Raging River

You are El, a young boy searching for his father. His traveling cloak is wrapped around your shoulders, and his short sword hangs across your back. He disappeared years ago, searching for medicine to help your mother. However, he never returned. Now that she’s recovered, it’s time to put your family back together. As you crest a green rolling hill, a grand city comes into view—miles and miles of houses wrapped in a wall of stone. A vast blue river winds through the town, parting it in two. Before now, your small family cottage was all you’ve ever known. "This place is…" [[ "...wonderful!" |Positive Reaction. ]] [[ "...an eyesore." |Negative Reaction.]] [[ "...scary." | Frightened Reaction.]]

“I’ve never seen anything like this! How could people make buildings so tall?” The city is truly something beautiful. It’s like a beehive for humans! So much effort and ingenuity built up to create a safe home. Could humans really construct something so grand without the magic of the spirits? The tree branch at your side begins to shake. In a gust of wind and flower petals, Juniper appears. She’s a wood nymph with bark skin and flower petals for hair. Ever since the two of you met, she’s been a kind and constant companion. Now she’s agreed to help you on your quest. “First time you’ve seen a human city, huh?” she asks with her mischievous grin. She drifts around you, carefree as her body floats through the air. She lays forward, propping her head up in her hands, as she gazes out at the city. I’ve only heard about them in stories; humans are clearing forests to create fields of stone. I never thought I’d get to see one with my own eyes, let alone walk through it. As a wood nymph, Juniper is bound to her tree. By bringing a branch with you, she can travel at your side. But this will be your first time in a city. Would it really be a good idea to have a nature spirit at your side? [[ "I bet they’ll be just as excited to meet you”! |Bold.]] [[ "Maybe you should stay in your branch." |Hide.]] [[ "We should make you look more human." |Disguise.]]

“I can’t believe it. How could humans defile nature so?” The city is a blight on the land. It’s nothing like your cozy cottage nestled near the woods. It’s like a stone tooth piercing the sky. So many people packed together like rats. How could they breathe the open air or have room to run? It must be suffocating. The tree branch at your side begins to shake. In a gust of wind and flower petals, Juniper appears. She’s a wood nymph with bark skin and flower petals for hair. Ever since the two of you met, she’s been a kind and constant companion. Now she’s agreed to help you on your quest. “Yeah, not exactly my cup of tea,” Juniper says, drifting lazily through the air. She floats at your side as you stare out at the city. Bramble always warned us about humans and their sone forests. Still, how many nymphs have been to one?” She grins as she looks out to the strange new place. As a wood nymph, Juniper is bound to her tree. By bringing a branch with you, she can travel at your side. She’s right, this is a big chance for her to see something new, but she’s reckless. Would a spirit be welcome in such a… wrong place? [[" These humans have been disconnected for too long. They should see a spirit." |Bold.]] [["You should hide. These humans have no respect for the spirits." |Hide.]]

“Uh…um?” You’re dumbfounded as a feeling of tightness grips your chest. This is... This is way too much! What were you thinking? You’re no adventurer. You’re not your Dad. This sprawling, twisting maze of stone is like nothing you’d ever seen. You’ve never even met another human besides your Mom and Dad? You aren’t ready. You… You feel a hand wrap around your own and genteelly squeeze. Juniper, your partner, has materialized at your side. She’s a wood nymph with brown bark skin and pale purple flower petals for hair. Juniper guided you through the dark forest, helped you save your mother’s life, and had agreed to accompany you on this quest. You feel the invisible serpent coiled around your chest relax, and the fear slips away just a tiny bit. “Not having second thoughts, right?” Juniper asks with an easy smile. “Um, just a little.” You say, trying not to seem too terrified Juniper sticks out her tongue and floats at your side. “Well, just keep my branch safe, and I won’t be going anywhere. Come on, ‘Hero. Let’s go see our first city!” Your free hand brushes at the branch hanging at your side. Juniper, as a wood nymph, is bound to her tree. Bringing a branch with you lets her travel in a way that a tree normally can’t. You should make sure to keep it safe. [[“Thanks, Juniper. Stay close, okay?” |Bold.]] [[“We’ve never met these humans. Maybe you should look less… woody.”|Disguise.]]

Well, there’s no point in wasting time. You can tell from how Juniper is bobbing around in the air that she’s just waiting to explore. Better get going before she flies ahead. “I heard humans can make stars explode in the sky! Do you think that’s true?” Juniper says with a grin. “Make stars explode?” You think for a bit. Is such a thing possible? “Well, I’ve never done it, but I’ve never built a city either. Spirits can make plants grow or summon storms. I’m sure humans have their types of magic too.” You look out over the city. The road leads to the main gate. If you want to make a good impression, that’s probably the way to go. Then again, there are guards stationed there too. Maybe Juniper could lift you over the walls? Assuming no one notices, it will be a quick way into the city. But, if someone sees a spirit lifting you into the air, you might garner even more attention than just walking in. [[Go through the front gate. |Gate - Bold.]] [[Go over the wall. |Wall - Bold.]]

"What, you think I'm going to make a scene? Embarrass you in front of all the humans?" Juniper says, placing her hands on her hips. She glares daggers at you, her flower petal hair blowing in the breeze. "It's not like that," You say, shaking your head. //Well… it's a little like that. // Juniper could be a bit gung-ho, and this was your first time in a large human settlement. She should stay hidden, at least till you earned more about what's going on. "Oh? And what is it like?" Juniper says. "We should be careful. Remember how hostile spirits can be to humans? Well, what if humans are the same way?" You ask. "That's rich. It didn't stop you from going into the forest, El. Why don't I get the same chance?" "You should, and you will just as soon as we know it's safe." You take a deep breath and try to steel your resolve. "Trust me, Juniper." Juniper rolls her eyes, but she relents. Her form dissipates into flower petals and summer winds' sweet smell. The petals swirl around the tree branch strapped to your back, flowing into it as streaks of light. Soon Juniper is completely hidden within the branch. Now that this is done, it's time to get into the city. You could try the front gate. You'd probably pass as an ordinary traveler. Scaling the walls might be possible, but it would be challenging to do alone. You could also swim through the river, but is it worth getting all wet when you could just walk in? [[Go through the front gate. |Gate - Hidden.]] [[It's a nice day for a swim. |River - Hidden.]] [[How high could the wall be? |Wall - Hidden.]]

You remove your father's traveling cloak. Humans. This will be your first time in a city. You would already stand out on your own, but Juniper would draw too much attention. Maybe humans would be hostile to the spirits. Perhaps they would fawn over her. Either way, for now, you wanted to keep a low profile. You hold the cloak out to Juniper, and she nods. "I guess I should dress up a little, huh? Don't want any humans taking an ax to me, right?" Juniper winks before taking the cloak and draping it around herself. It should work, well, assuming no one looks too closely. With Juniper suitably disguised, the two of you look over the town once more. There's a large gate near the main road. It's probably the town's main entrance. However, you could probably sneak in to avoid attention. Perhaps if you swam through the river, you could slip through? Though walking around soaking wet might also draw attention… [[Go through the front gate. |Gate - Disguised]] [[Swim through the river. |River - Disguised]]

You approach the front gate with Juniper at your side. With your father's cloak draped over her, she passes for human. Everything should be fine if no one looks too closely. You'd best make your way through quickly. The other travelers speak merrily as you go, regaling tales of their travels or making plans. You wonder how far they've traveled. Undoubtedly much more than a country boy and a spirit first making their way into the city. "Next!" As you approach, the guard glances at you. His metal armor gleams in the sun as his bright red scarf flutters in the breeze. He spots the sword strapped to your back and lets out a small chuckle. Apparently, you're not much of a threat. Part of you is glad to forgo further scrutiny, but you also feel a bit slighted. "A little warrior?" he asks. [["Just a traveler, sir." |Just a traveler.]] [["I might be little, but I'm strong!" |Little Warrior.]]

You and Juniper approach the river. You’re already disguised but sneaking in through the river still seems like the safest bet. “A pretty shy approach for a hero. That’s so you,” Juniper says with a smirk. “It’s better safe than sorry.” You respond. You kneel by the river and look within. Then it hits you, a foul smell that shoots into your nose like a fist. You reel back reflexively, waving your hand. The water looks crystal clear. How can it reek so badly? “What’s up?” Juniper says as she approaches the riverbank. She reaches down to the water with a single hand. “Do you not know how to swim?“ Juniper recoils as if she’d suddenly touched a lump of hot coal. She flies behind you, glaring at the river. “Something’s not right here, El. This river, the magic in it is all wrong!” “Wrong?” You ask. “How can nature be wrong?” “I don’t know. It just is! Look, I’m telling you to stay away from that river. I’m a spirit, and it freaks me out. You’re just a human. Who knows what it will do to you.” “We’re already here. If I swim through quickly, how bad could it be?” Juniper folds her arms and gives you a harsh glare. “Look, you can swim through if you want, but I’m not. No way! We either try the Gate, or I’m staying in my branch.” [[Try the gate. |Gate - Disguised]] [[ Swim through anyway. |River - Hidden.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/River.mp3"></audio>

You approach the front gate with Juniper at your side. The other travelers give you a wide breadth, whispering under their breath as you pass. Maybe they're frightened. Perhaps they're merely gossiping. You decide not to hang around and find out. If you just stroll forward as if you belong, then there shouldn't be any trouble. Well, that is till you reach the guards. The two guards lower their spears as you approach, the sun gleaming off their polished armor. Their scarlet scarves flutter in the breeze, and their young faces are twisted into sour glares. "Halt there, daemon!" the left guard orders. "I don't know where you came from, but your kind aren't welcome here!" "Daemon?" Juniper says with her eyes wide. This could go bad. Maybe you should try to defuse the situation. Then again, they both look quite frightened. Maybe you can use their fear to bluff your way through? [["Wait, she's not a demon!" |Gate - Honest.]] [["Move, before she steals your souls!" |Gate - Bluff.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Shock.wav"></audio>

With Juniper's help, you should be able to make it up the wall no problem. Sometimes it paid off to be friends with a spirit. That said, the wall looked so much bigger up close. "Hey, Juniper. I think we should go over the wall to get in. Do you think you could carry me up?" "Carry you up? Hmm… that's a tall order. Hmm, Hmm, Hmmmmm." Juniper floats at your side and taps her temples in thought. She's messing with you, of course, but if you interrupt, she'll probably string you along even longer. "Well. I guess it's possible. Don't say I've never done anything for you!" Juniper says with a grin. She lays her hand on the grassy field beneath your feet. In the blink of an eye, a tree begins the grow beneath your feet, lifting you into the air. It grows upwards until you can simply stroll right onto the wall and overlook the city. There don't seem to be any guards at the top, so you hop off the tree and take in your bearings. "You're welcome, by the way," Juniper chimes. “So, where to now? [[Go to the Inn.|City - Bold.]] [[Go to the Church.|City - Bold.]]

You approach the front gate, your father's traveling cloak wrapped around you. With Juniper hidden away, it should be easy enough to walk right in. Well, you hope so, at least. It’s not as if you’ve done this before. In front of you, people in colorful clothing enter the city. On either side of the great gate stand guards in gleaming metal armor. You can help but stare at the reflective steel of their armor and the bright crimson of their scarves. “You there, boy!” Your blood runs cold for a second as you realize the guard on your left is speaking to you. [[Pretend you didn’t hear anything. |Sneak In - Hidden]] [[Go to speak with the guard.|Inspection - Hidden.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Chatter.wav"></audio>

You decide not to risk it. Sneaking in through the river will avoid the most attention. Hopefully, there will be a good place to dry off once you get inside. You're not sure if Juniper can swim, she is a living tree after all, but it hardly matters with her hidden inside her branch. Still, you should make sure you strap the branch tightly. It would be a shame if your partner went floating away down the river. Once you make sure all your possessions are secure, you approach the river and give it a look. Now that you're up close, you realize something. The river stinks! You've swum in creeks and lakes with your family before, but none of them have smelled this terribly. It's like milk left out to sour in the sun. You take a deep breath and hop into the water before you get cold feet. Swimming through it feels more like swimming through mud than water. Something is wrong here. Your arms and legs begin to ache, your lungs burn, but you stay submerged and swim against the tide as long as you can. Soon it's too much, and you breach the water's surface. <center><img src="Assets/City-River.jpg"></center> You’ve made it! You're in the city, even if you aren't sure where. The first thing on your mind is getting out of the stinking river. You quickly paddle the shore and drag yourself out, feeling drained and cold. No, it's more than that. You feel hollow. [[Rest your eyes. |Sleep.]] [[Force yourself to move. |City Streets - Hidden ]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/River.mp3"></audio>

You decide to scale the wall. It seems like a good idea. Even with Juniper hidden in her branch, you don’t want to risk being questioned by the guards. The longer you could avoid any undue attention, the better. That said, the wall looked so much bigger up close. You take a deep breath, stretch, and leap at the wall. The stones are well placed, which means there are very few handholds for you to find. However, your fingers clutch for any small flaw they can find, and you begin pulling yourself upwards. You’re barely halfway up before your breath is rough and ragged. Your fingers, covered in sweat, are beginning to slip. Your left hand falls away, and before you can recover, you tumble from the wall and plummet to the grassy ground below. You lie on the ground, trying to catch your breath. This plan isn’t going to work. [[Try the river. |River - Hidden.]] [[Try the gate. |Gate - Hidden.]] [[Ask Juniper for help. |Wall - Bold.]]

