The Adventurers Guild: Countdown

THE ADVENTURERS GUILD: COUNTDOWN -A Story of Love, Friendship, and Video Games- by Garrett Scheliga [[BEGIN -> Prologue 1]] (set: $Game to 0) (set: $Work to 0) (set: $Michael to 0) (set: $Mom to 0) (set: $Dad to false) (set: $Tim to 0) (set: $Morgan to 0) (set: $Forgiveness to false) (set: $Happiness to false) (set: $Rock to false) (set: $Chiptune to false) (set: $Fail to false) (set: $Lifehack to false) (set: $Michaelsafe to false) (set: $SDTFM to false)

It’s a foggy Sunday in the suburbs. You’ve been at work since 8am, and have yet to see a single customer. One person almost got drawn in by the enormous “End-of-Year Clearance” signs your boss taped up on the front windows, but then thought the better of it and moved on. Probably a good call on their part: all the prices were jacked up before their markdowns. Mariah Carey blares from the radio, oblivious to the fact that it’s December 26th and her Christmas wishes clearly won’t be granted this year. You’re reorganizing the stock of DVDs yet again, struggling with the age-old question of if the “X-” in X-Men should put it before or after the other X-titled films. BING! The synthetic ring of the front door opening is so unexpected you nearly drop the disc cases you’re holding. You spin around and fire off the standard company greeting. [[“Welcome to D. Funk DVD Rental! How can I-” -> Prologue 2]] [[(Skip Prologue) -> Day1M]]

Hold on, you know this guy. “Oh hey Garrett! What’s up?” Garrett takes off his sunglasses and hangs them on his shirt collar. He’s wearing an outfit that resembles The Terminator, which would definitely look cooler if he himself looked more like Arnold and less like a 5’6” ghostly pale nerd with a neckbeard. “Nothing much,” he replies, “how you been Sam?” You shrug. “Same old same old…for the most part anyway. Been a lot more boring around here since you left though. No one to prank Dean when he stops by the shop.” Garrett scoffs. “What, you didn’t take up the mantle when I bailed? I’m disappointed in you!” You both laugh. “Hey, did you see my message in the group chat?” [[“No, what was it?” -> Prologue 3]] [[“What group chat?” -> Prologue 3a]]

“Oh come on, The Adventurers Guild group chat! The one with Drew, and Russ, Toast and me. I added you like two weeks ago. Don’t tell me you haven’t checked it yet.” “Uhhhhh…” “Well you, my friend, have missed out on some GREAT memes. But more importantly you missed a rather important invite to my year-ending bonanza: The Last-Minute Last-Day Game Gauntlet, trademark pending.” [[“Last day last what now?” -> Prologue 3]]

“My Last-Minute Last-Day Game Gauntlet! Basically I’m throwing a get-together for the gang and a few other folks on New Year’s Eve, complete with music, food, and a big Nintendo Switch gaming tournament!” “Seems like something you’d do,” you reply with a grin, “and a good chance to flex my Mario Kart chops.” Garrett holds a up a finger. “Whoa there, drift master! We gotta keep this thing fair and unbiased, so we’re not playing ANY of the usual fare. Instead, I’ve crafted a lineup of hidden gems from some of today’s finest indie publishers and developers…we’ve got games from Tate Multimedia, QubicGames, All iN!, naptime.games, and even Untold Tales!” You scratch your head. “I’ve never heard of any of them.” “Precisely! The selected games are new to all of us, so we’re coming in on a level playing field. The list is on the text, and many are courteously on sale on the eShop right now. So pick ‘em up when you get home and start practicing!” [[“Sounds good.” -> Prologue 4]] [[“Sounds like a lot of work.” -> Prologue 4a]]

“Awesome!” Garrett puts his sunglasses back on and turns to leave. “Well, gotta go buy next year’s wrapping paper at 90% off. Catch you later muchacho!” “Hey, hold on a second.” Garrett glances back at you. “Is…um…Morgan going to be at the party?” Morgan is Garrett’s cousin. Exceptionally cool, with a perfect smile and an adorable little laugh that makes your heart skip a beat. You’ve hung out with them at a few of Garrett’s parties over the last year, and you feel like you’ve built up enough rapport to ask them on a date…at least you hope you have. You’re really not sure. Maybe you aren’t ready? You actually have no idea anymore. Garrett flashes a knowing smile. “Oh yeah, Morgan will definitely be there. So bring your A-game and try not to make a fool of yourself, alright?” He tosses up a peace sign and exits the store. [[You take a deep breath, then get back to work -> Prologue 5]]

“Oh don’t be a square, Sam…but if you need some extra motivation, let me sweeten the pot a bit:” Garrett flashes a knowing smile. “Morgan’s going to be there.” Your eyes widen. Morgan is Garrett’s cousin. Exceptionally cool, with a perfect smile and an adorable little laugh that makes your heart skip a beat. You’ve hung out with them at a few of Garrett’s parties over the last year, and you feel like you’ve built up enough rapport to ask them on a date…at least you hope you have. You’re really not sure. Maybe you aren’t ready? You actually have no idea anymore. You realize your jaw has been ever so slightly ajar for the last twenty-some seconds, and quickly grit your teeth. “I…um…I mean that isn’t…like, it’s fine that…but…uh…” Garrett chuckles. “Your secret’s safe with me. Just bring your A-game and try not to make a fool of yourself, alright?” He tosses up a peace sign and exits the store. [[You take a deep breath, then get back to work -> Prologue 5]]

The rest of your shift passes without any further meaningful encounters. Once the afternoon crew arrives, you clock out and drive home. As you walk through the front door, you smell the slightly charred, onion-loaded scent of your mother’s chicken casserole. It’s the third time in less than a week she’s made it, and honestly you’d rather eat the tires off your car than suffer through it again. With a sigh, you enter the kitchen. “Hi honey! Dinner’s almost ready.” [[“Smells delicious, Mom.” -> Prologue 6]] [[“Oh great, chicken casserole again…” -> Prologue 6a]]

“I know you’re lying, but thank you,” she replies. Your little brother Michael zooms into the room, spinning around in circles with two action figures clutched in his fists. “You’re going down Spider-Man! I’ll spray you with my evil laughing gas!” “No way, Joker! I’ll web you up for the police and then the whole city will love me!” Michael smashes the two figures together repeatedly, then looks up at you. “Who do you think’s gonna win?” [[“Spider-Man, duh. He’d just web the laughing gas canisters shut. Joker wouldn’t stand a chance!” -> Prologue 7]] [[“I think they reside in different universes, so them fighting at all indicates a multiversal collapse that would probably write them both out of existence.” -> Prologue 7a]] (set: $Mom to it + 1)

“Well if you want something different, you can feel free to cook it yourself when I’m done…unless of course you STILL haven’t opened those cookbooks I got you before college.” You haven’t…and actually you aren’t even sure where they are. But seriously, just getting dining hall food is so much easier! Your little brother Michael zooms into the room, spinning around in circles with two action figures clutched in his fists. “You’re going down Spider-Man! I’ll spray you with my evil laughing gas!” “No way, Joker! I’ll web you up for the police and then the whole city will love me!” Michael smashes the two figures together repeatedly, then looks up at you. “Who do you think’s gonna win?” [[“Spider-Man, duh. He’d just web the laughing gas canisters shut. Joker wouldn’t stand a chance!” -> Prologue 7]] [[“I think they reside in different universes, so them fighting at all indicates a multiversal collapse that would probably write them both out of existence.” -> Prologue 7a]]

Michael smiles. “Yeah, he totally would!” He smacks The Joker with Spider-Man once more in slow motion, complete with an extended “ka-blammmmmmm!” “No, you got me again! Curse you Spider-Man!” Michael tilts The Joker dramatically backward onto the kitchen table. The city is once again safe from his nefarious plots. Your mother places the casserole tray on the middle of the table, between the three place settings. You and Michael wash your hands, then sit down to eat. Suddenly your phone chimes. You check the message: it’s from Drew, one of Garrett’s friends from high school who you’ve been gaming with recently. DREW: Hey! Russ, Toast and I are online on Steam right now. Garrett says he’s busy. Really need a 4th teammate for Tools Up. This level is super hard. Can you hop on? (if: $Mom is 1)[ [[Ignore the message and eat with your family ->P8c]] ] (if: $Mom is 0)[ [[Ignore the message and eat with your family->P8d]] ] (if: $Mom is 1)[ [[“Hey, just leave my portion in the fridge. I’ll eat it later.”->P8a]] ] (if: $Mom is 0)[ [[“Hey, just leave my portion in the fridge. I’ll eat it later.”->P8b]] ] (set: $Michael to it + 1)

Michael looks at you like you have three heads. He clearly does not understand the intricacies of the multiverse. Your mother places the casserole tray on the middle of the table, between the three place settings. You and Michael wash your hands, then sit down to eat. Suddenly your phone chimes. You check the message: it’s from Drew, one of Garrett’s friends from high school who you’ve been gaming with recently. DREW: Hey! Russ, Toast and I are online on Steam right now. Garrett says he’s busy. Really need a 4th teammate for Tools Up. This level is super hard. Can you hop on? (if: $Mom is 1)[ [[Ignore the message and eat with your family ->P8c]] ] (if: $Mom is 0)[ [[Ignore the message and eat with your family->P8d]] ] (if: $Mom is 1)[ [[“Hey, just leave my portion in the fridge. I’ll eat it later.”->P8a]] ] (if: $Mom is 0)[ [[“Hey, just leave my portion in the fridge. I’ll eat it later.”->P8b]] ]

“Oh, you’re not going to eat with us?” your mother says, raising an eyebrow. “You know, it’s not exactly a ‘family dinner’ without the whole family.” “I know, I know. I’m sorry. It’s just that my friends are begging me to get online to help them with something.” Your mother nods understandingly. “Alright, well go help them save the world. The casserole will be waiting when you finish.” [[You walk upstairs and close the bedroom door behind you -> P9]]

You silence your phone and begin ladling the gray mush of your dinner onto your plate. Out of the corner of your eye, you catch an approving nod from your mother. Despite the food, it is a nice meal. Michael monopolizes much of the conversation talking about his new toys, but you manage to sneak in a mention of Garrett’s New Year’s party. “Oh, that sounds really nice!” says your mother, “I’ll send some cookies along with you!” You smile politely, knowing full well those raisin-filled disasters will never make it past the trash bin by Garrett’s driveway. After you finish, you rinse off your plate and cutlery, then bid your family goodnight. [[Go upstairs to your room -> P9a]]

You silence your phone and begin ladling the gray mush of your dinner onto your plate. Out of the corner of your eye, you catch a small frown cross your mother’s face. You feel a little bad about what you said earlier. Despite the food, it is a nice meal. Michael monopolizes much of the conversation talking about his new toys, but you manage to sneak in a mention of Garrett’s New Year’s party. “Oh, well that should be fun,” says your mother, “I'll make make cookies to take with you. Just be safe there. Don’t do anything crazy.” “Mom, I’m pretty sure the craziest thing this group has ever done is, like, try to play Wii Bowling blindfolded.” After you finish, you rinse off your plate and cutlery, then bid your family goodnight. [[Go upstairs to your room -> P9a]]

“Oh, you’re not going to eat with us?” your mother says, raising an eyebrow. “You know, it’s not exactly a ‘family dinner’ without the whole family.” You scowl at her. “Then it wouldn’t matter if I was here or not, would it?” You storm upstairs, ignoring her calls after you. [[Close the bedroom door behind you -> P9]]

You boot up your PC and sit down at your desk. A few clicks later, your monitor is illuminated with the title screen of Tools Up, a challenging cooperative home renovation game. You and the so-called Adventurers Guild have been battling through the game’s campaign together over the last few days, hindered as much by each other’s antics as the game’s actual difficulty. You call Drew on your phone and are promptly added to a three-way call already in progress. “Stop closing the door in my face!” Russ bellows. “Password?” Toast responds mockingly. “The password is I live two blocks from your house, and will send you two blocks further when I run over and smack ya!” Drew sighs. “Sam, you see why we need you here?” “Yeah, I’m getting the idea,” you reply with a laugh, “send me a Remote Play invite.” The invite notification appears with a ding. [[Accept the invite -> P10]]

You join the team, selecting a craftsman with the face of an iguana. (You’re about to joke his specialty is “rep-tilework,” but stop yourself. Just because Garrett isn’t here doesn’t mean you need to fill in for his terrible puns.) Though much toil, your team’s whimsical handymen (as well as your handyiguana and Drew’s handydog) make their way through several levels of the campaign. After a particularly hard-fought victory, you decide to end things for the night. “That would have gone way smoother if Toast wasn’t messing around,” Russ bemoans after everyone has logged out. “Hey, I wasn’t the one knocking over paint cans like it was my job!” Toast fires back. “They said we had to paint the floor!” “In what universe is that how you paint a floor?!” “Guys, guys,” Drew again intervenes to stem the tide, “we got it done. That’s all that matters.” [[“Exactly! We’re a great team.” -> P11]] [[“Actually I’d say what mattered most was learning we could throw each other around the construction site.” -> P11a]] (set: $Game to it + 1)

