closer. You climb the tiny hill, allowing you to fully see the back entrance. Two more guards are walking up, but they appear to be fighting amongst themselves for whatever reason, not paying attention. The sniper window is still barren, but he may return soon. What do about guards? 1. **Ignore them** and head over to this rather large chunk of big grass. They will probably never even hear you (One of their ears do perk up, but the other soldier distracts him. No damage. Idiots, no wonder Leanbox is losing the wa-... Oh, wait, Leanbox ISN'T losing?) 2. **Slowly circle around them and smack both their necks hard** (You are heard as you get close. They don't shoot, but one of them takes out a blade and slashes your arm badly during the struggle. Ouch. Max Damage. That sucks, but hey, at least it's not me for a change! Did you know I got stabbed by a ghost like a month ago?) 3. **Spear one, and kick the other while he's confused** (Min damage. The guy you speared saw you at the last second, and drew his blade. Luckily, the sharp side didn't harm you, but the blunt side did come in contact. I guess IF has tender sides? That's kinda cute.) Either way, IF heads towards the large pile of grass... Oh, wait, so the grass idea existed in conjunction WITH the barricade? Wow, missed that one... Oh yeah, IF must also be a fan of professional wrestling with how many times 'Spearing' is an option! ... Ooh, now here's the hawt stuff! Cave's turn! ... Uh, what?! There's only one? Not much changed with her scenario?! ... **CAVE PATH** **[Alternate Choice Two]** You took the three guys down and continue on your journey. Your allies are running about as well. Eventually, you hear one of your troops calling for reinforcements against the enemy. He has a few with him, but they are struggling too. What should you do? 1. **Directly help them out** (You can't just let them get harmed. Seeing the enemy not focused on you, you quickly charge them from the side and knock a soldier down. It helps... but sadly the enemy side is filled with more than just one guy. The others fire and hit you, causing some damage. Your psyche is fine, but you lose minimal health) 2. **Cause a distraction** (You want to help them, but you figure that charging towards the enemy will only cause you harm (I wonder what gives you that idea?). So, knowing that your gun will cause a distraction, you fire in the air. The enemy gets startled for just a moment, but it's enough for your allies to take them out. They thank you from afar, and continue forward, similar to you. Your psyche is good, and you don't get harmed. This kinda becomes an option in Choice 4, doesn't it?) 3. **Ignore it** (You figure they can handle the enemy in the end. Rather than fire or anything at all, you simply continue your quest, not wanting any impeding situations to show up. However, while you don't look back, you fear that this wasn't the right choice. You're not hurt, but your mind certainly is.) ... Interesting. Whereas in the real Choice 2, there's no way to take damage, here you could theoretically get hurt. Interesting... Oh yeah, by the by, there'd probably actually be a fourth selection to choose from in this one as well— one where you'd help out your team... but by reducing the enemy to red puddles of joy— but this scene never got past the concept stage. ... Well, that was certainly something, eh? I wonder how these would look had they been fully fleshed out? H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

Do you really wish to exit? {[H:\>(link:"No")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")] H:\>[Yes]<exit|]<choice| []<continue| []<timer| []<timer2| (click:?exit)[(replace:?choice)[H:\Yes](replace:?continue)[This archive will explode in... ] (live:2s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[<h2>3</h2>]] (live:3s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[<h2>2</h2>]] (live:4s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[<h2>1</h2>]] (live:5s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[]] (live:6s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer)[ ***CONFETTI!!!***]] (live:8s)[(stop:)(replace:?timer2)[.]] (live:9s)[(stop:)(append:?timer2)[.]] (live:10s)[(stop:)(append:?timer2)[.]] (live:12s)[(stop:)(append:?timer2)[ Okay, just get out.]] (live:15s)[(stop:)(reload:)]] }

Dear Diary-chan, Sigh... My camera's busted AGAIN! I had so many pics I wanted to take of the Basilicom's yard... but alas, Fate's cruel-yet-attractive-and-very-womanly hand has struck again! Wouldn't it be great if I could show the world where exactly the carnage of this story took place? ... Well, like any great journalist, I didn't give up right away! Nope! If I couldn't take pics of the places, why couldn't I... draw maps of 'em?! So that's what I did! Take a look-see! <img src="Dummiedout\Scenario_Ultimate_Path.png" width="640" height="360"></img> The wonderful (mucho sexy, am I right?) diagram above represents, what else, the paths that IF and Cave take during their main scenarios. Pretty humongous castle and yard, huh? <img src="REMADELOGO3.jpg" width="640" height="360"></img> <img src="thumbnail_Thumbnail_01.jpg" width="640" height="640"></img> PATENT PENDING <img src="Dummiedout\Spotlight.png"></img> This is my masterpiece! My artistic magnum opus! ... This picture represents the outside path taken during the stealth sequence of 'Ending 11'. True story: the creators of this game actually used four Fiji water bottles, two television remotes, and a couch pillow as a sort of diagram to plot out how the sequence would play out! I tried to, er, capture that feel with my... art. Btw, the dot at the top right is IF's position after Choice 1. The half-circle-thingy is the searchlight's range, and... everything else sure is... stuff, eh? **Blueprint of the... Code?** What the...? After all this time, I still can't quite piece together what all this means... <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_full.png" width="1000"></img> <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_iffy.png"></img> <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_boss.png"></img> <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_notlast.png"></img> <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_true.png"></img> <img src="Dummiedout\game_blueprint_last.png"></img> H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

Every great journey must eventually end... and when your particular journey features over 20 possible endings, a lot of stuff gets scrapped! Here's some ending concepts I was able to dig up through my "professional" sources... and all paraphrased by ME, of course! **1**. Cave would snap, much like she does whenever taking damage in her Scenario as well as what occurs in Ending 1, and long story short, she'd kill IF... but her carnage wouldn't stop there! She'd somehow end up beating Vert to near death after the CPU no doubt tried her 'sympathetic' approach... Lyrica would stop the mad SMD warrior, leading to Cave breaking down in tears. Oh well, can't get worse, right? No, wait, it can: Cave would then be arrested by the Leanbox army for her actions. Happy end! A very early rough-draft of an idea, with the concepts being used in two of the actual endings in the game. Have you seen them? **2**. Another 'Cave wins Reunion' early ending concept. She kills IF, and Lyrica is killed by Vert (neh, things happen). Big boss fight happens... and the Basilicom is leveled. All but Cave and Markz are dead. The man is extremely wounded, and has one bullet left. When he sees Cave still standing, horrified by her actions, the twisted man takes one more shot... and she dies. Planeptune forces arrive, and capture the wounded man. Yeah, bummer... and one of the reasons it never came to fruition. The 'big boss fight' and 'Basilicom getting trashed' ideas did technically make it in for Ending 8, however... Have you achieved that one? **3**. An IF ending? This one, admittedly, was just for fun. IF will eventually corner Vert inside the Basilicom... but before she can do anything, the Basilicom suddenly launches into Space?! Boss fight happens. IF wins, but Vert presses a button, and the place is about to blow up. She begins to enter a pod to escape... but Markz acts like a dick and enters it first and leaves without her. Vert and IF attack one another one more time before the building explodes. That'd... be pretty fun to see, actually. Maybe a future patch? **4**. Most likely an IF ending, similar to Ending 3/9 in a way. IF will spare Cave, and the two will enter the Basilicom together. Vert arrives, challenges IF to a one-on-one duel, and they fight... but it stops halfway through when Vert intentionally blindsides Cave, critically harming her. Green Heart will persuade the two of them to fully join her cause once more, with the promise that Cave's wounds will be properly mended. IF has no choice... Fast forward some time, and Cave and IF would be forced into a 'Last Stand' sequence against the Planeptune army. Kinda too much going on there. **5**. Ties in with an early cut boss idea (which you can read all about in the 'Consultations With Your Boss' page!). Secret Cave ending, most likely with very specific unlock conditions such as Ending 11. She beats IF, but refuses to kill her. Cue Nepgear doing the job for her anyways, as she's wont to do. Boss fight happens. After, Cave takes the leafy bow and meets with Vert and Markz outside, claiming she murdered IF for treachery. Vert is happy everything went well, but Markz senses that Cave didn't kill IF herself... Through convoluted means, Lyrica would come out, and he'd kill her without hesitation. Vert is shocked, and is knocked out by Markz before she can do anything. Good ole Markz has gone rogue, and fires at Cave, but she escapes into the Basilicom. Boss fight follows. Leads to cut gameplay idea. Vert would come back at the end and finish Markz off. Never intended to be seen by outside eyes, but was conceived when discussing unique gameplay sections. Was a pretty flimsy story setup, though. Also... hasn't Markz done enough already? I mean, he already has a secret level if you enter the correct password... **6**. Sources indicate that, while the other ideas were bare-boned ideas conceived in moments of pure creative bankruptcy (or what have you), this one was purely a joke meant to parody pointlessly-dark stories even further. A 'Cave' ending. After meeting unspecified conditions, the Reunion would begin, with the player choosing Cave of course. During the fight, however, IF would begin spouting off what seems like complete nonsense (accusing Cave of being a completely different person). Once her health gets to a certain point, a breakthrough would occur: IF would shout out for "CHIKA!" to snap out of it! Thus comes the reveal: the whole time, you've been playing as a grieving Chika, her mind so distraught over losing her best friend that she becomes deluded into thinking she IS her! ... Come on, it makes no sense, but you have to admit: you want to see that now. ... Hmm? Oh wow, there's actually one more here! Ooh, this sumbitch seems to be a special case: this ending was actually entirely planned to be added into the game, but was cut at the very last minute! Let's delve in... **7**. The 'Buzzkill' Ending: Had a ton of working titles too, such as: "Stop Crying Your Heart Out", "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)", "The Way", "Let's Live for Today" and, of course, "Reflections of My Life". This would've been a Cave ending, with both characters having to be below 50 health, IF having been shot in the stomach by the sniper, Cave's 'Mentality' being either low-end innocent (drunken Chika Mountain flashback) or guilty, and, quite possibly, Cave may have been required to get damaged by the mortar (depending on frequencies of how to achieve certain endings, this specific flag may have been required). Anyways, there's a lot of extensive notes, but how bout we wrap this up while we're both still young, yeah? The Reunion fight would have a conversation, such as Cave's Ending 13 or IF's Ending 12, where Cave and IF snipe back at each other about how they both look like crap... and feel like it. Also, both of their minds are kinda in the toilet already, making them both reflect on just what the hell they've been doing this whole war. How are they making things better/easier for the world/Lyrica? All they are doing is screwing things up... Long story short, the fight would come to a halt right before IF's health can reach zero, with she actually being the one to call it off. Cave is too exhausted to retort. The two discuss their revelations together: that Vert will never snap out of her insanity so long as they continue to screw things up, and Lyrica will just sink deeper into despair as she realizes more and more that her 'heroes' are actually dooming her to this fate. So... what can they do? Simple: Cave rips off her cap, and tells IF to rip off her leafy bow. They lay the identifying trinket in the mud, symbolizing (and, important for Vert, providing evidence of) their deaths... and the two walk off without ever looking back. Ultimately removed for a multitude of reasons... one of which, admittedly, was laziness. Everything else had already been written, and it seemed like a waste of time to include this mopey ending that didn't even feature an extended gameplay section. Would it be worth the time and words spent on what is essentially the third 'Game Over' ending? ... Anyways, there ya have it. All stories, endings, themes, morals, whatnot all begin from small ideas; fractured concepts. Some survive the creation process... but others die like Blanc's success at a fanfiction expo. H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

No need to be poetic or anything here: heres a list of the 'Assholes' you never actually got to fight. Ugh, I did it again... WHO do I think I'm talking to?! Er, and why did I specifically capitalize the word 'Assholes' like that? ... **Boss 1**: Markz standalone boss. Would have 50 Health, but his attacks would be extremely devastating (lyin', cheatin' bastard). Would serve as a warm-up to a Vert boss fight no doubt, possibly during 'Ending 10'. Chainsaw-machine gun cheap strikes, calling his soldiers to attack for him, grenades, reload mini-games, and a laser cannon from space; he'd clearly fight fair. Scrapped pretty early on, though, as Markz didn't need any more exposure, and it was determined that his role in 'Ending 13' was more than enough. Also, it would really screw with the flow of 'Ending 10', and all for what? A short-but-annoying clash with a glorified OC? **Boss 2**: Ghost character fight (as in, a psychological duel with a phantom/illusion Cave or IF). This morphed into the boss at the end of 'Ending 4', but that was heavily modified from the original idea. Either a ghost Cave or IF would be the boss, with hellish versions of their normal attacks. Who would you play as during this fight? Why, that's a secret... but of course, the obvious consideration was Cave (she... tends to 'dwell' on things a bit too much)... though just between you and me (again, who is 'you'?!), I've heard rumblings that even Lady Green Heart herself would be a possibility! That would not occur in 'Ending 4', due to, er, obvious reasons... but yeah, it almost happened! Hmm... I wonder what'd it be like to see this story from Vert's perspective...? **SPOILERS. Well, 'ISH'** **Boss 3**: 'Tag Team Turmoil'. The original, original idea for the true final boss of 'Ending 14'. Cave and IF would join forces... and take on Vert and Nepgear at the same time. Yep, a full-on double battle! However, this was programmed within the first month of development... and the code was utter crap. The boss was ALMOST playable in terms of every possible option involving 'Cancel-Out' skills and 'Defense' checks... but it was very rough around the edges, and took a whopping 27 seconds to load the result page! That... yeah, wasn't good. Nowadays, the boss would be more feasible, as the programmer actually has a clue about what he's doing... but a much better 'Final Boss' was thought of not too long after, and this idea would've been redundant anyways (if fighting Vert and Nepgear was getting tiring, would fighting BOTH of them really change anything?), so perhaps it's better off in the 'Dummied-Out' column. ... But will we ever see a fully-functional 2-on-2 boss battle in a possible expansion pack or... sequel? Only time will tell... Either way, I'll be there to report on it! **OMITTED BOSS ATTACKS** **Ending 14 Final Boss**: This... super-omega-ultra-extreme boss has several attacks that will wreak havoc on our lovely maidens' health counters... and none is more dreaded than the 'EXE' attack that is very keen on stealing 60 health without a moment's notice! You've seen it, right? Well, I'm not allowed to spoil it all on my own, so better enter all three of those 'KEYS' and find out if you're still in the dark... but I CAN tell ya what the other possibilities for how the move could've looked like were! I'm a swell guy like that! If only the ladies took the bait... 1. The true 'Asshole' appears, and glitches towards our player. He smiles... before vanishing in black pixelated fog. His target is then pulverized by an unknown force, leading to the aforementioned 60 damage! 2. The same true 'Asshole' appears as a giant in the sky, holding his hands up like a screaming anime character. Guess where this is going: he creates a gigantic energy ball, and drops it onto his target! 3. Yep, the true 'Asshole' again! Man, who IS this guy?! A bit simpler here: the bastard rises from the ground like the freakin' Zombie Devil and pulls the player down under! Fire and screams is the only sound for miles... until they are fired up into the air like a cannon ball! Talk about a rough Tuesday night! 4. The boss's 'Manager' grows by unseemly proportions, laughing in the sky. Her mouth spews out thousands of her snarky self, each one carrying a dark energy ball. They all smash into the player and blast them to death (okay, 60 health)... A-And hey, waitaminute, I DEFINITELY know this 'Manager' chick! She's the one who floats with that flying boo... Nah, can't say it... ... Interesting how three of these possibilities involved that weird 'true Asshole' guy... and yet, he never actually showed himself in the final product! Perhaps this... wasn't the destined time for him to show up? Ooooh, now I gave myself the chills! H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