You hear the guard calling but pretend otherwise. With so many travelers moving in, it’s not hard to blend in with the crowd. Soon you’re past the gate and into the city proper, and what a city! You walk through the streets, with Juniper hidden in her branch. The sights and sounds are almost overwhelming. There’s the smell of sweets and bread and rot and smoke. There’s shouting as two men arm-wrestle over a barrel and singing as young girls play in the large roads. Yet, in the alleyways, you see thin figures watering away as they groan and limp listlessly. There so much to see here, but you can’t allow yourself to get distracted. It would be best if you found someone who might have information on your missing father. Near the main road is a long building. It shakes with loud voices and the smells of fresh food. There’s certainly a lot of people there. It might be an excellent place to try. In the center of the town is a tall building with large glass windows. Its impressive façade dominates the cityscape. You get a feeling that it must be a pretty important place. Whoever is there must know much about what’s going on in the city. [[Try the inn. |Inn - Hidden.]] [[Try the church. |Church - Hidden]]

You approach the guard, trying not to look too nervous. You doubt that he’s going to guess that you’ve got a spirit hidden on a branch behind your back. “Hello, Sir. Um, nice weather we’re having?” The guard raises his brow and gives you a stern glare. He looks up and nods slowly.” You know, it really is nice. What brings you to Rhyngald?” “I’m looking for my father.” You respond. Perhaps this guard might be able to point you in the right direction. “A missing person? I advise you file a report at the Librarium. It’s the large building at the center of the city.” You nod and continue on your way into Rhyngald. “May the Light of Order illuminate your path!” The guard says as you leave. [[Head to the inn. |Inn - Hidden.]] [[ Head to the Librarium. |Church - Hidden]]

It's no use. You can't keep your eyes open. Your eyelids are made of lead as you struggle to keep them open. They shut, and you fall into sleep. No, you don't fall. You plummet. You can tell right away this sleep is abnormal. You don't drift gently away into unconsciousness. It's like you're being yanked down into a deep dark sea. Everything is heavy and slow, like you had weights tied around your ankles. You're dragged down deeper and deeper as the air is squeezed from your lungs. Beneath you, in the depths of the darkness, floats a woman with long flowing cerulean hair and a tattered emerald dress. She reaches for you hungrily, and you suddenly feel like a fish that has just bitten on a hook. //el… // The woman's face grins as she draws you in closer. She smiles with needle-thin teeth. //El.// She almost has you now. Her jaw unhooks as her maw spreads open like a whirlpool. "EL!" The voice shocks one last burst of awareness into your mind. There, in the distance, a pinprick of light! It's so far, nothing more than a speck. [[Swim for it! |Awaken in the church.]] [[It's no use. |Sink.]]

You walk through the city streets with Juniper hidden within her branch. The sights and sounds are almost overwhelming. There’s the smell of sweets and bread and rot and smoke. There’s shouting as two men arm-wrestle over a barrel and singing as young girls play in the large roads. Yet, in the alleyways, you see thin figures watering away as they groan and limp listlessly. There so much to see here, but you can’t allow yourself to get distracted. It would be best if you found someone who might have information on your missing father. Well, near the main road is a long building. It shakes with loud voices and the smells of fresh food. There’s certainly a lot of people there. It might be an excellent place to try. In the center of the town is a tall building with large glass windows. Its impressive façade dominates the cityscape. You get a feeling that it must be a pretty important place. Whoever is there must know much about what’s going on in the city. [[Try the Inn. |Inn - Hidden.]] [[Try the Church. |Church - Hidden]]

“Juniper is just a tree nymph,” You say. “She’s a little snarky, but she’s not dangerous.” You try to stay calm and bring down everyone’s tension. However, the guards seem just to be getting more agitated. Things could go very wrong here very fast. Maybe you should just give up on coming this way? Still, there are only two guards. You might be able to fight your way through. [[Stay calm and slowly approach.]] [[Retreat and find another way inside.]] [[Fight your way through.]]

"That's right!" You say. "She's a powerful spirit, so best move out of our way or else!" You try your best not to smirk. These humans seem easy to fool. They're already terrified. "Daemon!" shouts the guard on your right. Two more guards arrive and lower their weapons at you. It seems your bluff worked a bit too well. These guards are armed and dangerous. There's no way you can talk them down now. You need to strike first. You rush forward, closing the distance between yourself and one of the guards as quickly as you can. You swing the flat of your sword into the side of his head. The guar goes falling to the ground with a shout. "Damn! How is a kid so fast? "one of the guard cries. Another tries to bring his halberd down on you, but his limbs are entwined in long thick vines. "I've got your back!" shouts Juniper. You give her a quick nod before turning your attention to the next guard. He charges you, sweeping your legs with his halberd. They underestimated you before because of your youth. They won't make that mistake again. You leap upwards and land on the weapon's shaft, knocking it out of the guard's grasp. His eyes go wide as he looks between you and Juniper. The guard quickly makes his choice and turns to run. That's one less to deal with. Juniper lifts her entangled guard in the air and tosses him into the final opponent, knocking them both unconscious. You sheath your sword before looking over to Juniper. "Well, they were still more friendly than Lord Bramble." She says with a smile. Bramble, the great wolf spirit of the forest. He'd nearly eaten the both of you alive not long ago. You and Juniper had only survived by working together. After that encounter, you were more than a match for any ordinary guard. "Yeah, But from now on, maybe we-" An explosion blows you off your feet, as your vision is flooded with light. You fall unconscious before you hit the ground. [[You've been knocked out. |Arrest.]]

“I’m just a traveler, sir,” you say to the guard. He smiles and nods to both of you. “Well then, why not go to the Swimming Serpent? It’s our largest inn,” he says with a smile. “You can get a meal and a little rest.” You give the guard a nod. “Maybe we’ll do that, bright guy!” Juniper says gleefully. You wince, but the guard smiles. “She’s got spunk! Look out for her, little traveler. We can't have her getting hurt. ” The guard says. “As if. I’m the one who has to looks out for him.” Juniper says with a laugh. The guard chuckles and waves to both of you as you enter the city. The sights and sounds are almost overwhelming. There’s the smell of sweets and bread and rot and smoke. There’s shouting as two men arm-wrestle over a barrel and singing as young girls play in the large roads. Yet, in the alleyways, you see thin figures watering away as they groan and limp listlessly. “This place is… amazing? Insane?” Juniper asks, her head swiveling in every direction. “Who thought the human’s stone forests could be so expansive!” She’s right. There so much to see here, but you can’t allow yourself to get distracted. It would be best if you found someone who might have information on your missing father. Well, near the main road is a long building. It shakes with loud voices and the smells of fresh food. That must be the in the guardsman mentioned. There’s certainly a lot of people there. It might be an excellent place to try. In the center of the town is a tall building with large glass windows. Its impressive façade dominates the cityscape. You get a feeling that it must be a pretty important place. Whoever is there must know much about what’s going on in the city. [[Try the Swimming Serpent Inn. |Inn - Disguise.]] [[Try the large building. |Church - Disguise.]]

"I might be little, but I'm strong!" you say with pride. You've grown up in the Dark Forest. Your father has trained you to fight since you could walk. You have even battled spirits before. The guard smiles and nods to both of you. "Well said, little warrior! Maybe you out to sign up with the Order!" he says, thumping his armored chest with a proud smile. His crimson scarf flutters in the wind heroically. "We're always looking for initiates. Just head to the Librarium in the center of town." You give the guardsman a nod. The Order, huh? They seemed like the major power in town. Maybe if you ally with them, they can help you find your father? "Yeah, standing in front of a gate all day seems kinda dull. We're going to be adventurers." Juniper says, rolling her eyes. You wince, but the guard smiles. "Well, you got me there, but boring guard duty beats an exciting daemon attack any day." The guard says. "I'm not scared of any daemon," Juniper says with a laugh. "El and I will send them packing." The guard laughs and waves to both of you as you enter the city. The sights and sounds are almost overwhelming. There's the smell of sweets and bread and rot and smoke. There's shouting as two men arm-wrestle over a barrel and singing as young girls play in the large roads. Yet, in the alleyways, you see thin figures watering away as they groan and limp listlessly. "This place is… amazing? Insane?" Juniper asks, her head swiveling in every direction. "Who thought the human's stone forests could be so expansive!" She's right. There so much to see here, but you can't allow yourself to get distracted. It would be best if you found someone who might have information on your missing father. Well, near the main road is a long building. It shakes with loud voices and the smells of fresh food. That must be the in the guardsman mentioned. There's certainly a lot of people there. It might be an excellent place to try. In the center of the town is a tall building with large glass windows. Its impressive façade dominates the cityscape. That must be the Librarium, seat of power for the Order. Whoever is there must know much about what's going on in the city. [[Try the long building. |Inn - Disguise.]] [[Try the Librarium. |Church - Disguise.]]

The light is so far. You're not sure if you can make it, but you must. In your heart, you know that whatever lies beneath is no friend of yours. "EL! Wake up!" You recognize Juniper's voice breaking through the thick darkness. She may not be here beside you, but you can feel her reaching out to you. You focus on her voice and swim up to the lights with all you have. The dark water sucks you down like muck, but you struggle all the same. The light grows brighter until it stings your eyes. You shut your eyes instinctively before slowly opening them again. Juniper's face is staring down at you as she floats in the air. You feel thick wool blankets covering your body. You're in a room lit by a crystal that hangs from the stone roof. There's stained glass window on the east wall, depicting an eye wreathed in the sun's rays. You let out a small groan as you try to sit up. The entire room tilts as you feel your head swimming. Juniper places her hand beside you and helps to prop you up. "There you go," Juniper says softly. She gives you a warm smile. [["Where are we?" |Question.]] [[Try to get out of bed. |Investigate.]]

You can’t do it. The light is just too far. You’ve sunk too deep. You’re too weak after your swim in the river. It’s easier just to sink and drift away. You shut your eyes and let what little strength remains in your body slip away as you enter a dreamless sleep. It is a sleep from which you never awaken. //THE END//

"Where are we?" you ask, holding a hand against your head. You take a deep breath and try to clear the fog from your mind. Everything still feels hazy. "Well, still in the city. You passed out," Juniper says. She crosses her arms and floats at your bedside. "Some humans came and brought you here. They call themselves the Order of Illumination. I figured I shouldn't make a scene." Juniper not make a scene? She must really have been worried. It was probably the best choice at the time, though. You're grateful for her restraint. Well, at least you're both still okay. Whatever this order wants, if you remain aware, you can deal with it. You're about to ask another question when there's a knock at the door. [[Greet whoever it is. |Greeting.]]

You hop off the bed, wobbling on unsteady legs. The room you're in is built from a smoothly joined stone. You have to look closely even to notice the seams. It must have been constructed with much more care than the rest of the city. It's not that the Rhyngald was shoddily built, but this place is a work of art. That said, its design is simpler than you might anticipate. The walls are nearly flawless, and the corners are perfect right angles. Even the furniture looks perfectly proportioned for this room. The space is lit by a fist-sized blue gem suspended from the roof. It bathes the room in soft, steady light. You feel a benign sense of serenity as you gaze at the stone, like floating in a calm lake. "This is the Librarium," Juniper says. "It's home base to the Order of Illumination. They're like an order of spirit hunters."` "Spirit hunters?" You mumble. Your family had always lived in harmony with spirits. Of course, sometimes humans and spirits fought, but why would anyone go out of their way to hunt them? Before you can think more about the issue, a voice rings out. "The Oder of Illumination does not hunt spirits. It defends human potential." You turn and see a boy with blond hair and piercing blue eyes has entered the room. You didn't even notice him till he spoke up. How long has he been watching you? "Orin," Juniper hisses to the boy. "Daemon," Orin answers in a flat tone. He doesn't even look at her as he speaks, deciding to stare you down instead. "You keep strange company. Strange enough that the High Overseer has asked to see you." [[Agree to see the Overseer. |Meeting of Minds.]] [[ Refuse to see the Overseer. |Refuse.]]