“No one likes a Positive Petey,” Russ responds. “No one likes a Negative Nancy, either,” comments Drew. “I guess the only sure thing is no one likes Toast.” “That much we can agree on.” “Both of you two are trash,” Toast retorts, “I’m headed to bed. Sam, it was good playing with you. Catch you all tomorrow.” Toast exits the phone call. Drew yawns. “I should probably be going too. Got work in the morning. G’night!” Only you and Russ remain. There is a prolonged silence, permeated only by Russ’ occasional coughing. Eventually he takes a deep breath, then offers a thought. “You ever just wonder…like, who was the first person to build a ceiling? Who looked at 4 walls and was like ‘yo I can put another wall above me and live in a box,’ ya know?” [[“Goodnight Russ.” -> P12]]

All three of the others laugh. “Yeah, so you better watch out, Toast!” Russ warns him. He deepens his voice. “I HAVE THE POWER!” “Considering it took you three tries to get a rug over one wall, I’d say I’m pretty safe,” Toast responds. “Anyway, I’m headed to bed. Sam, it was good playing with you. Catch you all tomorrow.” Toast exits the phone call. Drew yawns. “I should probably be going too. Got work in the morning. G’night!” Only you and Russ remain. There is a prolonged silence, permeated only by Russ’ occasional coughing. Eventually he takes a deep breath, then offers a thought. “You ever just wonder…like, who was the first person to put butter on bread? Who looked at these two different foods and was like ‘yo I can smear this goop all over this flat thing and make it taste different,’ ya know?” [[“Goodnight Russ.” -> P12]]

You boot up your PC and sit down at your desk. A few clicks later, your monitor is illuminated with the title screen of Tools Up, a challenging cooperative home renovation game. You and the so-called Adventurers Guild have been battling through the game’s campaign together over the last few days, hindered as much by each other’s antics as the game’s actual difficulty. You call Drew on your phone and are promptly added to a three-way call already in progress. Russ coughs into the line. “I’m just saying, peacocks are cool birds. Flamingos are cool birds. There’s gotta be a way to cross-breed them!” “Oh hey Sam,” Drew says, pointedly diverting from what surely was a riveting discussion about bird genetics. “Well, that is terrible timing: I’m just leaving. Got work early tomorrow. I’ll catch you next time though!” [[“No problem. See you later!” -> 10a]]

Drew exits the call. “You missed a heck of a time,” Toast informs you, “we realized you can throw people around the construction site. So many new opportunities…” “Throwing me out of the map isn’t an ‘opportunity,’” Russ comments. “it’s a garbage move.” “Exactly! You’re garbage, and I move you.” “Toast, you are the worst. Literally the worst.” “Love you too, Russ.” Toast signs off for the evening and hangs up, leaving just you and Russ on the call. There is a prolonged silence, permeated only by Russ’ occasional coughing. At some point the coughs turn to snores, and it becomes clear Russ has fallen asleep. [[Remain on the line -> 10b]] [[Hang up and go to bed -> P12]]

Seriously, you’re the only one conscious here. Go to bed. [[Remain on the line -> 10c]] [[Hang up and go to bed -> P12]]

Russ mumbles something. “What?” you ask. “Shoelaces are…overrated,” he repeats. You wait for more but Russ does not elaborate. [[Enough is enough. You hang up and go to bed -> P12]]

You turn off your computer, then remember the list of games Garrett sent you earlier. You boot up your Nintendo Switch and purchase the games on the eShop (your wallet very thankful for their current discounts). The console begins to download them as you turn off your TV. As you lay back on the bed and rest your eyes, you can’t help but think about all the things you have to do this week. Work shifts, helping out around the house, playing games to prepare for the tournament, mentally preparing to see Morgan…and you only have 4 days before New Year’s Eve! It’s going to be busy, and you already sense you’re not going to be able to get everything done. Almost anything you can do takes time, and there’s only so much time in each day: the Morning, Afternoon, and Evening. Still, you vow to do your best, and hope everything works out in the end. [[Drift off to sleep -> Day1M]]

It is the MORNING of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. Your mother knocks on your bedroom door. “Sam, I have to go show a house, but we need groceries. I left the list on the kitchen counter, can you go get them? Thanks!” She rushes away as fast as her stiletto heels can carry her. You look at your Switch, realizing you’ve got a lot of games to get versed with before the tournament. The earlier you start training, the better. But it all feels like a bit much at the moment…maybe listening to some music would help you relax. A notification light blinks on your phone: new texts in the Adventurers Guild group chat. It would only take a moment to check them. [[Go on the grocery run (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1grocery]] [[Play games on your console (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1Mgame]] [[Relax and listen to music (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1music]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat (won’t use timeslot) -> Chat1]]

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 8:58am TOAST: Who’s up for a little post-Christmas group chat karaoke? 9:02am RUSS: How would that even work? 9:05am TOAST: Here, I’ll start us off: TOAST: Ohhhh the weather outside is frightful… 9:07am DREW: But the fiiiiire is sooooooo delightful… 9:08am GARRETT: Annnnnd since we’ve no place to go… 9:10am RUSS: YOU GUYS BLOW YOU GUYS BLOW YOU GUYS BLOW! 9:15am DREW: You see? This is why we can’t have nice things. [[Put your phone away -> Day1Malt]]

It is the MORNING of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Go on the grocery run (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1grocery]] [[Play games on your console (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1Mgame]] [[Relax and listen to music (uses 1 timeslot) -> D1music]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat (won’t use timeslot) -> Chat1]]

You descend to the kitchen and grab your mother’s grocery list off the counter. CHICKEN BREAST 2 CANS OF BLACK BEANS CHEDDAR CHEESE 2 BOTTLES OF MOLE SAUCE 4 BOTTLES OF CHARDONNAY “Geez Mom…” you mutter. Well, she’s going to have to get the alcohol on her own time. Nothing you can do for that. You let your brother know you’re headed out. “Hey Michael, I’ll be back in a bit. Don’t trash the place.” “Can the Magnet Men invade the TV Zone again?” “Heck no! No magnets! We can’t afford another TV.” “Okayyyyyy.” You go to the usual grocery store, but they’re out of mole sauce. You end up having to check two other stores to find some. By the time you’ve gotten everything home, it’s past noon. [[Put the groceries away and go up to your room -> Day1A]] (set: $Mom to it + 1)

You decide to ignore your mother’s request and play a game on your Switch, in preparation for the tournament. It looks like no one else is online, so you select one of the few single-player games on Garrett’s list: Golf Club Wasteland. (Given the topic, you assume you’ll be competing for a lower stroke count.) You are immediately floored by the atmosphere of the game. You’d expected a post-apocalyptic environment from the title: a dingy, burnt out world like Fallout’s. But this is different…desolate but beautiful, with a color palette that perfectly captures the melancholy of a fallen civilization. The soundtrack, too, is a perfect fit. Framed as a radio broadcast, the powerful and haunting songs, juxtaposed with spoken portions from the DJ and callers, truly give the feeling of being alone on an abandoned world. After nearly 15 minutes, it dawns on you that you haven’t actually hit the ball yet: you’ve simply been engrossed in the presentation. You begin to play, and are pleased to find the quality of the gameplay matches that of the aesthetic. After a dozen or so holes, you feel like you are ready to golf competitively against the rest of the Guild. [[You exit the game and turn off your Switch -> Day1A]] (set: $Game to it + 1)

You’re feeling pretty stressed about the next few days, and hope listening to some music will relax you. You look through some available playlists online and spot one called “100 Classic Rock Ballads You Should Know.” Considering you don’t even know 100 classic rock songs in general, you feel like there’s definitely something to be learned here. A few minutes later your consciousness is engulfed in pad synths, shredding guitar solos, and the sort of shrill vocals you can only obtain from men in pants that are three sizes too tight. An hour passes, then another, as your journey through rock’s golden years continues. It’s only when the playlist stops to buffer that you realize how long you’ve been listening. It’s already nearly 2pm! Still, that music was excellent. You save the link so you can listen to the rest later. [[On to something else -> Day1A]] (set: $Rock to true)

It is the AFTERNOON of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. You sit on your bed, thinking about how to spend the next bit of your time. You do have a work shift scheduled that would last through the evening…but that chews up the rest of your day, and given how few customers have even walked in this past week, you doubt your boss will even care if you show up. You hear your mother enter the house, slamming the door behind her. She sounds upset. [[Go to work (uses 2 timeslots) ->D1work]] [[Play games on your console -> D1game2]] [[Talk to your mother -> D1talk]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 2]]

Eh, you really should go to work. You do so, and spend most of your shift standing behind the counter, staring blankly at an old Rambo poster on the wall ahead of you. At one point you build a 3-story house of cards out of sleeved DVDs just to keep yourself occupied. Ultimately only 3 customers actually make purchases, which you doubt would even pay the electric bill for the last few hours. It’s late in the evening when you clock out. You stop on the way home and pick up some take-out for dinner. It’s limp, fatty, greasy…and still probably 200% better than whatever your mother ended up making. When you arrive home, you find your mother watching a Hallmark film with a box of tissues. You quietly eat your meal, then drag yourself upstairs and flop down on your bed. [[Go to sleep -> Day2M]] (set: $Work to it + 1)

You decide to skip work and leave your mom alone. You see Toast is online on Red Wings: Aces of the Sky, so you know what you’re playing. You pull out your phone and call him. “It’s a bird…it’s a plane…it’s Sam!” he announces, “And also a plane. A whole bunch of planes.” Red Wings puts you in the pilot’s seat of a WWI fighter aircraft, and tasks you with blasting legions of evildoers out of the sky. With tight controls, a clear-cut art style, and intuitive HUD, sighting and combating enemies is a breeze. Of course, you imagine the difficulty will rise significantly when you face another player in the 1v1 dogfighting Battle mode. Thankfully, you’ll still have access to your powerups, like an invincible barrel roll (that would certainly please one gaming icon) and even the ability to sic AI wingmen on your enemy! “I can’t wait to use that one on Russ,” Toast comments, “he’s gonna lose his cool so fast!” After splashing a few more bogeys, Toast excuses himself to get ready for a show he’s playing with his band. [[You hear your mother call you for dinner, so you close the game too and turn off your Switch -> Day1E]] (set: $Game to it + 1)

You peek downstairs. “Everything okay, Mom?” Your mother is forearm-deep in the liquor cabinet. She slowly retracts her limb and shuts the door. “No, I suppose not.” “Want to talk about it?” you ask. She shrugs. You join her on the couch, and she tells you how the house showing was going perfectly until they reached the bathroom. Apparently the wife found the pea-green color of the tile so triggering that she puked all over. Her husband had then taken her home while your mom had to clean up the vomit. Naturally the couple didn’t opt for the house in the end. Your mother sighs. “Thanks for listening. I do feel better now.” You smile. “Happy to help.” “I don’t feel much like cooking tonight. Think I’ll just go pick us something up.” You nod understandingly. It’s no problem: the take-out you get for dinner is substantially better than her cooking anyway. [[Finish eating and head upstairs -> Day1E]] (set: $Mom to it + 1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 12:28pm RUSS: Hey was gonna go hit some balls at the range, but the only club I can find is my driver. Anyone got irons I can borrow? 12:34pm DREW: I have an extra tire iron. 12:36pm TOAST: I just got done ironing my shirt, I’ll unplug it for you. GARRETT: I’m a master of irony if that helps. 12:40pm RUSS: Thanks for absolutely nothing you morons [[Put your phone away -> Day1Aalt]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Go to work (uses 2 timeslots) ->D1work]] [[Play games on your console -> D1game2]] [[Talk to your mother -> D1talk]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 2]]

It is the EVENING of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. Michael bangs on your door. “Hey Sam? Mom’s watching another sad-people-kissing movie on TV downstairs. Can I watch TV in your room?” [[Play games on your console -> D1gameE]] [[Let Michael use your TV -> Day1Michael]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 3]]

It is the MORNING of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. You roll over and check you phone. Aside from a few new texts in the group chat, you see you have a new voicemail. You punch in your PIN and it begins to play. “Hey Sam, it’s Dane…your boss. You know who I am. Listen, Matt just bailed on me for his shift today. Said he has the flu. More like he ‘flew’ off on vacation, right? Got him, heh. Anyway can you cover until Q can get there around 1pm? It’s just a half shift. Let me know.” You consider the opportunity. It would definitely score you points with the boss to help out (maybe even make up for a time you skip a shift). Still, Dane makes you feel highly underappreciated on the whole, and you have other important things you could be doing. [[Fill In At Work (uses only 1 timeslot) -> D2work]] [[Play games on your console -> D2gameM]] [[Browse Social Media -> D2social]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 4]]

