walk with me.

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<div class="titlepage">WALK WITH ME conversations between a young god and a heart of stone</div> press space or click anywhere to continue. <<cont space>><<goto 'act1p1'>><</cont>>

( <<if tags().includes('a1')>> act one <<elseif tags().includes('a2')>> act two <<elseif tags().includes('a3')>> act three <<elseif tags().includes('a4')>> act four <<elseif tags().includes('a5')>> act five <<elseif tags().includes('a6')>> act six <<elseif tags().includes('a7')>> act seven <<elseif tags().includes('a8')>> act eight <<elseif tags().includes('a9')>> not an end <<elseif tags().includes('a0')>> start <</if>> )

<<type 20ms>>it's dark.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i can't see anything.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>hello?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>can you hear me?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i can.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act1p2'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>please.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i am listening.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it's so dark.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act1p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>would you like light?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>yes.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>no.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i do not know what i will see.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it scares me.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i promise that kindness will be the first thing you see.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act1bitsy'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<bitsy>>bitsy/walkone.html<</bitsy>> <div class="caption">use WASD or arrow keys to move.</div>

<<restorefocus>> <div class="image"><img src="images/mountain3.png"></div> <<type 20ms>>give your eyes some time to adjust.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>oh. wow.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you may lean on me if you wish.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>thank you. it all seems so different, now that it's all within reach.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p2'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>what was it like before?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i could only hear it.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>feel it, sometimes, through the earth.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and now you can see.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and now i can see.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>will you walk with me, while you find your bearings?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p4'>><</cont>>

<<scrollhere>> <div class="image"><img src="images/path.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the pebbled path is solid beneath your feet as you walk. the sunlight is warm against your skin in a way you never realised possible. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>this form is unsteady — two legs make balancing an active process — but you welcome the challenge. the god beside you keeps pace patiently. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a new power sits behind your ribs. they have not opened the gates for you, but given you the keys.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p5'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>why did you help me?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>because you called.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>is that what all gods do? if someone calls and wants something, you give it to them?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>that is what you are, yes?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>perhaps not all gods.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and yes, that is what i seem to have become.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p6'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>so. not all gods go around raising dragons if they so ask. but you do?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i do.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>why?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you wanted to see.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>yes.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2p7'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>there are a great many things in this world that should be seen.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>just like that?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>just like that.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>hm.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you may come with me, if you wish.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>this world should not be walked alone.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act2bitsy'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<bitsy>>bitsy/walktwo.html<</bitsy>> <div class="caption">use WASD or arrow keys to move.</div>

<<restorefocus>> <div class="image"><img src="images/city.png"></div> <<cont append space>><div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>buildings line the banks of this river. the god pauses on a small hill overlooking the city, gesturing outwards with a single arm. the lines of their expression are gentle, content.<</type>></div> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>if you are looking for a place to rest, these people will welcome you.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act3p2'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>these are your people?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i am their god.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>what is the difference?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>one day, they will call for my blood.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they may tear me apart and eat me alive.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and i will let them.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act3p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>won't you die?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will not.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act3p4'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>how?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>will you forget me so quickly?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>no.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then i will live.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act3p5'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<scrollhere>> <div class="image"><img src="images/city.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>as you draw closer to the city, the god assures you that the people will scarcely bat an eye. extraordinary things happen every day, and they welcome new friends with open arms always. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you wander, guided by an ever-burning curiosity. the god strays away briefly, but they return when you call out. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they wait patiently at the end of the street, holding a sweet-smelling treat from a street vendor in their hands.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act3bitsy'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<bitsy>>bitsy/walkthree.html<</bitsy>> <div class="caption">use WASD or arrow keys to move.</div>