(if: $hankPageCheck != true)[What began as a project to learn coding while also keeping writing to a minimum... morphed into a complete monster! A novel-sized text adventure with themes of love, loyalty, loss, hope, redemption, futility, fate, time, how many attempts it takes to defeat a 200-HP crazed Nepgear, and whatever other pretentious terms we can throw out... Crazy how the world works, eh? This page is dedicated to giving some small insight into how the original game concept looked compared to the final product, as well as offer some factoids that you can impress your friends with (you know, your friends that totally LOVE hearing about useless trinkets of data about fangames)! Whether anyone likes this game or not... a lot of love was put into it, so hopefully that comes through for at least one person out there. - This whole game is based on a scene from the... cancelled fanfic "All's Well That Ends Well". The fic has a complete outline that has yet to be released to the public, but it would've been awesome... if only technological issues and time didn't get in the way. The tale was meant to be a conclusion to all of Ghostdominion6's fanfics, as well as serve as an ode to The Romance of the Three Kingdoms historical novel as well as the Dynasty Warriors series (for the first half, anyways). *Measure for Measure*, specifically, is an expanded reimagining of one of the most important scenes from the planned fic. For any history/gamer/Chinese literature buffs out there, it may be obvious that the conflict between Cave and IF amidst the heavy rain at the Leanbox Basilicom, with Lowee troops looming in the shadows, is a blatant reference to the Battle of Fan Castle, with Cave playing an altered role of Xiahou Dun, and IF filling Guan Yu's shoes. How's that for alternate interpretations, eh? Only thing missing was a flood attack... From those two roles, can you figure out who anyone else is meant to be? - The 'rough draft concept' looked something like this: Cave and IF would each go through ten choices, manipulating their health almost like a password. Unlocking endings would be akin to a puzzle, in a way... though since this was way way way back in mid-to-late June of 2015, endings were nowhere near as... wordy or anything. Anyways, once both scenarios were finished, IF and Cave would have their duel, using the health they had remaining. If the player selected a character with dramatically more health than the other, the one with less health would most certainly die. Win with low health, the player was more likely to be rewarded. Now, about the 'less wordy' endings I just mentioned? This would've been less a story and more a blueprint of an arcade-ish text adventure, if that makes sense. Really simple: the choices would come one after the other, without flashbacks or talking or really anything of the sort. After the Reunion? Most likely a page or two, showing a brief cutscene you might be expected to see at the end of an arcade fighter (in text form, of course. Gripping). Here, you see if either IF or Cave (or both) survive, if someone like Vert or Nepgear shows up, and if the war is any closer to ending or not. Depending on the ending, you may have had to fight one of those two goddess babes... and the gameplay would've looked very similar to the Reunion style of fighting, not the turn-based RPG thing we got going. The best ending (100 health vs. 100 health, choose IF) would force the player to face BOTH Vert and Nepgear in the ending... and would eventually end the war. There'd be a fake-out 'True' ending (100 health vs. 100 health, choose Cave), featuring the same two bosses... but with the players of each fight reversed. Things... wouldn't end up going as smoothly... Anyways, the basic basic concept is still around in this game, as you can probably attest, but many things were changed (as they are wont to do... have I said that before already?). Due to their(sic) being less of a script originally, Chika (among many others... like me?) would barely have factored in the game at all! Chika was there to serve as the final straw of Cave's wavering loyalty to Vert (hint hint: Chika dies in the fic's equivalent of Mt. Dingjun...)... but as soon as it was determined that this game would become something more than a tech demo by a hopeful programming upstart, flashbacks and more backstory was included... and the cheerful Oracle became perhaps the central focus! Also, once the author wrote Chika's and Cave's very first scene together (the first 'Positive' flashback, featuring Chika waking the SMD warrior up)... a new OTP was accidentally born! From there, the author couldn't help but run with it. - Going along with that, Markz, Adrian, Linda, and Nepgeo were not meant to be featured as much, even after the idea initially expanded. However, the story needed a real clear antagonist that the player wouldn't perhaps feel any guilt over fighting (a possessed Vert is still Vert, after all. Who'd want to fight her?!), so Markz got his time to shine! His first written moment in this game was his first appearance in 'Ending 13', by the way! Yeah... the development order of everything was completely wild. Linda and Nepgeo were only meant to show up in 'Ending 9A', as a reward... but they eventually became the voices of the result pages! Not to mention a couple other cameos here and there... And as for Adrian? - While this game is in continuity with All's Well That Ends Well... the likelihood of any potential player actually having read that fic— or any other 'Ghost' fic, for that matter— couldn't be trusted as anything other than zilch. So, an alternate opening had to be added to the game, showing the moment Vert was struck by Adrian's magic... and when she rose from the ashes and became the new, evil Vert. Since the scene in the fic has far too much going on to be summarized in a simple four pages, and featured characters that don't even make a physical appearance in this game, the fight on the mountaintop became a more personal affair between the four main characters. Yep, someone had to create an alternate universe for their alternate universe... Makes your head spin, doesn't it? For those who are interested when the full outline one day gets released, every event afterwards and beforehand can be trusted as being the exact same in the lead-up to this game. ... Oh yeah! But no matter what, Adrian was always intended to show up in 'Ending 4A'... It would be a cameo/nod to the fic series, if nothing else... but since he's now one of the first characters players can see, it's more of a short-term reunion, is it not? - One last thing for this page: the game was originally going to have 'Trophies'/'Achievements' (coined 'Accolades', in reference to both the fics and Chika in this game), but due to the way the music code dictated that progress across multiple playthroughs was not too feasible, the idea was ultimately scrapped. As it stood, to get the 'Platinum', you'd need to enter passwords to acknowledge each earned Accolade... and geez, no one has that time! You can read up on some of the planned challenges in the corresponding page in this archive, however... Maybe even try to earn them as a personal trial? H:\>(link:"Next Page")[(set: $hankPageCheck to true)(goto:"Ur Measure")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]](else:)[**ABRIDGED TIMELINE OF DEVELOPMENT!!!** The order that each ending/section was finished (started/conceived is a whole 'nother question) - Prelude ('Gamindustri is at war!' page) - Initial two choices for IF/Cave scenarios - Reunion Fight - Text Credits - Ending 1 - Boss Engine - Ending 12 - True End Boss Fight - Cave Scenario - IF Scenario - Ending 13 - Ending 6 - Ending 8 - Prelude Glossary - Ending 10 - Ending 4 - Ending 5 - Ending 7 - Ending 9 - Ending 3 - Ending 11 - Titlescreen - Password System - Saving/Loading - Ending 14 - Neutral Credits - Ending 2 - Introduction - Ending 0 - Ending 69 - Added all Music/Finalized Passwords and Loading - Markz Secret - Ending 14 Credits - This Archive **CHARACTER MORTALITY RATE** Out of 25 potential endings (and as far as the reader can tell)... Cave survives 17 times. 68% IF survives 14 times. 56% Lyrica survives 18-19 times. 72%-76% Vert survives 19-20 times. 76%-80% Nepgear survives 13 times. 52% Markz Phenix survives 22 times. 88% Hank East survives 24 times (Wait... WHAT?!). 96% Nepgear wins the 'OUCH' Award! And funny how no one survives less than 50% (though the imposter candidate pretty much comes as close to halfway as possible with an odd number) **NOTE FROM OUR ANIMATOR FRIEND!** To craft whatever animations were used in this game, three programs were used: Powerpoint 2013, After Effects CS6, and Blender. The intro movie is based off of an opening for a certain PS1 game that, sadly, many of you have never probably played (and by that, the awesome PS1 version; the game in question has a port on pretty much every console known to man, but none are quite like this version). It was created using roughly 340 frames in Powerpoint. The logo of the game itself was created in Blender. Once the animation was done, it was placed through Live Movie Maker, where the final speed was adjusted. Originally, the entire opening was supposed to be done in Blender, and for the most part the animation did work, but the effect just never looked right (the fire was annoyingly-transparent, for example). The logo is the only remnant of this original opening. The scrolling credits was done in After Effects, with the blue fire in the background done in Blender (this is NOT the fire intended for the intro. I just reused similar assets for it). Not much to really say, other than I kept spacing things wrong and thus having to re-render everything all over again. If you've never had to hear the word 'Render' in a professional setting before, count yourself blessed. The dynamic credits viewable in 'Ending 14' was also done in After Effects. Pretty much every word was an object, and as such had its own individual animation. Timing got extremely annoying, and thanks to my computer starting to go on the fritz, rendering became a nightmare. A few more effects were planned, but in order to keep my computer alive, I had to reduce some animations. In the end, both credits were supposed to be done in Blender, but After Effects made the credits a whole lot easier. H:\>(link:"Previous Page")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Ur Measure")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]]

Not exactly removed boss fights or endings, but not exactly parts of existing endings either... These are some unused concepts! ... Man, if only I was a more creative dude. It's hard to come up with blurbs to start these categories off! **CONCEPT 1**: "Duel" (That's what they do). An quickly-dismissed idea where, during certain boss fights, the player would engage in a weapons-lock with the boss... and you'd have to click a link several times before time runs out. There are a few scarce instances of button mashing links throughout the game... but none are ever timed, and due to the way this engine can go crazy from simply clicking a link even three times (for example, clicking STRUGGLE in a pivotal moment of 'Ending 13', while works fine, can occasionally highlight all the words on the next page... Some annoying bugs have no easy fixes), there's no way the player could possibly be expected to take punishment for failing to mash fast enough. Overall, entirely unnecessary. **CONCEPT 2**: As touched upon in the Non-Chronicled Endings page, there was a concept for a Markz fight that was never seriously considered, but served as more of an inspiration piece for gameplay sections. It's essentially be a game of cat and mouse, with you having to find a deranged Markz among the long, dark, and plentiful halls of the Leanbox Basilicom... before he finds YOU! Choose which doors to open, which corners to turn, when to fire— or blindfire— down the halls... all that jazz! However... imagine having to keep track of just where in this nonsensical castle you currently are! Without visuals, you'd be hosed! Also, the code would be astronomical... and yeah, there'd probably be a lot of reaction commands. Thus, never really expanded upon... but some shades of this concept were eventually used in 'Ending 11' and 'Ending 14'. **CONCEPT 3**: Before the Nepgear boss fight of 'Ending 4', as the Basilicom's throne room is filling with smoke, Cave would have to rush towards the isolated Vert... as a few Lowee soldiers emerge from the haze. Would be a combination of reaction commands and the Last Stand Sequences... but since it would only be a short sequence meant to hamper the player for the upcoming boss fight (any health lost would carry over), and since 'Ending 8' already features similar sequences throughout, the idea was ultimately tossed. Virtually nothing had to be changed story-wise; the result would have been the same regardless. **CONCEPT 4**: Another small one. During the stealth sequence in 'Ending 11' (have you seen that one? Hint hint: it's a very secretly-specific 'Cave-achieved' ending), there was originally an idea where the player could get captured (once they've made it to about the fourth/fifth trial) and brought to the Basilicom's throne room anyways... though without the ability to achieve the best endings. However, this was quickly scrapped... as the punishment would make pretty much no logical sense in the realm of the story being told, and without ANY punishment, what would be the point of bringing the player to the destination? Thus, the player must currently survive the whole sequence... which shouldn't be too difficult. There's even a checkpoint, for cryin' out loud! **CONCEPT 5**: Yet another one for 'Ending 4', or more specifically, 'Ending 4A'. Skip to the next concept if you don't want spoilers... but the ending as it currently stands concludes with our player breaking out of her jail cell thanks to the help of one very-conflicted Deity and blue-haired pop star. The alarm sounds, the group (with Adrian) rushes off as fast as they can... and cut! Well... there was originally going to be a very short gameplay section here, where you must sneak out of the prison! It'd be more like an interactive cutscene than anything, however, and it'd end after only three choices. On the third ordeal, all hope would seem lost as a swarm of guards surround our heroes.. when BAM, the wall explodes... and standing there is CFW Judge! ... Removed for several reasons (overall, the section amounted to a cameo that didn't even have a shred of build-up in the game), the biggest of which being that CFW Judge... has specifically been 'left out' of this game. Thus, not only would this ending not make much sense, and it works best without the added section... but it'd also go against the author-induced mantra of "The Narrator is to be left out of *Measure for Measure* at all costs!" Interesting... **CONCEPT 6**: "(Fe)Male Roar". For anyone who has read what does exist of "All's Well That Ends Well", they may remember that the opening chapter of that fic features Neptune and Noire lying on the ground, staring up at what is certainly impending death. If the fic went on, of course we'd see how this all came about... Well, the password you entered to find THIS wonderful archive was originally going to show off yet another key scene from the fic: the immediate continuation of that prologue scene! However... hint hint, it MAAAAAAAAAY have involved a certain CFW Judge... **CONCEPT 7**: Challenge Mode scenarios. A small idea that came about when considering future patches/updates to this game. One such idea was reworking IF's and Cave's initial scenarios to where they'd both have ammo/energy levels throughout that would ALSO impact the Reunion clash. Such as, IF would have limited Qatars, and the choices would better reflect the need to pick your fights wisely. Same thing with Cave and her energy meter (which does actually show up when playing as Cave during the Reunion... but there's no way to start with less than 5 energy of course). On that note, the idea for IF to have the possibility of sneaking her way through her entire scenario was toyed with... but not only would that bump the development time up tenfold, it would also complicate the overall story, so it never came to fruition. The stealth concept, however, was eventually realized to some degree during 'Ending 11'. H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

(if: $hankPageCheck != true)[A bunch of the stuff you can see in the other categories, as you may have noticed by now, are generally only concepts/ideas, a lot never really getting past any sort of important development stage. As such, for people who don't like unlockables in games that amount to "Concept Art" and "Crappy 'Museum' Warehouse Bunker That Doesn't Tell You Anything", what's here for you? Well, apart from mind-splitting info that will change the face of Gamindustri forever... I *somehow* stumbled upon *ACTUAL WRITTEN SCENES* that were replaced by the ones you can find in the game now! There's not an earth-shattering amount (there ARE very early rough drafts of stuff... but really, you'd just be sifting through some very ugly spelling and grammar mistakes if I posted those here), but why don't we pay 'em a visit? H:\>(link:"The First Trial")[(set: $hankPageCheck to true)(goto:"LOST Media")] H:\>(link:"The Forgotten Flashback")[(goto:"LOST Media Flashback")] H:\>(link:"Amorous Lyrica... and Extra...")[(goto:"LOST Media Lyrica")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]](else:)[Here we go... huh, oh, hmm... Well, er, you chose the least-original edit: the original draft of IF's first choice, if she takes '5' damage. Why's this here, exactly? Because, believe it or not, it's the very first page written for the game! Yep, all the way back on June 12, 2015, some loner sat down at his crappy laptop and jotted down this one page that would eventually blow up into 300K+ words! Let's take a look: ... What if it's a sniper?! This is the enemy's main capital, after-all! Without another thought, you quickly leap through the air a couple feet before crashing down in a prone position. However, in your haste, you neglected to remember the muddy earth below you! You crash down and end up sliding a couple of inches. Furthermore, you think you landed on a small rock; it feels like there's a bruise forming above your right breast. You take 5 damage! Wasn't Compa the clumsy one? Oh well, could be worse, right? As you pick yourself up and prepare to wipe the mud from your clothes, you suddenly hear: "H-Hey, I see her! Lady Vert was right, it's IF!" a gruff voice shouts from somewhere a little ways behind you. A ton of other voices sound off from the surrounding area, including the trees from before. Huh, turns out you did see someone in the tree... but he hadn't noticed you yet. Too bad. Oh well, they had been expecting you, and now they knew of your presence. Time to get serious... IF's Health: 95/100 ... History in the making right there, folks! As you can see, it's not a huge difference from the final version you may know well by now, but it's definitely something. Instead of IF's radio doing the deed, here it's just a rock... That's literature worthy of praise! H:\>(link:"Back to LOST Media Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"LOST Media")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]]

... Okay, I'm gonna share a little secret with ya: when you're a crackpot reporter... you MAY not always remember exact names and places... Or, even if ya do, it may be in your best interest to not refer to them in such appropriate terms, but rather... shall I say, shorthand nicknames? AKA, why call a broad by her name in your notes, when you could simply refer to her as a letter of the alphabet? Er, I can already tell I'm losin' you (myself?)... Names are freakin' important, such as character names or ending titles and all that jazz... but sometimes, the most important names are the ones you players NEVER see! Such as, what are the titles of the actual PAGES IN THE CODE?! What ending titles were left out in the rain? ... Or, how about the nicknames for each plot character that the creators refer to them as for no real discernible reason? Explaining won't be enough, so how about we just get to the list! **...** 1. For starters, what are some of the affectionate names the author of this game uses for the characters? Here's some now: IF = M (Emmy = Iffy) and Cave = Maidy. Weird, huh? It's just a calling card that stuck for whatever reason. Possibly to make it all the more easier to separate code and writing, as 'If' statements are the name of the game... and an 'If' statement featuring the character IF would make your head explode. Oh yeah, and with this naming scheme, the main characters' names flow even better during note discussion (M and M, right?)! Other names include- Vert = Greeny-Beany (is that easier to say?), Lyrica = Fivey (predictable), Underling = Foury (Figure THAT one out), Nepgear = Fake Little Purp (... Eh?), Nepgeo = Imposter Purple, and Chika = Grassy. It's a weird world indeed. 2. Want to know what each section of the game is referred to in the game's code? Of course you do! I won't tell ya the real names you'd see on the Result Pages, though... 'cuz you have to do that yourself! - Ending 1 = Cave Bad Ending Pages 1-4 - Ending 2 = IF Bad Ending Pages 1-4 - Ending 3 = Runaway Ending Pages 1-6 - Ending 4 = Imprisoned Ending Pages 1-10 (also Boss Think Page) - Ending 5 = Mission Accomplished Pages 1-14 (also Interrogation) - Ending 6 = Loyalty Ending Pages 1-13 - Ending 7 = Mission Accomplished Pages 1-6 + Paranoid Pages 1-6 - Ending 8 = Loyalty Ending Pages 1-11 + Green Pastures Pages 1-5 - Ending 9 = Door Ending Pages 1-9 - Ending 10A = Loyalty Ending Pages 1-10 + Moving On Pages 1-3 - Ending 10B = Same Loyalty above + Alive Ending Pages 1-4 - Ending 10C = Same Loyalty above + Third Wheel Pages 1-3 - Ending 11 = Behind Blue Eyes Pages 1-5, Stealh Pages 1-6, Behind Blue Eyes Pages 6-8, Cave Choice, Lyrica Choice, Page Bad, Accept Pages 1-2 (what a doozy!) - Ending 12 = Historical Ending Pages 1-13 - Ending 13 = Farewell Ending Pages 1-17 - Ending 14 = Historical Ending Pages 1-4 + True Ending Pages 1-37 (bring some snacks) - Ending 69 = Lovers Endings Pages 1-2 - Ending 0 = **REDACTED** Boss Segue, Attack 1, Attack 2, Coint Toss, **SECRET OF EVERYTHING** 1-3 - Markz Secret = Markz Ending Pages 1-9 - This Archive = Dummied-Out - Starting the game (post Intro) = The Long Intro of Death - Selecting IF or Cave = Choose Your Destiny! - ORIGINAL TITLE OF GAME FILE = Cave vs. IF [Prototype] 3. Finally, ending titles are details to be mulled over forever and ever... er, at least until a good one is landed on. Here's some of the names that didn't quite make the cut (in, heheh, no order whatsoever!): - **Ending 11B** = Overheat (Not used because the author doesn't support crap) - **Ending 8** = Paradise Lost; Paint it Black - **Ending 6A** = As Long as You Are Happy - **Ending 3** OR **Ending 12** = Lex Talionis - **Ending 3** = Joining the Black Parade? - **Ending 4A** = Band on the Run; Jailbreak! - **Ending 10A** = Heart of the matter - **Ending 13A** = Drops of Jupiter - **Ending 2** = Undun - **Ending 10B** = Stop Crying Your Heart Out - **Ending 5B** = Hard to Say I'm Sorry - **Ending 9A** = She Ain't Heavy, She's My Sister; I Dare You - **Ending 13A** OR **Ending 4B** = Lux Aeterna - **Ending 5A/B** = Make Your Own Kind of Music - **Ending 14** = Under Pressure; The Script; How Far We've Come; More Than a Feeling - **Not Specified** = While My Guitar Gently Weeps; Much Ado About Nothing; A Day in the Life; Can't Get It Out Of My Head H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