You ignore your brother and he wanders off. On your Switch, you spy Garrett playing Wondershot and call him on the phone. “Look at you putting in the work!” he says with a laugh, “hop on the game and I’ll give you some pointers.” Wondershot is a one-hit top-down arena fighter with a twist: each weapon must be picked up again after use, unless you land the shot. You can see how this would lead to exciting and kinetic combat, as players rush about recollecting their armaments while dodging attacks from up to three opponents. Garrett suggests you go through the tutorial first, then try your hand at for the Challenges. It’s a good call: you learn how to utilize all 4 of the game’s unique weapons to maximum effect, and then get put to the test with each one. Soon you’re in the Survival mode, walloping AI goblins, mages, and other baddies like a bona fide warrior. “Don’t think I’m going down as easy as those goons,” Garrett warns you, “this boomerang and I are going to give you a serious run for your money!” You tell him you’re looking forward to it, and you log off for the night. [[Go to sleep -> Day2M]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You open the door and your brother charges in. “Yay! Cartoon time!” With the speed of an adept hacker he logs into Disney+, and turns on a Mickey Mouse short. “I’m just gonna watch a few, and then I’ll go.” It’s not just a few. But you find yourself more amused than you expected to be, so you keep watching until you see him nodding off next to you. You get Michael to his room and he falls back asleep in his own bed. As you walk back down the hallway to your room, you’re struck by just how tired you are. Yawns must really be contagious! You decide to call it a night [[Go to sleep -> Day2M]] (set: $Michael to it +1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 5:35pm GARRETT: I just read an article that NIS is re-releasing their full catalog of last-gen games as Complete Editions at a LOWER price point than the original launches, but ONLY in the US! Apparently in Japan it’s a free upgrade for anyone who bought the original. And sure, is it a good deal for someone who hasn’t played the games yet? Totally. But as an American player who went out of their way to locate physical copies of the original releases and buy them immediately (not to mention all of their DLC Season Passes, which I also purchased), I’m pretty irate. It feels like a cash grab, and a smack in the face to their dedicated fan base in this country. I get most of their players are in Japan, but AT LEAST TRY and make it seem like my business is valued! 5:54pm TOAST: Pretty sure you meant to say you just WROTE an article about that. [[Put your phone away -> Day1Ealt]]

It is the EVENING of December 27th. The party is in 4 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Play games on your console -> D1gameE]] [[Let Michael use your TV -> Day1Michael]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 3]]

With a groan, you decide to help Dane out and fill in at the store. You text him that you will, and he responds instantly. DANE: Great!!! Even in this desperate time, your boss still can’t be bothered to offer a “thank you.” You’re already regretting assisting him. At work, a surprising number of customers come in seeking short films. Apparently December 28th is National Short Film Day, a fact of which you were previously unaware. Unfortunately for the cinemaphiles, DVD is not a cost-effective medium for 10-minute films. You suggest they try YouTube. Around 1, Q stumbles into the store. His eyes glow neon red, and he seems to be exuding Mountain Dew from his pores. “17 Warzone solo wins in one night! BR champ, let’s go!” “That’s awesome, Q.” You say as you clock out. “It was sick, bro! I’d start by dropping into the Power Plant-” “Ooh, sorry. Gotta go.” [[You drive home and walk in the front door -> Day2A]] (set: $Work to it +1)

Forget Dane: you need to train. Turning on your Switch, you see Drew is online playing BADLAND. You give him a call and ask if he wants to practice for the tournament. “Definitely!” he replies, “I’ve got some more time before this meat is done smoking. Let’s both select the same level and see who saves more of these little guys!” The goal in BADLAND is to get an ever-increasing number of puffy, fluttering creatures safely through side-scrolling levels full of deadly traps. The flock moves in unison though, so the player must be careful when to flap their wings, as not to accidently send half their swarm into a spinning saw blade. It’s challenging to be sure, but seeing your charges escape through the tube at the end of each stage is immensely gratifying. You and Drew continually laugh at each other’s panic and frustration, turning what would otherwise be a perfectionist’s nightmare into a bumbling battle to see who can fail less. “Well, I think I’m as ready as I’m gonna be,” Drew concludes, “that was rough, but thanks for helping me feel at least sort of competent.” You offer a similar sentiment, and you both log off. [[You hear commotion from downstairs, and go to check it out -> Day2A]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You see a notification from Facebook that it’s your second cousin’s former husband’s adopted son’s birthday. He was always a nice kid, so you click on to wish him well. Several hours later, you’ve caught up on what half your high school classmates are up to, read through a thread of over 100 furious politically-charged comments on a totally unrelated post about alpacas, and had the new Spider-Man movie’s ending spoiled for you at least 3 times over. When you finally come to your senses, you’re halfway through a hilarious Fail Compilation video. You finish watching it, laughing so hard you can barely breathe, then close out the app. Your life can be rough, but at least you haven’t been clocked in the head with a soccer ball ricocheting off a goalpost at point-blank range. [[On to something else -> Day2A]] (set: $Fail to true)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 8:38am GARRETT: Russ why did you just send me a GIF of Boba Fett dancing on top of the car from Back to the Future? 8:40am RUSS: Oh that was meant for Drew, sorry 9:01am DREW: Russ what’s with this Boba Fett GIF? 9:02am GARRETT: Wait I understand now! Haha that’s hilarious!! 9:07am RUSS: Right? Lol 9:10am DREW: Russ what does it mean??? 9:13am RUSS: I am sorry, you are no longer among the chosen [[Put your phone away -> Day2Malt]]

It is the MORNING of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Fill In At Work (uses only 1 timeslot) -> D2work]] [[Play games on your console -> D2gameM]] [[Browse Social Media -> D2social]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 4]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. You wander into the den. Your mother is at her desk in the corner, pounding on her fax machine like a cavewoman. “It won’t send! Why won’t it send?” she shouts. You ask what’s wrong, and she explains she’s trying to fax paperwork to close a tenuous home sale. You check the machine, but it just keeps showing “ERROR” on the screen. “If I don’t get it to them by 4, I don’t know if I’ll make the sale,” she says, “I can drive the copy to them instead, but I also have to pick up Michael from Jocelyn’s house soon!” She raises her hands to her face and lets out a muted scream. It looks like she could really use your help. [[Drop off the paperwork with the client -> D2paperwork]] [[Pick up Michael from Jocelyn’s house -> D2Joce]] [[Play games on your console -> D2gameA]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat5]]

“Don’t worry, I’ll drive the paperwork to the client,” you say, “what’s the address?” Your mother looks up at you with a broken smile. “Thanks honey, you’re a lifesaver. I’ll write it down for you.” Once you have the address, you hop in your car. Your GPS says it is over an hour away. You hope you can make it in time. Thankfully, traffic is mercifully light. On your arrival. you’re greeted by a well-dressed gentleman, and explain yourself. “Oh wow!” he exclaims, “Josh, listen to this: their fax wasn’t working, so this one drove the paperwork all the way here!” Josh turns his head to look at you. “Well, I’m sold. Let’s sign it.” His partner raises an eyebrow. “Are you really sold on it, or saying that because your next Halo match is about to start?” “…Maybe a little of both?” They ultimately do sign the paperwork. Your mother will be very happy. [[Drive home and have dinner with your family -> Day2E]] (set: $Mom to it +1)

You’re confident your mother will resolve her situation herself. If you got involved, you’d probably just aggravate her further. You turn on your Switch to train for the tournament. No one else is online, so you look through Garrett’s list and find a title that intrigues you: Not Not - A Brain Buster. Initially the game seems easy. You’re placed on a cube face and directed via text to quickly step either up, down, left, or right. The cube then spins and gives you a new instruction. Simple enough. You complete a number of steps and move to the next level. Then the negations begin: not down, not left…then then the double-negatives. Now random colors are appearing at the sides of the cube, with triple-negated instructions to match! “Gah!” Your character shatters onscreen, after you fail to do “Not Not Not Nothing.” It seems the game has accomplished its mission: your brain absolutely aches. You conclude that the four-player split-screen version of this at the tournament is either going to be hysterical, or it’s going to “not not” give someone an aneurism. Possibly both. [[You exit the game and turn off your Switch -> Day2E]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 11:17am TOAST: Garrett, new Resident Evil trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iik25wqIuFo 11:27am GARRETT: Toast this is a prank. I know you too well. 11:34am TOAST: New Assassin’s Creed trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB7ACr7pUuE TOAST: New Disgaea trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvFZjo5PgG0 TOAST: New Mario Kart trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ybW48rKBME 11:36am GARRETT: I swear Toast… 11:39am GARRETT: YOU ACTUALLY GOT 4 DIFFERENT RICK ROLL LINKS?? 11:41am TOAST: Oh yes. And I have so many more :) [[Put your phone away -> Day2Aalt]]

“Don’t worry, I’ll pick up Michael,” you say, “what’s Jocelyn’s address?" Your mother looks up at you with a broken smile. “Thanks honey, you’re a lifesaver. I’ll write it down for you.” Once you have the address, you hop in your car and drive to Jocelyn's house. Her mother greets you and invites you inside. Michael and Jocelyn are in the basement, the walls of which are plastered in anime posters. They stand opposite a tower of cardboard boxes with monster faces dawn on them in crayon. “Super transformation ultra power team beam!” the two youths shout in unison. “BZZZT!” They hurl a pair of soccer balls at the tower, blasting it apart. You congratulate them on their victory over evil, but tell Michael it’s time to come home. He says goodbye to Jocelyn and walks out to your car. “Jocelyn says she’s going to be my waifu,” Michael tells you, unprompted. You don’t entirely know what that means, and you’re pretty sure neither of them do either. [[You drive Michael home and have dinner with your Mom -> Day2E]] (set: $Mom to it +1)

It is the AFTERNOON of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Drop off the paperwork with the client -> D2paperwork]] [[Pick up Michael from Jocelyn’s house -> D2Joce]] [[Play games on your console -> D2gameA]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat5]]

It is the EVENING of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. After dinner, Michael asks if you can all go mini-golfing. “Dad said he’d take me when I visited him, but then he didn’t...” “I’m sorry baby, not tonight,” your mother says, “I have to go to bed early. I’ve got an important meeting in the morning.” She turns to you. “By the way, found this while cleaning. And no, I didn’t read it.” She hands you a notebook: your old journal from middle school! You’re curious to look over your old tween self’s insights when you get the chance. Michael looks at you. “Can you take me mini-golfing?” You could take him, but the last time you went, you had to pluck his ball out of a water trap with so much blue dye that it permanently stained one of your favorite shirts. [[Play games on your console -> D2gameE]] [[Read your old journal -> D2journal]] [[Take Michael mini-golfing -> D2golf]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 6]]

You apologize to Michael, and promise to take him golfing someday soon. As you walk upstairs, he mutters about you lying “just like Dad,” You feel a bit bad, but unlike your father, you know you’ll follow through on your offer. You see Russ is online playing Little Racer, so you give him a call. “Yo, this game is blowing my mind,” he says. He coughs several times, then continues. “It’s like slot cars, but sooo much better.” He’s not wrong. The game is as straightforward as can be: one button is the gas, the other swaps lanes. Your performance is entirely determined by throttle control and avoidance of obstacles in specific lanes. Go too slow, and your opponents will overtake you. Go too fast or hit things in the road, and you’ll find your car flying hilariously off the track. With its bird’s-eye camera showing each adorably low-poly track in its entirety, it’s like driving a slot car through a diorama. There’s even unlockable cars with different stats, and a track builder to keep things fresh and exciting. “I just DESTROYED that cow beside the road,” Russ says proudly, “my work here is done. Mic drop.” He literally drops his phone, then quietly picks it up and ends the call. [[You laugh, turn off your Switch, and go to sleep -> Day3M]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You apologize to Michael, and promise to take him golfing someday soon. As you walk upstairs, he mutters about you lying “just like Dad,” You feel a bit bad, but unlike your father, you know you’ll follow through on your offer. You go to your room and open your journal, flipping through pages until you come upon an entry that really strikes you. DEC 18th, 2015 – Christmas is in a week, and I still haven’t given my list to Mom. She keeps asking me for it, but I really don’t need anything. Money’s tight…I found the Past Due bills she hides in the kitchen drawer. I know she’s been working really hard since the divorce, getting her realtor’s license and trying to start her career. Michael will be satisfied with whatever toys she gets him. Christmas is always fun for little kids…but I feel like for adults, it’s the opposite. So all I really want this year is for Mom to have a happy holiday too. You close the journal and lay down, reflecting on all your family has been through the last few years. It’s been hard, but the care your mother has shown means everything to you. And you will pass it on. [[Drift off to sleep -> Day3M]] (set: $Happiness to true)

“Alright Michael, I’ll take you golfing.” Your brother screams out in joy and rockets around the room like an excited Chihuahua. He calls shotgun for the car ride, but you make him sit in the back anyway for safety. When you arrive, you knock on the Equipment & Snacks window, and a girl with the nametag “Jessica” answers. You’re astounded by just how many pins of various memes adorn her baseball cap. Above the window, a sign reads “Cash Only.” “Two for mini-golf,” you say, handing her exact change. She nods and grabs you clubs and a scorecard. “I’m gonna win for the first time, and then Sam has to get me ice cream!” Michael announces. Uh, not part of the deal. Jessica looks down at him with a sly smile. “Psst…if you hit it left of the tunnel on Hole 17, there’s a ramp right to the hole.” Michael’s eyes widen “Whoa! Thanks!” Jessica winks at him. [[Time to play -> D2golf2]] (set: $Michaelsafe to it +1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 3:45pm TOAST: So I bought a saxophone today. Little belated Christmas gift to myself :) Looking forward to learning it. 3:49pm DREW: Same way you bought that unicycle and “learned” it? 3:52pm RUSS: Oof, I remember that week well 3:56pm TOAST: Hey I figured the unicycle out…eventually lol. The sax should be much easier to pick up with my musical background. 3:59pm RUSS: I’d pay ya 10 bucks to watch you try and do both at the same time 4:01pm GARRETT: 10 bucks won’t be nearly enough to cover that hospital bill. [[Put your phone away -> D2Ealt]]