<<restorefocus>> <<type 20ms>>would you like to try this?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>ah, thank you.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>your people seem nice.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>what sort of god are you?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a good one, i hope.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>ha. that's not what i meant, though.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p2'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>i am a god of art, for now.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>for now?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>these people are about to go to war. they will want me to fight for them.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>oh.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>they will want me to help them.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i cannot win as i am.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>do you want to help them?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i want them to survive.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and for that you must change?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it must be done.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p4'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<scrollhere>> <div class="image"><img src="images/field.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you are revelling in your newfound freedom. as novel and lovely the city is, you are most comfortable on the fringes of it. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>here, you can shed the limits of your form, stretch your limbs out, and bathe in the sunlight. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>here, you hear the god laugh for the first time at the unfiltered delight on your expression. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>here, you see the pride and affection in their eyes as they show you the lands they have created and cared for; watching the tenderness with which they cradle a bird that has fallen from its nest, lifting it back up to its watchful parents. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p5'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<scrollhere>> <div class="image"><img src="images/clouds.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the earth ages differently from all, so time has little meaning to you. you are weightless yet grounded, the shape of your new life both so familiar and so new to you at the same time. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>there is an endless amount of things to see, and an endless amount of people to meet. sometimes, you accompany the god when they travel back to the city, and you spend your time watching and learning. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people, you learn, have many stories to tell. they are free with their words and you treasure each deeply, carving each into your memory of stone. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they are afraid of forgetting, you learn. so you will carry their stories, and you will remember for them.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p6'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>what is that sound?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>war horns.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>what does it mean?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>that i must play my part.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p7'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>there is something in the air.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they have brought their own gods with them.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>that doesn't sound good.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it will not end well.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>for you?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p8'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/dragonstatue.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the god has their back to you, but you see their shadow shift, a shape suddenly lean and cold. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they smile, grim and sharp and sad. their eyes gleam gold.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p9'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>for them.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act4p10'>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>you may <<link "stay here" "act5p1a">><<set $a4choice = "protect">><</link>>, if you like. or you may <<link "come with me" "act5p1b">><<set $a4choice = "fight">><</link>>.<</type>>

<<type 20ms>>i will stay and protect them.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will ask no more of you.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>thank you.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>stay safe.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>ha.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5p2a'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/door.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you stay within the city walls, not to hide, but to protect. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people seek shelter in their houses. it leaves the streets empty, a space to be filled, so you do. you stretch your limbs out and breathe in deep, sinking your claws into the earth. you will not be moved. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the scent of smoke is heavy on your tongue as you wait. you can feel the earth tremble even from here, echoing the rage of its people; of its god.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5p3a'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you wait, and you wait, and you wait. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the battle does not reach the city. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>still, it is dark by the time the people begin to peek out of their houses. only now do you rise, and follow the scent of war to seek out the god.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5bitsy'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>i will go with you to fight.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>are you sure?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>this is not your duty.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>but it is my choice nevertheless.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i see.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5p2b'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/war.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you follow the god to the battlefield. their form shifts and twists, until it is impossible to mistake them for one of their people. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they run not at the front of the army nor the back, but at the side, wary of how their touch could burn both friend and foe alike. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you were not made for war, and neither was the god. but the people call, and so, you answer.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5p3b'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you fight fiercely. you crash into the enemy with your fangs and claws bared, their flames licking uselessly over your earth-strong hide. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you duck across the field to shield your allies from attacks, your form curled briefly around theirs before you move, once more on the offense. you cradle the wounded in your hands and sweep them towards the healers, as they whisper what they think will be their last words against your shoulder. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the battle does not make it past this field. the city is untouched and unharmed by the time the sun falls and the sounds of warfare grow quiet. only now do you slow, and scan the horizon for the god.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act5bitsy'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<bitsy>>bitsy/walkfive.html<</bitsy>> <div class="caption">use WASD or arrow keys to move.</div>