(if: $hankPageCheck != true)[... Uh oh, I-I think someone's coming! C-Crap, I gotta get out of here! I'm taking the secret exit! B-But I have to hide all this... Ooh, I know! I-I'll just load up this recovered document to mask the entire program! No one will bat an eyelash as soon as they see the title... **Adrian's "The Crucial Codes to the Way of Cheats"!** ... I'm not the type to waste time, like Hank. Let's get this over with. Have a... cell to rot in (for not much longer, though...). Mm, but keep in mind: **SPOILERS ABOUND!** Whatever the hell that means... I prefer to stay in the dark about the possible future, but to each their own. 1. In IF's Scenario, there are two Flashback points: immediately after the initial Sniper situation, and after confronting/avoiding the back door of the Basilicom. Within each Flashback point, there are two possible scenes the player can see: for the first one, there is a scene with Lyrica if IF avoids getting shot, and a scene with Vert if IF gets shot in the stomach. For the second point, you will see a scene between IF, Cave, and Lyrica if you are either shot in the arm or shot in the stomach (choosing to play dead or roll to the rock doesn't matter). Otherwise, if you avoid these special injuries, you'll view a scene with the five main characters! 2. Cave's Scenario is a bit more complicated. Not counting "Pain Flashbacks", Cave has **FOUR** Flashback points, as I'm sure you know by now. Within the first point, there are two possible scenes: One with a drunk Chika, and one with Cave and Chika about to play a game. The second point is similar with two possibilities, detailing two possible moments not too long after IF abandoned Leanbox at Avenir. The third point introduces three possible flashbacks: one involving a bath... huh... U-Uh, the second involving a discussion about Nisa of all people, and the third involving a despondent Chika. Finally, for the final point, there are yet again three possibilities: one a loving farewell, one an empty passing, and one a horrific failure. There's a hidden score working behind the scenes to determine which, er, scenes you see. The lower the score, the better the scene... Have you tried for a score of 0/1 yet? How about over 4? 3. Curious about those "Pain Flashbacks"? Cave has **7** in total to see... though **2** must always be viewed no matter what. Take damage, see a scene; simple, right? Hell, if you manage to see all 7 in one playthrough and survive (and still win the Reunion as Cave)... you may be able to unlock a whole new ending! I'm not one for beating around the bush, so here's pretty much what to watch out for to see them all: you can't/should not take damage on Cave's 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 8th choices. For the rest, experiment with which options hurt you... but still leave you with enough scraps of life left to make it to the end. 4. IF has a pretty complicated Scenario gameplay-wise compared to Cave. First, there's a branch point if she gets shot by the sniper or not. If she is shot, she can either: A- Die instantly; B- Roll to the rock and play the path she would've gone done had she not gotten shot... though with the added bonus of bleeding out; and C- Play Dead... and go down a completely different path! Is this breaking news to you, or are you already an expert? 5. A small branch, but a branch regardless: IF's choice when behind the rock can also bring her to a unique new choice. If she is not shot AND has a decent amount of health left, if she plays dead behind the rock... she'll survive the ensuing grenade explosion and have to deal with the approaching punks in the smoke and rubble. If she is shot and plays dead when behind the same rock, however... the grenade will finish her. No ifs, ands or buts... Ugh, never let me say that again. 6. One last thing for IF's scenario: there are two points she can trigger her "Arm Injury" flag, which changes some minor text in the game (as well as opens up Ending 12, of course): when behind the rock, if she tries to distract the sniper with her leafy bow and Qatar... and if she tries to knock down the back door. So yeah, both of those options will do. Getting hit by both, however, will yield no added bonuses... save for 70 damage total. Not good. 7. Last one for Cave's scenario: during her choice in the smoke cloud, she has the option to scream at the vision outside. Selecting this presents the player with one of three scenes, depending on how they are playing (of course). The choice adds one point to the hidden score... and since it's the final real choice, the scene will flat-out tell you which "Mountain" flashback you're about to earn! See them all! 8. The boss engine is purposely kept cryptic because gamers these days don't have enough initiative; no curiosity or investigative spirit! Thus, the simple fights must be learned first-hand, not explained via some crummy ten-minute tutorial! ... So that's what I'm going to do here. For starters, here's an obvious one: blocking defends entirely against all moves that count as "Attacks", but is useless against "Skills". The player also has a huge advantage in one regard: if the boss is blocking, all "Skills" will have a 100% hit chance! The same does not necessarily apply to the bosses themselves... so take advantage of it! Also, if the boss is healing, ANYTHING will HAVE to hit them... though most things will simply mitigate/negate the healing process. The player, once again, does not need to fear the same thing... though if you're unlucky with hit rates, your heal attempt will be screwed. 9. Still with the standard boss fights... there is no guaranteed definitive way to block "Skills". However, if the player can predict which exact "Skill" the boss is using next, they can use a corresponding "Skill" to attempt to cancel the move out entirely! No damage for either party... but hey, that's no damage, AND the boss just wasted energy. But, so did you... For example, "Skill 1", we'll call it, usually always takes one energy to use (Throw Qatar, Shoot)... and has a chance to cancel out the enemy's corresponding 'one energy' Skill. "Skill 2" is Heal... which can't be cancelled of course. Thus, the bottom left "Skill" is "Skill 3", and "Skill 4" is the (usually) 30-damage, 2-energy "Skill". Thus, "Full Burst Option" can occasionally cancel out an opponent's '30-damage' "Skill"! 10. That being said... it all comes down to the numbers! If your "Skill" wasn't going to hit, and her "Skill" was... you'll take damage. Same thing the other way around... As I said, this method only allows a chance of stopping the blow. It also did feel cheap if the player had the good fortune to hit, but the boss missed... and I still cancel the "Skills" out. That'd be annoying. But, hmm, the code would be much smaller... so maybe in a revamped fighting engine, this will be heavily altered anyways? 11. Basic strategy some 'Asshole' uses: Spam the crap out of "Attack 3" (Running Slash, Grab and Kick), and Heal when you must. Use an Observe once every three/four turns (depending on how long the fight will go, and/or how many times you've lost in the worst-case scenario). If the boss is Blocking, sure, use "Skill 4"! If they are confirmed to Heal, play it safe and use "Attack 4" (Somersault Kick, Tornado Spin); in most boss situations, you'll do the exact same amount of damage as the boss does healing, so their health will stay the same. Sure, you can use "Skill 4" to make them lose 10 health, but is the 2 Energy worth it? 12. Oh yeah, and a couple bosses don't follow this logic, such as "Skills" cancelling each other out. Namely, the final boss of "Ending 14"... There's no way to stop their "Skills" from striking, so all you can hope to do is endure and survive, or hope they miss. That's life for ya. 13. Now for some Ending stuff... In Ending 9B, there are actually TWO possible scenes after the Credits! One stars Falcom, and the other, possibly more secretive, version stars Nisa and a certain hag of a woman I refuse to name... The easiest (and by that, default) scene is the Falcom one, while the Nisa version requires Cave to have already seen Nisa in her Third set of Flashbacks. Have you ever tried going for a more "Neutral" approach? 14. Also with Ending 9... This is very much an IF ending... but did you know that Cave can also achieve it? The ending itself will stay mostly the same, though the first page or two will be somewhat different, and the boss fight later may be a tad bit harder... Ugh, after today, I'm done saying 'tad'... How to achieve this? Well... go to the next page, I'm sure you'll find out. 15. If you've checked the other pages in this Archive already, I'm pretty sure you heard Hank mention quite a few times about a "Secret Scenario" which can only be accessed via a hidden Password... Well, how exactly do you find this Password? By cheating online!... Or, er, know; that's what imbeciles would do. What you really need to do is get to 'Ending 4', get to the final 'encounter' of the branch, and choose to "Think"! Think about who, now? Markz, the sonuvabitch who ruined Jade's life... and the scumbag who shared this cell with me up until Vert set him free to murder Avenir. Yep, think of everything about Markz... and you may just find that Password yet... 16. Ending 11 has four unique variations on the Ending... even though there is only technically an A and B version! It's probably obvious how to achieve all four if you've seen the Ending already... but maybe you never actually tried yet? 17. Oh, and this should go without saying... but you should really pay attention to absolutely EVERYTHING in the Result Pages! They pretty much tell you EXACTLY how to achieve every possible ending, and even make hint of that Password secret above! See, Linda and Nepgeo know what they're doing... Wait, but who the hell are they? Do I know them? 18. Oh yes, and before I move to wrap things up... in Ending 3, while nothing major changes, there are very minor additions to the script if IF was shot in the stomach during her scenario. 19. And while I'm at it, having Cave "Risk her friendship" and kiss Chika will also provide some minor changes to certain future passages. Not every ending is affected, but quite a few are, whether you realize or not. Even if just a single sentence. 20. ... Alright, fine: losing during the Reunion and ACCEPTING your loss isn't exactly the wisest move. As in, you'll always achieve either 'Ending 1' or 'Ending 2'. You have to WIN to earn a different ending (unless, hmm, you've naturally achieved 'Ending 1' or 'Ending 2'... In that case, PLAY BETTER! Oh, and just a hint: generally pick the character with dramatically-less health for a better chance at an actual ending). 21. ... Okay, so close to being done with this crap! I have to jet soon... Here, in case you were wondering what the info on the Result Pages actually means, here's a quick rundown: Fine = Above (or equal to) 50 health Caution = Below 50 health, but above 5 health **Critical** = 5 health **Super Critical** = 4 health Arm = IF shot in the arm during her Scenario (Behind Rock or at door) Stomach = IF shot in the stomach by the initial Sniper choice None = IF's body is still pure (well, not counting whatever Lyrica has done to her) Innocent = Cave did NOT directly kill Chika. "Positive" and "Neutral" falls here Guilty = Cave DID directly kill Chika. "Negative" all the way. Reunion: IF/Cave = The character you must play (and WIN) as during the Reunion H:\>(link:"Next Page")[(set: $hankPageCheck to true)(goto:"The Crucial Codes")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]](else:)[22. Can't waste much more time! Crap, we're bustin' out now! As a final parting gift before I get brought to Hell knows where, here's the ultimate spoiler: all the possible ways to achieve each ending! Yep, spelled out right in front of you! Later, CPU-lover! **ENDINGS BEGIN WITH IF. CAVE ENDINGS FALL IN LINE AFTER** **IF** *IF NOT shot in Stomach!!!* - ALL SEALS UNLOCKED: IF is Perfect AND Cave is Perfect. IF not shot in arm, Cave is entirely Innocent = Ending 14 - IF is Fine AND Cave is Fine. IF shot in arm, Cave is Innocent = Ending 12 (A) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Caution. IF shot in arm, Cave is Innocent = Ending 12 (B) - IF Fine AND Cave Fine. IF shot in arm, Cave is Guilty = Ending 5/7 (A) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Fine. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 5/7 (B) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Fine. IF shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 5/7 (C) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Fine. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 5/7 (D) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Caution. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 5/7 (E) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Fine. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 3 (A) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Caution. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 3 (B) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Caution. IF shot in arm, Cave is Innocent= Ending 3 (C) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Fine. IF shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 3 (D) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Caution. IF shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 3 (E) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Caution. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 2 (A) - IF is Fine AND Cave is Caution. IF shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 2 (B) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Fine. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 2 (C) - IF is Caution AND Cave is Caution. IF not shot in arm, Cave is Guilty= Ending 2 (D) *IF SHOT in Stomach!!!* - Cave is Fine. Cave is Innocent = Ending 9 (A) - If the above is not true. Thus, Cave is Caution OR Cave is Guilty, or both = Ending 3 (F) ... **CAVE** All "Pain" Flashbacks = Ending 11 Ending 14 = Ending 13 Ending 12 (A/B) = Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 5/7 (A)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 5/7 (B)= Ending 13 Ending 5/7 (C)= Ending 1 Ending 5/7 (D)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 5/7 (E)= Ending 13 Ending 3 (A)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 3 (B)= Ending 13 Ending 3 (C)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 3 (D)= Ending 1 Ending 3 (E)= Ending 1 Ending 3 (F)= Ending 9 (B) Ending 2 (A)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 2 (B)= Ending 4/6/8/10 Ending 2 (C)= Ending 1 Ending 2 (D)= Ending 1 Ending 9 = Ending 1 ... ... My foolish boy came with us in such a hurry, he left this behind... Ugh, why must I be so desperate, I need his help? It's only temporary, only temporary... Well, can't risk anyone else finding this... I'll lock it in that fat journalist's room. No one would ever look for anything in there! H:\>(link:"Previous Page")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"The Crucial Codes")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]]

Overview: Estimated Accolade difficulty: Hank/10 (Femme Sandiego poll) Offline Accolades: 55 (Including PLATINUM) Online Accolades: 0 Highly Estimated Time to Platinum: 10-20 hours Minimum number of playthroughs: A lot Number of missable Accolades: All can technically be called missable, eh? Replaying a playthrough wouldn't take long, though. Glitched Accolades: **0**!!!!! Does difficulty affect Accolades?: No difficulty options. But yep, you have to finish 'Ending 13'... Do Accolades stack?: N/A Do Passwords disable Accolades?: No ... 1. An Die Freude!- [PLATINUM ACCOLADE!] You've read your way to ultimate victory! Tell your friends about this game! (Achieve all other Accolades to earn this.) 2. "This weapon is your LIFE!"- [IF] Don't stop throwing 'til you run out of ammo! (Use Qatar blades at all possible opportunities. Only counts IF's Scenario, not the boss fights or ending paths. Unless you think you're up to the challenge...) 3. But for you, it was Tuesday- [Cave] 'Consort' with your boss, grab a phallus, and make some fireworks... What is this game rated, anyways? (Shoot Vert in Choice 3, grab the grass/mushroom, and 'Take one for the team') 4. Curiosity blonded the brunette- [IF] Encounter the mysterious beast, survive a pleasant encounter with nature, and trick-or-treat out of season. (Attack the bush, get bitten by the ant, and try the back door) 5. "Help... me..."- [History] See— and walk into— the light. (Defeat the boss of Ending 12) 6. You are a true warrior of the four nations!- [???] Honorably route 13 officers in pure spite. (last stand sequence in Ending 13. '13' is the highest number the creators ever defeated. For mercy in an actual Accolade setting, the player could defeat 12, and then achieve the 13th by the plot immediately after) 7. Top-notch quality work!- [IF] Well, at least it started raining... (Die on the third choice) 8. Five-star classic!- [Reunion] One love... One blood... One life... (5 health vs. 5 health, lose in the first turn. Can be anyone) 9. "Was it worth it?"- [Cave] Who knew failing to succeed could lead to such a successful failure? (Hint- that title of the Accolade may be a line in a certain passage somewhere. Though, it's secretly a plot-specific one for what could be Ending 11's branch) 10. What can you say about THAT GOAL?- [???] Lose the coin-toss. Sometimes you have to accept you can't win all the time. 11. Red Card- [???] Live the dream you never want to wake up from! (Win against the toughest opponent of all!) 12. Good Old-Fashioned R&R (Read and Review...)- Read every page of backstory. Yes... even THAT one. (Glossary and RED fanfic link) 13. Grazing in the grass~- [IF] You think you'll just rest here for awhile... (Don't leave the 'No Damage' result of Choice Seven (not-shot path) for three minutes) 14. Buzzkill- [Reunion] With every mistake, we must surely be learning. (Originally would've been to achieve, what else, the Dummied-Out "Buzzkill" Ending. Now, however? Hmm... During the Reunion, play as Cave... and lose to IF's EXE attack by panicking. Gotta play your cards straight and bide your time here!) 15. We're not animators!- Admire hard work over three months in the making. You're welcome. (Watch the Opening Video three times! Wouldn't be possible to track with the current way the game works, so... use the Password for the "Ending 14" Credits and watch that three times instead!) 16. Big Match IF- [Reunion] Overcome the odds, rise above hate, and preserve your legacy! (5 (or 4) HP on 100 HP, beat Cave) 17. CONGLATURATION !!!- [Reunion] Achieve failure... through victory! (Pretty simple- Achieve Ending 2 without losing the fight! A possible way to achieve is as such: IF below 50 AND Cave below 50. IF not shot in arm, Cave shot Chika) 18. BETRAAYAAAALLLL!!!!- [Cave] Damned if you do, damned if you don't... (Click the link. You'll probably find it) 19. They duel.- [Reunion] That's what they do. (No one takes damage for three turns in a row during The Reunion) 20. Kick your feet up and RELAX!- Increase an Asshole's Views by one. Maybe more? You like to read, right? (Can be earned in conjuntion with 'Good Old-Fashioned R&R. Read the 'Mina' fic by clicking the link in the Glossary section. Thank you!) 21. Spelling Diety- Found one! Why is this here? To cover the author's ass and make any others seem intentional? (Originally, there'd be clickable 'typos' scattered about, and you'd have to select one... To make ourselves, er, sound genius, a-any and all typos you find in this game are entirely intentional and should be clicked!!! You know, for the, uh, finger exercise...) 22. The Witch and the RNG- Meet an old friend... through no effort of your own. (You can find this on the 'Cheat' section of this Archive... but if you die during IF's initial Scenario at any point, you have a 1/100th chance of seeing a scene featuring a certain snarky swamp witch. Go get it! Easiest way to die is have less than 50 health before Choice 5, trigger the checkpoint, get shot for 50 health... and then spam the crap out of the death point until ya see it! Oh yeah, and while it's not listed here as an accolade, there is also a different scene to see during Cave's scenario. Go find 'em, soldier!) 23. 'We know what we are...'- [Cave] '... but know not what we may be.' (Have three different affinities in the first three flashbacks. The first and second flashback scenes you see as Cave have two possibilities, depending how you play. The third flashback scene, as well as the fourth, have THREE possibilities. Hint Hint: The first two have a "Positive" and "Negative" variation, while three (and four) have a "Positive", "Negative", and "Neutral"!) 24. Just what do you think you're doing, Cave?- I'm sorry, Cave. I'm afraid I can't do that. (Gah, this could be absolutely anything, but I can't decide on what! You make your own here! Maybe use every Attack/Skill in a certain 'Ending 4' encounter?) 25. "Nobody can tell what I suffer!— But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied." (Another undecided one. Make your own again, I guess! Maybe a plot specific one, to achieve 'Ending 6B'?) 26. Those were the days, my friend...- Live the life you choose! Fight and never lose! (Achieve Ending 14 and stay alive the entire time, without ever having to reload. Unlocks when you 'dance'...) 27. Just close your eyes, yeah!- Just close your eyes and she'll be there... (Kiss Chika, Open the Ending 4 path, Think about Chika (Love) during a certain 'encounter'... and then surrender. Figure THAT all out by yourself!) 28. Overheat- Sometimes our biggest idols turn out to be the biggest monsters (Achieve Ending 11B, and the worst variation of it at that!) 29. A Good Player? A Bad Player? Or, just THE Player?- See every possible Save Game title (Whenever you see "Your game has been saved!", immediately refresh and select "Load Game" from the titlescreen) 30. I like killing them softly.- Touch 'Jimbo' (... Ending 11. Can't be achieved for realz, so just click his name. It'd be a link if this was a real thing!) 31. "Great shot, kid, that was one in a million!"- Take out 'Jimbo' while the wind is blowing at its highest setting! (Good **Luck** with that one!) 32. Two Wrongs, make a Right...- Sneak through the inside of the Basilicom while utterly failing two Quicktime events (During Ending 11, when you're in the second half of the stealth section, you must not select any choice when you see a time limit pop up. Do this twice, and still survive) 33. Three Rights, make a Left...- Survive the sneaking sequence while preferring the right (running "Right" at the searchlight section (try not to get spotted!), making the door guard go right, and running into the final room on your right.) 34. You're... doing it... WRONG!- Take 15 seconds between each beat of the chest during 'Ending 9B' 35. Uh... Yeah, She's Dead- Take over 20 turns during the 'Ending 9' boss. 36. There's a time and place for everything...- Think of absolutely everybody, including each variation! (Hint hint: Ending 4) 37. "W-Why Cavey, this is so sudden!"- Think about one person 10 times in a row. (Same as above!) 38. A Lesson in Markz Management... SAVOR it!- Contemplate Markz's fate in 'Ending 13' for a good minute... then kill him anyways. 39. Please come back...- Is it that exciting? (Click the ad in IF's flashback with Lyrica in the park, and look at the link for five minutes with the game still running.) 40. You move just like IF...- Use Demon Comet Slash as IF against the Imposter... and miss three times. Sonuvabitch! 41. "I am a patient, patient Goddess..."- During 'Ending 11', make a decision... and rethink it 10 times. 42. Relive the Mind-Boggling Excitement!- Replay an ending scenario you just finished. (use the nifty Password feature, of course!) 43. Bad memory, or Accolade grinding?- Enter a wrong password three times in a row. 44. Ain't Nobody Here But Us... Chickens...?- Enter a correct password... that is currently invalid. 45. Do you know how much effort went into this?!...- Beat the 'Ending 12' chase sequence while music is turned off (Heh, not possible with the current game, due to no easy way to turn off the game's music... so do this yourself. Or, don't; why turn off the music?) 46. This is ourselves... Under Pressure!- Finish the final 'Ending 14' encounter with both heroines above 60 health. 47. "COME ON COMRADES. SHE'S A WOMAN, NOT A GODDESS!"- Get through IF's first 6 choices within 2 minutes without taking damage. 48. "God didn't make Cave... We did."- Get through Cave's first 6 choices within 3 minutes without taking damage. 49. With the Speed of a Red Dragon Bitvader on Nep Bull on a warm Tuesday in May!- Freeze time... within seven minutes of starting the game. (You got this, right? Enter all three 'Keys', play perfectly, win the Reunion as IF... and officially begin 'Ending 14' in seven minutes. 50. Half Measure- Played through all main endings in 'chronological' order (0 and 69 do not count, for the record... though the official order would be '69' and then '0' as the finale) 51. Convection Schmonvection- As Markz, think of all possible options when the warehouse is on fire... and wait for two minutes before moving on. (Final 'Waste Time' one, I swear!) 52. Way To Go, Hero!- Defeat the boss of 'Ending 3' without the use of Demon Comet Slash or LeDelphinus. 53. All Sales are Final!- During 'Ending 11', kill the Warrior... and then choose to surrender within 5 seconds of the next choice appearing. 54. Friends to the End- In 'Ending 8', botch all three Quicktime events in your rush to the Basilicom. 55. Full Measure- Seen every ending, every possible ending variation, fought all bosses, heard all tracks, played as Markz, and even viewed Hank East's secret Archive... So, when's the sequel? H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