<center><img src="Assets/Hall.jpg"></center> You follow the blond boy through the stone halls. Juniper floats behind you, taking in the sights as you move. Everything here is different from your small family cabin or the Dark Forest. Everything here is structured, rigid. You get a feeling that every stone was placed with an exact and deliberate purpose. You're not sure if the orderly structure is impressive or suffocating. This place feels like it's the heart of the human city, and whoever you're going to meet is undoubtedly important. Maybe he will know something about your father? You come to a large oak door emblazoned with a red sun. The blonde boy knocks soundly three times. "Enter," rings out a voice, solid as stone. The three of you walk into the room. Bookcases line the walls, and glowing crystals that bathe the room in light. A large desk, carved from solid maple, stands before you, and behind it is a gaunt man dressed in black. His skin is pale, and his black hair is slicked back to show his cold blue eyes. Across his shoulder is draped a red cape that flows like a crimson waterfall. It feels like he's staring straight through you as he tents his hands. "A child who survived swimming the Rhyn. I thought today would be boring." He says with an acid tipped tongue. Is he a friend or foe? You try to get a read on him, but his face is utterly implacable. "And he even has a pet. How curious." "Pet? I'm nobody's pet, Mr. Tall, Dark, and Creepy! If anything, I'm the one taking care of El!" Juniper's petals go bright red as she balls her fists. "Silence, Daemon!" The blond boy snaps. "How dare you raise your voice against High Inquisitor Aldin!" The blond boy steps between Juniper and the high Inquisitor. The air feels tense. If these two keep up, a fight could break out. [[Back Juniper up.]] [[Tell Juniper to back off.]] [[Try to make peace.]] [[Draw your sword.]]

“Don’t talk to my friend that way.” You say. You’re not sure if it will help, but you have to back Juniper up here. She’s your friend, after all. The blond boy looks taken aback as you speak up. “After the Order of Illumination saves you from the Rhyn River and nurses you to health, you side with a spirit over your own kind?” he asks, gritting his teeth. “My kind? I’ve only just met you!” You assert, stepping forward to the blond boy. You don’t know exactly what’s going on, but if he thinks he can bully you both, he’s got another thing coming. “Humans!” the boy responds. “You are human, right? You should be helping us. Spirits do nothing but – “ “Enough,” says the High Inquisitor in a stern tone. The blond boy looks back to his master. “But High Inquisitor –“ The Blond Boys starts. However, the High inquisitor raises a hand, his glare as cold as iron. “I said enough, Orin. Is this how a Seer conducts himself? Speak the first tenant.” The blond boy, apparently named Orin, hangs his head and places his hands behind his back. “‘The mind must always rule the heart.’ I apologize, High Inquisitor.” Orin says, sounding defeated. He steps back, keeping his gaze low. The High Inquisitor turns to you without skipping a beat. “I apologize for young Orin. He is still training to join the Order. The three of you have something in common. You’re all given to youthful passions, “the High Inquisitor says, staring you straight in the eyes. “Now, if You’re willing to hear me out, I have a proposition.” [[Hear him out.]] [[Demand to leave.]]

You quickly step between Juniper and the Blonde boy. Whatever was going on, there was no way letting it erupt into a fight would help. "Look, both of you, calm down," you say sternly. They both look a little shocked at your interjection, but you can feel the tension bubbling over between the two. Juniper goes to speak first, visibly annoyed. "They called me a pet," she grumbles. "I know, but this is our first real meeting." you reason. "We're bound to step on each other's toes…or roots. Since when do you get bothered by the little stuff?" Juniper folds her arms but lets out a low breath. She may not be happy, but she's at least calm. You quickly shift your attention to Orin, who's trying his best bot appear calm, despite his furrowed brow. "As for you, if you went through all the trouble of bringing us before your High Overseer, it wasn't to fight," you say. Orin scoffs but averts his gaze from yours. "Well, it seems you've reigned in both the spirit and young Orin. Forgive the initiate's demeanor. He's still weak to the follies of youth. The High Overseer stares at you, the flicker of a smile crosses his face. "If you're so intent on solving problems," he says, stroking his chin. "There's quite a serious issue this fair city, Rhyngald, is dealing with. Someone of your talents could save many lives." [[Hear him out.]] [[Demand to leave.]]

You draw your sword and attack! Whoever this High Overseer is, he’s going to learn that- The High Overseer raises his hand, and a pulse of pale light surges forward. Your sword goes flying out of your hands and clatters to the ground. You soon follow its lead, being knocked off your feet and slamming into the back wall. Juniper doubles over, clutching her body in pain. Whoever this High Overseer was, he was powerful. If he was so strong, what did he even want with the both of you? “You have a bit of fight in you? Good.” The High Overseer says, staring down his nose at you. “I dare think you two will need it. There is a curse on this town, emanating from the Rhyne River. You have been conscripted to end it. Succeed, and you will be rewarded. Fail, and you will be hunted till you either leave my city, or we put you down.” He speaks casually, polishing a small gold medal with a silky white cloth. He’s not in the mood to be amicable. “You’ll bring my initiate, Orin, with you. He shall observe what you do. Now, go. “ [[Set out for the Rhyn River. |Accept Orin.]] [[Refuse.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

You've come this far. You may as well hear the High Inquisitor out. If you don't like what he says, you can storm out afterward. At least you hope that you can. "Okay, what do you want?" you ask. The High Inquisitor looks you and Juniper over like a farmer deciding which pig to have for dinner. He exhales slowly before standing up from his desk. "Our city, Rhyngald, is plagued." The High Inquisitor says. "Those who drink the water sicken. Those who swim in the river die. We believe this may be the work of a daemon." "Daemon?" you ask. "An evil spirit bent on harming humanity," responds the High Inquisitor. "It is killing the people of this city like sheep. The Order of Illumination must root it out so humanity may thrive." The High Inquisitor turns from you, looking to the white banner hanging from his wall, bearing a bright red sun. "However, try as we might, we cannot find the source of this corruption. It seems you have a way with spirits. Find the daemon and eliminate its threat." [[Agree. You have to help these people.]] [[Decline. This sounds way too dangerous.]] [[Ask for compensation.]]

“I don’t want to hear anything you have to say!” you shout. Whatever this man has in mind, it can’t be good for you. The sooner you’re out of here, the better. “Let me and Juniper go!” The High Inquisitor’s lip twitches in the faintest flicker of a frown. He narrows his gaze and leaves a pause hanging in the air. You feel the silence in the base of your neck, itching as you want to fill the air with words. The High Inquisitor stares you down before gesturing to the door. “You’re not yet a prisoner. If you’d like to leave, do so. However, the Order of Illumination knows a great many things. What I have to say may interest you.” [[Give him another chance. |Hear him out.]] [[Walk out the door. |Leave the city.]]

“Quiet, Juniper,” you say sternly. You can understand she feels insulted, but there’s a time and place to pick a fight, and this isn’t it. The Order could probably help you out if you played things right, and if you didn’t, things could go very wrong very fast. You’re not sure why, but looking at the piercing blue eyes of the High Overseer, you get a pervading sense of danger. It wasn’t malicious, per se, but utterly indifferent, like the biting frost of the deepest winter. “You’re taking their side? Really El? These guys think that just because they can build some pretty buildings, they own the entire world!” Juniper shouts. The pink petals of her hair flare into a fiery red. Orin Leaps back, reaching into his sleeve, eyes hardened as he prepares for battle. The High Overseer stands, the same look of cold indifference carved into his face. He raises his hand, and Orin quickly steps back. Juniper folds her arms and pouts, turning her back to the rest of you. You’ve put her in a bad mood. The High Overseer stares at you and speaks in a voice like quicksilver. “You can keep one spirit obedient. If this is indicative of your talents, I have a proposal for you, boy.” [[Hear him out.]] [[Demand to leave.]]

"Okay, I'll help out." You say with a nod. The High Inquisitor's eyes widen for just the briefest moment. Orin's head snaps up as he looks at the two of you. "Just like that?" Orin asks. "You're not going to ask for something in return?" You shrug in response. What are you supposed to say? If people are dying and you can help, isn't it your duty? That's what your dad would think. "That's El for you. He's a hero with a heart of gold." Juniper says with a sharp smirk. You're not sure if she's proud of you or just happy that Orin and the Inquisitor were thrown off. It's probably a mix of both. "Well, that remains to be seen," says the High Inquisitor. He looks you both over before tossing a small pouch towards you. You catch it in your hands, and it weighs heavy. "There, a little pre-payment. I have another request, though. I'd ask you to bring young Orin with you." The High Inquisitor gestures over to Orin, never taking his eyes off you. "He could do with the experience, and you could use all the help you can get against a Daemon." [[Accept Orin.]] [[Deny Orin.]]

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Fight a daemon? This isn’t the sort of thing you signed up for. Adventure sure, but not suicide! The way you see it, this city has its own issues, and they were in swing long before you arrived. Why should you risk your neck? “Thanks for the offer, but I’ll have to decline,” you say. “Decline?” Orin asks. “What about fighting for your fellow humans. This is the first time we’ve seen a tamed spirit. You have some sort of power.” Juniper rolls her eyes at the mention of being tamed. Orin either doesn’t see or chooses to ignore her. You get a distinct feeling it’s the latter. “My fellow humans? I’ve only just visited this town. No offense, you seem nice enough, but I’m not willing to die for you. Besides, I have to find my father. Fighting a daemon isn’t going to help with that.” Orin turns up his nose at you. He seems disgusted. The High Overseer merely shrugs. “It’s rational,” he says, “to look out in your own interests. Perhaps, if you assist us, the Order will be able to help you find your missing father. What do you say?” [[“Thanks, but no thanks.” |Leave the city.]] [[“Well, when you put it like that…” |Info reward.]]

Fight a daemon? That sounds pretty dangerous. These Order people seem strong. If they're asking you to take care of it instead of doing this themselves, there must be a reason. With that being the case, you shouldn't be too quick to accept. "What's in it for me?" You ask, staring the High Overseer down. If this means enough to ask for help, he should be willing to trade something in return. It would be best if you had every advantage you can get. The High Overseer tents his fingers and nods. "Of course. It's only rational that you look after your interests. What is it you want, boy? Gold The Order can provide." [[Ask about your father.|Info reward.]] [[Gold sounds pretty good!|Money reward.]]

It’s time to cut your losses. You and Juniper quickly gather your things and make your way out of the city. What will happen there? Who cares, certainly not you. A hero is someone who knows better than to fight a losing battle. As the two of you crest a hill, you give the city out the last look. You take a deep breath, work up a little phlegm, and spit in its direction. “Goodbye, Rhyngald!” you shout. “And good riddance!” Juniper finishes. //The End//

You look over to Orin. He honestly doesn’t seem like a bad guy. Besides, he knew the city way better than you, and the Hight Inquisitor had a point. How could more help hurt? “Okay, Orin can come with us. We appreciate the help,” you say. “I guess, just as long as he doesn’t mess up our groove,” Juniper says. “El and I are kind-of a dynamic duo. Just follow our lead, Sunshine.“ Juniper rolls her eyes as her petals go from red to light pink. Maybe she and Orin started on the wrong foot, but first impressions aren’t everything. With some time together, they would get along… Well, you hope they would. Orin raises an eyebrow as he joins the two of you. He seems unsure of this partnership. Maybe you can win him over? “Sunshine?” he asks. “It’s a nickname,” you respond. “It means she likes you.” Juniper folds her arms and flashes a toothy smile. “Yeah. We’re all gonna be best friends.” She says in a drawl. [[Set out for the Rhyn.]]

You look over to Orin. The High Overseer had a point. Orin probably could help you find your way through the city and fight the daemon. However, you get a bad feeling about bringing Orin along. He tries to hide it, but you can tell he’s a hothead. If he gets angry, who knows what he’s going to do? Besides, he and Juniper clearly don’t get along. Bringing Orin would be a mistake. “Juniper and I will be fin on our own,” you say. “Your initiate would just mess up our groove,” Juniper says with a smirk. “El and I are a dynamic duo,” Juniper says, flipping her boy in midair. Orin grits his teeth as he places his hands behind his back. The High Overseer gestures to the doorway. “Well, I will not force you. Act in the way you think is best,” he says. “Oh, we will,” says Juniper. [[Set out for the Rhyn. |Leave Orin.]]

El, the forest boy who can speak to the spirits. Juniper, the mischievous but kindhearted treen-nymph. Orin, the seer-in-training from an order of spirit-hunters. The three of you make an odd team, but you’ll be able to get the job done. Well, you’d better. You’ve never met a daemon before, but with every step you take towards the Rhyn river, you feel that it will change before the day is over. This city was full of firsts, but you were still up and kicking. “Are you sure we can trust this guy?” Juniper asks as you exit the large church in the town center. You’re about to respond when Orin chimes in. “I’m a Seer of the Order of Illumination. We serve humanity by spreading the tenants of order and rationality. I’m far more trustworthy than some spirit. “Excuse me, Sunshine, but your order asked us for help. I didn’t ask for you to come along.” Juniper snaps back. You’ve barely made it out of the church, and your team is already arguing. What should you do? [[Defend Juniper.]] [[Ask about Orin.]] [[Tell everyone to stay quiet till you reach the Rhyn River.]]