<<restorefocus>> <<type 20ms>>do gods bleed?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>not like mortals. but we tire.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i see.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you can lean on me, if you want.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>thank you.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p2'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>you are somewhat easier to carry than anticipated.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you may simply be strong.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>maybe.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/torch.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you stay out under the stars that night, hovering on the edges of the city. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>right now, your claws are still too sharp to help them just yet. you must wait and remain vigilant, just in case. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you have a lot of practice in waiting. the god, however, is a young god, restlessly drawing flowers in the dirt with their new claws.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p4'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>did you want to change?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>hm.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>are you okay?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you have learned more from them than i realised.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p5'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>tell me about yourself.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>which part?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<if $a4choice == "protect">> <<type 20ms>>the part that will live.<</type>> <<else>> <<type 20ms>>the part that will die.<</type>> <</if>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p6'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/mountain2.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>the god has many stories to tell. you absorb it all readily, just as you had with their people. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>your people, now, as well. you hear them as they pass by, murmuring in low, awed voices about their <<if $a4choice == "protect">>stalwart defender<<else>>brave warrior<</if>>. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a god's creations will always outlive them, you learn, and it makes your heart of stone ache in a way you did not think possible. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the more you listen, the more you become aware of it: the hollow, cavernous space in the centre of your chest that aches at the thought of their inevitable destruction, demanded by the very beings they love. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p7'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>not destruction, dear heart.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a rebirth.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p8'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>can you not simply leave? run, before it happens?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i cannot.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you cannot, or you will not?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i want to live, but i do not wish to abandon them.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p9'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>will you walk with me?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>is that what you want?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>yes.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then, of course.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p10'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/tea.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>it is difficult to keep track of the speed at which people move. you mark your days by the happenings, not by the sun. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a herd of deer returns to the forest where the fighting had previously scared them off. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people construct a teahouse at the edge of the city, a small warm building with no front doors, for they fear no ill-intent. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people progress and grow, blossoming under the god's watchful eye. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p11'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>perhaps they grow too quickly. perhaps creatures like you and the god are simply too slow to change, too embedded within the foundations to move with the ages. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people lead an expedition into the mountains, digging into its heart in search of more resources. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p12'>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>the gods do not bleed. that is what they told you. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>but when they pause mid-story to drag the back of their hand across their mouth, their eyes wide with surprise as they see their skin stained scarlet — what else could that be but blood? <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p13'>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>how can you let them do this to you?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they do not know any better.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>is that all?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it must be done.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>why?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>time will change all our shapes whether we want to or not.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p14'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>and you want this to happen?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i want to live, my dear.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you are a cruel god.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i do not wish to leave you, or these people.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i apologise.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>don't. i will stay with you.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p15'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>what happens next?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>what indeed.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you're terrible at this.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you have told me multiple times.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>how will i find you again?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>how did you find me at first?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act6p16'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>i called.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then call, and i will answer.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>even then?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>even then, dear heart. even then.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p1'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/fish.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you mark your days in happenings, not by the sun. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the teahouse now has a small pond in front of it. both of you are quite fond of watching the fish. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>there are more expeditions into the mountains. more people, more metal. more inventions, more progress. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the god continues to bleed. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p2'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>you are quiet today.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i'm thinking.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>strange.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>don't be rude.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>what are you thinking about?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>about how the gods are always destined to die.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it is not quite death.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>we are born of the people. of their hopes and dreams, sometimes.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>we only rest within the aether until we are called upon once more.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p4'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>but until then, the things we love live on, and us in them.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>but what is that?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i do not understand.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they love you differently than i, no?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>how?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p5'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>call me arrogant if you will-<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will not.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>-but i like to think i love you like i know you. with surety and clarity, steadfast as the earth i was pulled from.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i have seen you. i see you. even what is not their god. what they fear and what may harm, i welcome.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then you have answered your own question, no?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p6'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/fish.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you watch the fish. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>sometimes, when the weather grows warm, you lower yourself by the edge of the pond and dip your legs into the water. the fish are unafraid. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the god prefers to stay dry, basking in the sunlight. they regale you with their stories nonetheless, watching you and the fish while they sip their tea. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p7'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>do gods bleed?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>is that rhethorical?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>no. you're shaking.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>ah.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>don't say it like that.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p8'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>that sound again.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the war horns summon.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>still?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>until my duty is complete.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will come with you.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p9'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/redsmoke.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>the battles feel the same, after a while. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people are ever grateful, and you are glad to help. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you love your people, and yet! it does not lessen the pain. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>there comes one battle, where you scour the fields for the god in the aftermath, and you do not find them there. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p10'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="image"><img src="images/mountain1.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you find them at the edge of forest, in a clearing of flowers where you had often watched the deer. from here, you can see the mountains that you had once called home. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you still do. they are, after all, made of the same substance as you. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the god stands tall, but you have known them for long enough now to recognise their exhaustion. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p11'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<type 20ms>>please listen, dear heart.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>always.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p12'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>do not let them bury me a god.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they can have me in their statues and their stories.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>but do not let them bury me a stranger.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will lay you to rest with the hands you gave me.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p13'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>take me back into the mountains and let me see the sky and earth alike.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it will be done.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p14'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>will you visit?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>for as long as you will let me.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>my magic will not last forever.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you told me that the gods, at least, retain their memories even when they return to the aether.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>this is true.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p15'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>will you forget me so quickly?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>no.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i will last forever, then.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>always so bold, dear heart.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act7p16'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>even if the day should come that the aether takes me whole, your memory shall be weaved into the fabric of magic itself.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then we will be born again.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>then we will be born again.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p1'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<div class="image"><img src="images/flower.png"></div> <div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>you mark your days in happenings, not by the sun. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the deer have once more returned to the forest. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the people celebrate their latest victory, their homes safe and protected. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the night is filled with song and joy. you and the god dance among them, laughing, singing. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p2'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<div class="desc"><<type 20ms>>then. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>no one tells you how quiet it is. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>how silently a god fades. <</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>how quick and soundless, like a dream, like a wish. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8bitsy'>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>></div>