(if: $hankPageCheck != true)[SHHH!!! Quiet, quiet... Okay, I think the coast is clear... Can't risk anything on this page leaking out to the public. I'm... not too sure what it is, but that flying small girl dropped these documents the other day. I'm... kinda worried she'll reduce me to chocolate if I'm found out... so check these secret thingies out while ya can! H:\>(link:"**The Aristocrat's Silent Ballad**")[(set: $hankPageCheck to true)(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")] H:\>(link:"**The Legend of IF and Planeptune/Lastation**")[(goto:"Selected Reading IF")] H:\>(link:"**The Legend of Blanc's Lowee**")[(goto:"Selected Reading Blanc")] H:\>(link:"**The Legend of Underling's Family**")[(goto:"Selected Reading Underling")] H:\>(link:"**The Legend of Cave's Descent**")[(goto:"Selected Reading Cave")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]](else:)[<h4>The Aristocrat's Silent Ballad</h4> *I throw this to the wind...* "What's wrong, Jade?" Adrian asked, slight concern in his voice. It'd been a long time since anyone had heard him sound anything slightly more than apathetic. It wouldn't last long, of course. The aristocrat quickly turned away from the open window, snapping out of an apparent trance. "Oh, nothing... Just admiring the stars and all. The world would be a better place if everyone studied the skies." Adrian, lost in his own thoughts, simply nodded. Alex, however, eyed the boy strangely from the side. "Actin' weird today too, it seems." "No, not weird," Jade smiled to himself. "Just... feeling like a kid again, I guess." "A... kid?" *But what if I was right?* "Yeah, a kid... Nothing wrong with reclaiming some childhood innocence, is there?" In the background, Almaz, sitting next to Rei, nodded vigorously while gulping down a juice box. "Sounds like fun! But... where did this come from, Jade? You don't usually moon-gaze." Jade chuckled lightly. "Truth be told, I have no idea." 'Maybe I... finally feel like I have a family again... They remind me of sis...' *Well, did you trust your noble dreams—* "Hope yer not coming down with something," Adrian droned, picking at his fingernail. Adrian, Adrian, Adrian, Adrian, Cerise, Cerise, Cerise, Cerise... *—and gentle expectations—* "Don't keep the window open, Little J! You'll catch a cold!" The small boy, dressed in tattered clothing that could graciously be called rags, puffed out a cheek. "I-I won't catch a cold, geez!" *—to the mercy of the night?* "Ah, let the kid live a little, Ceri!" Cheryl laughed, playfully kicking her girlfriend's arm with her sock-clad foot. "A little sickness never hurt nobody!" Cerise scowled. "Uh, yeah... That's what sickness does!" *The night will always win.* The young, not-yet aristocratic boy tugged on his sister's sleeve. "Please sis? I'm not a helpless baby anymore!" The brown-haired young woman thought for a moment before bringing her hand up to frazzle her brother's own hair. "... Fine. I just worry about ya, Lil J." The two siblings joined together in a comforting hug, Cerise's eyes closed as a warm memory came back to her. "I'll always worry about you... Gotta take care of ya; send you on the right path..." *The night has darkness on its side...* "Well, I'll always worry about you, sis..." Jade whispered. "... And one day... I'll be the one taking care of you! I'll be strong, and rich, and powerful, and I'll... I'll make everything up to you!" Cheryl chuckled at the boy's proclamation, and Cerise simply smiled. "Hey, take it easy... You don't owe me a thing, alright?" Silence, then a playful grin. "... How's this: once we become richer than any aristocrat in Gamindustri, you owe me and Cherry dinner at a fancy restaurant." "I can get behind that one! Yeah, JJ, you hereby owe us dinner some ten-odd years down the line from this point forth!" *I throw this to the wind...* "I-It's a deal!" "Heh, take yer time, bro... Me and Cheryl aren't going away anytime soon. If this takes til we're all old grannies... er, and grampa in your case... then so be it!" Jade gleamed back at his sister's embracing smile. "T-Thank you, Cerise..." With that said, both siblings looked out the open window and up at the starry sky, the young boy suppressing an impending sniffle. "I'll always be with you, Jade..." This was happiness... A loving family that could never be split apart. Together forever, endlessly inseparable amidst the flowing waves of time... *I miss your stupid face...* Seeing Adrian, Alex, and Almaz, Jade couldn't help but be reminded of his sister... If Arfoire was correct, they were created in her image, at least partially, so it made sense... ... These three random fake boys were all he had left of her. The only physical proof that she had walked Gamindustri. *I miss your bad advice...* "I want you to watch this, kiddo... See your criminal girly-friend get what's coming to her." "... I-I'm sorry... that I couldn't... be a better older sister... I failed both you and C... C-Cher... I'm sorry you couldn't live like a normal boy... I'm sorry I couldn't make us rich..." "Kid, no sense in protecting this skank. Your sister is working against Lady Green Heart; this is the only way things coulda ended. Anyone dumb enough to fight our Lady doesn't deserve to walk Gamindustri... In a way, I'm doin' her a favor, just like I did for her little friend." "Jade... I love you." *I tried to clothe your bones with scratchy super 8s,* "Cerise..." Jade found himself whispering, drawing even more concerned looks from the eight other eyes in the room. Alex spoke first, sensing that no one else would muster up some courage. "Jade, you positive you're alright? Yer given me some weird stares... Kinda bloody creepy." The aristocrat looked at Alex for a few long seconds, before slowly turning his attention back to the window. A sigh escaped through his usual confident demeanor. "Heh, sorry old chap... I was... wrong before..." A dark ambiance overtook his very persona; an entirely different boy was sitting in his place. "... There is... no point in thinking of childhood... Revisiting the old days, where we were entirely helpless and unable to think and act on our own... Futile." Jade's eyes wandered back over to the other four. "I apologize..." *... exaggerated stories and old tunes...* The irritable brother grimaced. "No, no need to... apologize or anything... You should probably get some sleep, Jade; all the stress of everything must be getting to ya..." The rich boy almost retaliated, but found himself unable to vocalize anything of actual worth. Perhaps all these thoughts of vengeance were indeed tiring him out, making him succumb to disgusting emotions. "... You are right, Alex... A little sleep will do some good. Can't destroy Green Heart when I'm exhausted!" With that, he hopped up onto his feet, and headed for the stairs. "'Night, everyone! In just a few short days, we won't have to worry about a thing!" The party waved back, Adrian rather apathetically, and the troubled aristocrat journeyed back to his room. *... but never by the moon...* *"Everything is all right, Lil J... Soon, we'll be together again. Together forever. For-E-Ver."* "I promise, Cerise... I promise to make you proud." Killing Lady Green Heart and Markz Phenix... That is what Cerise would want, right? They took her away from him... They took EVERYTHING away from him... But now, he was finally so close to the day he'd dreamt about for years... Sweet, sweet vengeance... What better way for Jade to honor his sister's memory than by genocide of all things evil? If an eye for an eye makes us all blind, what do the blind have to lose? *But not the state I'm in...* "Jade! Snap out of it! We're bloody surrounded!" The aristocratic gentleman darted his head upwards at the sound of Alex's strained voice, his fists clenched so tight, his nails were digging into his palm. "I-I know!" *'Whew... lost myself for a second there...'* A voice blared from outside the run-down wooden cabin that the two boys were hiding in. "You're surrounded, maggots! Come out and maybe we won't blast ya!" 'Twas a familiar gruff voice, one that sent violent cold shivers down Jade's spine. Markz Phenix... The man who ruined Jade's life all those years ago. Funny how fate works. "Heh, though, I did only say 'maybe'... Come on, Lady Green Heart would like a word with ya! She was mighty impressed with your attempted assassination ploy. Too bad you couldn't even finish off that purple-haired ditz, but hey, that's life, right?" The battered aristocrat looked at his sole remaining equally-battered ally; Alex was the only person he had left. Outside, Avenir lay in complete ruins, the once-raging flames now reduced to mere ash. Thanks to Vert, everybody Jade knew and loved had either been locked behind maximum-security bars, brutally murdered without a second thought, or, worst of all, had joined the CPU's side... Oh well... She had taken nearly everything from him... but he was still breathing! Jade noticed the questioning, slightly nervous look in Alex's eyes... and simply nodded. Both brown-haired young men looked at the pistols at their feet; such primitive weaponry... but it was their only lifeline remaining. Jade hid one of the small guns in his belt, and Alex mirrored his actions. With that out of the way, the two survivors stood up and took a deep breath. The easily-irritated brother gazed at the back of Jade's head. "You know mate... we're probably not coming back from this." "... I know. Just stay quiet and follow my lead." And that was that. Picturing Cerise in his mind, the aristocratic gentleman calmly opened the door and held his hands above his head. The Leanbox army stood in formation a fair distance away, machine guns drawn at the ready. Predictably, standing right at the front and center of them all... was Markz Phenix and Lady Green Heart herself. The two boys slowly marched forward, their guns still concealed beneath their dirt-stained shirts... *The night will always win.* H:\>(link:"Back to Selected Reading Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]]

**The (Abridged) Legend of IF/the Planeptune-Lastation Alliance:** *PART ONE:* Trio the Beryl - Neptune, IF, and Compa... The three original inseparable friends. Even in times of strife, nothing could tear these heroines apart. "Ooh, good idea! Let's go, ladies!" "Alright Nep-Nep!" "Heh, let's do this." Secret Strategy - Lady Green Heart gains the aid of IF, her dear friend. Away from Neptune and Compa, the brunette doesn't suspect a thing; she's been with Leanbox for a year, after all. However, this isn't the same Lady Vert she remembered... "You're so tense lately, Iffy... Come, let us bathe together. That will steady your nerves..." Confusion - Jade of Avenir wages war on Lady Green Heart after a failed assassination attempt on both Vert and Neptune. IF is thrust directly into the center of the battlefield, along with Cave, Vert's glorified 'yes-woman.' Unrelenting in her commands, Green Heart transforms into a vicious beast, ordering the deaths of all who stand before her. Our dear brunette realizes that this is not her battle... and Leanbox is no longer her home. Forced to abandon her lover, the pop idol 5pb., IF flees back to Planeptune. Cave, meanwhile, doesn't forget IF's insolence... "I can't do this, Cave... I'm sorry, but I have to go. Lyrica's not safe as long as I'm around... and this battle is making me sick." "..." *PART TWO:* Flying Cloud - Against the odds of the deranged Green Heart's pursuit, IF and Compa protect Neptune and Noire, allowing the two allied goddesses to reach momentary safety at Lowee. Innocents are killed along the way... but the end result is as good as it could ever have been. "I-Iffy... C-C-Compa..." "Through thick and thin, right Nep?" Kiss Me Sunlights - The Eve of the War. Flame and Rapidity - Lowee, Planeptune, and Lastation against Leanbox. IF confronts Green Heart... and lets her escape. The past is hard to overcome... "... Go, Vert... I can't kill you... There has to be another way!" "Hmph... You are more foolish than I thought, Iffy. Wars are not won with mercy." Large Feather - IF and Cave finally meet one-on-one on the battlefield, the brunette already battered and beaten. Lines are crossed, feelings are violently shared... and the two come to a surprising understanding. All is well... until a mysterious figure from Lowee arrives. "Nepgear?... Wait, you're not...!" Solo - Nepgear(?) stabs IF with what can only be Gehaburn, the cursed sword of legend. The imposter(?) is stunned by her own actions, however, and Cave takes that moment to seperate the brunette from the sword and carry her to safety. The Lowee army, making a surprise appearance, attacks both girls, slowing the retreat. Cave does her best... but it is finally IF's time. "No matter what happens, no matter what it takes... make sure Lyrica is safe..." *PART THREE:* With Vengeance - News of IF's death shocks the world. Convinced that the Planeptune/Lastation Alliance is destined to fall, a bunch of soldiers and supporters flee their nations, and join up with either Leanbox or Lowee. Compa is murdered in the ensuing chaos, joining her sworn sister... Neptune goes against Histoire's wishes and engages the now-cursed HDD, using the massive swarm of strength and rage that drove Vert insane in order to enact total revenge on Lowee, who were accused of killing both of her friends. Purple Heart takes her army and marches. The Battle Without Justice - Rage is all that fills the once-lighthearted Neptune's heart. Blanc, meanwhile, is forced to retaliate to protect her nation... Well, what used to be her nation(?)... Planeptune takes major casualties, but Noire arrives just in time to pull her fiancee out of the fire. Fortunately, Purple Heart detransforms... The insanity hasn't fully claimed her yet (...?). The Alliance goes completely quiet for a few days... "Run... my lady..." "N-No! I-I... I can help! I-I-I..." Entrusted Hope - Through several noteworthy events, Lowee and Leanbox generally become the same entity. Leanbox meets the Alliance at the newly-returned Gamindustri Graveyard... The final battle for survival is to take place on this hallowed ground. Histoire accompanies Neptune, remaining completely silent about her intentions... Towards the end, the tome fairy makes the ultimate sacrifice to set free both Vert from the insanity consuming her mind, and... Mina(!?). Neptune, Noire, and the candidates flee, leaving Vert, Mina, and Nepgear(???) alone... "Take care, Neptune... I'm sorry for leaving the rest of this all up to you..." "H-Huh? Histy, what are you sayi-" Heartful Cry (Special) - Nothing anyone could have done... 'Lowee'/'Leanbox' begin 'cleaning up,' tying up all loose ends in this short and messy war... Basically, taking out all enemies and traitors. As a result, the four candidates get captured(?), along with Blanc(!?), Kei, Lyrica(?), and Linda(?), with all of them set to be executed. Neptune transforms again, resolving to rush in and set everyone free, but Noire stops her, claiming it's suicide in their weakened states. Lady Purple Heart does the only thing she can: turn her sword on Noire. "N-Neptune?!" "I have to do this, Noire... Get out of my way, or you're my enemy as much as everyone else." "... No. You're not yourself anymore..." "Back DOWN, Noire!" (Fe)Male Roar - The two goddesses resort to fighting, and eventually tire themselves out. They're too weak to even fully fight each other... There's no way they can save everyone else. The two collapse on the ground, detransformed, and apologize for their failures. The execution bells toll... All while a devious figure, Gehaburn in hand, approaches the two doomed lovers. This cursed sword would offer the salvation that these failures couldn't bring... Noire and Neptune look on as their end stands directly before them... "I let Iffy down... Compa down... Nep Jr... Histy... You... Everyone..." "D-Don't say that!" ... I love when things go my way... Checkmate. ... Think you can save them? H:\>(link:"Back to Selected Reading Hub")[(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

**The (Abridged) Legend of Blanc's Lowee:** *PART ONE:* Wall of Fate - After the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, Blanc and the rest of the party hear of the hostile takeover of Lowee's Basilicom. Lady White Heart does not approve, and everyone rushes over, determined to rescue the CPU Candidates. Being led by Jade, our heroes meet heavy opposition in the form of hundreds of... standard monster enemies. Blanc is forced to destroy the wall around the Basilicom that she herself erected not too long ago... with the help of some dragons, of course(?). "Yo, this is what we call... 'Ironing', Blawney-Blawn!" "You can shut yer trap now, thanks." Slash the Demon - Amidst the heavy snow, the team faces off against the apparent terrorist behind the capture of Lowee's Basilicom: CFW Trick(?). Constantly respawning monsters abound, but the fight soon turns in the favor of good. Blanc gets the final shot for good measure. The land is at peace once again!... "I'll wring your neck with yer own frikkin' tongue, ya freak!" The Inherited Fang - While the other landmasses are dealing with their own issues, Lowee, likewise, has its own set of new problems. Protest groups (led by Ganache of Avenir) form outside Blanc's Basilicom, threatening to unearth the secret the goddess has been keeping all this time: her "relationship" with the Oracle of Lastation, Kei. Things slowly heat up (mainly due to Ganache's idiocy and jerkass tendencies), and soon, the time comes for action! Two surprising faces show up at White Heart's doorstep: Falcom and Snoic, a disgruntled video game character seeking an alliance with Lowee to restore his name. Their first mission: deal with the would-be terrorists! Without a single drop of blood falling, Blanc, Falcom, and Snoic defeat the protesters! Meanwhile, Lowee's oracle Mina journeys to Leanbox to meet with Vert... unaware that Vert has already left with Neptune of Planeptune to meet with Jade of Avenir. Disaster strikes in Leanbox, striking a mortal blow to White Heart's psyche... "Lady Blanc! It's about Mina... She was... She's..." "What happened to her, dammit?! Out with it!" "... She's dead, my Lady... Vert's army, they..." "..." *PART TWO:* Overdose - Blanc reels from the unexpected loss of Mina, but life must go on. That doesn't mean that rage subsides, however; unaware of the details, Blanc firmly blames Vert for the "incident"... In the oracle's absence, a secretary by the name of Financier steps up to the position for the moment, taking care of both the Basilicom and the Candidates. Meanwhile, tensions between Planeptune/Lastation and Leanbox rise after the fight with Avenir, and soon, things come to a head as Vert looks to nearly destroy the Alliance entirely. The two nations head to Lowee for assistance... a proposition that is all-too appealing to the infuriated White Heart. Better yet, it gives her a chance to easily be with Kei, so win-win. Time for revenge. "It doesn't make sense... Why would Vert want to harm us, let alone... kill?" "The hell do I care, Kei? I finally get a chance to throttle Thunder Tits!" Kiss Me Sunlights - The Eve of the War Thousand Suns - The bodyguards, Falcom, and Snoic lead the main defense against the invading Leanbox forces. Meanwhile, Histoire pulls Blanc aside and performs a mystical spell of sorts on her, which would allow her to engage HDD without succumbing to the cursed madness that Vert had. When the time is right, Blanc becomes White Heart, and makes a mad dash for Vert's fleet. Even Cave is forced to retreat. Blanc makes it right to Green Heart's main ship... but finds that she has already escaped. Revenge isn't complete, but at least she brought the fight back to Leanbox. For Mina's sake. "Shit, get back here, ya bitch!... Dammit..." "Come on, Blawney, cheer up! We didn't lose, so focus on that!" The (Queen?) of Sadness - Leanbox is defeated soundly, and goes quiet for a short while to build back army strength. Blanc, thus, looks to recuperate during this welcome respite. However, IF of the Alliance slowly begins siphoning shares from both Leanbox and Lowee, looking to end the conflict swiftly. Also, Falcom, Snoic, and Financier begin acting strange around Lady White Heart... One day, when Blanc is away from the Basilicom to meet with Kei, she receives a phone call: Ram and Rom crying for help. She rushes to the Basilicom, and is immediately faced with opposition in the shape of her own army. Falcom and Snoic block the exits, apologizing for their apparent betrayal. Financier leads the goddess to Ram and Rom... Surprise surprise, another shocking backstab! Cornered, White Heart comes face to face with the one responsible for this coup: ... Nepgear? The imposter Candidate tells Blanc to forgive the traitors, as she threatened them. The goddess can only go along with Nepgear(?)'s demands; Ram and Rom's lives are at stake. From this point on, Lady White Heart finds herself a pawn in her own nation. She is no longer in charge. "Do not place blame on them, Blanc; I... didn't allow them to reject my proposition. You, too, should play nice... That way, we can all be friends, and everyone leaves here alive. Don't spill any blood because of your foolhardy pride, Blanc." "..." *PART THREE:* The Battle Without Justice - Blanc bides her time, looking for a way to escape whilst ensuring her twin sisters' safety. She attempts to contact Kei, but Nepgear(?) keeps her under heavy surveilance. At the same time, IF and Compa are killed, and Lowee is directly blamed for their deaths. Neptune, unaware of the hostile takeover, vows to get revenge on Lady White Heart. In order to stay on Nepgear(?)'s good side long enough to find a way out of this cruel war, Blanc reluctantly orders "her" army to attack the invading Planeptune forces. Planeptune sustains heavy casualties, and the weakened and devastated Neptune is carried away. Blanc, normally filled with rage, is weighed down by her own conscience. Her angry personality is fading away; now, she just wants peace and relaxation. Nations be damned. "... I'm sorry Neptune... Crap, all troops... FIRE!" Snowflakes - Nepgear(?) goes into a reclusive state after IF's death and the whole debacle with Neptune, her control over Blanc the most lax in days. Lady White Heart escapes the Basilicom one evening and walks the quiet streets of Lowee, the war taking its toll on the people. Elsewhere, perhaps poetically, Histoire is taking a similar walk of reflection back in Planeptune... Blanc is a changed woman now... or at least, she thinks she is. She can't even get mad at all the obvious evildoers. Even Vert avoids her rage... As if fated, the goddess is greeted by Kei, who unloads everything weighing down her stoic mind. After a heart to heart between secret lovers, Blanc and Kei resolve to flee while the chance is available. Maybe start over if need be, but at least stay out of the public eye until one side of this brutal conflict surrenders. White Heart sneaks back into the Basilicom, sets Ram and Rom free (leaving them to flee with Financier and two bodyguards: Sumas Nara and Nat Hail), and rides into the sunset with the Oracle of Lastation. Conveniently, Nepgear(?) was just about to release Blanc, Ram, and Rom from their prison... but when she finds her prisoners had already escaped, something further within the alternate candidate snaps... "Blanc... Not that I question your logic or anything, but... where are we going?" "Anywhere but here, Kei... Some place where there is no Thunder Tits, or war, or assassins, or bloodshed..." "... Sounds good to me." Coercive Attitude - As Blanc and Kei hide out in the countryside, several key events take place without them: Nepgear(?) leads what is essentially a suicide attack on Leanbox, and nearly everyone besides the alternate Candidate are wiped out in the ensuing conflict. Nepgear(?) is now completely lost to insanity, her new friends gone. She is forced to join Leanbox. Shortly after, the Gamindustri Graveyard reappears, a load of shares with it, and the Planeptune/Lastation Alliance faces Leanbox for a final battle. Several key casualties ensue, including Histoire and Vert. After the battle, Nepgear(?) finds herself in charge of what's left of the Leanbox army. She orders the apparently-alive Mina(?!) to tie up all loose ends: basically, find all surviving players in this war and either snuff them out, or bring them to the Gamindustri Graveyard for execution. Over a week or two, Mina's army captures everyone, including all of the CPU Candidates... Everyone, save for Neptune and Noire, and Blanc and Kei. Eventually, however, she even manages to locate the secret lovers... Surrounded, Blanc is fully ready to fight to the death... but Kei tells her it is not worth it. The two share words of love as they surrender, and are brought to the Graveyard. Mina avoids Blanc's confused gaze, feeling extremely ashamed and helpless. "Kei, I'm so-" "Don't you dare apologize, you hear me? You're the greatest woman I've ever met... And I'd rather die together with you than be a part of this farce of a war anymore." "... Heh, agreed babe. Let's... give 'em a death to remember, eh?" (Fe)Male Roar - Execution day... Blanc and Kei join the other survivors, restrained and guarded by jaded soldiers. Nepgear(?) is not present; she is off dealing with Neptune and Noire. The bell tolls... No tricks left to play, Lady White Heart is helpless. Surely there must be some way for her, Kei, and the others to escape?! "I'll see you on the other side." "Heh, you'll be so sick of seeing me every waking moment, you'll wish you could die again." "I'd never get sick of you." ... So ends the Legend of Blanc's Lowee... ... The end... Unless... H:\>(link:"Back to Selected Reading Hub")[(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