You’ve had your fill of their arguing. “Enough!” you shout. “Will you two cut it out? We need to focus! Who knows what’s waiting for us at the Rhyn!” Juniper recoils for a few seconds. You’re not usually the type to snap like that. She opens her mouth, searching for the words to defend herself, but eventually floats behind you in silence. Orin looks like he’s boiling on the inside but merely furrows his brow and trudges toward the river. Neither of your companions seems very happy, but at least they aren’t fighting. Soon enough, you’re at the Rhyn, tremendous flowing river with perfectly clear water. Yet a foul stench, like meat left in the sun, rises from its banks. The city folk seem to be avoiding this place, so you’ll have room to do as you wish. An evil spirit supposedly resides here. How should you deal with it? [[Try to negotiate. |Negotiate - Strained.]] [[Battle the Spirit. |Battle - Strained.]]

You decide to back Juniper up. If there’s any chance of you succeeding, you all need to be on the same page. “Look, Orin, I get that you have issues with spirits but don’t take that out on Juniper,” you say. “Juniper saved my life before. She’s one of the nicest people I’ve met, human or spirit. She’s helping to save your city even though she won’t get anything out of it.” “Nonsense,” Orin says. He tries to sound confident but averts his gaze. “Spirits don’t care about people. They only look after themselves.” “Lord Bramble said the same thing about humans,” says Juniper. She folds her arms and looks up toward the sky as she floats along. It’s as if she were lying on an invisible hammock. “He was the most powerful spirit in my forest. He thought all humans just wanted to take and destroy. But I met El, and he was different.” Orin looks at the two of you wordlessly. He shakes his head and straightens his back. “If I ignore evidence in front of my face, I will stay from the path of rationality. Fine, I’ll let you two take the lead,” Orin says, throwing up his hands. It’s not much of a concession, but you feel like you’ve made progress. Soon enough, you’re at the Rhyn, a tremendous flowing river with perfectly clear water. Yet a foul stench, like meat left in the sun, rises from its banks. The city folk seem to be avoiding this place. It is cursed after all. You’ll have room to do as you wish. An evil spirit supposedly resides here. How should you deal with it? [[Try to negotiate. |Negotiate - Team.]] [[Fight it out! |Fight - Team]]

You decide to ask about Orin. If there’s any chance of you succeeding, you all need to be on the same page. If he was so hostile, there had to be a reason. “You don’t trust Juniper,” you say. “Why? She’s never done anything against you.” “Spirits don’t care about people,” Orin says. “They only look after themselves. Look at this curse. People in the city are sick and dying just because a spirit wants to throw a temper tantrum. We just drew some magic from the river, and it lashed out.” “Just drew magic from the river?” asks Juniper. She folds her arms and looks up toward the sky as she floats along. It’s as if she were lying on an invisible hammock. “Spirits live on magic. No, it’s more that magic is who and what we are. Imagine if someone came and started drawing your blood without even asking. Wouldn’t you fight too?” Orin looks at the two of you wordlessly. He shakes his head and straightens his back. “The people needed it. We used that magic to make their lives better. Spirts want for nothing but if we can light the night or warm their homes with magic, why shouldn’t we” Orin says, throwing up his hands. Juniper flips in the air and floats in front of Orin. “I’m not saying drawing any magic is bad, but did you ever consider that spirits can be as scared of humans as humans are of them?” Orin looks away from her but doesn’t respond. It’s not much of a concession, but you feel like you’ve made progress. Soon enough, you’re at the Rhyn, a tremendous flowing river with perfectly clear water. Yet a foul stench, like meat left in the sun, rises from its banks. The city folk seem to be avoiding this place, so you’ll have room to do as you wish. An Evil Spirit supposedly resides here. How should you deal with it? [[Try to negotiate. |Negotiate - Team.]] [[Fight it out! |Fight - Team]]

You decide to try negotiation. Spirits could be wild, dangerous, and spiteful, but you'd never met one that was truly evil. If the spirit here is the cause of what's going on, they probably have a reason for it. You shut your eyes and focus on the flowing river. You can feel the energy flowing through it. It's like the forest back home, but tainted, rotten, malice oozing like pus from a sore. Yet beneath that spiritual filth, you can see someone. They're hiding in the muck, like a catfish buried in the soil. However, their influence spreads throughout the river, sapping vitality from all the water touches. "Well?" Orin asks with a raised brow. "There's definitely a spirit here. It's hidden deep in the river. I have to focus." You draw your father's short sword holding it out toward the river. Usually, spirits must choose to appear, but you could force it out. Of course, that might not be good for negotiations. "Okay, follow my lead," you whisper. [[Force the spirit to appear.]] [[Disarm yourself.]]

It's best to finish this quickly. As soon as the spirit appears, you'll go on the attack. Finish the fight before it begins. "When the spirit appears, follow my lead," you say. "Follow your lead? Do you mean that you don't have an actual plan?" Orin seethes. You ignore him, focusing on the task at hand. Now that you know the spirit is here, you should be able to draw it forth. "I know you're here, spirit," you say as you draw your sword. You plunge the blade into the river, and it pulses with a red light. Reveal yourself and be known!" you shout. Your voice reverberates through the water, and It begins to bubble and roil, as if it were boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid to a translucent jelly and finally to flesh. Before you, stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair, she looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense. "I am Rhyn, the spirit of this river. And who are you to call me forth?" she snarls. "I- "you start, but before you can even speak, the spirit is flung back by an explosion of pale light. Rhyn summons an orb of water to protect herself. It seems Orin just couldn't wait. "It's revealed itself! We have it now!" Orin shouts. The small attack has gone to his head. At that moment, while Orin had dropped his guard, a spear of water fire forward, impaling his shoulder. There's no time for you to think. You draw your sword and shout for Juniper to back you up. Her vines sprout from the beach soil and plunge into Rhyn's orb of water, pulling it apart like spindle fingers cracking an egg. You charge forward and plunge the blade deep into Rhyn's chest. Rhyn staggers back, her body dissolving into foam. She tries to speak, but you hear nothing but babbling and gurgles. Rhyn falls backward into the river, dissolving into nothingness. The foul scent lingers but has lightened quite a bit. In a few weeks, it will probably be safe to drink again. "That's it," Juniper says sadly. She floats down to the river, hanging her shoulders limply. "Yes. That's it. The people of Rhyngald can finally thrive without that spirit." Orin says. He struggles to his feet, nursing the wound on his shoulder. "Great work, El. I think I underestimated you." [[Agree. This was for the best.]] [[Accept. If only things could have gone better.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

You toss your weapon onto the sand. If you want to negotiate, you’ll have to make a show of good faith. “Get rid of your weapons,” you whisper. “What?” Orin hisses. We’re getting ready to meet a daemon, and you want me to do it disarmed? Orin gives you an incredulous look. He tenses his body like a scared cat as he looks out to the river. “We need to make sure the spirit doesn’t feel threatened,” you explain. Admittedly it was a big request, but if Orin doe his own thing, who knows how this meeting will go? ”You guys asked for my help, so trust me.” Orin looks at you and gives a curt nod. However, before you can discuss the matter further, your attention is drawn to the river. It begins to bubble and roil, as if it were boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid, to a translucent jelly, and finally to flesh. Before you stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair. She looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense “//De’eth Erun’i?// I didn’t expect one of your kind.” she spits. You feel from the intensity of her gaze that she means you. You only get one chance at a first impression. You should… [[Project strength.]] [[Try to compromise. |Try to Compromise - Strained.]]

“We demand you put an end to this curse!” you shout. You needed to show Rhyn that you weren’t afraid of her. If she viewed you as weak, she’ll never listen to what you had to say. “You //demand// me?” Rhyn says, stifling a laugh. She might be chuckling, but there’s no mirth or warmth to it. You feel a shiver go down your spine, and your hand reflexively shoots toward your sword. “The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyn says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “They drain the magic from this place for their little baubles. They build those disgusting monuments to their vanity.” She says, gesturing to the city. “They drive out the spirits. Now only I remain because they’re too weak to kill me! They die because all they know how to do is take and kill. When a parasite drains the host dry…” You don’t have time to react before Rhyn’s arm surges forward. She grabs Orin in an aqueous tendril and begins to crush the life from him. “… its death is a natural consequence,” she finishes staring you down. You watch as Orin’s face goes red as he struggles for breath. Could you free him before Rhyn crushes his ribs like twigs? You’re not sure. “Now, it’s time for me to make a demand,” she says coldly. The wrapped water whip tightens, squeezing the breath out of Orin. “I’ll take this human,” she says it a tone cold as steel. I’ll even lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. You will leave this place and never return. How does //that// sound?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but you can save the entire city if you just agree. Orin came here of his own free will, against your wishes. Are you responsible for him? [[Let Rhyn take Orin.]] [[Save Orin.]]

You decide to take a soft approach. If you can somehow convince her to lift the curse herself, maybe things won’t come to violence. “My Name is El.” You say, placing a hand on your chest. You then gesture to your companions. “This tree nymph I Juniper, and the blond boy is Orin.” You take a bow and gesture for your partners to do the same. “Such respect. The spirit says in a low purr. “ I thought Man had forgotten such things. I am Rhyne, the spirit of this river. If you’ve gone through the trouble of seeking me out, you must want something. Out with it.” Rhyne smirks as she gazes at the three of you. “Be careful with her,” Juniper whispers in your ear. “ River spirits look calm but turn deadly in a second. She already seems pretty deadly, so…” “You know exactly why we’re here, daemon.“ Orin mutters under his breath. You shoot him a sharp look, but he rolls his eyes and ignores you. “We’re here because of the curse on the water. People are becoming ill. Some are dying. We’ve come for your help in solving the problem, Rhyn,” You say. “My help? The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyne says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “Liar!” Orin shouts. “You’re killing innocent people and have the nerve to say they deserve it?” Orin’s face is boiling red in anger. Negotiations will probably break down if he can’t keep his cool. What do you do? [[Have Juniper restiran Orin.]] [[Ask Orin to calm down. |Orin attacks!]] [[Give up on negotiations. ]]

Orin’s going to move against you. You can feel it. He’s been simmering with anger since Rhyn arrived, and he’s about to boil over. You make a snap decision. “Juniper, grab Orin!” you shout. Juniper can’t hide her smile as she plunges her hands into the earth. “Traitor!” shouts Orin. He tries to reach into his sleeve, but Juniper is too fast. Soon he’s entangled in a mass of thick vines. “Maybe you’re right, El. The humans are growing bolder in their attacks,” Rhyn says coldly, “but I see you’re more reasonable. Let’s make a deal. If you let me keep this human, just this one, I’ll lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. It’s a small price to pay. What do you say?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but… you could save the entire city if you just agree. Was saving one person worth losing an entire city? [[Let Rhyn have Orin.]] [[Fight Rhyn off.]]

“Orin, calm do-“ Before you can even finish, Orin reaches into his sleeve and produces a small crystal. He flings it at the spirit, where it explodes in a flash of pale light. It seems he didn’t trust you enough to disarm after all. “You kill innocent people and then blame them? I’ve heard enough, daemon!” Orin shouts. His blue eyes are wide and wild. “Filthy manling!” Rhyn shouts. She recoils from the explosion as her body turns translucent. Her arms split and surge forward as torrents of water as she counterattacks. Any chance you had for a peaceful resolution has washed away. Orin and Rhyn are out for blood. All you can choose is who to support. Maybe if you help Rhyn, she can still be convinced to break the curse? But if Orin is left to fend for himself, he’ll likely die. [[Help Orin. He’s in danger!]] [[Help Rhyn. Maybe she’ll still stop the curse.]] [[ Escape while you still can. |Leave the city.]]