<<bitsy>>bitsy/walkeight.html<</bitsy>> <div class="caption">use WASD or arrow keys to move.</div>

<<restorefocus>> <<type 20ms>>i brought you back to the mountains, as you asked.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>see. your sky, your earth, and your people. they thrive because you loved them so.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p5'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>the people leave flowers at the edge of the forest. for you, you know.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i saw a hunter save a bird, the other day. it had hurt its wing, so the hunter abandoned their hunt and carried it gently in their hands. it reminded me of you.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>the new god approached me the other day. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p6'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>his dragons had sought me out, seeking advice and wisdom on the people. it felt very strange, but i tried to help as best i could.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>this new god is very different, but not in a bad way. the people have entered a new age, and he is a careful guide. he sends his dragons to leave flowers for you regularly.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i told them which types you liked best. <</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p7'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>they've put up a statue of you by the city gates. i think they make you look taller than you really are.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>they can't seem to get your eyes right, though.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p8'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>they brought an artist to the mountain. she showed me a painting she did — it's of us. she said they'd hang it where everyone can see. maybe in the teahouse?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i think you would have liked this new god. i trust him to love the people as you did, and they seem to love him in return.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p9'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>i think your magic is finally fading.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act8p10'>> <</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>the sun set spectacularly today. i will watch one again with you soon.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>until then, dear heart.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act9p1'>> <</cont>><</cont>>

<<fadein 4s>><div class="image"><img src="images/heart.gif"></div><</fadein>> <<timed 3.5s t8n>><<type 20ms>>hello?<</type>><</timed>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>can you hear me?<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act9p2'>> <</cont>><</cont>> <style>.image img { width: auto; }</style>

<<type 20ms>>i can.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>it's you.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>you have found me.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>and you have found me.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act9p3'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>it has been a while. what sights have you seen?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>a great many things, as an old friend once told me to.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>oh? tell me of these sights.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act9p4'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>i think they also said that the world should not be walked alone.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>i believe they did.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>for old times' sake, then.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>walk with me, if you wish. i have discovered many things that you'll like.<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>lead, and i will walk with you.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'act9p5'>> <</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<type 20ms>>just like that?<</type>> <<cont append space>><<type 20ms>>just like that.<</type>> <<cont space>><<goto 'fin'>><</cont>><</cont>>

<<set $a4choice = "protect">>