It is the EVENING of December 28th. The party is in 3 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Play games on your console -> D2gameE]] [[Read your old journal -> D2journal]] [[Take Michael mini-golfing -> D2golf]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 6]]

It is the MORNING of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. It seems your forgot to silence your phone, because it’s ringing loudly next to your head. Your eyes open just enough to see the caller ID: DAD. Yeah, no. A minute later, a voicemail notification appears. You groan, and against your better judgement, play it. “Sam, it’s Dad…It’s been a while since we talked. How are you? Oh, and Merry Christmas! Know I’m a little late on that one, sorry. Hey, there’s something I really need to talk to you about in person. I have some free time this morning, and was hoping maybe you could meet me for coffee. I’m headed over to Spiffy’s Diner now, your old favorite….hope to see you there?” The message ends. You take a deep breath. After all he’s done, you really don’t owe your father the time of day. Yet, you sense this may be genuinely important. [[Consider your course of action as you walk downstairs -> Day3Mpt2]]

You spend a few minutes at the practice green, then head to the first hole of the course. As Michael tees up, you see the dreaded blue-dyed water trap ahead and preemptively roll up your sleeves. But to your surprise, your brother offers a firm but controlled putt the rolls straight to the cup and drops in. “Hole in One!” he cheers. Well, this is different. The next 16 holes see you and Michael going nearly stroke for stroke, and by the time you reach Hole 17, your scores are tied. Michael aims for the tunnel as usual. If he goes that way, your victory is all but assured thanks to Jessica’s tip. You could remind him, but the way he’s playing he might actually win, and it turns out you don’t have any extra cash for his ice cream. [[Stay silent and let him putt -> D2golfbad]] [[“Remember what the girl at the counter said.” -> D2golfgood]]

You let Michael putt into the long tunnel, ensuring it will take him at least 2 additional strokes to reach the cup. You then aim left of the tunnel and putt for the small ramp by the edge of the green. Your ball rolls down a shallow slope straight to the end of the hole, dropping into the cup for a Hole in One. “Ha! Nailed it!” you exclaim, showing more excitement than you probably should for beating a 9 year-old. Michael two-putts to finish. “Aww, guess you win.” You both take the one cursory putt into the 18th Hole, a Rube Goldberg-esqe contraption that takes your ball, honks a horn, and lights up a neon sign that reads “THANKS FOR PLAYING!” “You did really well today!” you say to your brother as you walk to the car, “where’d you learn to putt like that?” Michael reaches out and holds your hand. “I learned it from watching you, Sam.” You sigh, feeling a bit ashamed at taking advantage of him. “Well don’t worry bud: you’ll definitely get me next time.” [[It’s late: time to go home and get to bed -> Day3M]]

Michael’s eyes light up, and he quickly pivots to putt at the ramp instead. A few moments later, his ball drops in for another Hole in One. Michael looks like an overinflated balloon ready to burst as he awaits your shot. You swing. Your ball misses the ramp and bounces off into a water trap, from which you definitely will NOT be retrieving it. “I won! I finally won!” Michael jumps up and down with glee. You return to the Equipment & Snacks window with the victor in tow, unsure how you’re going to afford his prize. “Did you win?” Jessica asks Michael. He nods feverishly. “Great! What ice cream do you want?” “1 chocolate-vanilla swirl,” he replies, a toothy smile on his face. She goes to get it, but you call her back quietly. You begin to try and explain you can’t pay, but Jessica hushes you. “For a first win? It’s on the house.” She offers another coy wink and hands you Michael’s ice cream. You thank her profusely as your brother celebrates his victory. [[It’s late: time to go home and get to bed -> Day3M]] (set: $Michael to it +1)

Michael is sitting alone on the couch watching cartoons on TV. “Did you have breakfast yet?” you ask him. He shakes his head no. “I can’t reach the cereal in the top cabinet, and Mom says it’s dangerous to stand on chairs.” You glance at the rickety old kitchen table and chairs set your mother got from the local thrift shop a few years back. “That’s probably good advice,” you comment. When the commercials start, Michael spins around on the couch to face you. “Can you make me breakfast? We can watch TV afterward!” [[Make Michael breakfast -> D3breakfasttoon]] [[Go meet your father for breakfast -> D3dad]] [[Play games on your console ->D3gameM]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat7]]

“You know what? Sure. That sounds great.” “Awesome! You’re the best!” You pull out the box of Fruit Loops for Michael and Cinnamon Toast Crunch for yourself, pouring a bowl each. Once you’ve added the milk, you join your brother in the den. “Hey, can we watch the Japan cartoons on Netflix? Jocelyn says they’re way cooler than regular cartoons.” “You’re still a little young for those…” Onscreen, a small, fat, red creature with a thick accent appears, informing others he “knows de way” and demanding to know why they are running. You can feel your brain cells dying. “…never mind. Let’s watch some anime.” You turn on the original Gundam film, and share a piece of history with your brother until your mother gets home. She apologizes for not getting him breakfast before she left, and thanks you for picking up the slack in her absence. [[Your work complete, you go upstairs -> Day3A]] (set: $Mom to it +1) (set: $Michael to it +1)

You sigh. “No, sorry. I gotta go meet up with Dad.” Michael cocks his head. “Oh, okay. Can I come?” “Not today. Something’s up with him, and I feel like he just wants to talk about it with me.” You slice open a pack of Pop-Tarts, dump them on a plate, and hand it to your brother. He eyes the food. “Mom says this isn’t a balanced breakfast.” “Well there’s milk and yogurt in the fridge. Feel free to balance yourself out however you want. I’ll be back in an hour or two.” You depart the house and drive to the Spiffy’s. It looks just it did when you used to come here as a little kid…right down to the slimy rat in the blazer sitting at the corner booth. “Hi Dad,” you say as you sit down. He looks up from his newspaper, clearly pleasantly surprised you came. “Hey Sam! Thanks for coming…to be honest, I didn’t really think you’d show up.” [[“Well here I am. What did you want to discuss?” -> D3dad2]] (set: $Dad to true)

You open a pack of Pop-Tarts and hand it to Michael, then go back upstairs. One your Switch powers up, you see the Toast is online playing Jumping Joe & Friends. You call him. “I think I found my new favorite game,” he says, “you can play as a cat’s face on a slice of bread! That’s me to a T…for Toast!” You too are astounded by the robust roster of adorable squares you can play as. You consider the Harry Potter and Cleopatra lookalikes before selecting a shark in an admiral’s hat. Gameplay has you leaping either up-right or up-left to climb an eternal rise of floating platforms. There are gems and powerups to be had for those skillful enough to reach them, but also numerous traps and enemies that can instantly end your ascent. A new run is just a click away though, giving the game an addictive “one-more-try” vibe. Both you and Toast rush the platforms repeatedly, and you are pleased to sense your reaction time tangibly improving. “Uh oh!” Toast intones, “looks like my REAL cat is tearing up my living room furniture! Gotta go! …Bonnie, stop that! Bad!” The phone call ends. [[You finish your current run in the game, then head downstairs -> Day3A]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 8:02am RUSS: EVERYONE RUSS: GET RUSS: ONLINE RUSS: EVERYONE 8:03am RUSS: GET RUSS: ONLINE RUSS: EVERYONE RUSS: GET RUSS: ONLINE 8:07am TOAST: Just woke up to 56 new texts, what the heck Russ? 8:08am RUSS: I meant everyone else, you go back to sleep [[Put your phone away -> Day2M2alt]]

It is the MORNING of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Make Michael breakfast -> D3breakfasttoon]] [[Go meet your father for breakfast -> D3dad]] [[Play games on your console ->D3gameM]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat7]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. You’re back in the kitchen. Out of the blue, you get a text from your neighbor Tim. You used to be fairly close friends, but you haven’t spoken since you went off to different colleges. TIM: Yo yo, long time no see! How’s it hangin? Me and some of the old gang are going up to the park for a little pick up b-ball. You want in on this action? Would be great to catch up It would be nice to see Tim and the others, but at the same time you really do have to practice for the New Year’s Eve tournament…and what’s with all these Facebook notifications? Did something important happen? [[Play games on your console -> D3gameA]] [[Meet Tim and the others for basketball -> D3Tim]] [[Browse social media -> D3social]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 8]]

Your father nods. “Right, of course.” He nervously drains the rest of his coffee. As if summoned by magic, a waiter speeds out from the kitchen and refills the cup to the brim, then disappears out of sight just as quickly. Your father gestures after the server. “I’ll tell ya, that guy JP is getting a great tip!” “Dad, focus.” “Sorry, sorry. Alright here it is: Christine and I have been together for almost three years now, living together for almost two. She sees me like a husband, and her son sees me like a father already…and I feel like, I don’t know, maybe it’s time I become that for real?” He pulls up a picture of a ring on his phone and continues. “I saw this at a store when I down in in West Overview on business. I just know she’ll love it. And I was thinking of giving it to her on New Year’s Eve.” He looks at you, as if seeking your consent. [[“You don’t need my approval to live your life.” -> D3dadSad]] [[“That gaudy thing? Really?” -> D3dadFunny]]

“I know, but it would mean a lot all the same.” He looks down at the table. “I’ve always felt terrible about the way things ended with your mother and I. I don’t think Michael really understood, but you…you were old enough for it to hurt you. And I swear I never meant to do that.” His lip quivers. You sigh. “Look Dad, what’s done is done. We both have to find our own happiness now, whatever that might entail.” It looks like he might cry, and you really don’t want to still be here when he starts. You stand up. “If Christine truly is the one for you, go ahead and marry her. But you better stay with her if you do, or you’re going to cause that same pain you did with us all over again. So think hard before you make that call.” You stride toward the door, dodging JP as he zips off to refill another table’s coffee. “Sam!” your father calls after you. You look back. “Thank you,” he says with a tearful smile, “I will.” [[Drive home and walk inside -> Day3A]]

“Wait, what?!” “Dad, the band is green and shaped like a snake, and that gem looks like it belongs on a Ring Pop. I mean, are you trying to marry her, win her a prize a the local arcade, or induct her into the Death Eaters? Make up your mind.” “It’s a big diamond, and snakes are her favorite animal!” your father cries. If that’s the case, clearly she’s found the right guy. “Look, you get that thing if you want. But you better pick it up quick before Bozo the clown decides to get it for his fiancé.” “Sam, I feel like you’re not taking this seriously…” “And if you get her that ring, I’m pretty sure she’ll feel like YOU aren’t taking HER seriously!” You stand up to leave. “I gotta get going. You’ll do what you’ll do, but I’d highly recommend you rethink that particular ring…unless you plan to have Christine rule Middle-earth with it.” “I actually WAS planning on having the interior engraved.” “Geez Dad…” You stride toward the door, dodging JP as he zips off to refill another table’s coffee, and exit the restaurant. [[Drive home and walk inside -> Day3A]]

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 1:31pm DREW: Guys I had the new pup out for a walk, and she took this MASSIVE dump! Like I swear it was bigger than she is! 1:35pm RUSS: Pic or it didn’t happen. DREW: Oh it happened. It was so heavy I had to double-bag it. 1:36pm RUSS: Pic. Or it. Didn’t happen. 1:39pm DREW: Russ, I’m gonna straight up pull that turd sack out of the trash can and mail it to you. 1:42pm RUSS: I won’t open it. So there. 1:45pm DREW: I’ll pack it in a box of Fun Dip. You won’t even know until it’s too late. 1:47pm RUSS: Dang it, foiled again. [[Put your phone away -> Day3Aalt]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Play games on your console -> D3gameA]] [[Meet Tim and the others for basketball -> D3Tim]] [[Browse social media -> D3social]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 8]]