This is going nowhere. Your only choice is to attack Rhyn before she decides to attack first. "Juniper! Protect Orin!" You shout, diving to retrieve your sword from the sand. Maybe Juniper and Orin didn't see eye to eye, but she wasted no time flying to his side. Juniper plants her hands into the riverbank and sends thick, sturdy vines shooting forward to shield them both. Juniper is skilled, but she's still younger than Rhyn. Not to mention Rhyn is on her home turf. The vines begin to buckle and strip as Rhyn lashes out in a vicious assault. "A spirit that will die for a human? Now I've seen everything. "Rhyne snarls. "Not everything!" You shout. You grab your sword from the sand and slice through Rhyn's surging arms in one smooth motion. She recoils, not in pain, but in shock that you could hurt her. You take advantage of the moment and plunge your father's blade into her chest before she recovers. Rhyn staggers back, her body dissolving into foam. She tries to speak, but you hear nothing but babbling and gurgles. Rhyn falls backward into the river, dissolving into nothingness. The foul scent lingers but has lightened quite a bit. In a few weeks, it will probably be safe to drink again. "That's it," Juniper says sadly. She floats down to the river, hanging her shoulders limply. "Yes. That's it. The people of Rhyngald can finally thrive without that spirit." Orin says with a small smile. "Great work, El. I think I underestimated you. [[Agree. This was for the best.]] [[Accept. If only things could have gone better.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

There is no choice. You have help Orin. You can't just stand by while Rhyne kills him. "Juniper! Protect Orin!" You shout, diving to retrieve your sword from the sand. Maybe Juniper and Orin don’t see eye to eye, but she wastes no time flying to his side. Juniper plants her hands into the riverbank and sends thick, sturdy vines shooting forward to shield them both. Juniper is skilled, but she's still younger than Rhyn. Not to mention Rhyne is on her home turf. The vines begin to buckle and strip as Rhyn lashes out in a vicious assault. "A spirit that will die for a human? Now I've seen everything. "Rhyne snarls. "Not everything!" You shout. You grab your sword from the sand and slice through Rhyn's surging arms in one smooth motion. She recoils, not in pain, but in shock that you could hurt her. You take advantage of the moment and plunge your father's blade into her chest before she recovers. Rhyn staggers back, her body dissolving into foam. She tries to speak, but you hear nothing but babbling and gurgles. Rhyn falls backward into the river, dissolving into nothingness. The foul scent lingers but has lightened quite a bit. In a few weeks, it will probably be safe to drink again. "That's it," Juniper says sadly. She floats down to the river, hanging her shoulders limply. "Yes. That's it. The people of Rhyngald can finally thrive without that spirit." Orin says with a small smile. "Great work, El. I think I underestimated you. [[Agree. This was for the best.]] [[Accept. If only things could have gone better.]] [[Explode!]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

“Juniper, grab Orin!” you shout. What was Orin thinking? You needed to convince Rhyn to break the curse. Who knows if it will dissipate with her death? You don’t have a choice. You must take Orin down. “Traitor!” shouts Orin. He reaches into his sleeve and produces a small blue crystal. With a flick of his wrist, he flings the crystal towards you. You dive out of the way as the crystal explodes in a pale light. You rush towards Orin and kick him in the gut, sending him tumbling backward. Juniper can’t hide her smile as she plunges her hands into the earth. A mass of vines shoots up around Orin’s feet and wind around his body. Orin tries to toss another crystal, but Juniper is too fast. Soon he’s entangled in a mass of thick vines. “Maybe you’re right, El. The humans are growing bolder in their attacks,” Rhyne says coldly, “but I see you’re more reasonable. Let’s make a deal. If you let me keep this human, just this one, I’ll lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. It’s a small price to pay. What do you say?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but you can save the entire city if you agree. Orin came here of his own free will and attacked against your wishes. Are you still responsible for him after all that? [[Let Rhyn have Orin.]] [[Fight Rhyn off.]]

You nod resolutly. “There was too much at stake,” You say. “Rhyn would have kept hurting people if we just let her be.” You sheathe your sword. Whatever the spirit had been before, she was a monster when you met her. Killing monsters was what it meant to be a hero. It’s what your father would have done too, right? No matter what excuse she may have had, you think you've done a good thing today. “C’mon. Let’s go back to the High Inquisitor. He’ll be glad to know the curse is lifted. //THE END// [[ Start Again? |Story Start]]

You shake your head. Things could have gone better. Maybe if you had been more clever or more persuasive, there could have been a compromise. Once the fight had started, though, there was only so much you could do. You took no pleasure in it, but in the end, you did what you had to do. “At least the curse will be lifted. I guess we’ll have to be happy with that.” You say. It feels as if there’s a yoke on your shoulders, and the more you stare at the river, the heavier it gets. “C’mon, El. Let’s get going,” Juniper says, clutching your hand. You take a deep breath and nod. Being a hero is about doing what you must, no matter what. That’s what your father would do too, right? "Let’s get back to the High Inquisitor,” you mutter. “Then I need a rest.“ //THE END// [[ Start Again? |Story Start]]

The way Orin’s smiles…you just can’t handle it anymore. You ball up your fist and quick as a flash, you slam him right in the nose. Orin tumbles to the ground, eyes wide as his nose bleeds. “What’s your problem! You didn’t sympathize with that monster, did you? Aren’t you human?” He asks incredulously. You turn and walk away without a word, leaving Orin at the riverside. Rhyn and this city deserved each other. Juniper floats at your side, grinning. “I was really hoping you’d do that.” She says with a wink. //THE END//

You enter the long building. It seems like a great gathering place for people, and people would have stories. If your dad passed through the city, he would likely have stopped here. You look at the sign depicting a large serpent swimming through a river. The sign reads "The Swimming Snake Inn." It strikes you as an odd name but considering this is the first inn you've ever been to, your frame of reference is a bit narrow. You enter the inn and take a seat at the bar. "Oh, a young'un aye? "says a large man with a bushy red beard. He smiles with a warm grin that reminds you of a well-fed bear. "Who, me?" you ask. "Aye, you!" he says, slapping a large rag across the counter. "Where's your Da, young'un? He know you're here?" "I doubt it," You respond." That's why I'm here. I'm trying to find him. "Looking for your Da in a bar? A sad tale, young'un." The bartender says. He shakes his head and tuts his tongue. "Try looking' out back. S'Where I toss the drunks." He says, polishing the bar. "He's not a drunk! He's an adventurer!" You exclaim. "Have you seen a man with red hair and two horns on his head? He probably had a big goofy smile and an embroidered cloak like this one?" "An adventurer? Oh, well, ain't that something. Any-a those types probably talk with dem orderlies." The bartender says, scratching his beard. "Orderlies?" you ask. "Aye. Always going on about rationality and advancement. Magic crafters, they are. If anyone would be talking to a hero, it'd be them. Now, you going to order, Young'un or not?" [[Head to the Order. |Church - Hidden]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Chatter.wav"></audio>

You approach the large building in the center of the town. Its bright stained-glass windows glimmer with depictions of men in white putting out flames, moving mountains, and parting oceans. The grandest window is emblazoned with a bright red sun shining upon dark fleeing monsters. <center><img src="Assets/Sun.jpg"></center> Maybe this is a place hero's gather? It certainly seems like there's a sort of presence here. It's like the opposite of the dark forest bordering your home. In the forest, everything was wild and untamed. It was all curves and twists. Here, it was nothing but stone and straight lines. A boy about your age stands at the front of the great building. He's dressed in white with a bright red scarf. He catches you in his gaze. His eyes are a piercing blue, and as he stares, you get an odd feeling from him. It's like the magic of the spirits but constrained and structured. The boy approaches and bows to you. "May the Light of Order illuminate your path! I am Orin. How may I guide you?" His voice is calm, almost eerily so. It's like he just woke up from the most beautiful dream. [[Ask to see whoever is in charge. |Overseer - Hidden.]] [[Ask about the Order of Illumination.]]

"The Oder?" You ask. "//Order.//" Orin corrects. A slight twinge of annoyance flickers across his face. He takes a deep breath and smiles once more. "The Order of Illuminations guides and shepherds humanity against the dangers of daemons and chaos. Just as the Order guides humanity, the High Overseer. guides our chapter here in Rhyngald." Orin says with pride. "What was a small fishing village but a few years ago has already become a bustling city! It's as the seven teaching states 'With Rationality, Objectivity, and Tenacity we shall find Prosperity.' " "Well, prosperity certainly seems good," You say. Orin exhales and runs a hand through his hair. "I cannot tell if you are messing with me. Is there anything else I may Illuminate for you?" [[Ask to meet the High Overseer. |Overseer - Hidden.]]

“Actually, I’m here to see whoever is in charge,” you say. “The High Overseer? What would you need to meet with him for?” Orin asks with folded arms. “I’m looking for my father,” You say. You see Orin’s gaze soften and decide to continue. “He left when my mother fell sick. He was supposed to bring medicine, but he never returned. You guys help people, right? So, what better place would there be to check for him. Was I right?” Orin gives you a gentle nod. “You’re truly in a bad way. Come, I’ll bring you to the High Overseer. If anyone can help, it is he,“ Orin says. He beckons for you to follow him inside. [[Follow Orin. |Exposure.]]

You decide to be straightforward. You’re in no condition to fight, and whoever brought you here probably means you no harm. You can practically hear your Mom’s voice in the back of your head. “El, you’d be surprised how far a few manners will get you.” Of course, you can’t be sure that you’re not in danger, but sometimes you had to have a little faith. You hear the rattling of locks before the door slides open. Before you even see who’s coming, you belt out your best "Hello! How are you?” The visitor looks to be a boy about your age, though, from his appraising glare, you’d swear he was older. He’s dressed in a white robe with brown pants and a bright crimson scarf. His clothes are far better tailored than your own. His hair is a bright blond and cropped short, and his eyes are a piercing blue. “You’re alive? No one who swims in the river lives.” He says, placing a hand to his chin. His eyes flit over to Juniper, and he takes a step back for a moment. Your body tenses, waiting to see how he’ll react, but the boy clears his throat matter of factly. “The High Inquisitor wants to see you. Please, follow me. “High Inquisitor,” Juniper says with a smile. “That sounds pretty important! It looks like we’re already big-shots!” [[Agree.|Meeting of Minds.]] [[Refuse.]]

You stop. Whoever or whatever the High Inquisitor is, you don’t want to meet him. This whole city reeks of danger to you, and it’s time to get out while the getting is good. “Do we have a choice?” you ask. “We don’t intend to force you to do anything,” The blonde boy says. “If you wish to leave, then we will allow it. Of course, we insist that you leave Rhyngald and take your business elsewhere,” he says with a harsh glare. [[Maybe you should reconsider. |Meeting of Minds.]] [[It’s time to get out of here. |Leave the city.]]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

<center>//Raging River// by Carlos Stanfield</center> [[Let's play |Story Start]] [[References]]

//Citations Images// City River: Pedro. (2007, September 29). Great water avenue. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://www.flickr.com/photos/12962905@N05/1457944326 Hall: OX4, J. (2010, February 21). National Cathedral I. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://www.flickr.com/photos/ox4photos/4374136787/in/photolist-9oP4fM-wTpiv-7EwAtv-MERvW-oiLqyT-GdrziK-cuDPP3-ceL48S-ceL4wu-ceL4tu-ceL3jE-cdVqt1-cuDNHf-cuDPD7-coiCfC-bXoz5v-ctdsX5-ct863L-ceL4DG-cuDQMo-cigP7f-bVQDmi-bVQD2k-bXoyit-ct87uf-dq34FA-cuDRE5-cYNUG9-ceKKDL-5DRuHU-cuEziq-bXnZgX-cdBnnY-2Y7w5-bXnDzH-bWexje-csawLw-ceL57w-cdUYLj-bV2yaM-ct87Au-cuDNSy-cigvj7-ctexC3-bWeAHz-cfVGDL-ceL3M9-cdVqTh-cfVFeq-ceKK7q/ Sun: Hollinger, J. (2008, January 21). Sunburst Stained Glass. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://www.flickr.com/photos/7147684@N03/2208480071 //Sounds// Chatter: Daehedon. (2016, March 20). Medium-Sized Crowd Background Noise by daehedon. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://freesound.org/people/daehedon/sounds/340358/ River: Macdaddyno1. (2016, July 8). River flow in Okutama.MP3 by macdaddyno1. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://freesound.org/people/macdaddyno1/sounds/349388/ Shock: N, A. (2015, October 14). Crowd shock.wav by Adam_N. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://freesound.org/people/Adam_N/sounds/324898/ Sword: Chase, E. (2018, September 30). Sword slash.wav by ethanchase7744. Retrieved December 14, 2020, from https://freesound.org/people/ethanchase7744/sounds/441666/

You put your hands up and walk forward slowly. You’re not a threat. They’ll see that. “My name is El. I’m only loo- “ Before you can finish, a guard charges forward. He slams the side of your head with the shaft of his spear. You taste copper in your mouth as the world is tilted off its axis. You tumble into the dirt, feeling the dark edges of unconsciousness creep across your sight.] “EL!” you hear Juniper scream. There are shouts and sounds of struggle, but they soon become muffled white noise as your eyes drift closed. [[Awaken. |Arrest.]]

“We have to go,” You say to Juniper. A fight here would lead to more trouble. Juniper nods and grabs you in her arms before flying away. You’ve evaded the guards, but the front gate is no longer an option. [[Try the river. |River - Bold]] [[Maybe you can go over the wall? |Wall - Bold.]]