**The (Abridged) Legend of Underling's "Family"... the HEROES!(?):** *PART ONE:* The Bringer of War - Underling heads to Lowee, following the orders from the suspicious letter that CFW Judge apparently sent her back in MAAN XL (concerning reviving CFW Magic, for a refresher). Her journey leads her to the Basilicom with a man named Ganache, and she does indeed meet CFW Judge(?)... All the while, the unaware girl is tailed by the one and only CFW Brave... Her first task: capture the CPU Candidates and help take over the Basilicom... which she does with surprise ease, although her conscience begins to surface. She wants to save CFW Magic, of course, but she really just wants to be back home with Nepgeo, Nisa, and Gust... A surprise guest in CFW Trick(?) turns out to be the one running the show here, and Linda can only go along with what he says. This'll all be over soon... "T-The hell? Aw no, anyone but this freak..." "Fear not, Linda, for I have him on a tight leash. He shan't act out." "Dear lord, I hope not... I'm comin', Magic..." Jump Into the Battlefield - Having dealt with the Yellow Bandanas, the CPU-led group heads to Lowee, hearing of its takeover. Nisa, Nepgeo, and Gust are likewise with them, knowing that Linda had gone to Lowee... The group is met with resistance from constantly-respawning monsters and a horrific blizzard, but eventually, they make it past the impenetrable gates... where they come across the two guardians: CFW Judge(?) and Linda. CFW Brave surfaces and challenges the imposter Judge, the two clashing for awhile before vanishing in a bright flash. That leaves Underling against... the entire army of all four nations. Seeing Nepgeo, Nisa, and Gust, the villain decides to give up instead of fighting her arch-enemies to the bitter end. Lady Green Heart, fresh off of "dying" during the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, offers Linda two options: be imprisoned/possibly executed for siding with terrorists... OR join her army and live. The same offer she gave Adrian during the Rebellion, for the record. Linda's pride wanted to shine through... but seeing her friends' concerned faces, the Villain reluctantly agrees. Underling is now a part of the Leanbox army. "You have made a wise decision, Underling. Why, I am surprised you are capable of such rational thinking." "Screw you!... Dammit..." Beyond the Destiny - Determined to stay with her lover, Nepgeo joins Linda in the Leanbox army, while Nisa and Gust vow to the Villain to search Gamindustri for clues on how to properly help CFW Magic (though, neither expect to find jack in that regard). Vert slowly descends further into madness, the result of the 'Infinite Rage' cheat from the Rebellion... but she keeps a relatively-level mind for a bit longer, watching Cave and Chika train Underling and the purple-haired imposter. One day, Vert is invited to Avenir for a meeting with Jade, the aristocrat who led the troops during the Lowee battle a few days ago. She along with Neptune journey to Lastation... and are nearly assassinated, one of Neptune's bodyguards sacrificing himself even. Waiting not too far away, Cave, Chika, Linda, and Nepgeo rush to Green Heart's aid. In a display of team might, the four soldiers of Leanbox ward off the attackers long enough for the two goddesses to escape. Safe and sound, Vert conspires for revenge against Avenir as a whole... "Great work, Linda... Better than I expected from you... Now gear up; we're heading out." "... To where, my... Lady?" "Hmph... Where else?" *PART TWO:* Silent Urge - Vert orders Cave, Linda, and IF (currently helping Leanbox, as she and Vert are close, close friends) to destroy any and all Avenir allies, even bringing in bloodthirsty prisoners to help (such as Markz Phenix). Cave goes along with her orders without question, while IF eventually flees the battlefield, saying she refused to assist such violent methods, especially for a battle she had no real part of. Linda and Geo, likewise, aren't too sure of how to proceed, and simply watch from the sidelines as Cave blows up Avenir's supply depots (with Singe and Ganache still inside them). Jade, seeing his allies/family get slaughtered, rushes out in a flurry of rage, Alex of the Yellow Bandanas by his side. The aristocrat goes on a small killing spree, killing random foot-soldier after foot-soldier... and soon comes across Linda and Nepgeo. He fires at the purple-haired imposter, but Underling protects her girlfriend, and retaliates. Jade and Alex are forced to retreat... and eventually get surrounded by Vert and Markz. Upon dealing with Avenir, Vert officially slides off the deep end, becoming a monster. Underling, meanwhile, is forced to go along for the ill-fated ride... "I-I'm scared, Lindy..." "I know, I know... But dammit, we can't let her get in our heads! I ain't never gonna let a bitchy goddess get to me!" Big Fang Road/Following the Footsteps— The Plains - Soon after, tension between Leanbox and Lastation/Planeptune rises, and battle lines are crossed. Eventually, Vert begins pursuing the two goddesses, looking to siphon away their shares... or destroy them. Gust and Nisa are roped into the chase, still journeying across the land for any hint on how to help Linda. Along their entire journey, for the record, the two friends had witnessed several horrific scenes that arose from this blooming conflict, and enough was becoming enough. Tired, the two ended up resting in an old hut with several refugees who were following Neptune and Noire to Lowee. Among the refugees were Leanbox runaways, Almaz and Rei Ryghts, surprisingly. Nisa journeyed out for only a few minutes, searching for some food to share with the others. Enter Vert's army in her absence... In an effort to force the other two CPUs to slow down, Lady Green Heart resolved to endanger the innocents following them. With Markz taking the reigns, the Leanbox soldiers lit fire to the shack the refugees were resting in. Any who tried to escape were met with a load of bullets to the face. Gust was not ready to give in and die, and eventually managed to blow a hole open in the wall, taking out several soldiers in the process. Smoke inhilation was getting to her and the survivors, however... but the alchemist crawled with all her might to escape... Vert saw that her soldiers had been knocked away and, annoyance prevalent on her face, fires a devastating powerbeam at the burning shack, blowing up the structure and everyone inside. The twisted goddess and her army leaves, and Nisa soon returns. All that she can find amongst the rubble is Gust's tattered hat... *"Gusty..."* Kiss Me Sunlights - The Eve of the War Capricious Wind - Leanbox launches an all-out invasion on Lowee, aiming to take out the other three nations in one fell swoop. Cave and Linda are the ones leading the charge, as usual. While Cave does most of the work, Linda struggles with her mission. For a villain, she has an astoundingly-hard time harming her enemies. She shows more mercy than even she could have guessed, perhaps because Nepgeo was watching. Either way, the Leanbox army does major damage, until a joint assault from Falcom and Snoic(?) forces them back. While they are retreating, Lady White Heart also launches her own super-powered attack, demolishing the Leanbox fleet. Cave, Linda, and Nepgeo manage to escort Vert to safety. All the while, Underling resolves to abandon the nation she was being forced to serve. "Lindy, I know that face... What are ya plannin'?" "... We have no future here, Geo... I need to get us back home, back with Flatty and Gust." "... Cheers to that." Anger and Grudge - Vert goes quiet, not launching any further attacks for at least a week. Underling is just about to scram... but the goddess greets her outside her doorway one night. She threatens Nepgeo, saying that something awful could happen to her should anybody step out of line. She then allows Linda to see several soldiers and snipers standing around the castle... Should she try anything suspicious, who knows who might fire at the unaware purple-haired imposter, right? Underling is now stuck, too afraid to go through with defection even if Vert was just bluffing. While Leanbox avoids any offensive tactics during this time... they do not stay entirely out of battle. Nisa, blinded by unadulterated rage, desires to murder Lady Green Heart for Gust's death, and stealthily attacks the army in the night, leading a small band of peasants looking for justice. Leanbox is caught by surprise, and Vert once again calls for Cave and Linda to do her dirty work. Cave dispatches the peasants in no time flat, completely tuning out her vicious deeds after all these battles by now. Linda, however, manages to come face-to-face with Nisa, and the two have a heart-to-heart. Underling explains her trapped situation, and promises that once she gets the chance, she will leave this horrible place and reunite with the flat-chested heroine. Nisa eventually sees reason and agrees. However, before leaving, she hands Linda her scarf, telling her to use it as proof that she's dead. The heroine then runs off, disappearing from the public eye for an even longer time. Lady Green Heart commends Linda for killing Nisa, not knowing the truth... Or, perhaps the goddess did know the truth, and was merely toying with the villain. Underling had no idea. "... Gust is... gone, Linda..." "Shit... D-Don't go getting killed on me too, got it?" "... I can't die; not until I've avenged my fallen friend!" "OUR fallen friend." *PART THREE:* Tropical Wars - Vert eventually resolves to continue her fight, needing more shares to survive essentially. She continues pilfering small percentages of shares by capturing small towns and dungeons from other nations. At the same time, IF of Planeptune begins doing the exact same thing, taking a small amount of shares from both Leanbox AND Lowee. The Planeptune/Lastation Alliance and Lowee still keep their partnership, but it is slowly becoming strained, especially when Lowee undergoes a secret... management change. The three nations plan a joint attack: "Nepstation" will defend a Planeptune city under attack by Vert, while Lowee will attack a small barracks in the Gapain Field. Vert, Cave, and Chika lead the assault on the Planeptune city, leaving Linda and Nepgeo to defend the small barracks far outside Leanbox's capital, all by themselves. There, the two girls quickly find themselves surrounded by an army led by Falcom and Snoic... An army of Snoic's animal-humanoid friends. Hundreds of soldiers, and only Linda and Nepgeo to fight them off. The two lovers say their prayers and farewells... and fight to keep the animals out of the castle. Realizing this isn't enough, Underling declares the unthinkable: screw defense, they needed to attack them head on! "... L-Lindy, I'm scared..." "I am too, but I'm not ready to die in a useless shithole like this! If I'm goin' down, I'm takin' that whole army with me! You ready to kick some serious ass?" "... O-Okay! Heh... Let's do it, Lindy!" Twin Ax - Against all odds, Underling catches the Humanoid army off-guard, her surprise attack wholly unexpected. Nepgeo follows behind, cross-bow in hand, and the lovers fight back-to-back with everything they have. The animals, being exposed as non-fighters, are frightened into retreat. The crowd of opponents thin, allowing Falcom herself to charge forward... and she catches a glimpse of Nepgeo, the girl who had driven her to a peculiar state of mind a year ago. She gives the order to retreat... right when Markz Phenix of Leanbox arrives with reinforcements. Using excessive force, the crazed veteran kills a ton of the Lowee humanoids, including one of Snoic's dear friends. Falcom and Snoic manage to escape, however. Underling and Nepgeo are victorious!... But, an empty feeling is left in the pit of their stomachs. "... Look how many we took down... One of these days, Lindy, our luck... is going to run out. We're gonna end up like all of them." "... Don't worry, okay? I won't let that happen; not to you!" Eve - Linda is present for the death of IF (courtesy of Nepgear(?)), standing on the sidelines after almost getting decimated by a rage-filled Cave. Soon after, Cave is killed, leaving a massive hole at the top of Leanbox's food chain. Vert entrusts the major commanding roles to both Markz and Linda... Lady Green Heart now has an even bigger bargaining chip: a fake Nepgear was rumored to have killed IF... Who could say whether it was Nepgeo or not? If Underling acts out, perhaps Vert could reveal that Nepgeo was actually responsible, and not Lowee?... Underling's leash is tighter than ever before. As if on cue, Nepgear(?) leads the Lowee army in a desperate assault on Leanbox's capital, leaving Underling, Nepgeo, and Markz as the main defenders. The battle is violent, with Lowee clearly taking the brunt of the damage. Underling goes against orders and tries to talk Falcom out of attacking, saying she can use all the help she can get to break away from Vert. The stock adventuress once again sees Nepgeo, but is no longer stunned; she has already determined who the one most important to her is! She can't betray Nepgear(?), even if that meant facing all of Leanbox! Markz chuckles at her distraction, and shoots Falcom, killing her. Nepgear(?) is devastated, and charges towards Underling, Gehaburn at the ready. Nepgeo immediately leaps in the way, knocking Linda out of the danger zone. She is saved, but the purple-haired imposter is impaled, much like IF was. Nepgear(?) sees herself as Nepgeo, and immediately retreats, essentially giving Leanbox the clear victory. Linda, meanwhile, fends off the remaining scattered Lowee troops while trying to help her lover. The purple-haired imposter understandably acts delirious, muttering about losing her friends and family. She brings up her dead mother, a sore spot for the flirtatious girl... Underling's defense is a futile effort, however: Nepgeo passes away, vanishing like all others before her. Only her necklace keepsake remains. "My mom... I-It's really her, L-Lindy! O-Oh gosh, you... really... need... to... meet... h...e...r..." "... G-Geo? G-Geo! D-Don't do this!" Last Hunters - With nothing left to lose or even to live for, Linda flees Leanbox's Basilicom, more hopeless than ever before. Fortunately, she comes across Nisa in Leanbox's main city, laying low just out of sight (but also right below) Vert's watchful eye. The two vow to stick together from now on, being the last two of their group remaining. They rent a hotel, Nisa practically forcing Linda to rest. Little do they know, Markz Phenix doesn't take Underling's desertion well, and the vicious man sends a squad after the girls... Nisa and Linda are woken up not too long after by a collection of voices outside the hotel. Before they can process the info, the hotel is lit up in flames, and armed guards break into the room, guns blazing. The two heroines are under heavy assault, but almost as if guided by some guardian angel, they escape into the night, realizing rest may never truly be in their grasps... "Just keep runnin', Flatty!" "Right behind you!... B-But where do we even go from here?" "I... I'm still workin' on that!" Sacred Ground - Eventually, the Gamindustri Graveyard rises from nowhere, bringing with it a whole slew of shares. Leanbox meets Planeptune/Lastation for a grand, final encounter! Nisa is no longer content with staying hidden and plotting revenge that her morality would never allow herself to commit, and she brings Linda to the battleground... hoping to help end this war once and for all. The two friends sneak up to Vert... but are greeted by Markz, Hank East(?), and Adrian(?). With a snicker, Phenix fires at Underling, with Nisa jumping in the way. That is another friend who died to protect the former villain. The soldier readies to fire at the blank-eyed Linda... but Hank turns on his own ally!... also quickly taking a bullet for his actions. Hank's sacrifice, however, gives enough time for Neptune, Noire, and Histoire to show up at Vert's doorstep as well. Linda doesn't pay attention to what happens from there; she can't think anymore. The battle eventually ends, more lives are lost... Underling soon comes to, and looks up to see Nepgear(?). The fake Candidate restrains the former villain, placing her under arrest. Linda officially has nothing left to fight for, so she simply complies... "... I'm... so... useless..." (Fe)Male Roar - Execution day. Underling not only failed to revive CFW Magic, but she had also failed to protect her friends... No, her family. However... she had made it through this whole war with little more than scratches and bruises. Why was she so lucky? What made her worthy to live, while everyone else died, sometimes horrifically? Why, it was almost as if she had purposely been allowed to live this far! Almost as if someone other than Vert had been dictating her fate this whole time. Huh... Why, if she didn't know better, it was almost as if she was a main character in some sick author's story... ... Would this bastard offer her one more empty miracle? "I'm sorry Magic; guess I wasn't worthy after all... Flatty, Gust, Geo... I'm on my way. I'm finally comin' back to ya..." So ends the Legend of Underling's Family... ... The ending... Unless... 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**The (Abridged) Legend of Cave's Descent:** *PART ZERO:* DEEP BLUE v. Introduction - The SMD Warrior: a hardened fighter capable of taking out small armies singlehandedly... if given the proper conditions, that is. Certainly someone you would want on your side... Better yet, best to not be in a situation that requires sides to begin with. Over the past year, Cave figured out that she loved Gamindustri's darling pop idol, Lyrica... AKA, 5pb. However, Cave herself assisted Vert and Chika in pairing up the blue-haired musician with IF (whom Lady Green Heart is in love with... A messy, complicated situation). Thus, Lyrica and IF became lovers, leaving Cave to the progressively-darker thoughts plaguing her mind. She tuned out her despair as best she could, fooling herself into believing that she'd be okay so long as the brunette took good care of Fivey. However, as each day passed, and as Cave bore witness to her two "friends'" relationship... Well, you can't blame her. Slowly and surely, the SMD Warrior was moving one step closer to finally snapping; she'd finally cast away her stoic demeanor and let all her frustrations out on the world. ... If only the world had more time to prepare. *PART ONE:* Yellow Storm mk2 - The Yellow Bandana Rebellion is in full swing! After going through many failed ambushes and the like, our heroines finally reach the summit. There, Adrian awaits, the "Crucial Codes" firmly in hand. Among the main attack force is Cave, the army of rebellious peasants clearly no match. After only a short amount of time, the rebels back off from the warrior, more fearful of her than Adrian or even the "tyrannical" goddesses. Cave takes their insults with a stone-cold face... but the words do strike a cord within her. Things go south fast, especially when Vert is seemingly killed by one of Adrian's rogue cheat codes (Infinite Rage)... but eventually, Vert wakes up, and the battle soon turns back in the goddesses' favor. Cave notices Vert's somewhat-changed demeanor, but she's too preoccupied with reflecting on what the peasants said... "She's the devil!" "She'll kill us all! Hell, I bet she'll enjoy every second too." "Bitches like you don't deserve anything!" "It's no use; a beast like her doesn't give a shit about us." 'Monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, monster, mon-' Slash the Demon - Capitalizing on the goddesses being distracted by the rebellion, hostile forces take over Lowee's Basilicom, where the CPU Candidates are hiding out. Cave always had a soft spot for Nepgear especially, so she is able to snap out of her dark thoughts long enough to save her friend. In Lowee, the CPU army (led by the suspicious Jade of Avenir, who was supposed to be guarding the Basilicom) meets heavy resistance against near-infinite monster spawns, along with "dragon-proof" walls. Fortunately, however, our heroines/heroes overcome the odds, and with a little help from dragons(?!), they smash through Lowee's walls. While the rest of the party comes face-to-face with CFW Judge(?) and Linda, Blanc and Cave notably rush inside to find the true culprit: CFW Trick(?). A heavy battle breaks out and back into the blizzard outside, but Cave and Blanc defeat the imposter Trick. Cave herself finds the Candidates alive and well. It is a joyous moment... but now there are no more distractions; Cave is now once again left alone with her thoughts. And those thoughts have only gotten bleaker... "Cave, you alright? You've been awfully quiet... Lyree's worried." "... My apologies, Miss IF... I am fine." "Miss IF, still? C'mon, we're closer than that!" Heavenly Strike - Things begin to settle down, and Cave is tasked with training Linda and Nepgeo, as well as Almaz and Rei Ryghts (of the Yellow Bandanas). Vert apparently is building an army... The SMD Warrior typically knows better than to question orders, but she asks this one time just what the goddess is planning. Green Heart isn't clear, spouting off some disconnected words about needing more shares to become strong enough to stop an incoming tragedy. Cave warns her how this is most certainly a bad idea, just asking for conflict from the other nations... Then Vert mentions Lyrica. The pop idol was in danger, and only Vert could become strong enough to help her... so long as Cave assisted her from here on out. The SMD Warrior is silenced, too confused to question any further... If 5pb. was really in danger, however, she couldn't take any chances... Eventually, Lady Green Heart makes her move, siphoning off shares from Planeptune first by helping the citizens of the nation, thus earning their incredibly-flimsy support. Incredibly small amounts of shares at first, mind you, but every percentage counts. Cave can't do anything to stop her of course, but she suggests acting more discreet... Vert shrugs her off, and instead soon steps foot into Planeptune's capital city, which draws the attention of Neptune and the suspicious Histoire. Before a conflict can escalate, Green Heart apologizes, and claims she was just obsessed with clearing out any remnants of the Yellow Bandanas. She returns to Leanbox... Just in time to receive an invitation to Avenir, to meet with Jade over the state of Gamindustri. Avenir would make for a strong ally, so the goddess heads over, telling Cave to wait with the rest of Leanbox's commanders for her. "Look at how peaceful Lyrica sleeps... It would truly be a shame if something were to happen to wipe that smile off her face... Stick with me, Cave, and I will ensure she sleeps peacefully for her entire life... But it all falls on your support." "I... Yes, my lady. You have my word." Beyond the Destiny - Shocker, the meeting turns out to be a trap: out for revenge many years in the making, Jade tries to assassinate Lady Vert (along with Neptune, who was also invited in order for Avenir to gain more power). The two goddesses and their bodyguards (Saturn Shiro and Bimmy Hatchet for Neptune, Hank East and Femme Sandiego for Vert) flee for their lives, evading countless attackers and heavy resistance. Shiro ends up giving his life, offering enough time for the others to escape. There, Cave and the others (Chika, Linda, and Nepgeo) are already waiting, having anticipated such an attack. The five key warriors of Leanbox fend off the pursuing Avenir force most gloriously, showing off their training... and soon enough, the group reaches safety outside Lastation's main city. Vert instantly begins plans for a counterattack, requiring aid from some members of Planeptune and Lastation (namely IF). ... Meanwhile, on Leanbox, Rei and Almaz are among the guards protecting the Basilicom castle. A surprise guest, Mina, arrives at the castle, and goes on a violent crazed rampage through the halls, attacking anyone in her sight. She eventually makes it right outside Vert's chambers... but turns out, the goddess is not there! As if driven completely mad, Mina screams at the confused and frightened Rei Ryghts, and runs towards her with a musket. In self-defense, Rei ends up stabbing the insane oracle, and Mina gets launched out the window. Lyrica is present for the events, and is understandably scarred. If only Cave or IF were here... "Please forgive us for our tardiness, my lady! I pray you have not come to any harm." "I am fine, Cave... but now is not the time to rest. Things have become... personal... Ready the troops at once; we mobilize in an hour." "Er... understood..." *PART TWO:* Ultimate Pressure - Leanbox wages war on Avenir, and Vert moves on the offensive, putting news of Mina's death on Leanbox soil completely out of her mind. Only IF answers her call for outside-nation reinforcements, so Cave is (again) assigned to the main task force. She and IF fend off a ton of armed guards, until Jade unleashes his ultimate weapon: numerous super-powered Killachines, of the self-operated variety. The two face much more adversity than before in these new enemies, but the powerful duo overcome the odds! Cave shows absolutely no mercy, finishing off the pilots of the trouble-making Killachines. Of the pilots, only one manages to escape her immediate wrath: Jade. IF sees Cave's brutality, and confirms her doubts about siding with the changed Lady Vert: the brunette couldn't support such cruelty. The girl tells Cave about how wrong this all was, but the SMD Warrior simply gets offended. 'What about Lyrica?', she asks IF. The battle-hardened veteran surmises that she can take her lover and leave Leanbox once and for all; it was a better alternative than staying with a crazed goddess. Cave becomes visibly angry, and claims that IF wasn't strong enough to protect the pop idol. The two nearly come to blows... but the brunette backs down. If Cave knew how to protect Lyrica, then fine! But first, she needed to hear from 5pb. herself... If she wanted to stay with Vert and Cave, then IF would simply desert Leanbox, and return back with her 'sisters' in Planeptune. With that, she takes her leave of the battlefield... Cave is speechless... and immediately receives an order from Vert to target Avenir's supply depots... and utterly decimate them. Fuming with rage she didn't know how to release, the SMD Warrior blindly follows her orders... to block out those irritating thoughts of the treachorous IF, who obviously didn't care as much about Lyrica as she claimed... "... That... fool... How could she...?!" "Cave! Come in, Cave! Our intel shows Avenir has several supply depots lying around the area. They are using them to repair the Killachines... Destroy the supply depots. All of them." "... Moving out now." Frenzy Moon - Silently, Cave rushes forth and, despite hearing cries of mercy from people within them, unleashes special attack after special attack on the supply depots. Inside the main depot sits Singe and Ganache, two heads of Avenir (and the only two left that Jade considers family)... Cave blows the two up, wearing as stoic a face as possible. Jade sees his family go up in flames, and snaps; Alex of the Yellow Bandanas by his side, he rushes out into the awful night and blindsides several Leanbox soldiers with a combination of blades and guns. His flurry lasts for a few minutes, but thanks to Linda and Nepgeo, he is eventually routed and soon finds himself cornered. Cave watches from the sidelines as Lady Green Heart deals with this menace... Cave watches as Vert herself becomes a monster... Had Cave already become one too? "M-Monster! You damn monster! They were all I had left! I'll kill you! I'll freakin' kill every single one of you!" "..." "Do not heed the words of a fool, Cave... I'll handle the aristocrat from here..." Chase the Wave - Before IF can consult Lyrica, she is confronted by Lady Green Heart, who had returned to the Basilicom much faster than expected. Vert asks the brunette to stay, going so far as to attempt to seduce her. IF does not take too kindly to this forceful encounter, and snaps at the goddess. Vert, letting the rage inside completely cloud her better judgment, retaliates by foolishly banishing Iffy, threatening Lyrica's life if she refused to leave Leanbox... Green Heart immediately regrets what she's said, but the damage had already been done: sensing that Lyrica would no longer be safe so long as she was still here, the brunette leaves without saying another word to anyone... The pop idol looks to Cave now for an answer on why IF had left so suddenly. The SMD Warrior claims she doesn't know the answer... but she, at least, would always be there for her... After her blunder, Vert immediately tries to get IF back, and orders Cave to begin a pursuit. However, her goals quickly change from reclaiming the battle-hardened veteran to instead focusing on pilfering more shares; more power would make it easier to do anything, including mending broken relationships. Planeptune and Lastation, hearing of how out-of-control Green Heart has gotten, rush to join up with Lowee, hoping to gain them as allies in an effort to deter the deranged goddess. Vert doesn't flinch, and orders Cave to catch Neptune and Noire... and kill them if necessary. Catching IF is of course another high priority, one that Cave is all-too content with accomplishing. She, not knowing the full truth, believes that the brunette had completely abandoned Lyrica. That was a most unforgivable sin. The Leanbox army kills many peasants following the "Nepstation" Alliance, and IF and Compa stay behind to fight back. Cave rushes towards IF, but the medic-in-training intervenes and, in a flurry of unimaginable offense, pushes the SMD Warrior back. Cave loses sight of IF, and the Alliance troops finally reach Lowee, Compa's distraction having saved them all. A complete loss for not only Leanbox and Vert... but Cave as well. Vengeance would have to wait. For now, a much larger battle awaited them... "IF got away, my Lady... I have failed..." "... No matter. By tomorrow's end, we'll have her back." Kiss Me Sunlights - The Eve of the War Capricious Wind - After both sides mentally prepare themselves for the fight that would change Gamindustri forever, Cave and Linda strike the first blow, charging for Neptune and Noire at their camp. War is officially upon us! Cave gives the battle her all, ignoring the screams of the soldiers she slays. They wanted a monster, and now they were getting one... In reality, however, the SMD Warrior was mainly trying to impress Lyrica with her strength, as well as hoping for IF to show herself... but alas, no such thing occurred. The brunette was nowhere in sight... In fact, only Lowee soldiers were fighting hard. That is when Cave noticed Histoire high above the cliffs, sitting in some suspicious structure with Lady White Heart. The "Nepstation" army was guarding it for some reason... She and Linda rush towards the structure, fighting off more soldiers with relative ease. Enter Falcom and Snoic(?). The two suddenly ambush the Leanbox army from the cliffs and manage to strike a quick major blow. Cave and Linda are blindsided, and momentarily retreat. They just needed a couple of minutes to regroup and rest, and then they would be right back on the offensive! ... Only, rest never came. Histoire finished her ceremony, and enchanted Blanc with a spell that would allow her to temporarily engage HDD without succumbing to the madness that cursed Vert. Lady White Heart, looking for revenge over Mina's death, dashed forward, eradicating Leanbox's fleet in a flash. Cave hurries back to Vert and the army begins their shameful retreat... "Cave... Why is our fleet under attack? Surely you didn't... fail me again, did you?" "... We must run, Lady Vert." Withdrawal - Leanbox, fleet destroyed, must escape the battlefield by foot. Lady Green Heart is weakened by the massive toll her infinite HDD is taking on her, so lo and behold, Cave must lead the charge... The very same Cave who is also beginning to feel strained from having to fight so many battles already. The retreat is not as simple as they had hoped, however. The Lastation/Planeptune army finally surfaces in full swing, ambush after ambush from the cliffs above slowing down the running goddess. Cave, Linda, Nepgeo, Chika, Hank East(?), Femme Sandiego(?), and Markz Phenix, among others, held their ground. Still, they barely escape with their lives, and tons of Leanbox soldiers fall. At the end of the cliffside path, the group finally runs into IF, the last obstacle. Cave readies her weapons... but the brunette moves aside. She explains how even after all this time, she owes Vert for giving her hospitality... And besides, she can't simply bring herself to kill someone she once called a friend. Cave and IF stare each other down... but the Leanbox army walks on and escapes to safety. The SMD Warrior is furious, though she can't even really pinpoint why. If the battle-hardened veteran was going to endanger Lyrica and betray Leanbox... she should at least devote herself to it. Lyrica, meanwhile, looks at Cave in a very different light from now on. She had witnessed first-hand how deadly the SMD Warrior was, and how she had so coldly confronted IF... This wasn't the Cave she knew... "Are... you okay, Cave? I've... never seen you so, uhm, destructive before... I-It was i-impressive, though!" "... It still wasn't enough." *PART THREE:* DEEP BLUE v. Silence - Vert goes silent for about a week, the devastating loss consuming everybody's minds. Cave tries further to connect with Lyrica, but the blue-haired pop idol acts more distant by the day. She misses IF, and Cave just isn't giving her the right amount of comfort in these harrowing times. The SMD Warrior descends deeper into despair and darkness, the love of her life tuning her out... even when Cave was giving everything she had to make her happy. Several assassination attempts are aimed at Vert, and the conflicted warrior deals with every threat that arises, her allegiance firmly solidified. If she had nothing left, she at least had a duty to fulfill: a duty to protect an insane and bloodthirsty goddess's life. ... And, whether or not Lyrica had given up on Cave, Cave refused to give up on her. If anything, staying on Vert's good side would protect the idol, and that was the most important thing of all. After-all, Vert had eyes and ears everywhere... And guns. As time progressed, more failed assassinations took place, including a drastic assault from a vengeful Nisa. Cave did her best to hold Leanbox together, but the constant fighting was taking its toll. Even tanks rust. Eventually, Vert gets tired of recuperating and decides to go back on the offensive. Sensing an incoming attack from the other three nations, Green Heart siphons more shares before moving to two key locales: a city outside Planeptune's capital, and a small barracks in the Gapain Field. She takes Cave, Chika, Markz, Hank, and a ton of soldiers with her to Planeptune, while Linda and Nepgeo go to Gapain. Lyrica, thus, is left at Leanbox's Basilicom with the rest of the Leanbox guards. Cave wishes the pop idol the best, and journeys off. Lyrica senses something is going to go very, very wrong... but sadly, Cave is the closest person she can trust right now. She hasn't heard from IF in weeks... "... Stay safe, Lyrica... I will return before you know it." "... Yeah." The Mountain - The Planeptune/Lastation Alliance anticipated Leanbox's assault on Planeptune, and took up position on the cliffs outside the city. Nepgear and Uni are put in charge of defending the mountain, the two candidates practically demanding to not be left out of any more conflicts. Vert, thus, sets up camp on the opposing cliffs... A poetic juxtaposition. Seeing as she was the main driving force behind this whole war movement thus far, Cave was tasked with leading the assault... Only this time, she would share the leadership role with Chika, who was looking utterly distraught. When the SMD Warrior pressed her for information, the oracle would only respond with vague statements about missing Vert... The Alliance is fully ready to stand their ground, and manage to force Leanbox into a stalemate. Late in the day, each army begins to feel desperate... and Chika has a little too much to drink. Determined to win back the affections of Lady Green Heart, the oracle takes her crossbow and begins firing upon the Alliance's main camp. Nepgear and Uni panic at the sudden direct assault, and Black Sister takes her bad-accuracy shotgun and begins to fire back. Chika and Uni engage in a shoot-out, the two missing every single shot. Cave tries to stop her oracle friend, but no good... She's a stubborn drunk. Miss, miss, miss, miss... But, even the least-accurate weapons get a critical hit every once in a blue moon. Out-of-nowhere, Uni accidentally shoots Chika in the chest, killing the drunk woman. The candidate immediately curses, and runs off with Nepgear... Cave looks on in horror as her friend drops and poofs away... right as Vert approaches the scene. The cold goddess looks at the ground, frozen in thought... and calls for complete retreat. The SMD Warrior is stunned; all that fighting today, and now Vert was simply going to turn back? Worse yet, it appeared as if she was taking Chika's death no worse than if she had swatted a fly. Vert ignores every question... and suddenly commands Cave to hurry back to the Leanbox Basilicom, ahead of the rest of the troops. She surmises that the rest of the Planeptune army could be planning a surprise attack on the castle... Cave was to go to the castle right away as the Leanbox army packed up and marched back, and she was to wait until they arrived. The SMD Warrior, worried about losing Lyrica too, returns without another second thought... "Chika's... She's..." "... Hmm, order your troops to retreat, Cave." "... What? But we've nearly taken the mountain! If we leave now, then Chika's death will have been for absolutely nothin-" "That was an ORDER, Cave! I can't keep Lyrica alive if you don't follow your orders..." Karma Against Hard Invasion - Cave runs back, entirely alone. Her thoughts wander back to Chika, and to Vert's uncaring demeanor... She then thinks of Mina... and how Blanc had showed rage never before seen. Next, her thoughts turned to Nisa, who had been willing to risk her very life to avenge Gust... Then, Jade... The aristocrat had harbored a grudge all these years towards Lady Green Heart, and the goddess didn't even remember a thing. What of Cave, then? How would history remember her? As a monster, viciously carrying out orders of a villain? As a complete and utter demon? All she wanted was to keep Lyrica safe, but if she stepped out of line, Vert would endanger the idol's life... How could she get out of this? Cave finally makes it to the Basilicom, an ominous rain developing as she made her long fated march... The Leanbox guards watch her wearily; even they have come to fear the SMD Warrior. The woman enters the castle and finds 5pb., who is half-relieved to see her 'friend.' Cave tells her that everything is fine, and that they just needed to wait for Vert to return. Lyrica doesn't completely buy it, and demands to know what's happening. The truth comes out about Chika's death, and the idol goes silent. Cave can only imagine ways to comfort her, the words never coming out. This was, truly, her entire fault, wasn't it? Cave was a monster... Would she soon become like Vert, who didn't bat an eyelash at a close companion's passing? ... Flags appear over the horizon as Cave and Lyrica watch from the same window that Mina had smashed through some time ago. Vert has returned?... No, those are the flags of... IF's army! Before Cave can react, an arrow flies from the army and pierces the window... just narrowly missing Lyrica's head. The SMD Warrior's eyes widened; IF's army had just directly endangered the pop idol's valuable life. This was Cave's breaking point, finally. After all the horrendous war crimes she's committed for Vert's sake, and after all the rage she's built up over Iffy abandoning Lyrica in the first place... Cave snapped. "H-Hey, C-Cave... I don't think that's Lady Vert... Wait... I-IF? C-Cave, i-it's IF! Look at the flag! M-Maybe it's a peace treaty! IF is going to help us! W-We have to go greet them! We have to-" *shatter* "!..." "... C-Cave, n-no!" Epic (Wo)Man - Amidst Lyrica's protests, Cave blasts the window with her weapons and leaps out into the rain, souring to the earth below. The burned-out woman blasts everything in her path, enemy and ally alike, as she dashes towards IF's army. A returning Linda nearly gets her head shot off even; the SMD Warrior was unleashing every single speck of built-up negative emotions over the past year, and her rage was all-encompassing. Cave makes it to IF's army... or so she thinks. Turns out, the army that had fired upon Lyrica was not actually under direct orders from the battle-hardened veteran; the brunette was actually ambushing the Leanbox guards on the exact opposite side of the Basilicom courtyard... Their honesty was met with numerous explosions to their faces. The rogue Leanbox warrior now dashed to the opposite end of the battlefield, where IF awaited. After more devastating special attacks on random soldiers, Cave spots the brunette, nursing an arrow wound in her arm and currently surrounded by several bloodthirsty Leanbox soldiers. In one last massive act of betrayal, the SMD Warrior slays each and every one of her fellow men. ... She and IF had a score to settle. No one else could get in the way. "I... take it yer not here to help finally, eh Cave?" "... You know damn well why I'm here." Large Feather - IF and Cave stare down each other, their long-awaited clash finally set! The brunette tells Cave to back down, but she predictably refuses. Without any further words, the duel is on! One injured battle-hardened veteran versus one burnt-out, drained, tired, and conflicted warrior. During their clash, Cave demands to know how IF could turn her back on Lyrica. The brunette claims she only left to keep her safe; ever since the Yellow Bandana Rebellion, Vert had become certifiably insane. The goddess had threatened 5pb's very life had IF stayed in Leanbox after rejecting Green Heart's affections. Cave refuses to openly believe that claim... but inside, she begins to see reason. IF wasn't cold-hearted; she loved Lyrica, and would go so far as to leave her to save her very life. Cave, meanwhile, stayed with the pop idol... and only served to make her more worried over everything. By trying to be there for Lyrica, Cave had actually pushed her away. The two continue fighting to a stalemate, both too exhausted to keep going. Her aggressions finally out in the open, Cave begins to relax for the first time in months, and she manages to apologize to her friend... for everything. IF smiles, and apologizes as well; this whole messy situation had been pushed along thanks to crappy communication on all fronts. The two agree to go get Lyrica, and stick together from now on. What would they do about Vert and the chaos plaguing the land? They had not the slightest idea... However, they'd figure it out, together... ... However, on their way back to the castle, the women see Nepgear approaching with an unidentified army. IF runs up to her to explain the situation... but freezes. This isn't Nepgear! "Nepgear? Huh, I wasn't expecting any reinforcements... Hey, Gear, over here!" "Lady Nepgear? No, wait, that's not right... Not Nepgeo either... Hold on, I heard Chika mention some rumor about an impos-... IF, stop!" Solo - Cave watches in shock as Nepgear(?) lifts her sword and suddenly stabs IF straight through the chest. Time slows to a crawl, and the rain becomes a full-on downpour... Nepgear(?) looks into IF's dimming eyes and feels something like regret... and kicks the brunette clean off her blade. Without thinking, Cave reaches out and catches the brunette in her arms, and runs for her life. Nepgear(?) shakes off her confusion, and orders her army (a bunch of Lowee soldiers) to kill the fleeing warrior. Cave cradles the bleeding IF, enduring arrows, gunshots, and blades aplenty from the surprise Lowee army. The SMD Warrior gets struck many times, but her adrenaline carries her forward. All the while, the brunette struggles to cling to life, apologizing to Neptune, to Compa, and to Lyrica... One lone arrow catches Cave off-guard, and she barely dodges out of the way... losing her balance and falling over, dropping IF as well. She quickly recovers and moves to pick the brunette back up again... but it is IF's time. The battle-hardened veteran says her farewells, telling Cave to not blame herself for any of this... and most importantly, protect Lyrica. Whatever the cost. "I-IF... J-Just hang on! I can... I can help... I have to-" "Cave... Let it go... Please, just... promise me... one thing..." "... Anything." "... No matter what happens, no matter what it takes... make sure Lyrica is safe..." "... To my last dying breath... I promise you." "Heh... Always so... serious, Cave... But thanks... W-Well... s-see ya." *PART ASCENSION:* Vanish - Vert returns, and notes the destruction prevalent outside of Leanbox's Basilicom. The Alliance and Lowee armies had all fled by now... The goddess, no emotion in her voice whatsoever, asks Cave to report what had happened. Cave tells the truth: that IF attacked, and a fake Nepgear killed her. Lady Green Heart tenses for a second, then nods... as if this wasn't anything special. She congratulates the SMD Warrior on a job well done, and then returns to the castle to rest. Cave couldn't believe it. Not only had they lost Chika, but now IF was gone too... The same IF that Vert had blatantly loved. And yet, the goddess didn't seem to care in the slightest... Cave had had enough. Vert had turned her into a monster, turned her against her dearest friends, and even made her witness her friends' deaths with her own eyes thanks to this stupid war... But no more. Vert was weak, and more tired than she had been in awhile. Cave needed to set Lyrica free from this mindless tyrant once and for all... Then, Cave would show Vert what a monster really was... ... Committed to her plan, Cave searches for Lyrica. The pop idol sees the almost relaxed expression on the warrior's face, and notices how bruised and bloodied she is... and asks what happened. The "monster" grits her teeth... and says that she killed IF... and liked doing it too. She explains how she is a monster, and how she doesn't regret a single act of violence she committed thus far. Lastly... Cave tells Lyrica how much she hates her, and wishes to never see her again. If Lyrica knew what was good for her, then she'd flee Leanbox right now, and never return. 5pb. is both confused and heartbroken... She begins to leave... until she notices a teardrop run down Cave's cheek. The idol stalls, but the "monster" simply nods in her direction and runs off to Vert's chambers. Lyrica realizes then what Cave is planning to do... but it is too late. She decides to honor Cave's (and IF's) wishes, and escapes this madness with her life. The SMD Monster enters Vert's chambers, and the goddess asks quietly why she is there, noting with slight disdain that she knows Lyrica had left. Cave takes a moment to respond... before lifting her scissors and firing a bullet of energy straight for Vert's head. Green Heart instinctively dodges, and the two have a short skirmish, Vert's strength clearly too much for the tattered "monster." Cave closes her eyes with her weapons firmly held in hand, and a peaceful smile crosses her face as Vert dashes in for one final devastating blow... *"I lay my sins to waste."* ... So ends the Legend of Cave's Descent... ... The ending... Unless... H:\>(link:"Back to Selected Reading Hub")[(goto:"Selected Reading Hub")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