Honestly, you’re not feeling the whole “physical activity” thing right now. You go back upstairs and turn on your Switch. Drew is online playing Urban Trial Playground, so you call him up. “You know, this reminds me of those old BMX Flash games,” Drew comments, “and I used to be darn good at those.” Urban Trial Playground does bear some resemblance to those games, you agree, but its picturesque graphics and jamming surf guitar soundtrack put it miles above anything you’ve ever found on the internet. The handling of the motorbike is much better too, with greater control thanks to separate brakes for each wheel, and a surprisingly useful hop ability. Add that all to the customization and upgrade options available, and you surely have the pinnacle of 2.5D stunt bike gameplay. Campaign missions alternate between score challenges and time trials, but you put more effort into the latter, as that’s what you’ll be doing for the tournament. At first Drew’s times are substantially lower than yours, but as you start shaving the seconds off, you can tell he’s getting more nervous. “Not bad,” he says, “but I’ve still got ya by a half second!” Drew then excuses himself to walk his dog, evidently not wishing to still be around when you inevitably beat his time [[Dinner should be ready soon, so you log off and go downstairs. -> Day3E]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You throw on some old gym shorts and a tee shirt and jog to the park to get your blood pumping. When you arrive, you find team at the basketball court, along with your old buddies Rami, Shaana, Mike, and Thomas. “Sam!” Tim exclaims, “you made it!” He and Rami meet you at the edge of the court and fist-bump you. “You three are adorable,” Shaana comments. She crowds you all together and snaps a selfie with you. Across the court Mike is livestreaming the non-event for his fan base. “Stallion Gang, you are about to witness half-court devastation the likes of which have NEVER been seen before. Yo, Thomas! Get off the bench so I can kick your butt!” “Gimme a minute, ya hot air balloon! I’m texting my GF.” You look over at Thomas. “Oh, is Kara coming?” “No, no. She’s at home with some buns in the oven.” “Oh wow! When is she due?” “What? No, she has actual buns in our over. Cheese buns. Got the recipe from her world traveler buddy Brittany. Really tasty.” [[You decide on teams and get started -> D3Tim2]] (set: $Tim to it +1)

Of course not: it’s social media. Practically nothing important ever happens on these platforms. Still, your browsing provides you more than a few chuckle-worthy memes, gets you up to speed on exactly one side of the world’s geopolitical news, and clarifies that there are in fact multiple similarly-named Kardashians, and not just a single woman whose name keeps being misspelled in the media. You’re about to log off when you see a video of a particularly nifty life hack involving turning old sweaters into drink holders. You end up watching the rest of the rapid-fire compilation, along with another hour’s worth of crafty content, until you feel like you could straight-up MacGyver a house together with nothing more than a piece of sheet metal, twine, and some Styrofoam peanuts. You then promptly poke your finger on a stray staple, reminding you that you are not a DIY god. [[On to something else -> Day3E]] (set: $Lifehack to true)

It is the EVENING of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. You walk into the kitchen to find your mother placing dinner on the table. “Impeccable timing!” she says. You join Michael at the table, and she joins you both shortly thereafter. When the meal is over, Michael goes off to play with his toys. Your mother addresses you. “Hey, you know what I realized earlier? I don’t think I’ve ever seen Star Wars.” “Which one?” you ask. She laughs. “Any of them!” In the back of your mind, you are ashamed to be her progeny. You wonder what rock her parents must have kept her living under. The Star Wars films are on Disney+, and you almost feel obligated to show her Episode IV. But you really do need to knuckle down for that tournament, too. You have less than two days left. [[Play games on your console -> D3gameE]] [[Watch the movie with Mom -> D3movie]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 9]]

The game gets underway with you, Thomas, and Rami facing Mike, Shaana, and Tim. Initially with Mike and Tim’s athletic prowess it seems their team should have the advantage, but when a few viewers start gushing on Mike’s livestream, he starts to showboat and accidentally injures himself. Meanwhile, Thomas takes a phone call from Kara out of bounds, reducing the game to a 2v2. Both you and Rami are decidedly average at basketball, which helps here. Neither of you tries to sink three-pointers, mostly sticking to layups. Tim, on the other hand, repeatedly goes for threes, with varying success. This offends Shaana, who begins to hog the ball, trying to go in for closer shots with no support. In the end, your team’s steady stream of points beats out the inconsistent bursts of your opponents, and you are victorious. “That was fun!” says Tim, “what are y’all up to this evening? You wanna go grab some food or something?” [[“I really ought to get home.” -> D3Tim3leave]] [[“How about pizza and gaming at my place, like old times?” -> D3Timpizza]]

Tim grabs your shoulders and shakes you. “Don’t leave us Sam!” You both laugh, and he releases you. “No prob, go live it up. I’m sure we’ll all get together and do this again before we have to go back to school.” “Definitely.” You say your goodbyes to the rest of the group and walk off into the sunset. It was fun seeing the old crew, even if it was only for a little while…plus the win means you’ll have some extra bragging rights for next time. [[You arrive home just as the last rays of sunlight expire -> Day3E]]

“YOOOO!” Tim is pumped at the idea. He’s already 50 yards away by the time you finish retying your sneaker. Mike and Thomas decline, but Rami and Shaana join you and Tim back at your house. There, your mother gives her usual 20 Questions routine to the guests while you order the pizza. An hour later, you’re all up in your bedroom, pizza slices in hand. You’ve gone through a few quick party games, but now it’s time for the main event. You click the title and it boots up. “REKT! High Octane Stunts!” Tim booms like an auctioneer. “I already love this game from the name alone,” says Rami. You choose the goofiest cars available and one of the brightly colored arenas, and hit the gas. Points are awarded for chaining stunts like drifts, jumps, spins, and flips within the time limit, and on many rounds your scores are neck and neck until the very last moments. You also try out the race-like “Checkpoints” mode, as well as the Tag-inspired “Infected,” which are also good fun. Yet nothing is quite as enjoyable as watching Rami shout himself hoarse after scoring a whopping 221,693 points, only to lose to Shaana’s 221,697. [[You yawn -> D3TimDone]] (set: $Tim to it +1)

“Agreed.” Shaana concurs, yawning as well. “Think it’s getting to be about that time,” Rami says, standing up and stretching. The other guests do the same. “Thanks for having us though.” “Heck yeah, man,” you reply, “thanks for coming over!” You walk the trio down to the front door. As Tim puts his sneakers back on, he looks over at you inquisitively. “Yo what are you doing for New Year’s Eve?” “Probably hanging with one of my old co-workers and some other folks,” you answer, “why do you ask?” “Oh, cool. Well I’m hosting a little shindig over my place. Usual stuff: food, pool table, Jacuzzi. Would love to have you, so if those plans of yours fall through, or you just feel like throwing a change-up, just let me know!” “Will do, thanks!” He and the others wave goodbye. You close the door and climb the stairs to bed. [[Go to sleep -> Day4M]]

It is the MORNING of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. This is it: the final day before New Year’s Eve. It’s your last chance to prepare yourself for the challenges ahead, to gain experience in various side-activities in order to obtain new knowledge and skills that will aid you in your epic quest… …or at least that’s what it would say if this were some sort of text-based RPG. This is real life, and you have a work shift scheduled. You probably shouldn’t be late. [[Go to work -> D4work]] [[Play games on your console ->D4gameM]] [[Relax and listen to music -> D4Music]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 10]]

Your mom’s introduction to a galaxy far, far away will have to wait. You go upstairs and boot up your Switch to train. No one else is on, making it a perfect time to play Ghostrunner. Garrett didn’t want anything on the list that folks already knew about, but it seems he couldn’t resist adding this award-winning first-person platformer. After all, between its stunning cyberpunk setting, exciting parkour-inspired movement, and intense one-hit-kill combat, it’s really the complete package. There are even unlockable katana skins! A note on the list says the competition will be held in Wave Mode, an arena-based challenge separate from the story. Here, enemies appear in ever-more-dangerous sets, and only the player’s skill (plus post-round powerups) can keep them alive. After many, many deaths, you finally find your rhythm in the dance of battle. Dodging enemy attacks and striking them down with your blade, you fight your way up through Wave 10. By this point it’s quite late, and while you’d love to keep forging ahead with your mechanical ninja master, you realize you should probably get some sleep. [[You turn off the Switch and go to bed -> Day4M]] (set: $Game to it +1)

Yeah, this can’t stand. “Alright Mom, microwave up some popcorn, because we’re watching Star Wars.” She seems excited to be experiencing this with you. Once the popcorn is ready, she sits down on the couch, and you start the movie. “You know, even though I haven’t seen the films, it’s not like I don’t know about Star Wars,” she comments as the opening title crawl rolls. “Oh really?” She raises her hand in a failed Vulcan salute. “Live long and prosper!” Looks like it’s going to be a long night… [[You endure endless amounts of misunderstandings and questions throughout the rest of the movie, then go to bed -> Day4M]] (set: $Mom to it +1)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 5:21pm TOAST: Yo I’ve got a gig tonight at the Broadsword Tavern if anyone wants to stop in and hear some jams. 6:05pm GARRETT: What sort of jams? Strawberry? Grape? Apricot? 6:09pm RUSS: Shut up Garrett, you’re not funny 6:17pm DREW: I have biscuits AND jams in my cupboard…was thinking of making some dry rub ribs too. Anyone hungry? 6:18pm GARRETT: OMW now! Looking forward to it. RUSS: You best get that big plate ready for me 6:45pm TOAST: So is anyone coming to my gig? 8:15pm TOAST: It went great in case you were wondering… [[Put your phone away -> Day3Ealt]]

It is the EVENING of December 29th. The party is in 2 DAYS. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Play games on your console -> D3gameE]] [[Watch the movie with Mom -> D3movie]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 9]]

D. Funk DVD Rental is is dark and vacant. It’s hard to believe this is the last time you’ll see this place until next year…and it’s even harder to believe it’ll still be business after THIS year! You unlock the door and hit the lights. There’s a new box of DVDs to alphabetize and shelve, and you fall into a Zen-like state doing so for some time. Suddenly your flow is disrupted by a very different flow from the front door... “Freestylin’ no violin/keepin’ it current See you smilin’ kinda been/tryin’ to work it Yo you wanna be somebody?/just say- CRAP!” Q is so startled to see you he nearly falls backward into the glass. He rips out his earbuds. “IWasn'tDoingAnythingWhyAreYouHere?!” “Um...because I’m on shift?” you respond. “Nice rhymes, by the way.” “Shut up!” Q checks the schedule. “We’re both on. Dane must have messed up.” You hadn’t even noticed the error before. “Well one of us might as well go home,” Q suggests, “Dane would probably refuse to pay both of us if we don’t.” [[“Fair enough, I’ll go.” -> D4workLeave]] [[“Fair enough, you can go.” -> D4workStay]] (set: $Work to it +1)

You’ve got to prioritize right now, and winning this tournament takes precedence over one little work shift. You hop online on your Switch and find Russ playing Real Boxing 2. “A wise man once said, ‘you can’t rush greatness,’” Russ begins your phone call with him. “But my boy here, Butch Meathook, has become a boxing champ in 3 days. So there!” Real Boxing 2 allows players to customize and train their very own boxer (in your case, a feisty fellow named Bert “Beatdown” Boggess), then rise through the ranks by clobbering opponents around the world. The gameplay is the real star here: left and right punch inputs are intuitively mapped to their side’s shoulder buttons and joystick. This gives the player full control of each jap, hook, and uppercut thrown. Sadly the upgrades you earn for “Beatdown” won’t follow you to tomorrow’s tournament on Garrett’s Switch, but the devastating combos you’ve discovered will certainly help out. “Another knockout!” Russ gloats at his AI opponent, “DO YOU SMELL, WHAT THE BUTCH, IS HOOKIN??” “Miiiight want to workshop that catchphrase a little,” you advise him before logging off, “I’ll see you later.” [[You turn off your Switch and stretch. Might as well see what’s going on downstairs ->Day4A]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You’re already stressed enough about tomorrow, so you really don’t need some unexpected disaster at work to add to the pressure. You decide to blow off your shift and stay home. Scanning through some fresh playlists online, you accidentally click one entitled “Childhood Chiptunes.” You’re about to turn it off when you realize you recognize the song: it’s from an old Sega Genesis game you played as a kid! You spend most of the duration trying to place it, until you finally remember it’s from Ristar. What a throwback! You make it a little challenge for yourself, trying to recall the game each song is from without looking at its information. Several hours pass, and finally the playlist ends. You check the titles and estimate that you got about half of them, sufficiently impressing yourself. You’d never admit it to most people, but you actually enjoy some of those tunes more than most modern music. [[On to something else -> Day4Ahome]] (set: $Chiptune to true)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 7:59am TOAST: Yo Drew, I got a recipe from one of my bandmates for a pan-seared snapper. You want it? It’s super easy to make. 8:14am DREW: Sure man, thanks! What ingredients do you need? 8:20am TOAST: Not much. Just the fish filets, salt and ground pepper, butter, canola oil, nuts, parsley and some lemon wedges. 8:24am DREW: Cool. What kind of nuts? 8:25am TOAST: Deez nuts. 8:28am DREW: …I take it there’s no actual recipe? 8:30am TOAST: Nope. [[Put your phone away -> Day4Malt]]

It is the MORNING of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Go to work -> D4work]] [[Play games on your console ->D4gameM]] [[Relax and listen to music -> D4Music]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 10]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. No one else is home when you arrive. A note from your mother says she’s taken Michael out clothes shopping, and they won’t be back for a few hours. You go upstairs and lay down on your bed, unsure what to do with your time. Your Switch rests invitingly in its dock by the TV, but you also find your eyes drawn to your old journal again. Perhaps there are some pearls of wisdom yet to be discovered in there? [[Play games on your console -> D4gameA]] [[Read your old journal -> D4journal]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 11]]

“Sick. I’ll totally take that money.” Q puts his earbuds back in. “Deuces, fam!” “You know, that’d be a great name for your new track!” you call back as you reach the door. Q raises a specific finger in reply. You grin and exit. [[Drive home ->Day4A]]