"Daemon!" a guard shouts. Two more guards arrive and lower their weapons at you. It seems your bluff worked a bit too well. These guards are armed and dangerous. There's no way you can talk them down now. You need to strike first. You rush forward, closing the distance between yourself and one of the guards as quickly as you can. You swing the flat of your sword into the side of his head. The guar goes falling to the ground with a shout. "Damn! How is a kid so fast? "one of the guard cries. Another tries to bring his halberd down on you, but his limbs are entwined in long thick vines. "I've got your back!" shouts Juniper. You give her a quick nod before turning your attention to the next guard. He charges you, sweeping your legs with his halberd. They underestimated you before because of your youth. They won't make that mistake again. You leap upwards and land on the weapon's shaft, knocking it out of the guard's grasp. His eyes go wide as he looks between you and Juniper. The guard quickly makes his choice and turns to run. That's one less to deal with. Juniper lifts her entangled guard in the air and tosses him into the final opponent, knocking them both unconscious. You sheath your sword before looking over to Juniper. "Well, they were still more friendly than Lord Bramble." She says with a smile. Bramble, the great wolf spirit of the forest. He'd nearly eaten the both of you alive not long ago. After that encounter, you were more than enough for any ordinary guard. "Yeah, But from now on, maybe we-" An explosion blows you off your feet, as your vision is flooded with light. You fall unconscious before you hit the ground. [[You've been knocked out.|Arrest.]]

You're home. The scent of rich wood from your log cabin fills your nose. Your body is wrapped in warmth from a crackling fireplace, beside which your mother reads a book. She looks vibrant, healthy like she did before the illness. Like she did before, your father had to go. You hear a knock at the door, and your heart leaps. You scramble up and answer it to see a man with bright red hair, two small horns, and a broad toothy grin. He lifts you in his strong arms, and suddenly, you feel as if everything will be okay. "Hey, little man! Did you take care of things around here for me?" asks your father. "He was wonderful, a little hero, Eru." Your mother says with a soft smile. Your father sets you down and hugs her. "Ea! You're well again! I guess my search for a cure could've been cut short." You watch the two of them, and it feels like everything fits. Everything is right again. Your father turns to you and kneels. With a calloused hand, he tosses your hair. "I know I've been gone too long, El," he says softly, "but you've been so brave. I wish I could spend more time with you, but you need to wake up." "What?" you ask. "Wake up." He says sternly. His ruddy skin goes grey and cracks. Flames drip from his mouth and dance across the floor. You start to cough as the cabin fish with smoke and ash. "EL! Wake up!" You recognize Juniper's voice breaking through the thick smoke. You don't want to leave, but the cabin's flames burn hotter. The smoke burns your throat. The light grows brighter until it stings your eyes. You shut your eyes instinctively before slowly opening them again. Juniper's face is staring down at you as she floats in the air. You feel thick wool blankets covering your body. You're in a room lit by a crystal that hangs from the stone roof. There's a window of stained glass on the east wall depicting an eye wreathed in sun rays. You let out a small groan as you try to sit up. The entire room tilts as you feel your head swimming. Juniper places her hand beside you and helps to prop you up. "There you go," Juniper says softly. She gives you a warm smile. [["Where are we?" |Question.]] [[Try to get out of bed. |Investigate.]]

As soon as you step over the building's threshold, you feel an odd sensation hit you. It ripples through you like a wave of invisible energy. Your stomach turns, and your knees wobble, but you don't feel harmed or injured. "What was that?" you ask. Orin doesn't answer. His eyes are trained behind you in a stern glare. You turn and see Juniper looking quite confused. She's been forced out into the open! Something about the magic in this place must force spirits to reveal themselves. You would be more curious if it didn't feel like your heart was going to leap out from your throat. You see Orin reaches into his sleeve and pull out a small glowing gem. "A Daemon! Watch out, it must have been trying to sneak in!" [[Try to reason with Orin.]] [[Try to restrain Orin.]]

You step between Orin and Juniper, Holding up your hands. This is a misunderstanding, but if you can explain, things will work out. They have to work out, right? “Orin, stop!” you shout. His eyes widen in confusion, but he tries to push past you. “What are you doing? That thing – “ “That’s Juniper,” you say. “She’s not any daemon. She’s a nature spirit. She helped me save my mother and is helping look for my father. She wouldn’t hurt a fly, trust me.’ Orin tries to hide his burning glare behind a calm façade. He tries to juke past you. You quickly dive to block him. “You’re possessed. You don’t know what you’re saying,” Orin says. “Possessed? I’m a wood nymph! Pretty sure I can’t possess anything without roots,“ Juniper says. “I mean, it’s not like I had an opportunity in the woods to try. Who knows, maybe I can!” “Not the time, Juniper!” You shout. You take a deep breath and turn your attention back to Orin. He’s giving the same fierce glare you’ve seen on wild animals. At first glance, it would be mistaken for pure hatred. However, your father told you that look meant something else. It meant fear. “Look, Orin, If I were possessed, wouldn’t that magic field thing have cured it?” you ask. You look him deep in the eyes, still holding out your arms. I’m telling the truth.” Orin’s glare softens, and he takes a step back. You feel that he doesn’t entirely trust you but can’t say you’re wrong. He takes a few seconds before slipping the crystal back into his sleeve. His gaze softens, but you can tell he’s trying to fall back into his serene mannerisms from before. “Follow me. The High Overseer will discern the truth. “ [[Meet with the High Overseer. |Meeting of Minds.]]

You leap forward, quick as a flash. There’s no time to explain. Orin could hurt someone if you didn’t act now. You grab his wrist and wrench it behind his back, forcing him to drop the crystal. “Help! He’s possessed!” Orin shouts. “I’m not possessed,” You explain. “This is Juniper. She-“ You don’t manage to get anything else before a guard clubs you from behind. This was the Order of Illumination’s base. They were on high alert here. You let Orin go reflexively as you stumble. Juniper flies toward you. In a split second, Orin tosses a crystal at her, which erupts in a ball of pale light. The explosion sends her flying into a wall in a crumpled heap. Before you can move or explain, you see the club come down upon you once more, and everything goes black. [[Arrest.]]

You focus your attention on the river. Now that you know what you're searching for, it's not hard to find. There's a spirit lurking here, hiding like a serpent in river silt. It's time to pull it out. "I know you're here, spirit," you say as you draw your sword. You plunge the blade into the river, and it pulses with a red light. "Reveal yourself and be known!" you shout. Your voice reverberates through the water. The river begins to bubble and roil, as if it were boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid to a translucent jelly and finally to flesh. Before you, stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair. She looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense. "//De'eth Erun’i? //I didn’t expect one of your kind," she spits. You feel from the intensity of her gaze that she means you. You decide to take a soft approach. If you can somehow convince her to lift the curse herself, maybe things won't come to violence. "My Name is El," you say, placing a hand on your chest. You then gesture to your companion. "This tree nymph is Juniper, my best friend." You take a bow, and Juniper does the same. "So, you really can force spirits to materialize," Orin mutters under his breath. Orin folds his arms and watches, his entire body tense like a coiled spring. "Such respect," The spirit says in a low purr. “I thought man had forgotten such things. I am Rhyn, the spirit of this river. If you've gone through the trouble of seeking me out, you must want something. Out with it." Rhyn smirks as she gazes at you. [[Demand an end to the curse. |Project strength.]]

You and Juniper drop down into the city streets. You take a deep breath and decide on your destination. “Okay, first we should-“ A piercing scream rings out from among the crowd. A Woman is staring straight at you both, her face twisted in terror. You swallow hard as you prepare for what’s to come. “Maybe that’s just how they say hello here?” Juniper asks with a nervous grin. “Daemon!” The woman shouts. “Guards! Guards!” “I really doubt that.” You say as you draw your sword. Four guards with long halberds and crimson scarves quickly surround you, weapons lowered. “Drop your weapons and surrender!” shouts one of the guards. [[Listen to the guards.]] [[Try to fight your way out.]]

You toss your sword to the ground and raise your hands. There's no point fighting through this. If you surrender, maybe you can find a peaceful solution. "My name is El. This is Juniper. We're not a threat," you say. One of the guards carefully approaches you> he clasps a set of manacles around your wrists. "You're coming with us," He says. <center><img src="Assets/Hall.jpg"></center> You follow the blond boy through the stone halls. Juniper floats behind you, taking in the sights as you move. Everything here is different from your small family cabin or the Dark Forest. Everything here is structured, rigid. You get a feeling that every stone was placed with an exact and deliberate purpose. You're not sure if the orderly structure is impressive or suffocating. This place feels like it's the heart of the human city, and whoever you're going to meet is undoubtedly important. Maybe he will know something about your father? You come to a large oak door emblazoned with a red sun. The blonde boy knocks soundly three times. "Enter," rings out a voice, solid as stone. The three of you walk into the room. Bookcases line the walls and glowing crystals that bathe the room in light. A large desk, carved from solid maple, stands before you, and behind it is a gaunt man dressed in black. His skin is pale, and his black hair is slicked back to show his cold blue eyes. Across his shoulder is draped a red cape that flows like a crimson waterfall. It feels like he's staring straight through you as he tents his hands. "A child who survived swimming the Rhyn. I thought today would be boring." He says with an acid tipped tongue. Is he a friend or foe? You try to get a read on him, but his face is utterly implacable. "And he even has a pet. How curious." "Pet? I'm nobody's pet, Mr. Tall, Dark, and Creepy! If anything, I'm the one taking care of El!" Juniper's petals go bright red as she balls her fists. "Silence, Daemon!" The blond boy snaps. "How dare you raise your voice against High Inquisitor Aldin!" The blond boy steps between Juniper and the high Inquisitor. The air feels tense. If these two keep up, a fight could break out. [[Back Juniper up.]] [[Tell Juniper to back off.]] [[Try to make peace.]] [[Draw your sword.]]

These guards are armed and dangerous. There's no time for you to talk them down. You need to strike first. You rush forward, closing the distance between yourself and one of the guards as quickly as you can. You swing the flat of your sword into the side of his head. The guar goes falling to the ground with a shout. "Damn! How is a kid so fast? "one of the guard cries. Another tries to bring is halberd down on you, but his limbs are entwined in long thick vines. "I've got your back!" shouts Juniper. You give her a quick nod before turning your attention to the next guard. He charges you, sweeping your legs with his halberd. They underestimated you before because of your youth. They won't make that mistake again. You leap upwards and land on the weapon's shaft, knocking it out of the guard's grasp. His eyes go wide as he looks between you and Juniper. The guard quickly makes his choice and turns to run. That's one less to deal with. Juniper lifts her entangled guard in the air and tosses him into the final opponent, knocking them both unconscious. You sheath your sword before looking over to Juniper. "Well, they were still more friendly than Lord Bramble." She says with a smile. Bramble, the great wolf spirit of the forest. He’d nearly eaten you alive, but you and Juniper managed to fight him off and escape,. After that encounter, you were more than a match for ordinary guards. "Yeah, But from now on, maybe we-" An explosion blows you off your feet, as your vision is flooded with light. You fall unconscious before you hit the ground. [[You fall unconcious. |Arrest.]]

You and Juniper approach the river. After the debacle at the gate, sneaking in through the river still seems like the safest bet. “It’s better safe than sorry.” You respond. You kneel by the river and look within. Then it hits you, a foul smell that shoots into your nose like a fist. You reel back reflexively, waving your hand. The water looks crystal clear. How can it reek so badly? “What’s up?” Juniper says as she approaches the riverbank. She reaches down to the water with a single hand. “Do you not know how to swim?“ Juniper recoils as if she’d suddenly touched a lump of hot coal. She flies behind you, glaring at the river. “Something’s not right here, El. This river, the magic in it is all wrong!” “Wrong?” You ask. “How can nature be wrong?” “I don’t know. It just is! Look, I’m telling you to stay away from that river. I’m a spirit, and it even freaks me out. You’re just a human. Who knows what it will do to you.” “We’re already here. If I swim through quickly, how bad could it be?” Juniper folds her arms and gives you a harsh glare. “Look, you can swim through if you want, but I’m not. No way! I’m staying in my branch.” [[Take a deep breath and dive in. |River - Hidden.]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/River.mp3"></audio>

You enter the long building. It seems like a great gathering place for people, and people would have stories. If your dad passed through the city, he would likely have stopped here. You look at the sign, depicting a large serpent swimming through a river. The sign reads “The Swimming Snake Inn.” It strikes you as an odd name but considering this is the first inn you’ve ever been to; your frame of reference is a bit narrow. You enter the inn and take a seat at the bar. “Oh, a young’un aye?“ says a large man with a bushy red beard. He smiles with a warm grin that reminds you of a well-fed bear. “Who, me?” you ask. “Aye, you!” he says, slapping a large rag across the counter. “Where’s your Da, young’un?“ Does he know you’re here?” I doubt it.” You respond. “That’s why I’m here. I’m trying to find him. “Looking for your Da' in a bar? A sad tale, young’un.” The bartender says. He shakes his head and tuts his tongue. “Try lookin’ out back. S’Where I toss the drunks.” He says, polishing the bar. “He’s not a drunk! He’s an adventurer!” You exclaim. “Have you seen a man with red hair and two horns on his head? He probably had a big goofy smile and an embroidered cloak like this one?” “An Adventurer? Oh, well, aint that sain'thing. Any-a those types probably talk with dem orderlies.” The bartender says, scratching his beard. “Orderlies?” you ask. “Aye. Always going on about rationality and advancement. Magic crafters, they are. If anyone would be talking to a hero, it’d be them. Now, ya going to order, Young’un or nah?” [[Head to the Order. |Church - Hidden]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Chatter.wav"></audio>

You approach the large building in the center of the town. Its bright stained-glass windows glimmer with depictions of men in white putting out flames, moving mountains, and parting oceans. The grandest window is emblazoned with a bright red sun shining upon dark fleeing monsters. <center><img src="Assets/Sun.jpg"></center> Maybe this is a place heroes gather? It certainly seems like there's a sort of presence here. It's like… the opposite of the dark forest of your home. In the forest, everything was wild and untamed. It was all curves and twists. Here, it was nothing but stone and straight lines. A boy about your age stands at the front of the great building. He's dressed in white with a bright red scarf. He catches you in his gaze. His eyes are a piercing blue, and as he stares, you get an odd feeling from him. It's almost like the magic of the spirits but constrained and structured. The boy approaches and bows to you. "May the Light of Order illuminate your path! I am Orin. How may I guide you?" His voice is calm, almost eerily so. It's like he just woke up from the most beautiful dream. [[Ask to see who's in charge. |Overseer - Hidden.]] [[Ask about the Order of Illumination.]]