Good choice! This tale has a crapton of flashbacks, from Cave's *'Pain'* flashbacks, to her possible remembrances of Chika, to the four possible scenes IF's mind can drift too. Now, whereas Cave's scenes were pretty much decided on fairly quickly (and stayed consistent throughout the creative process), IF's were much more up in the air, due to their open-endedness (that the word to use? I'mma keep it, anyways). The two possible flashbacks immediately following "Mr. Sniper's" initial shot, once ironed out, were decided on pretty fast too. However, as for the "Positive" flashback right after the choice at the backdoor, there was a radically-different scene planned altogether! Here it is in all its unusual glory, courtesy of Kurtis Zhev! ... The evening sky brings the wonderful day to an end as you walk down the sidewalks of Leanbox, various storeowners closing shop as the wind grows quiet. Activity in the streets is minimal, with barely a vehicle passing by. It was one of those rare occurences where the city was actually quite peaceful, and you welcome the fine change of pace. You feel your hand tugged by a kind beauty, causing you to look directly into your partner's eyes. The idol Lyrica, clad in rather casual wear consisting of a T-shirt and a plain skirt, looks right back at you, a beautiful smile drawn on her lips as the setting sun radiates her eyes with the splendor of love. You feel lost within those doors to the soul... For a moment, even in a plain environment such as this, you feel like you stumbled directly into paradise. "IF, car." You feel yourself getting tugged back by a strong grip as a car speeds on by, disappearing into the sunlit horizon. Crap, that was... unexpectedly close... You sure got distracted easy. Regaining yourself, your dear pop idol pats her hand upon you most adorably, making sure you are truly in one piece. You blush as you thank her for caring, too embarrassed to look her in the eye all of a sudden. You nearly got run over... How much of a ditz are you? You calm you nerves, allowing the strange scene to leave your system... and you turn to the other woman who just saved your ass. Looking right at her concerned face, you can't help but stand in awe at the immense strength of Cave, always the one prepared for anything at anytime. Like Lyrica and even yourself, she too is dressed plainly today, something very odd for her (she's clad in a simplistic outfit. Looks honestly like Lyrica's in your opinion). While you and your handheld-partner appear lax (despite what just went down), the SMD warrior is most certainly tense... as usual. Cave... never relaxes, does she? Once she notices your breathing has calmed to an acceptable level, she sighs. "Honestly IF, I'm starting to wonder whether you can even walk without me around." It may sound snide (Cave has never been particularly good with sarcasm or jokes or... well, y'know), but she says it with a tiny smile that is strangely warm and heartfelt. Her words further fluster you; you did just have to be saved by her just now, and this isn't even the first time she's had to do it! No, far from it... You remember a scene from some time ago which also involved you being distracted by your girlfriend... and you both ended up in the way of a pack of dogoos during feeding season... Er, you choose not to continue that memory. "Well, I, uh..." you stammer, feeling the heat rise to your face, "I-I was just caught off guard... T-The sun was in my eyes, y-yeah! That's all, really!" Lyrica laughs at your avoidance, and in the end you can't help but laugh too. Even the stoic Cave, normally lacking, uh, most emotions common in humans, starts to giggle into her fist. Man, why can't she always act this cute? She'd have every heart in the world swooning for her! You decide to playfully shove her, and that only catches her off guard and makes her laugh more, her joyful sounds no longer muffled by her self-conscious hand. Hmm... Man, what would a bystander think, seeing this? How odd is must seem that two battle-hardened veterans and a beautiful idol of Gamindustri are laughing like little kids at a random intersection thanks to almost being run over by a car. Why, that really sounds like the setup for a bad sitcom... Can't say you'd hate it, though. As you all get lost in your laughing fits... a voice suddenly yells out from the other side of the street. "Hey! Hey, are you the real 5pb.?!?! Not one of those fake cosplayers, right?! Holy crap, awesome, awesome!!! Wait, no, I need to get a better look first..." The three of you turn to face the stranger. It was definitely a man, and judging by the fact that he was sweating up a storm just by standing, he was not the healthiest. It was hard to make out many details from here, but he was definitely not someone you would be happy bringing home to mom. Drat, why now? You and Lyree encounter these guys all the time... One of the prices to pay for being famous. You turn to your lover, who was now cowering behind you and Cave. Lyrica was always so good in front of a large crowd... but in her private life, even one random fan walking up to her would reduce her to mere whimpering. Didn't help that this guy was giving off a creepy first impression though... You decide to answer, but naturally you remain cautious. "What's it to you, bud?... Well, no, ya got the wrong person! Seriously, why would Ly-5pb be hanging out with two plain folk like us?" You feel Lyrica tug your hand even harder, also grabbing Cave with her spare grip. Cave continues to glare at the guy... Her 'Mama Bear' instinct is shining through. Unfortunately, it seems that the guy already had his mind set on what he wants to do, as he begins crossing the street (illegally too, you feel like adding). "Ohmigod, that is her!!! I know that authentic blue hair anywhere! My lovely 5pb, right before my very eyes!" He stops in the middle of the road, and you secretly hope a car may rampage by at this very moment... Terrible, you know, but this had been a swell day up til now. His gaze, which looks very disgusting and overall surreal, quickly contorts to a grimace. "You two hags! Stop blocking her beauty! You'll spread your ugliness to her, and I can't allow that!" Cave starts to grit her teeth, and you feel like doing the same. However, you manage to hold back your anger, trying to reassure Lyrica that everything will be okay. "Buddy, just go away! We don't want any trouble, all right?" The man does not feel like relenting! He quickly approaches you, his unhealthy body about to collapse into itself. "Shut up, you dirty hag! Get away from my future wife! You ugly people disgust me!" Who the hell was this guy?! The other fans were annoying, not horrifying! This creep is seriously reminding you of... a certain CFW cretin you've tried to forget up til now... He is dangerously close, and you try to ready a strike... and yet, you just can't do it. You fear that you'll do something way too drastic, which will not only harm him, but also Lyrica, who may get too disturbed. You always hate showing your violent side whenever she was around... You honestly feel trapped. Luckily, Cave does not feel the same way. Right as the guy gets to you, she quickly charges him and grabs his arm. He yelps as she twists his appendage back, forcing him forward as she holds him from behind. Both you and Lyrica get a good look at him, and if it was possible, you would find a way to hide like your girlfriend was. The SMD warrior snarls into the fiend's ear. "'Buddy', let me give you some words of advice, all right? When three ladies say to go away, you go away! If a delicate woman is hiding from you, that means she's seriously not interested!" She stops to lean her head back, nearly choking as she coughs. "... When your parents tell you to bathe, they mean it, you revolting piece of shit!" The man struggles. "H-Hey, this is battery! This is illegal, hag! I can get the police right on you!" Cave doesn't even stutter. "Yeah, we'll see how well that goes!" She tightens her grip, eliciting a whine from the deranged man. "How about we strike a deal? You leave right now and never go near Lyrica ever again... and I won't break your arm. Comprehend that?" The guy resists a little bit more, but perhaps the pain finally makes him submit... and he nods. With that, she lets him go, pushing him further down the sidewalk. He turns to look at you one more time, before he runs down the block, panting heavily as he cowers in fear. It is seriously the saddest thing you have ever seen... Cave dusts her shirt off, and walks back to you, her hips swaying professionally. Even after all that... she still tries to block out all emotion from her face. "... Sorry you two had to see that." Lyrica quickly steps up and hugs her. "No, i-it's fine!... T-Thanks for helping me, Cave... I don't know what would've happened if he got to me, or Iffy!" Her eyes close, and her smiling face rests against the warrior's neck. "... You're always looking out for me... Thank you." You awkwardly scratch the back of your head, wishing you did do something more to help. Lyrica was in danger... and you couldn't do a damn thing. You cracked under the pressure! Until now... you had thought you were practically invincible!... Well, it's a good thing you had a friend you could rely on. "Y-Yeah, Cave... thanks for that... J-Jeez, there sure are some creeps on this planet, huh?!" Cave looks at you in silence, her eyes unrelenting in hiding away any hint of what she is thinking... but she actually shoots you a smile, naturally giving birth to a cheesy grin on your lips. That's Cave; always surprising, usually a hard-ass... but deep down, you couldn't ask for a better friend! It's not long before she turns to look down at the idol in her arms, a more sincere look plastered on her face. "Lyrica... don't ever worry about people like that. As long as IF and I draw breath... you won't ever be in danger. That's a promise." She gives you one of the cutest and most-uncharacteristic winks you've ever seen... and you nod in approval as you try to ward off another incoming blush. Be it her or you, your girlfriend was in good hands. The pop idol appears to think the same. "Thanks, guys... I-I'm a little embarrassed!" Ah, she is so perfect! "H-Haha, I can handle myself... b-but people like that... I-I really can't thank you two enough!" She bows in respect, and the two of you chuckle in return. As you shake off that bizarre scenario, you continue on your way, Lyrica resting her head on your shoulder. Cave walks by your side with a stride that looks quite powerful; something you definitely envy. If only... heh, you could be more like her sometimes, y'know? ... Something a bit different from the rest of the game, eh? As for why it was removed... well, it was decided that, while IF's and Cave's relationship still needed proper focus, there was a major gap in the game concerning IF and Vert (especially if the player didn't get shot in the stomach by the sniper, hint hint). Thus, the scene featuring these three friends expanded into a light-hearted scene featuring them as well as Vert and Chika. Kill two birds with one camera flash! ... Man, I really want to watch that 'Tamao' film they were watching in the actual scene... Sounds right up my alley. Any chance you know Tamao Suzumi? 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Isn't Lyrica so adorable? She doesn't do too much in this game, but... GAH, she doesn't need to! ... *AHUM!* A-Anyways... Pop quiz: Have you achieved any of these following endings: 6, 8, or 10? No? Then go GET THEM! If yes, though... well, then this may make a bit more sense. You see, if you choose to give in to raw emotion and KISS Lyrica during a key scene... certain small changes occur to the following scenes... and if you stay on the path of keeping the blunette alive, you'll even find yourself in a slightly-different ending scene entirely! You're in this category, so it'll come as no surprise that... there's some deleted stuff to be found in this massive ending branch! There's a moment where, if you did kiss the pop idol, Lyrica will... become slightly more, er, 'aggressive' with 'sharing feelings' with Cave, all while Vert is standing not too far away! Well, the author bub wracked his brain over several versions of this small section before landing on the more-subdued one that exists in the databanks today! Here's two of the earlier possibilities that weren't deemed worthy of swimming up for air! **...** 1. A shockwave jolts your entire system as her tongue suddenly flicks across your earlobe. W-What has gotten into her?! What did you awaken?! "L-Lyree, s-stop! W-What if someone...!" You try to fight, but predictably, you fail... The love of your life is acting like a total deviant towards you; how could anyone resist? She suddenly stops, however, most likely sensing your duress. "... I-I'm sorry, Cave... I-I don't know what's... coming over me! I-I..." Another kiss, this time to the cheek. "... must not be in the right state of mind~..." Losing... YOUR... mind! W-Wait... H-Hold on, they're turning around! You are about to let out quite the embarrassing yell... but as soon as Vert and the others look your way, Lyrica is once more back by your side. A blush paints her face red, but she otherwise shows no sign of foul play. **...** 2. Something warm and a tad-bit wet grazes your neck, immediately halting all thought processes. W-What is sh... L-Lyrica?! The pop idol's lips gently paint your pale skin with light kisses as the entirety of the army looks away. H-Hold on, t-this behavior is far too risky!!! D-Damn... but why must it feel so... intoxicating...?... As you stand frozen, her gentle breaths tickle your ear as she whispers with such an inappropriately-innocent voice. "Relax... It's going to be fine... We'll think of something..." D-Does she sense your fears?! Can she... r-read your mind? B-But... yeah, don't get so... worried... You'll come up... with... something... You always do... ... No! Y-You have to stop this! "W-Why... are you...?" Wow, great effort there! However, the pop idol does suddenly halt her... unexpected advances. "... O-Oh my! I-I'm... s-so sorry!" She immediately jolts her face away, avoiding your gaze at all costs. "... S-Something's wrong with me, C-Cave! I... T-This is so wrong! I-I should be thinking about IF, but..." ... She's said enough. While Vert issues orders to the rest of the army, you hold the angel gently by the cheeks and kiss her as firmly as in your most forbidden dreams. Lyrica easily reciprocates, but most likely hating herself inside for being more than fine with this. You break off the smooch after far-too-short a duration, for Vert begins to turn around. The two of you quickly return to your original stances by the time her eyes land your way. It's simply impossible to hide the blushes and flushed faces... but please make do! **...** Somebody open a window, because it's getting STEAMY in here! Though, that scene takes place outside... Hmph, whatever. These variations show Lyrica in a much more... antagonistic role than she is portrayed with in the rest of the story, so that most likely played a large role in their removal. Also, while it played into the theme of corruption that ties into a potential ending the player can achieve here, it simply felt kinda wrong to have Lyrica act this out-of-character, pretty much out-of-nowhere! Only in my dreams, I suppose... ... OH SNAP! The link promised something "Extra", right? Oh yeah, lemme jump right into that too! This scene would've taken place in 'Ending 13', when **SPOILERS** Nepgear is killed, and Arfoire makes her unusual appearance. Only, whereas in the main game, Arfoire shows up in a random side scene that neither IF nor Cave are present for, this original scene still has both our lovely maidens in the area! Weird, huh? Roll the cartoon! Er, tape! Er, dummied-out scene! **...** - But wait, hold on! T-The sword— Gehaburn, was it?— is floating! Even the soldiers seem aghast, explaining why you aren't filled with lead yet. You... aren't about to fight a ghost, are you? Brace yourself! The sword hovers in the air, twirling slightly in the wind. Hmmm... No, it isn't necessarily floating by itself; you think you can spot a faint silhouette holding the blade by the fiendish hilt. Clearly a woman... Is that a witch hat? Damn, too blurry to tell... The shrouded female speaks! "Well, well... This is quite the unforeseen benefit!" The transparent hand swings Gehaburn a few times, forcing some of the Lowee soldiers to back away. The figure laughs. "I shall be... taking this. Thank you... Cave and IF!" And with that, the sword simply blinks out of view. Your spine is quaking now. T-That voice... I-It couldn't be... And she knew your names... Suddenly, you have several thousand new questions. ... Aaaaaaaand the cocking of the rifles force you to push them all aside. Cave shakes her head, no doubt as perplexed as you are, and [and my data mysteriously cuts out here] **...** The ending would've proceeded as usual from here... and because of that, it was decided that Cave and IF should NOT witness the sword vanishing; it just presented another plot complication that may have distracted from the events to follow. At least as it currently stands in the main game, it's more of a mystery for the readers themselves, and NOT a question for the characters in the universe of this ending to answer. H:\>(link:"Back to LOST Media Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"LOST Media")] H:\>(link:"Back to Main Hub")[(set: $hankPageCheck to false)(goto:"Dummied Out Main Menu")]