“Sick. I’ve got some stuff to do anyway.” Q puts his earbuds back in. “Deuces, fam!” “You know, that’d be a great name for your new track!” you call after him. Q raises a specific finger and exits the store. You grin. The shift continues without any further lyrical genius. Mid-afternoon, an elderly man walks in. He meanders around the store looking at the same 4 racks of discs for nearly 30 minutes. Finally he approaches the counter. “Didn’t you used to sell oatmeal here?” he asks. “Um, no sir. That would be the grocery store next door.” “I see. Well you should consider selling it here too! There’s a big market with people my age!” “Yes sir, I’ll be sure to suggest that to my boss.” The man leaves, and no one else shows up for the rest of your time in. Maybe you should pass the man’s suggestion to Dane? You’d probably have more luck selling oatmeal than these DVDs. [[Matt arrives to relieve you at the end of your shift, and you drive home -> Day4Efromwork]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. You walk downstairs only to realize no one else is home. A note from your mother says she’s taken Michael out clothes shopping, and they won’t be back for a few hours. You go back upstairs and lay down on your bed, unsure what to do with your additional time. Your Switch rests invitingly in its dock by the TV, but you also find your eyes drawn to your old journal again. Perhaps there are some pearls of wisdom yet to be discovered in there? [[Play games on your console -> D4gameA]] [[Read your old journal -> D4journal]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 11]]

Switch it is. You make a quick trip to the bathroom, then return and check for online friends. Like your house, it’s only you at the moment, so you go ahead and boot up Om Nom: Run. There are plenty of endless runners on the Switch, but this is the only one you know of to have simultaneous multiplayer for up to 8 players. This makes it an excellent choice for the tournament at hand. Plus, who doesn’t want to deck out an adorable, fully customizable alien player character? As you play, you find you’re more satisfied than usual with this runner’s single player content as well. These levels have various objectives and are not infinite, meaning you can actually win (instead of just going until you lose). There is also a great sense of progression as far as unlockable go, always keeping you motivated to do one more level. By time you feel you’ve mastered Om Nom: Run, the game has exceeded essentially all of your expectations. It’s proven to be more than a mascot vehicle: it’s a solid experience in its own right too. [[You hear the front door open, so you turn off your Switch and walk downstairs -> Day4E]] (set: $Game to it +1)

You open up your old middle school journal in hopes that Past Sam has something useful to offer you. Paging through, most of it is just complaints about crummy teachers or unfair quizzes, but you finally find something of merit. MAY 12th, 2017 – Today was my last full day of middle school! I’m so glad to be out of this terrible place…so I can spend four more years at the terrible place across the street. (You can’t tell if the face drawn next to this line was supposed to be sweating, crying, or puking, but you take its meaning.) Mr. Gant ended the year with a lesson on forgiveness. He told us how he didn’t talk to his father for 10 years after a big fight. Then when he finally went to patch things up, he learned his father had already died. I really don’t want it to be like that with Dad and me…we don’t really talk when I go for the weekends, and once I can stay with Mom I’ll be happy not to see him anymore. But I wouldn’t want him to die thinking I hate him. You close the journal and lay down to reflect. You’re still mad at your father for what he did, and you’re pretty sure you always will be. But he’s getting older now, and you never know how much time a person has left…Maybe it’s time to try and mend your relationship too. [[You hear the front door open and walk downstairs -> Day4E]] (set: $Forgiveness to true)

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 10:46am DREW: Hard to believe this year is almost over…anyone succeed in your old New Year’s resolutions? Mine was to take up gardening, and…well still no garden out back XD 10:51am TOAST: I resolved not to eat Taco Bell. Made it nearly three months before I broke that one. 10:54am GARRETT: I resolved to stop buying games I wouldn’t play. Next year I should probably change it to “games I won’t finish,” because I’ve put like 20 minutes in a LOT of games this year lol. 11:05am RUSS: I resolved to not make any resolutions, and I just gotta say, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED 11:09am DREW: Russ, you are a shining inspiration to us all. [[Put your phone away -> Day4Athink]]

It is the EVENING of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. Your mother and brother are back from shopping and they brought Taco Bell. You consume enough value menu burritos to feed a small village, then lay down on the couch in the den. Michael walks into the den with a large kit in hand. “Will you help me make this? I want to wear it all day tomorrow!” You roll over to face him, feeling like a beached whale. The box is labelled “Make Your Own New Year’s Hat,” with images of children wearing preposterous construction paper headgear. Honestly, what you really should be doing is getting in some final practice time for the tournament tomorrow night. But with such a full stomach, all you really want to do is sleep. [[Help Michael with his art project -> D4art]] [[Play games on your console -> D4gameE]] [[Go to sleep early -> D4sleep]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 12]]

It is the AFTERNOON of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Play games on your console -> D4gameA]] [[Read your old journal -> D4journal]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 11]]

You struggle to reach an upright position and accept the kit from Michael. The box is full of brightly colored papers cut to specific shapes, as well as a veritable arsenal of crafty add-ons like yarn, pipe cleaners, stickers, and googly eyes. It takes nearly an hour to get the hat alone together, as you fold and tape dozens of tabs according to the fairly unclear instruction page. Just when you think it’s ready, Michael pushes a sticker on too hard and collapses half the hat. You really wish he’d be satisfied with the same dollar store fare that everyone else wears on New Year’s Eve. By the time the project is finished to your brother’s satisfaction, it’s quite late. Your mother has already gone to bed, so you tuck in Michael, then go to your room. You intend to set an alarm for the morning as usual, but your pillow proves too intoxicating and you fall asleep immediately. [[You dream of a zoo full of animals made out of pipe cleaners. It seems laughable to you, until you realize you too are made out of pipe cleaners -> D5MorningNorm]] (set: $Michael to it +1)

“Sorry Michael, maybe Mom can help you...I’m going upstairs.” Up in your room, you turn on your Switch for some last-minute practice. Garrett is online playing Fort Triumph. He picks up your call. “A good evening to you, Sam! Come, join my alliance against the forces of darkness!” Fort Triumph is unlike anything else on Garrett’s list, and rather unlike anything else you’ve seen on the market in general. It’s a complex tactics game, so the fact its Skrimish mode allows up to 8 players locally is shocking in itself. With overworld resource gathering and base building, hero recruitment and development, and immersive tactical battles to fight, you wonder how Garrett plans to squeeze in a session at the party. That is, until your entire squad is wiped out in a single turn by panels of a collapsing wall. The game’s permadeath setting is on too, leaving you with no means of recovery. While this spells doom tonight, your newfound understanding of the game’s environmental physics in combat will inform your strategy tomorrow, and give you an edge over your competitors. “It seems I will have to continue my crusade alone,” Garrett bemoans before hanging up, “but fear not: I shall prevail!” [[You fall asleep with the Switch still on, and dream you’re in a medieval castle with giant dominoes tumbling down around it -> D5MorningNorm]] (set: $Game to it +1)

“Sorry Michael, I’m just too tired. Maybe Mom can help you...I’m going to bed.” You say goodnight to your mother, who bids you the same, and you ascend the stairs to your bedroom. Before you lay down, you put your phone on the charger and set your alarm for the morning. You rarely go to bed this early, so who knows? You might even wake up on time tomorrow. Laying down, you think about the coming tournament and your meeting with Morgan. You really hope you’re ready for this…either way, you’ll know soon enough. You try to plan the conversation out in your mind, but your pillow proves too intoxicating, and you fall asleep. [[You dream you’re in a museum with “wet floor” signs all over. Suddenly you slip, nearly sliding into a priceless vase. You let out a sigh of relief, only for someone else to slide into it instead -> Day4MorningSafe]]

You pull out your phone and tap on your Messages app. The latest additions to the Adventurers Guild group chat appear onscreen. 6:12pm DREW: Hey Garrett, I was thinking of bringing some smoked sausage for the party, add to the spread a bit. That cool? 6:15pm GARRETT: That is more than cool, my dude. 7:20pm RUSS: Hey Garrett I was thinking of bringing my butt to the party tomorrow, spread it a bit too. That cool? 7:22pm GARRETT: That is less than cool. Much, much less. [[Put your phone away -> Day4Ealt]]

It is the EVENING of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. You continue pondering how to use your time. [[Help Michael with his art project -> D4art]] [[Play games on your console -> D4gameE]] [[Go to sleep early -> D4sleep]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 12]]

It is December 31st. The party is TODAY. CRASH! You awaken to the sound of something smashing. Glancing at your phone, you are surprised how late it is, and realize you never set your alarm last night. The sound came from downstairs, so you descend to check on it. Your mother is sitting on the kitchen floor, hyperventilating. An empty chair sits below a high open cabinet, and all around are fragments of an ornate tan bowl you recognize as having belonged to your grandmother. She had gifted it to your mother shortly before passing away. You slowly approach your mother. The only sound is her shallow, rapid breathing. “Hey, Mom-” Out of nowhere, she lets out a scream like a banshee and begins to sob. “Where were you?!” she howls amidst the tears. (if: $Mom is 0)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak0]] ] (if: $Mom is 1)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak12]] ] (if: $Mom is 2)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak12]] ] (if: $Mom is 3)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak3]] ] (if: $Mom is 4)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak3]] ] (if: $Mom is 5)[ [["What?" ->MomFreak3]] ]

It is December 31st. The party is TODAY. You wake on time to the sound of your alarm. It sounds like your mother is already awake downstairs. She had mentioned about making cookies for you to bring with you to the party, but you can hardly imagine why she’d be up so early. Plodding down the stairs, you see her standing on a wobbling chair, reaching for something in a high cabinet. “Careful, Mom!” you caution her, “let me get that for you.” She thanks you and steps down. You don’t need the chair to rach that cabinet, so you simply grab what she was trying for: an ornate old bowl. “You know, that was your grandmother’s bowl,” your mom tells you, “I figured since I’d be using her recipe for the cookies, I should use her bowl too.” “That's nice. It’ll be like a little part of Grandma is here with us,” you say. Your mother smiles. (if: $Michaelsafe is false)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeMad]] ] (if: $Michaelsafe is true)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeHappy]] ]

She glares up at you, eyes bloodshot. “Where were you Sam? Where were you when I needed you?” “Mom, I was asleep-” “I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT THIS!” The volume of her response startles you into silence. She takes a deep, raspy breath. “All this week I’ve been struggling to keep it together, and what have you done to help? Nothing! You’re a selfish brat!” You look down at the ground. She’s right: all week you’ve been busy with other activities. You’ve done nothing to support her. “You’re right, Mom. I’m sorry.” You extend a hand and help her to her feet. She plucks a tissue out of the box on the counter and blows her nose. She takes a deep breath. “You’re not going to that party tonight,” your mother informs you firmly. “The three of us are going to stay here and celebrate New Year’s Eve as a family.” [[“But Mom, I-” ->DontWantTo]]

She glares up at you, eyes bloodshot. “Where were you Sam?! Where were you when I needed you?!” “Mom, I was asleep-” “I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT THIS!” The volume of her response startles you into silence. She takes a deep, raspy breath. “All this week I’ve been struggling to keep it together, and you’ve barely done anything to help!” You look down at the ground. She’s right: all week you’ve been busy with other activities, and have hardly made any effort to help her. Still, it’s unfair to act like you’ve done nothing. “You’re right, Mom. I’m sorry.” You extend a hand and help her to her feet. She plucks a tissue out of the box on the counter and blows her nose. You sense she’s getting ready to say something, and it’s not something you’re going to want to hear. You decide to try and head it off at the pass. [[“I’ve had a tough week too, you know.” -> Toughweek]] [[“I promise I’ll try and do better going forward.” ->Trybetter]] [[“That was Grandma’s bowl, wasn’t it?” -> GrandmaBowl]]

She glares up at you, eyes bloodshot. “Where were you Sam?! Where were you when I needed you?!” “Mom, I was asleep.” Your mother sighs and composes herself. “I know you were…I’m sorry honey, this wasn’t your fault. I've just been really streed lately.” You extend a hand and help her to her feet, and she hugs you tightly in return. She plucks a tissue out of the box on the counter and blows her nose, then opens up a lower cabinet and pulls out a different bowl. “You know, that used to be Grandma’s bowl,” your mother says, gesturing to the fragments. “She wouldn’t be happy to know I broke it, but she’d be even more displeased if I didn’t get these cookies done in time for your party. She always used to say ‘if you get invited somewhere, and you aren’t bringing something worth eating, you might as well not go!’” Yep, that sounds like Grandma alright. Your mother opens a small box and pulls out a recipe card. “I’ll even use her old recipe. That way she can’t complain they aren’t good enough.” You smile. “Thanks Mom.” (if: $Michaelsafe is false)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeMad]] ] (if: $Michaelsafe is true)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeHappy]] ]

Your mother is taken aback. “Oh really? Just exactly what have YOU done this week?” You raise hand to count out some examples on your fingertips, but you realize most of them wouldn’t exactly qualify as “hard” by her standards. Having wasted your opportunity to intervene in her judgment, you remain silent. She takes a deep breath. “You’re not going to that party tonight,” your mother informs you firmly. “The three of us are going to stay here and celebrate New Year’s Eve as a family.” [[“But Mom, I-” ->DontWantTo]]