“Any information you can provide about my father would be welcome,” you say. Finding your disappeared dad was the reason you left home in the first place “His name is Eru. He has brown skin, red hair, and two horns on his head,” you say. Orin’s steps back, his eyes wide. The High Overseer simply nods. “A boy searching for his father. You’re quite a dutiful son, I see. Very well. Rid Rhyngald of this curse and the Order shall help you in your journey.” He says in a cool and even tone. “Take initiate Orin with you. He knows the city, and perhaps this will be a good chance for him to expand his horizons. [[Sounds like a good idea. |Accept Orin.]] [[No way. He’ll just mess things up. |Deny Orin.]]

“Gold will be fine,” you say. This journey wasn’t going to be cheap, and growing up in a secluded cabin hadn’t left you flush with cash. Having gold to help pay for your adventure would make things much more comfortable. The High Overseer rolls his eyes. “The most expected answer. Still, it’s eminently practical. Very well. Rid Rhyngald of this curse and the Order shall fill your pockets.” He says in a cool and even tone. He reaches into his coat and retrieves a small bag of gold, which he tosses to your waiting hands. “Consider this a down payment. Work well, and there will be more coming than you may anticipate.” He says with a slightly bored tone. ”Take initiate Orin with you. He knows the city, and perhaps this will be a good chance for him to expand his horizons. [[Sounds like a good idea.|Accept Orin.]] [[No way, he’ll just mess things up. |Deny Orin.]]

El, the forest boy who can speak to the spirits and Juniper, the mischievous but kindhearted tree-nymph; you two were an odd pair, but you had made it through the Dark Forest alive. You'd managed to escape from the great wolf spirit, Bramble. If anyone could deal with this curse, it was you two. "So, are you sure about this, El?" Juniper asks as she glides beside you. "Sure about what?" you ask. "Hunting down this spirit! I know that this curse stuff is bad, but that High Overseer guy seems shady," she reclines in mid-air. She waves her hand about as if she's being bothered by an invisible fly. "Are you sure we can trust this guy?" Juniper asks as you head towards the Rhyn River. "Sure, or not, the High Overseer is my best bet for finding my dad," you respond. Juniper made some good points, but what choice do you have? "All I'm saying is maybe we shouldn't write off this 'daemon' just because some creepy guy and his weird cult say so," says Juniper. She puts air quotes around the word "daemon." Considering that the Order accused her of being one without even knowing her, you can't dismiss her skepticism. Maybe they had treated the spirit of the Rhyn the same way? [["Okay, we'll try to talk things over with the spirit." |Negotiate with Juniper.]]

You nod, listening to Juniper's words. She was right. If you just assume that the spirit was evil, then how were you any better than they were? They were already wrong about Juniper. You couldn't trust their judgment. "Okay, we'll try to negotiate with the spirit," you say. "Maybe they'll end the curse on their own. Either way, we should at least hear them out first." Juniper flashes you a wide smile. She flies forward and turns to face you, floating backward. "Just don't let your guard down too much," she says." I mean, this spirit did curse an entire river. Even nice spirits can still be dangerous." You take her warning to heart as you arrive at the shore. You promised to hear the spirit out, so you take a deep breath and prepare for the meeting [[Negotiating will be worth the risk. You should talk it out.]]

You focus your attention on the river. Now that you know what you’re searching for, it’s not hard to find. There’s a spirit lurking here, hiding like a serpent in river silt. “I know you’re here, spirit,” you say as you draw your sword. You plunge the blade into the river, and it pulses with a red light. Reveal yourself and be known!” you shout. Your voice reverberates through the water, and It begins to bubble and roil, as if it were boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid to a translucent jelly, and finally to flesh. Before you, stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair. She looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense “//De’eth Erun’i? // I didn’t expect one of your kind.” she spits. You feel from the intensity of her gaze that she means you. You decide to take a soft approach. If you can somehow convince her to lift the curse herself, maybe things won’t come to violence. “My name is El.” You say, placing a hand on your chest. You then gesture to your companion. “This tree nymph I Juniper, my best friend.” You take a bow, and Juniper does the same. “Such respect. The spirit says in a low purr. “I thought man had forgotten such things. I am Rhyn, the spirit of this river. If you’ve gone through the trouble of seeking me out, you must want something. Out with it.” Rhyn smirks as she gazes at you. “Be careful with her,” Juniper whispers in your ear. “River spirits look calm but turn deadly in a second. She already seems pretty deadly, so…” “There’s a curse on the water. People are becoming ill. Some are dying. We’ve come for your help in solving the problem, Rhyn,” You say. “My help? The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyn says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “They drain the magic from this place for their little baubles. They build those disgusting monuments to their vanity.” She says, gesturing to the city. “They drive out the spirits. Now only I remain because they’re too weak to kill me! They die because all they know how to do is take and kill. When a parasite drains the host dry, it’s death is a natural consequence.” You shoot Juniper a worried look. She grimaces back at you. [[Try to reason with Rhyn.]] [[Try to threaten Rhyn.]]

“Maybe that’s true,” you say. You couldn’t deny that these humans seem quite hostile to the spirits. Maye Rhyn was right, and they attacked first. Still, there had to be a way to resolve this. “but you’re not helping by cursing them. Everyone here is terrified of spirits. If anything, you’ve just made them more aggressive!” Rhyn scoffs, but you see her brow crease. Maybe you’re getting through to her? Then, surging forward like a raging rapid, her arm turns to a whip of water. It flies past your face, and you hear a scream. Rhyn pulls her arm back, and you see Orin is wrapped in her liquid grasp. He must have been following you! “Maybe you’re right, El. The humans are growing bolder in their attacks,” she says coldly. The wrapped water whip tightens, squeezing the breath out of Orin. “Fine, let’s make a deal. If you let me keep this human, just this one, I’ll lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. It’s a small price to pay. What do you say?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but… you could save the entire city if you just agree. Orin came here of his own free will, against your wishes. Are you responsible for him? [[Let Rhyn take Orin.]] [[Save Orin.]]

“We demand you put an end to this curse!” you shout. You need to show Rhyn that you aren’t afraid of her. If she views you as weak, she’ll never listen to what you have to say. “You //demand// me?” Rhyn says, stifling a laugh. She might be chuckling, but there’s no mirth or warmth to it. You feel a shiver go down your spine, and your hand reflexively shoots toward your sword. “The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyn says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “They drain the magic from this place for their little baubles. They build those disgusting monuments to their vanity.” She says, gesturing to the city. “They drive out the spirits. Now only I remain because they’re too weak to kill me! They die because all they know how to do is take and kill. When a parasite drains the host dry…” You don’t have time to react before Rhyn’s arm surges forward. She grabs Orin in an aqueous tendril and begins to crush the life from him. “… its death is a natural consequence,” she finishes staring you down. You watch as Orin’s face goes red as he struggles for breath. Could you free him before Rhyn crushes his ribs like twigs? You’re not sure. “Now, it’s time for me to make a demand,” she says coldly. The wrapped water whip tightens, squeezing the breath out of Orin. “I’ll take this human,” she says in a tone cold as steel. I’ll even lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. You will leave this place and never return. How does //that// sound?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but you can save the entire city if you just agree. Orin came here of his own free will, against your wishes. Are you responsible for him? [[Let Rhyn take Orin.]] [[Save Orin.]]

You try not to look at Orin's pleading eyes. This is bigger than him. You had the chance to save the entire city, and you had to take it. He had decided to come here on his own, and he had to reckon with the consequences. A hero was someone who could make the hard choices. You give Rhyn a stiff nod. A smug smile worms across Rhyn's face as she leans forward. I need your word, //De'eth Erun’i. // The humans sent you here as a representative. I want to hear you say it." You feel a stone in your stomach as you stare her down. Your fingers tremble, but your voice is steady as you speak. "Take him. Just spare the city." "Stop torturing him," Juniper says, flying in front of you. "We came, we treated you with respect, and El's giving you what you want. So just take it already!" Juniper clenches her fist as she shouts. Rhyn's smug smirk falls, but she nods. "Very well. A deal is a deal," She says sinisterly. Rhyn dives back into the river, dragging Orin with her. The water roils and froths before suddenly going still. The magic you felt from the river begins to fade, and the rotten scent drifts away. It seems Rhyn was true to her word. A hand bursts forth from the water, and Orin drags himself back out. You rush over to check on his condition. Before you can help, though, he stands, flexing his fingers with a grin. You notice his once blue eyes are not a gleaming emerald. "Rhyn?" you ask. "Who else would it be?" Rhyn responds. I'll take my leave of this city. This human body will sustain me beyond the river's borders. You should go report to humans. Get your reward; just remember to leave me out of it." Rhyn waves in the possessed Orin's body before walking away. As you watch, you can't help but feel… [[Disgusted.]] [[Resolute.]] [[Indifferent.]]

There is no choice. You had to help Orin. You can't just stand by while Rhyn kills him. "No deal!" you shout, flourishing your sword. You had tried playing nice, but if Rhyn wanted to take hostages, clearly that wasn't going to work. Maybe Juniper and Orin don't agree completely, but she wastes no time in the rescue. She Juniper plants her hands into the riverbank and sends thick, sturdy vines shooting forward to assault Rhyn. Juniper is skilled, but she's still younger than Rhyn. Not to mention Rhyn is on her home turf. The vines begin to buckle and strip as Rhyn retaliates with her free hand. "A spirit that will die for a human? Now I've seen everything,"Rhyn snarls. "Not everything!" You shout. You charge forward and slice through Rhyn's surging arms in one smooth motion. Orin tumbles to the sand, soggy but breathing. Rhyn recoils, not in pain but in shock that you could hurt her. You take advantage of the moment and plunge your father's blade into her chest before she recovers. "The humans," Rhyn gurgles. "They're the ones ruining my home, our home. Spirits will never be safe with them around." Rhyn staggers back, her body dissolving into foam. She tries to speak, but you hear nothing but babbling and gurgles. Rhyn falls backward into the river, dissolving into nothingness. The foul scent lingers but has lightened quite a bit. In a few weeks, it will probably be safe to drink again. "That's it," Juniper says sadly. She floats down to the river, hanging her shoulders limply. "Yes. That's it. The people of Rhyngald can finally thrive without that spirit." Orin says with a small smile. "Great work, El. I think I underestimated you. [[Agree. This was for the best.]] [[Accept. If only things could have gone better.]] [[Explode!]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

You start to understand why humans here hate spirits so much. They might be flawed, but Rhyn didn’t care for anyone but herself. You’re not sure if letting her leave is a good idea, but as she said, a deal is a deal. At least she would leave this city alone. The sooner she’s out of your sight, the better. “It’s nice that there are still those who understand the plight of the spirits. Humans are truly terrible creatures, but at least this one can serve me.” Rhyn says with a laugh. “Yeah, yeah. Great for you. Good doing business, but hopefully, we never meet again.” Juniper says, glaring daggers. “The feeling is mutual,” Rhyn says as she walks away. You feel a sharp pain in your hand and look down—four small crescent of red dot your palm. You had clenched your hand so hard; your fingernails dug into your flesh. A hero makes hard choices, even if they don’t like it. “Come on, Juniper,” you say darkly. “Let’s go speak to the High Overseer.” //The End//