{ (if: $timelineStart != true)[<div style="display: none;"><img src="!@#$" onerror="goLoveAndPeace.play('GO- LovePeace.mp3');" /></div> (set: $timelineStart to true)] }**Ultimate Timeline of Ghostdominion6's Fic-Verse!** **Pre-Games and Fics** *"MAAN XL" Chapter 9 Recap:* 1. Meet Joe, a despairing Neptunia fan. Meet his crummy life, his useless demeanor... Meet everything about him. Why should we meet Joe? Well... Joe's life is about to go completely down the shitter. Along with many more universes, specifically the series he 'loves' so much... 2. Joe plays a Neptunia game... and his console explodes. 'Neptune' appears, asking for help. He decides to follow her into portal. How trite. 3. Neptune is revealed to be an imposter sent by 'some small, dirty-mouthed girl riding a floating book-thingy'. Joe is cast off into an unspecified universe... and lands in front of Linda and Magic. 4. He instantly falls in love with Linda... and is brutally killed by Magic without a word. 5. His soul splits up due to a paradox of a real person being killed by a video game character; one is a malicious aura of negativity, and the other represents his weakness and fear of society. Dark half becomes "The Author", while the scared half fuses with... someone savvy readers of MAAN and beyond know well... 6. True End of First game occurs. "The Author", filled with rage he can't yet control, appears and destroys the entire universe. All who perish become one with him. RED appears to be killed by him directly... but she secretly lives on. Develops the power to go between worlds, most likely by absorbing some of his energy. RED goes into hiding as she learns her new powers. 7. Before universe dies, Histoire finds Neptune's old cheatbook. Author is sealed within as a last-ditch effort. Universe completely destroyed. Book floats through hyperspace. 8. The Author regrets destroying the universe in his fit of uncontrollable rage... and he seeks to redeem himself. He determines that he must "save" the series he loves so much... by granting them all a home within his own "Paradise". Over time, book is influenced by "The Author's" developing power. Becomes cheat tome "The Crucial Codes", capable of allowing exceptional individuals the ability to summon magic spells. However, within its bindings lies the Author's trapped soul... along with his makeshift "Paradise". In order to gather the Neptunia cast he loves so much within the book, the Author decides he needs an "Avatar" to move around the mortal realm... *"MAAN XL" Chapter 8* 9. The early beginnings of ASIC in the distant past occur... and the tome soon finds itself in who else but CFW Magic's hands! She has gathered three reluctant informants to the criminal organization, Cerise, Cheryl, and a young boy named Jade (Cerise's younger brother), and seeks to punish them for their failure. She attempts to torture them with the magic spells... but it's not working for her. The Author still harbors a grudge towards her, you see. 10. Failed attempts eventually cause a magnificent burst of magic dust to launch out. Everyone in the building is affected, save for CFW Magic. This magic dust making contact with individuals can be considered the 'first step' of gathering the cast in his paradise. 11. Noire allows Vert to send troops to Lastation to quell the apparent terrorist group. Vert sends a man named Markz Phenix to investigate... Markz scenario/last scene from "MAAN XL" chapter 7 occurs. Jade escapes Markz's deranged wrath, and sees the murdered Cerise in an alleyway, seemingly alive and well. She shows him the Cheat Tome. Cerise takes it with her... but tells him to follow anyone who ever presents this book to him. Jade never forgets this moment. He is soon taken in by Singe of Avenir, who treats him like a son. **Game and Early-Fics Era** 12. Nepgeo and Linda meet for the first time as kids. The memories get extremely hazy as they get older, soon becoming nothing more than a dream. 13. Years pass, the humans grow up... and "Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2" occurs. A couple years afterwards, Arfoire's soul strengthens itself... and she discovers the perplexing world of fanfiction. An idea is hatched to turn her enemies' lives into a bad fanfiction in order to destroy them once and for all... Arfoire's CFW army also revives through some unknown means (Author perhaps?), and she seeks to gather them all to increase her strength. Magic (hesitantly, surprisingly), Brave (obviously reluctant as well), and Trick (he doesn't really object) fuse with her. Judge is a... special case... and lives alone in dramatic isolation. He'll help Arfoire in a different way, using a magic "Script"... 14. Arfoire eventually finds the Cheat Tome... and her plan can now proceed! She is led to Avenir's headquarters by some unknown (to the Deity) woman named Cerise, and meets a horrified Jade. When she shows him the tome, though, he listens to her peculiar orders. Together, Arfoire and Avenir develop Male OCs to seduce the CPUs. 'Cerise' serves as the DNA blueprint for all the other clones. Adrian, Almaz, and Alex are born, among many forgotten others. Arfoire will move on and use Brave to progress the plan... and 'Cerise' holds onto the tome and disappears again... **MAAN ERA** 15. The Author, mainly as Cerise, visits several noteworthy individuals, from Noire to Chika to even Nepgeo and an alternate universe Nepgear! For the record, this alternate Nepgear was forced to murder her friends and family with a cursed blade named Gehaburn... Anyways, "As You Like It" fic soon occurs, with events of "Much Ado About Nothing" happening three weeks later. 16. Brief "MAAN" recap: Game Expo occurs. Failing of relationships cause Arfoire's plan to work... but ultimately fails. She concocts a new plan afterwards: turn the world into an adaptation of an existing story... her choice being "Romance of the Three Kingdoms". The Author has no issue with this as he observes all... and secretly manipulates Arfoire's hand. 17. Arfoire acquires the book again... and gives it to Adrian. Events escalate from there... "MAAN:XL" and "Winter's Tale" occurs. **AWTEW Era** 18. "All's Well that Ends Well" begins. This game's "Introduction" occurs, albeit modified. 19. Vert is "killed" during battle with Adrian. Book's magic explodes again, cursing everyone on the mountain... AKA, a majority of all four nations' citizens/warriors/goddesses. Vert suddenly revives in HDD form. HDD Form is cursed with "Infinite Rage". Adrian is soundly defeated. 20. Almaz and Rei Ryghts surrender to Vert under threat. They join the Leanbox army as penance for serving with rebels. Alex disappears, Adrian is arrested. Mina takes Cheat Tome, Histoire concerned. Adrian placed in prison... sharing a cell with Markz Phenix. 21. Candidates in Lowee taken hostage by CFW Trick(?) and CFW Judge(?)! 22. Jade (secretly working with the enemy) informs the CPUs of this. Everyone on Mountain heads to Lowee to save the Candidates. [[Next Page|Timeline Page 2]] (link:"Exit Timeline")[(reload:)]