“Well I appreciate that honey, I really do. But I feel like we can’t just ignore how things went these last few days. This is something we still need to address now.” She takes a deep breath. “You’re not going to that party tonight,” your mother informs you firmly. “The three of us are going to stay here and celebrate New Year’s Eve as a family.” [[“But Mom, I-” ->DontWantTo]]

“Yes…” She sniffles. “It was the last piece of her I had…and now it’s gone.” She leans down and picks up a fragment, holding it close to her chest. “How could I be so clumsy?” You walk over and give her a hug. “Everyone makes mistakes, Mom. Things get broken somethings. Grandma wouldn’t have blamed you for it.” Your mother takes a deep breath. “Yeah, you’re right honey…but she WOULD blame me for not getting these cookies done in time for your party. She always used to say ‘if you get invited somewhere, and you aren’t bringing something worth eating, you might as well not go!’” Yep, that sounds like Grandma alright. Your mother opens up a lower cabinet and pulls out a new bowl. “I’ll use her recipe. That much of her will carry on.” You smile. “Thanks Mom.” (if: $Michaelsafe is false)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeMad]] ] (if: $Michaelsafe is true)[ [[Michael enters the room ->MikeHappy]] ]

“I don’t want to hear it, Sam!” You both stare at each other, seething. “My house, my rules,” she hisses, “get with the program, or get out.” You feel like you’re back in elementary school, being treated like property by your mother. Like an obedient pet she can just command around. Fetch…sit…bail on your friends…good dog. But the truth is, it is her house, and you’re in no position to leave it immediately. So you’re going to have to follow her orders for now. You wordlessly turn away and return to the stairwell, on the way up to your room. As you reach the top of the steps, you fire back one more cruel comment. “This kind of crap is exactly why Dad left you!” You slam the bedroom door, knowing nothing cuts quite as deep as the truth. [[You lay back down. As your anger subsides, you doze off -> Ending 1]]

When you awaken again, it’s early in the evening. You suppose your long hours over the last few days have left you short on sleep. On your phone, there are several messages from Garrett, but you swipe them away. Someone knocks faintly on your door. “Sam, are you awake? It’s Mom.” She opens the door and peeks in. She’s no longer crying, but her eyes are still rather puffy. “Can we talk?” she asks. You nod ruefully, and she sits down on the bed beside you. “I’m sorry about earlier…I’ve just been so stressed about work recently, and I feel like I can’t get any relief at home. I know you have your own things to do, but I’d really appreciate being able to count on you once in a while. If that fair?” You nod again. Your mother gives you a little hug. “Thanks honey. Now why don’t you come downstairs and celebrate with Michael and I? I made a big plate of nachos.” You chuckle. Even after everything, she still knows how to win back your affection in the end. [[You follow her downstairs -> Ending 1 Final]]

In the kitchen, you tear off a stack of chili-laden chips from the large pile and plop it down on a plate. On the TV, the broadcast from Times Square is just getting underway. “This show is boring!” Michael declares, “Mom, can we play Sam’s Switch instead?” Your mother considers this. She glances at you. “Well, it IS a family activity…Alright, sure.” Michael claps as you go and gather the Switch and cradle from your room. After attaching it to the downstairs TV, you boot up Akuto: Showdown, a quirky party fighting game. You hand a Joy-Con to Michael, then one to your mother. When she attempts to decline, you remind her you’re celebrating as a family, and she ultimately takes the controller. “How do I play?” she asks as the first round begins. Michael immediately blasts her with a rocket launcher, laughing heartily at her displeasure. “How do I play?!” she repeats as her avatar respawns. You promptly slice her in half with a katana, laughing along with your brother. “This isn’t funny you two!” She tries to dodge a rifle shot and falls off a cliff. Now all three of you are laughing, the game quickly devolving into the comical chaos it always does. There’s always another time to hang out with the Guild. For now, it’s enough to see your family happy. ENDING 1/10: FAMILY COMES FIRST [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Perhaps helping your mother out more during the week could have changed her mind...

It is the EVENING of December 30th. The party is TOMORROW. You arrive home from work to find Taco Bell your mother picked up after shopping. You consume enough value menu burritos to feed a small village, then lay down on the couch in the den. Michael walks into the den with a large kit in hand. “Will you help me make this? I want to wear it all day tomorrow!” You roll over to face him, feeling like a beached whale. The box is labelled “Make Your Own New Year’s Hat,” with images of children wearing preposterous construction paper headgear. Honestly, what you really should be doing is getting in some final practice time for the tournament tomorrow night. But with such a full stomach, all you really want to do is sleep. [[Help Michael with his art project -> D4art]] [[Play games on your console -> D4gameE]] [[Go to sleep early -> D4sleep]] [[View the Adventurers Guild group chat -> Chat 12]]

“I’m going to play mini-golf!” he asserts, “get off me!” You try to think of something to dissuade him, but you don’t know what would reach him in this state. Your brother pulls free of your grasp and dashes out the door. He crosses the front lawn, and rushes into the street. “Michael, please wait!” you call after him. The use of the magic word seems to get his attention, and he pauses to look back. The two of you lock eyes, and you can see the desperation in his gaze. You don’t understand why this list means so much to him…honestly you don’t understand a lot of what he does. But he’s your little brother, and you want to do what you can to make him happy. Maybe there’s a way you can still take him mini-golfing today… A high-pitched squeal interrupts your train of thought, then WHAM! Without warning, a car slams into your brother. His body tumbles like a rag doll 20 yards, coming to rest by the edge of the asphalt. He doesn’t get up. Your eyes widen. [[“MICAHEL!” -> Ending 2]]

“I’m going to play mini-golf!” he asserts, “get off me!” You can feel him hesitating a little. As his older sibling, you know he looks up to you and values your opinion. At the same time, he’s out of control right now, and you’re losing your grip on his wrist. You only have one shot to calm him down, so you’ll need to choose your words carefully. [[“Forget the poster! It’s just a dumb school project!” -> youredumb]] [[“I’m sorry I didn’t take you! I didn’t mean to be like Dad!” -> notlikedad]] [[“It’s New Year’s Eve! The courses are probably all closed!” ->allclosed]]

“I’m going to play mini-golf!” he asserts, “get off me!” "Just wait a second, alright?" He stops struggling. You know he looks up to you and values your opinion. You release his arm and try and talk some sense into him. "Michael, we've had a lot of fun this year, right? Even just in this past week!" He nods in agreement. You point to the poster. "But I don't see any of those cool things we did listed on your poster. Why not?" Michael thinks. "I didn't know we'd do them back when I made it." "Exactly! That's the thing about fun: you don't always know when or what it's going to be. You can't always plan it beforehand. Sometimes you just have to enjoy it when it happens." "...Okay." Michael offers a small smile. You tousle his hair, then tou gesture toward door. "I'd be surprised if any of the mini golf places were even open anyway. It's New Year's Eve." Suddenly your mother is behind you. "One is! Google says Strait-Downey TFM Golf is open until 5 today. We still have time to finish your list.” Michael cheers and rushes to stuff his arms into his coat." You go to get your jacket too, but your mother stops you. “You’ve got a party to prepare for,” she says, “Let me handle this, and I’ll whip up those cookies real quick when I get back.” [[As they depart, your phone chimes -> 3texts]] (set: $SDTFM to true)

“Look!” Michael announces angrily. He holds up a large poster board with the header “2021 WISHLIST.” Every line item has a check mark next to it, except one: “Play Mini-Golf With Family.” “I finished every other thing!” he exclaims, “I got so close, and now Ms. Canyon isn’t gonna be proud of me!” “Baby, I’m sure Ms. Canyon will still be very impressed,” your mother tries to console him. “We’ll go mini-golfing soon.” “No!” Michael shouts, “I wanna go today! I wanna finish my list this year!” “Michael, it’s not a big deal, really,” you say, “your teacher isn’t going to care if it takes you a little longer to finish that list.” Your brother points an accusatory finger at you. “We could’ve gone three days ago, but you wouldn’t take me! You’re why my list isn’t done, Sam! I hate you!” He throws the poster board down and dashes for the front door. As he wrenches it open, you grab him by the arm. (if: $Michael is 0)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak0]] ] (if: $Michael is 1)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak12]] ] (if: $Michael is 2)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak12]] ] (if: $Michael is 3)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak3]] ] (if: $Michael is 4)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak3]] ] (if: $Michael is 5)[ [[“Michael, stop! Where are you going?” ->MikeFreak3]] ]

“Look!” Michael announces cheerfully. He holds up a large poster board with the header “2021 WISHLIST.” Every line item has a check mark next to it. You specifically note one wish, “Play Mini-Golf With Family,” which seems to have been recently checked-off. You’re glad you could give your brother that experience. “I finished every last thing!” he exclaims, “I can’t wait to show it when I get back to school. Ms. Canyon is gonna be so proud!” “That’s wonderful!” your mother says, “congratulations!” “Where are my crayons?” Michael asks, “I wanna draw some stars and happy faces around the edges.” You mom thinks for a moment. “Hmm, I believe they might be in one of the den cabinets. Let’s go find them.” Michael follows her into the other room. [[Suddenly your phone chimes -> 3texts]] (set: $SDTFM to false)

You pull out your phone to find not one, but three new text messages. Surprisingly, none of them are from the Adventurers Guild group chat. One is from Dane, one is from Tim, and one is from your father. (if: $Work is 0)[ [[Open Dane's message ->Danebadmess]] ] (if: $Work is 1)[ [[Open Dane's message ->Danebadmess]] ] (if: $Work is 2)[ [[Open Dane's message ->Danegoodmess]] ] (if: $Work is 3)[ [[Open Dane's message ->Danegoodmess]] ] (if: $Tim is 0)[ [[Open Tim's message ->Timnadamess]] ] (if: $Tim is 1)[ [[Open Tim's message ->Timsomemess]] ] (if: $Tim is 2)[ [[Open Tim's message ->Timpartymess]] ] (if: $Dad is false)[ [[Open Dad's message ->Dadbadmess]] ] (if: $Dad is true)[ [[Open Dad's message ->Dadgoodmess]] ] (if: $SDTFM is false)[ [[Clear the notifications and put your phone away -> OnwardToTheNight]] ] (if: $SDTFM is true)[ [[Clear the notifications and put your phone away -> BackOnwardToTheNight]] ]

You stare at the night sky through the hospital window. In the distance, someone is shooting off fireworks early. They burst, sparkle, and fizzle out. Once it seems like the show is over, you solemnly enter Michael’s room. He is lying in his bed, watching the big New Year’s Eve broadcast on his muted TV. Your mother is asleep in the chair by the door. She have been tired after spending half the day screaming at people…from the driver of the car, to the EMTs, to the police officer who had the gall to ask her how to spell her last name. “How are you feeling?” you ask Michael. He looks over at you. “I’m okay, but my head still hurts.” You nod understandingly. The doctors said your brother suffered a concussion from the collision, and elected to keep him in the hospital overnight to monitor him. Other than that and a few scrapes and bruises, though, he was not seriously harmed in the accident. They called it a “holiday miracle.” Michael apologizes again for all the trouble he’s caused, and again you tell him it’s alright. “I just wanted to finish my wishlist,” he says glumly. [[“About that…” -> Ending 2 Final]]

“It’s not dumb, YOU’RE dumb, Sam!” Your brother pulls free of your grasp and dashes out the door. He crosses the front lawn, and rushes into the street. “Michael, please wait!” you call after him. The use of the magic word seems to get his attention, and he pauses to look back. The two of you lock eyes, and you can see the desperation in his gaze. You don’t understand why this list means so much to him…honestly you don’t understand a lot of what he does. But he’s your little brother, and you want to do what you can to make him happy. Maybe there’s a way you can still take him mini-golfing today… A high-pitched squeal interrupts your train of thought, then WHAM! Without warning, a car slams into your brother. His body tumbles like a rag doll 20 yards, coming to rest by the edge of the asphalt. He doesn’t get up. Your eyes widen. [[“MICAHEL!” -> Ending 2]]

Michael stops struggling. “Huh?” You let go of his arm and take a step back. “Dad promised to take you mini-golfing, but he let you down, right?” Michael nods, biting his lip. You sigh. “Then you asked me, and I wouldn’t take you either…” He nods again, his breathing increasing speed as he becomes more emotional. You reach out and hug your brother. “I’m really sorry buddy. I didn’t know it meant so much to you.” “I just…” He sniffles. “…just wanted someone to go…and play with me...” You continue hugging him until his breathing slows to a normal rate. Suddenly your mother is behind you. “Here Michael, take this.” She holds out his coat, and he lets go of you to accept it. “Why? Where are we going, Mom?” “Google says Strait-Downey TFM Golf is open until 5 today. We still have time to finish your list.” A smile blooms on Michael’s face and he rushes to stuff his arms into the coat. You go to get your jacket too, but your mother stops you. “You’ve got a party to prepare for,” she says, “Let me handle this, and I’ll whip up those cookies real quick when I get back.” [[As they depart, your phone chimes -> 3texts]] (set: $SDTFM to true)

“You don’t know that for sure!” Michael shouts. Your brother pulls free of your grasp and dashes out the door. He crosses the front lawn, and rushes into the street. “Michael, please wait!” you call after him. The use of the magic word seems to get his attention, and he pauses to look back. The two of you lock eyes, and you can see the desperation in his gaze. You don’t understand why this list means so much to him…honestly you don’t understand a lot of what he does. But he’s your little brother, and you want to do what you can to make him happy. Maybe there’s a way you can still take him mini-golfing today… A high-pitched squeal interrupts your train of thought, then WHAM! Without warning, a car slams into your brother. His body tumbles like a rag doll 20 yards, coming to rest by the edge of the asphalt. He doesn’t get up. Your eyes widen. [[“MICAHEL!” -> Ending 2]]

You take off the backpack you’re wearing and pull out your Switch. Sitting down on the edge of the bed, you show Michael one of your new games, and his complexion blooms into a toothy smile. “No way! Pocket Mini Golf!” “Yep! Now let’s finish that list of yours.” You show him how putt, tilting back the joystick to line up the perfect shot, then pressing the button to hit the ball. The holes are simple and colorful, set over a relaxing cloudscape. Michael hardly takes any time to appreciate them, though, as he fires off one Hole-In-One after another. With over 50 holes to work through, you figure he’ll be at this for a while by himself. But instead, he quits back to the menu. “I’m ready,” he says, “you’re going down!” “Oh? You think so?” you reply with a laugh. “I know so!” With a pair of confident smiles, the two of you take up your Joy-Cons and begin your golfing showdown. It may not have the same intensity of the Guild’s tournament, but you have a feeling this New Year’s Eve competition will be every bit as fun. ENDING 2/10: SUPPORTIVE SIBLING [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Michael wouldn’t be in this situation if you had taken him golfing before...