This wasn’t an ideal solution, but you don’t regret it. Trading one life for an entire city was more than a fair trade. The Order of Illumination and Rhyne were both willing to take any means necessary. You have to be the same. A hero is the type of person who always looks forward, not back. “It’s nice that there are still those who understand the plight of the spirits. Humans are truly terrible creatures, but at least this one can serve me.” Rhyn says with a laugh. You fold your arms, staring her down. She pauses for a moment, and her emerald eyes flick toward your sword. “Glad we could help,” you growl. “Yeah, yeah. Great for you. Good doing business, but hopefully, we never meet again.” Juniper says, glaring daggers. “The feeling is mutual,” Rhyn says as she walks away. You watch her leave, stone-faced, before slowly rolling your shoulders. “Come on, Juniper," you say sternly. “Let’s go speak to the High Overseer.” //The End// [[ Start Again? |Story Start]]

Maybe this wasn’t an ideal solution, but you can’t find it within yourself to care. Rhyn, the Order of Illumination, this whole city…everyone was just in it for themselves. They deserve each other. At this point, you just wanted to get what you needed and get back on the road, leaving this cesspool of a city behind. Maybe the curse had been lifted, but this place still stank. It was no place for a hero. “It’s nice that there are still those who understand the plight of the spirits. Humans are truly terrible creatures, but at least this one can serve me.” Rhyn says with a laugh. You turn your back on here and walk back to the city without a word. There’s nothing more to say here. A hero knows when to stop wasting time. Rhyn shouts something as you leave, but you don’t bother to listen. Juniper Hovers beside you, placing a hand on your shoulder. “Come on, Juniper,” you say. “Let’s go speak to the High Overseer.” //The End//

There's no choice. You must help Orin. You can't stand by while Rhyn kills him. "No deal!" you shout, flourishing your sword. Juniper and Orin don't see eye to eye, but she releases him. Juniper's plants reel away from Orin and wind towards Rhyn like a phalanx of wooden spears. Juniper is skilled, but she's still younger than Rhyn. The river spirit forth a surging blast of water, blasting back the vines Juniper had conjured. The vines begin to buckle and strip as Rhyn retaliates with her free hand. "A spirit that will die for a human? Now I've seen everything." Rhyn snarls. "Not everything!" You shout. You charge forward and slice through Rhyn's surging arms in one smooth motion. Rhyn recoils, not in pain but in shock that you could actually hurt her. You take advantage of the moment and plunge your father's blade into her chest before she recovers. "The humans," Rhyn gurgles. "They're the ones ruining my home, our home. Spirits will never be safe with them around." Rhyn staggers back, her body dissolving into foam. She tries to speak, but you hear nothing but babbling and gurgles. Rhyn falls backward into the river, dissolving into nothingness. The foul scent lingers but has lightened quite a bit. In a few weeks, it will probably be safe to drink again. "That's it," Juniper says sadly. She floats down to the river, hanging her shoulders limply. "Yes. That's it. The people of Rhyngald can finally thrive without that spirit." Orin says with a small smile. "Great work, El. I think I underestimated you." [[Agree. This was for the best.]] [[Accept. If only things could have gone better.]] [[Explode!]] <audio autoplay> <source src="Assets/Sword.wav"></audio>

You try not to look at Orin's pleading eyes. This is bigger than him. You had the chance to save the entire city, and you had to take it. It might be a betrayal, but he was going to attack first. A hero was someone who could make the hard choices. You give Rhyn a stiff nod. A smug smile worms across Rhyn's face as she leans forward. I need your word, //De'eth Erun’i. // The humans sent you here as a representative. I want to hear you say it." You feel a stone in your stomach as you stare her down. Your fingers tremble, but your voice is steady as you speak. "Take Orin, just spare the city." "Stop torturing him," Juniper says, flying in front of you. "We came, we treated you with respect, and El's giving you what you want. So just take it already!" Juniper clenches her fist as she shouts. Rhyn's smug smirk falls, but she nods. "Very well. A deal is a deal," She says sinisterly. Juniper takes a deep breath and releases the vines trapping Orin. Orin drops to the ground as if the will has been drained out of him "I suppose this will be the end," he whispers. He gets up and walks like a man condemned towards Rhyn. With the three of you against him, there's no way out. He turns and gives you one last look, a desperate mix of despair and hatred swimming behind his eyes. "I never should have trusted you." Rhyn dives back into the river, dragging Orin with her. The water roils and froths before suddenly going still. The magic you felt from the river begins to fade, and the rotten scent drifts away. It seems Rhyn was true to her word. A hand bursts forth from the water, and Orin drags himself back out. You rush over to check on his condition. Before you can help, though, he stands, flexing his fingers with a grin. You notice his once blue eyes are not a gleaming emerald. "Rhyn?" you ask. "Who else would it be?" Rhyn responds. I'll take my leave of this city. This human body will sustain me beyond the river's borders. You should report to humans. Get your reward; just remember to leave me out of it." Rhyn waves in the possessed Orin's body before walking away. As you watch, you can't help but feel… [[Disgusted.]] [[Resolute.]] [[Indifferent.]]

You toss your weapon onto the sand. If you want to negotiate, you’ll have to make a show of good faith. “Get rid of your weapons,” you whisper. “What?” Orin asks. “We’re getting ready to meet a daemon, and you want me to do it disarmed?” Orin tenses his body like a scared cat as he looks out to the river. “We need to make sure the spirit doesn’t feel threatened,” you explain. Admittedly it was a big request but. You need to come to the negotiations with a show of faith. ”You guys asked for my help, so trust me.” Juniper nods. “Look, she’ll probably be as scared of us as we are of her. Don’t worry; I’ll watch your back,” she says with a disarming smile. “You had better know what you’re doing,” Orin still looks tense but reaches into his sleeve. He retrieves a small bag and places it on the ground. He gives you a stern look but a slow nod. Orin looks at you and gives a curt nod. However, before you can discuss the matter further, your attention is drawn to the river. It begins to bubble and roil, as if it were boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid to a translucent jelly and finally to flesh. Before you stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair. She looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense “//De’eth Erun’i? // I didn’t expect one of your kind.” she spits. You feel from the intensity of her gaze that she means you. You only get one chance at a first impression. You should… [[Demand an end to the curse.]] [[Try to compromise.]]

Orin seems trustworthy. Even if the spirit in this river had been scared, it was hurting people now. It would be like dealing with a rabid animal. All you can do now is put it down as safely and quickly as possible. You focus your attention on the river. Now that you know what you're searching for, it's not hard to find. There's a spirit lurking here, hiding like a serpent in river silt. "I know you're here, spirit," you say as you draw your sword. You plunge the blade into the river, and it pulses with a red light. Reveal yourself and be known!" you shout. Your voice reverberates through the water, and It begins to bubble and roil. It’s as the river is boiling, rising into a humanoid form. The water thickens from a liquid to a translucent jelly and finally to flesh. Before you stands a woman in an emerald dress and flowing cerulean hair, she looks down her nose at you like your very presence is an offense. "Now!" you shout. Juniper flies to your side and plunges her hands into the soil. A dome of sturdy vines flows around the two of you as a shield. Orin nods and tosses one of his crystals. It flies right at the water spirit and explodes into a ball of light. The Water spirit is knocked off-balance by the explosion, reeling from the surprise attack. Juniper unfurls her shield, and moving like a bolt of lightning, you swing your blade, slicing off the spirit's head. The spirit gurgles as it dissolves into foam and is no more. You've done it. You feel… [[Celebratory.]] [[Professional.]]

You feel like celebrating. Maybe things hadn’t gone perfectly, but in the end, you, Juniper, and Orin pulled together as a real team. Perhaps he’ll help join you in more adventures? It was a long shot, but honestly, he was starting to grow on you. A hero is only as good as their team. “The curse is over!” you shout, raising your sword in the air. “Let’s tell the city! It’s time for a party!” //The End//

You shake your head. You did what you had to do. Regardless of what Rhyn had been, cursing the city had made her an obstacle. A hero is someone who doesn't let anything stop them. "The curse will be lifted; our job is done." You say. It feels as if there's a yoke on your shoulders, and the more you stare at the river, the heavier it gets. "Where next, El?" Juniper says, clutching your hand. You take a deep breath and nod. Being a hero is about doing what you must, no matter what. That's what your father would do, too, right? "Let's get back to the High Inquisitor," you mutter. "Then, onto our next adventure. " //THE END//

“We demand you put an end to this curse!” you shout. You needed to show Rhyn that you weren’t afraid of her. If she views you as weak, she’ll never listen to what you have to say. “You //demand// me?” Rhyn says, stifling a laugh. She might be chuckling, but there’s no mirth or warmth to it. You feel a shiver go down your spine, and your hand reflexively shoots toward your sword. “The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyn says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “They drain the magic from this place for their little baubles. They build those disgusting monuments to their vanity.” She says, gesturing to the city. “They drive out the spirits. Now only I remain because they’re too weak to kill me! They die because all they know how to do is take and kill. When a parasite drains the host dry…” You don’t have time to react as Rhyn’s arm surges forward. She grabs Orin in an aqueous tendril and begins to crush the life from him. “… its death is a natural consequence,” she finishes staring you down. You watch as Orin’s face goes red as he struggles for breath. Could you free him before Rhyn crushes his ribs like twigs? You’re not sure. “Now, it’s time for me to make a demand,” she says coldly. The wrapped water whip tightens, squeezing the breath out of Orin. “I’ll take this human,” she says in a tone cold as steel. I’ll even lift the curse and leave the humans to their stone graves. You will leave this place and never return. How does //that// sound?” You lock eyes with Orin. He can’t breathe, let alone speak, but his eyes are wide with terror. He’s pleading for help, but… you could save the entire city if you just agree. Orin came here of his own free will, against your wishes. Were you responsible for him? [[Let Rhyn take Orin.]] [[Save Orin.]]

You decide to try for a peaceful solution. “My name is El.” You say, placing a hand on your chest. You then gesture to your companions. “This tree nymph I Juniper, my best friend. The blond boy is Orin. He’s here to represent the Order of Illumination.” You take a bow, and your allies do the same. “Such respect. The spirit says in a low purr. “I thought man had forgotten such things. I am Rhyn, the spirit of this river. If you’ve gone through the trouble of seeking me out, you must want something. Out with it.” Rhyn smirks as she gazes at you. “There’s a curse on the water. People are becoming ill. Some are dying. We’ve come for your help in solving the problem, Rhyn,” You say. “My help? The humans have brought this upon themselves. I’m not very inclined to help,” Rhyn says with a wide grin of needle-like teeth. “They drain the magic from this place for their little baubles. They build those disgusting monuments to their vanity.” She says, gesturing to the city. “They drive out the spirits. Now only I remain because they’re too weak to kill me! They die because all they know how to do is take and kill. When a parasite drains the host dry, its death is a natural consequence.” Orin clutches his fist at the words. He looks like he’s about to step forward but instead takes a deep breath and looks to you. “Are humans parasites?” you ask. “isn’t that short-sighted? The Fish in your river exist in balance with one another. It’s the law of nature. Spirits and humans aren’t exempt from those laws either.” Rhyn folds her arms. She glares at Orin, eyes as sharp as daggers. Orin steps forward and clears his throat. “The Spirits have not always been good to my people. Your storms destroy our homes. Your floods wash away our possessions. Your blights wrack our bodies.” He clears his throat and returns to Rhyn’s gaze. “However, it’s come to my attention that we’ve not always been good to you either. We drove the spirits out and drew their magic without offering anything in return. This is unsustainable. Reason dictates we work together.” Rhyn scoffs. “Work together?” she asks. “Why not” Orin retorts. “Juniper and El have managed it and become all the stronger.” Rhyn looks you and Juniper over. You see a bit of fear settle on her brow. She’s unsure of what to do. Before her doubts can grow, Juniper flies forward. “Look, Sunshine is pretty annoying when you first meet him, but I don’t think he’s all bad,” Juniper says. Rhyn looks toward Orin and slowly relents. “Okay, let’s make a deal. You, humans, draw magic from my river. I can feel how you change it, amplify it. If you share your human magic with me, I’ll share the power of my river with you. Deal?” Orin gives a stern nod. “I’ll have to check with my overseer, but if you lift the curse, it’s a deal. Looking at the two of them together, you can’t help but feel… [[Hopeful.]] [[Skeptical.]]

Looking at Rhyn and Orin, you get a feeling this might be the start of something new. Sure, it wouldn’t be easy, but spirits and humans needed each other. Neither are monsters or pure evil. They just need a little help getting along. Of course, you wouldn’t always be there, but if Orin and Rhyn could see eye to eye, then they could serve as an example to others. After all, they both cared about this place more than anything else. You’re sure they’ll make a good team. A hero is someone who can make even unlikely events possible. “C’mon, guys.” You say, “We’d better let the Overseer know.” //The End//

Looking at Rhyn and Orin, you get a feeling this won’t last. Both of them hated each other for so long. The moment any issue comes up, they’ll go back to warring and destroy one another. This city is a ticking time bomb. Still, you’ve managed to give them a little more time before the big boom. That was worth something, right? A hero is someone who can appreciate the small victories. “C’mon, guys.” You say, “We’d better let the Overseer know.” //The End//