**Never-Before-Seen AWTEW Events!!!** 23. Army arrives, Linda surrenders immediately. Real Brave arrives, fights Judge(?). Both vanish during the clash. 24. Falcom arrives separate (and unaware of anything occurring) on Lowee with the intentions of seeing Blanc. Finds RED, who acts mysterious, and the stock adventuress follows. Leads them to Dragon Cave, which leads to the dragons waking up and eventually destroying the Lowee wall around the Basilicom. The way is entirely clear now! 25. Army storms castle. Defeats Trick. Battle averted. Jade is shifty. As punishment for endangering the Candidates, Linda joins Vert, with Nepgeo following. 26. Nisa and Gust vow to get CFW Magic back, in Linda's stead. How they plan to do this is anyone's guess... but hey, two friends journeying the lands together! What could possibly go wrong? Time goes by... 27. Noire and Histoire help Neptune build back up her reputation, along with clearing out any more Yellow Bandana rebels. IF stays in Planeptune for awhile to help her 'sworn sister'. Vert, meanwhile, begins subtly siphoning shares from Planeptune. She remains in HDD form the entire time, never turning back to her human form once ever since the Rebellion - Mina also studies Cheat Tome, as well as investigate Jade's suspicious past. Blanc (with Kei) is too distracted with Ganache (secret ally of Jade's) raising trouble in Lowee to notice her mind becoming unstable. "Ghosts" visit Mina... two of note: 'Cerise'... and Arfoire? - Falcom meets up with Blanc, and joins Lowee for the time being. Together, Ganache's hell-raising is put down without much incident. - Alex joins up with Jade and Avenir, claiming to have nowhere else to go. He helps Jade with his... master plan... 28. Vert keeps progressing with slowly stealing shares, and Cave confronts her. The CPU appears insulted, and claims she needs all the Shares she can get in order to 'thwart' an impending tragedy. Cave doesn't want to buy it... but once Lyrica's life is mentioned as being at risk, she is too conflicted to stop her. 29. The Share siphoning nearly leads Leanbox and Planeptune to blows... but Vert apologizes and turns back, claiming she was simply cleaning up any remaining rebel scum. Neptune and Noire hae no idea how to respond. Also of suspicious note... In Lowee, Falcom discovers a mysterious girl in a cave while on a standard quest. Nep...gear? And what's that demonic-looking sword with her? 30. Jade sends out an invitation to all four goddesses, inviting them to an old Avenir warehouse for a meeting to discuss national relations. Blanc tears up the envelope, and Noire is hesitant... but Neptune and Vert agree to go. Cave, Histoire, and Chika don't like the sounds of this... and they tag along as well, informing IF of their suspicions. 31. At the same time, Mina discovers that Jade's sister was murdered by a Leanbox soldier named Markz Phenix many years ago... and he's harbored an immense grudge for Vert ever since. Also... he was in cahoots with Adrian, and helped fund the operation. She rushes off to Leanbox in a hurry after many failed phone call attempts... and the "Mina Incident" occurs (detailed in "The Witches' Spell"). Vert leaves the nation moments before. 32. At the Avenir warehouse (the sight of the Game Expo from MAAN as well as the rebuilt site of the 'Markz' incident that claimed his sister), Jade suddenly attempts to assassinate Neptune and Vert. It goes south, and Cave, Chika, and IF rush to the CPUs' aid. Neptune is paralyzed due to some poisoned tea, but she'll make a full recovery within a day. Vert, however, is incredibly vengeful... and IF agrees to help her favorite Goddess. Meanwhile, on Lowee, Blanc learns of Mina's death... and she blames Vert almost immediately. Rage festers... Also, Falcom's new Nepgear friend discovers the Cheat Tome... and is immediately drawn to it... 33. The Battle at Avenir. Vert releases Markz Phenix from prison in order to bolster her troops. She also offers Adrian a chance... but he gives a most unflattering hand gesture. Jade unleashes all of Avenir's latest weapons... but Vert's rage knows no bounds. Using Cave and Markz as the ultimate proxies, the Leanbox army decimates the company. IF is horrified... and eventually abandons the fight. Cave does not take this lightly... but she is allowed to focus on other things as she is ordered to destroy the main Avenir supply depot. With ease, she blows up the facility... along with Singe and Ganache, Jade's "family". The aristocrat snaps, and Alex chases him to try and calm him down... and the two get cornered by Markz's men. 34. Jade and Alex arm themselves... and open fire on Markz's squad. It's a hopeless battle... and Alex is killed in the crossfire, with Jade getting himself wounded. Vert confronts him and, after he refuses to play nice, ends him. Avenir is finished... and the world at large watches in shock. 35. IF and Vert have a falling out, and Green Heart banishes the brunette... only to have major regrets immediately after. A couple of days pass, and Vert makes the first clear threat to Lyrica's safety, securing Cave's undying trust... Almaz and Rei Ryghts seek to flee the Leanbox army, and in a secret act of defiance, Cave allows them to escape. With IF heading to the Lastation Basilicom (where Neptune was being watched over by Noire), Vert seeks her back... while also secretly desiring more and more of the nations' all-important Shares. Neptune and Noire notice their advance... and panic, fleeing (along with a ton of scared citizens and refugees) for Lowee. Nisa and Gust, hearing of the escalating tension, join up with Planeptune briefly to escort the citizens... and Almaz and Rei join the marching refugees. 36. In order to halt Neptune and Noire from joining up with Blanc, Vert orders her army to kill any peasants and refugees they come across, in order to get her enemies' attention. Cave is tasked with most of the dirty work, and she practically has no choice but to obey. When she ultimately questions her orders, Vert responds by destroying a cabin housing many resting refugees... and Almaz, Rei, and Gust are killed in the ensuing chaos. Cave's mind slips further due to her percieved failure. Nisa survives... and doesn't take her "sidekick's" death lightly... 37. Despite setbacks, Compa and IF miraculously hold off the approaching Leanbox forces long enough to make a difference, and Neptune and Noire meet up with Blanc, and the three nations unite and ready themselves. Vert tells her army to retreat... for the moment. She orders a fleet of airships to surround Lowee's capital... 38. Leanbox Vs. the World. The Leanbox fleet threatens to level the Lowee Basilicom... and Histoire concocts a plan to quickly take out a majority of the ships in one fell swoop. She goes with her hypothesis of the CPUs' HDD being cursed by the magic spell from the Rebellion... and readies a spell to protect one goddess from the insanity. Blanc is naturally chosen... and the tome fairy concentrates all her strength on the incantation. Once finished, Blanc will have five minutes of HDD use before it becomes too dangerous to remain in the form any longer... and risk her mind slipping into Vert's current state. While the spell is being prepared, everyone else must hold off Leanbox for as long as humanely possible. 39. Night falls... and Vert orders her troops to charge, with Cave, Underling, and Markz leading the army. On the opposing side, Falcom, Neptune, and Noire lead the main defense, with IF (and others) lying in wait on several possible escape paths (in case Vert makes a hasty retreat). The battle is rough... but perhaps due to Falcom being inspired by her new 'Nepgear' friend, Leanbox is held off long enough for Blanc to transform... and all hell breaks loose. Ship by ship goes down, and Cave and friends flee for their lives. Vert soaks in the sight of her burning fleet... and she knows that, for today at least, she's lost. Leanbox retreats, only for IF to confront the mad goddess... but the brunette allows her to escape, her honorable spirit shining through. Hopefully it's a decision she won't live to regret... 40. Leanbox goes quiet, rebuilding their strength. Meanwhile, Histoire becomes concerned of inevitable future attacks so long as Vert stays in her cursed HDD form... and with her own magic energy slipping, she orders IF to acquire more Shares for Planeptune by any means necessary. Mainly, steal from Leanbox... but maybe Lowee wouldn't notice if they lost a few as well...? 41. The mysterious Nepgear, after building up a friendship and trust with Falcom, succumbs to what she claims are 'voices' in her head... and she forces Falcom to help her take control of Lowee. Blanc is ambushed, and forced to submit in order to protect Ram, Rom, and even the visiting Kei. While Blanc would visibly remain in charge, at least as far as the public could see... for all intents and purposes, Lowee was now under the imposter Nepgear's control. 42. One day in Leanbox, as a clearly-troubled Vert rests up, Nisa launches a hasty assault on the Basilicom. Markz orders Cave to kill her, but the SMD warrior hesitates. Linda finds Nisa... and tells her to retreat for now. The heroine of justice is clearly not happy about it... but she flees back into the night. Soon, Vert determines it's time to make a move, as her army is back to a decent level of strength. A joint attack is in the cards... 43. Linda, Nepgeo, and Markz Phenix are sent to the outskirts of Lowee to begin securing small bases (and gather Shares from peoples' support, of course), while Vert, Cave, and Chika will begin laying siege to Planeptune. Sensing an incoming invasion, Histoire informs IF... and the brunette agrees to attack the Leanbox Basilicom directly. She leads a small task force and moves out... 44. Nepgear notices Lowee's Shares dipping... and the voice in her head tells her that "the puppet IF" is to blame. She must kill her... to end this chaos... and earn her what she most desires in the entire universe. Falcom can sense Nepgear is immensely troubled... and even after everything, she eventually decides to side with her no matter what, even if perhaps she simply hopes to 'cure' her of this apparent insanity. Falcom has a soft-spot for Nepgears... In order to help, Falcom is sent out to (unknowingly) combat Underling and Nepgeo, who have easily captured the small fortress. 45. The Planeptune Mountain Range... Things don't go as *planned* for Vert... and in an unnatural show of humanity at the loss of her dear Oracle, she orders her troops to abandon all plans for conquest for the day. Cave is mortified by everything... but she obeys her goddess one last time and rushes back to the Leanbox Basilicom, ahead of the main army. 46. "Measure for Measure -Cave Vs. IF-" Can you change the course of history? [[Previous Page|Timeline Page 1]] (link:"Exit Timeline")[(reload:)]

{(if: $endingPath is "True Ending")["Our doubts are traitors, And make us lose the good we oft might win, By fearing to attempt." To Chika - *Cave* [Open...]<love| []<gift| (click:?love)[(replace:?love)[For you, my love.](replace:?gift)[<div align="center"><img src="cover_by_pencil_x_paper.png" height="100%" width="100%" style="opacity:($imgOpa);"></img></div> Cavey x Chika Iffy x Lyree Gear x Falcom (link:"\"Virtue is bold, and goodness never fearful.\"")[(reload:)]]] ] (else:)[<div align="center"><img src="cover_by_pencil_x_paper.png" height="100%" width="100%"></img></div> "The miserable have no other medicine, but only hope." (link:"Return...")[(goto:"Password Page")]]}