As you put your phone away, your stomach growls. Since you don’t want to give your mother anything else to stress about right now, you just make yourself a sandwich, then begin to get ready for Garrett’s party. Up in your room, you ponder your outfit selection. What would Morgan want to see you wearing? Something cool, like your dad’s old leather jacket? Or maybe something funny, like your donkey-in-a-sombrero tee? Possibly some punk attire, like your ripped red-plaid skinny jeans? Or how about some sporty attire, like your knockoff Air Jordans from 2014? You garb yourself in all of it at once, then glance at the mirror and realize you look like some kind of fashion atrocity out of The Sims. You put everything that you were wearing before back on instead: ah, sweet normalcy. Perfection achieved. You go back downstairs. Your mother is working on the cookies, so you help her with them. 15 minutes later, they are baked and ready. “Alright, I’m out of here,” you tell her, “you two have a nice evening. I’ll be back late.” She nods. “Sounds good. Tell everyone I said Happy New Year!” “I will Mom.” [[Drive to Garrett’s house ->ArriveGarrett]]

You tap on your father’s message, and it appears onscreen. DAD: Sam it’s Dad. I really, really need your help. My car is broken down in West Overview, and Christine isn’t responding. I don’t know if her phone is dead or what, but I’m stranded here, and there are two burly men in similar outfits in the park across the road that keep looking at me. I fear they will mug me once the sun goes down. Please help! A cruel laugh escapes your lips. This guy can’t take a hint! You wouldn’t meet him at a local diner: what makes him think you’d drive nearly two hours to help him? Because he’s BEGGING you? As if that meant anything to him when you begged him not to abandon your family! You force your phone back into your pocket and stand there fuming at the kitchen table. Slowly your rage subsides, replaced by an empty feeling. It’s like shadow boxing: it doesn’t matter how hard you swing when there’s nothing to hit. [[Take the phone back out -> HelpingDad]]

You tap on your father’s message, and it appears onscreen. DAD: Hey Sam. I wanted to tell you that I’ve given a lot of thought to what you said, and I’ve decided to hold off on the ring for now. It’s an important decision, and I can’t be rushing into it just to coincide with the holiday. Please wish your mother and Michael a Happy New Year for me. It was really nice seeing you at Spiffy’s the other day, and I hope we can meet up again soon! I just found this Italian place with great eggplant parm that I think you’d really enjoy. Maybe we can go there? Love you! Beside the last line there are emojis of a kissing face next to an eggplant. You groan. He was doing so well until right then… [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

You tap on Dane’s message, and it appears onscreen. DANE: Sam we need to talk about you missing shifts recently. Right now it doesn’t seem like you value your place in this organization. Meet me at the shop at noon tomorrow so we can discuss this and come to an understanding… also Happy New Year. [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

You tap on Dane’s message, and it appears onscreen. DANE: Happy New Year to my best employee! (Don’t get a big head: I only have 4 of you to choose from.) Looking forward to being your boss some more in 2022! [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

Your father’s message was sent over an hour ago. You hope that if Christine contacted him in the meantime, he would’ve let you know. But then, he’s never been the best with communication. You sigh, then text him back, asking if he’s still stuck. A reply hits your phone in 15 seconds flat. DAD: Yes I am! There are now THREE men in the park, and I can see them conspiring…PLEASE HELP ME SAM!! Your hand tightens on your phone, and you grit your teeth. This is not what you need. Not today. You REALLY don’t want to go and help him…but no one else even knows he’s in trouble. If you chose not to help and anything happened to him, you’d spend the rest of your life blaming yourself. You slowly type “OMW, send location,” then hesitate, your thumb hovering precariously over the Send button. “Aaaaaggggghhhhh!” You press it, then jam the phone even farther into your pocket. A flood of what you can only imagine are messages of thanks reach you, but you don’t care. You grab your phone and your Switch (in case you have to wait for a tow truck) and leave the house. [[You drive 80 miles to see a man that you despise -> HelpingDad2]]

You tap on Tim’s message, and it appears onscreen. TIM: Yo! Just wishing you an early Happy New Year, because the way tonight’s shaping up, I might end up sleeping straight through tomorrow lol. Sorry you weren’t able to join in the other day, but we’ll be getting another b-ball session together soon. I’ll keep ya posted! [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

You tap on Tim’s message, and it appears onscreen. TIM: Yo! Just wishing you an early Happy New Year, because the way tonight’s shaping up, I might end up sleeping straight through tomorrow lol. It was great seeing you the other day for b-ball. Sorry you couldn’t hang longer, but we’ll be getting another session together soon. I’ll keep ya posted! [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

You tap on Tim’s message, and it appears onscreen. TIM: Yo! Listen, I know you’ve still got those other plans, but we just secured a 100-INCH PROJECTOR SCREEN for the party tonight, and I can’t think of a better use for it than playing REKT and those other awesome games on your Switch. Also I just got to try out the mozzie sticks from the caterer? De. Lish. Would be AWESOME to have you here!! A 100-Inch projector screen?! You didn’t even know those existed for consumer use! Tim’s party sounds amazing, and you’re confident you’d get the VIP treatment there…but going would prevent you from participating in Garrett’s tournament, or from seeing Morgan tonight. [[Accept Tim’s offer -> Timparty]] [[Return to the previous screen -> 3texts]]

You can tell this party is going to be legendary, and if you don’t attend you’ll probably regret it down the line. You text Garret and let him know that your plans have changed, so you can no longer make it to his party. He is surprised, but says he understands, and whishes you well with your alternative event. When night falls, you walk the few blocks to Tim’s house with your Switch and the bowl of cookies your mother made. (Testing one earlier, you found it was actually great. You really wish your mom had used your Grandma’s recipe all these years instead of her own.) You knock on Tim’s front door, and it’s answered by his twin younger sisters, Megan and Rachel. “OMG, Sam!” they exclaim together, dragging you inside. It’s been a while since you’ve seen them, and they spend the next 10 minutes grilling you on everything you’ve been up to since then. Eventually Tim himself intervenes. “Guys, this is a party, not an FBI interrogation,” he tells them, “go harass someone else. Sam’s hungry.” He shoos them away, then gives you a tour of the extensive buffet. You place the cookies on the dessert table. “Bon appétit!” says your host, “when you’re done here, meet me out back by the projector,” Tim walks out the back door as you select some appetizers for your plate. [[You eat your fill, then exit out the door as well -> Timparty2]]

In the spacious backyard, several people are gathered around a fire pit roasting marshmallows, while several more sit in the steaming Jacuzzi by the shed. A guy inexplicably garbed in a full set of authentic medieval plate armor stiffly wanders past two people playing tether ball. “Sweet knight outfit, Kyle,” one of the players says, “you want to face winner?” “Don’t think I’d be much of a challenge,” he replies, “My vision’s like 70% obscured, and I can barely lift my arms.” You round the corner of the house and find where Tim has the projector set up. It’s a glorious sight, with 4K images flooding the enormous screen in front of several dozen chairs. You plug in your Switch via HDMI, and mess with the settings until it’s perfectly calibrated. Tim sticks his head into the backyard. “Come on everyone, Tonight’s entertainment is ready!” A throng of partygoers follows him back and seats themselves in the chairs. You start out with a few rounds of REKT, wowing Tim’s guests with the stunt-laden spectacle. Some of the people present ask to give the game a try, so you distribute controllers. [[The evening marches on… -> Timparty3]]

You aren’t sure how long you’ve been playing at this point, but you’ve definitely run the gamut on games. From Jumping Joe & Friends to BADLAND, from Wondershot to Urban Trial Playground, you feel like the folks here have probably gone through more software tonight than even Garrett did with his tournament. You’re now on It Came From Space And Ate Our Brains, a top-down cooperative shooter that pits teams of players against hordes of noggin-chomping aliens. You and several dedicated squadmates, armed with full upgraded assault rifles and rocket launchers have fought your way to the end of the campaign’s third stage. Your last surviving teammate is overtaken by one of the brain-eaters, leaving only you to stay alive until the security door to the saferoom has opened. You circle-strafe around the onslaught blasting wildly. Each shot illuminates the darkened chamber, revealing just how massive the horde you face truly is. Behind you, the partygoers are cheering your name. “Sam! Sam! Sam!” The bar at the top of the screen is close to full now. “Sam! Sam! Sam!” An alien dodges your fire and rears back to strike you, but you gun it down just in time. “Sam! Sam! Sam!” The enemies surround you, and you back up to the door in a final stand. [[“Sam! Sam! Sam!” -> Ending4]]

The bar disappears and the door opens. You backpedal inside to safety: Stage Complete. The crowd behind you goes wild. If it wasn’t New Year’s Eve, you imagine someone would be filing a noise complaint right now. You turn around and breath a sigh of relief. People you’ve never met are high-fiving you, smacking you in the back, and tousling your hair. You grin sheepishly, mildly intimidated, but thoroughly enjoying the attention. You don’t know how you would have performed in Garrett’s Gauntlet, or if your conversation with Morgan would have yielded anything meaningful. Maybe it would have been a great success, maybe a supreme failure. But at this party, you are a champion. And that’s for sure. ENDING 4/10: UNCONTESTED GLORY [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Maybe this is victory enough, but don’t you wonder what could have been if you’d made it to the tournament?

“Sam, I can’t tell you how thankful I am you came,” your father says as you attach the final jumper cable clasp. “I was seriously worried about those men attacking me.” “They’re a barbershop quartet! How did you not realize that?” “I mean, there weren’t four of them until a little while ago…” “THERE IS LITERALLY A STAGE AND CHAIRS FOR AN AUDIENCE!” Your father tries to justify his actions again, but you can’t hear him over the rev of your car’s engine. After a few minutes you have him try to start his car, but it won’t turn over. You give it a few more minutes, but it still won’t start. “Well, looks like It’ll need to be towed,” your dad concedes. He gets out his phone and calls a local towing service. “Hello? Yes…Yes, the intersection of Elm and Bussin…Yes, right between the park and a seafood restaurant called ‘Gimme That Flounder’…Okay great, thank you.” He cranes his neck to look at you sitting in your car with the door open. “They said it’ll be about 20 minutes to get someone here. Would you maybe want to-” [[You slam your car door closed, cutting him off -> HelpingDad3]]

As you wait in your car, you take out your Switch and turn on The Hong Kong Massacre. The game is a gritty, visually brutal, punishingly difficult top-down shooter. You’re play a cop seeking revenge for his partner’s murder at the hands of the Triad. And what better what to do that than charging through 35 Triad-filled locations, shooting them into Swiss cheese in glorious bullet-time? Throw in a handy dive move that helps you briefly ignore both bullets and solid cover, and an aesthetic that John Woo himself could take pointers from, The Hong Kong Massacre is a worthy addition to any action fan’s library. But most importantly at this moment, it’s providing a perfect outlet for your frustration with your old man. Between levels, you see you father’s car being hitched up to the tow truck. The driver says something to your dad, then gets in his truck and drives away, dragging the car behind him. Your father approaches your passenger-side door, and tries it. It’s locked. He looks up at you. [[Oh, fine -> HelpingDad4]]

You unlock the door and your dad gets in. “He said they can’t work on it until Monday…” He looks at you with an uncomfortable grimace. “Could I get a ride home?” You hand him your phone. “Address.” He plugs it in and you start to drive. “Let me text Christine,” he mutters, “let her know I’m alright...” You turn on the radio and go for a while without speaking to each other. It’s clear your father has something he wants to say, but he’s not sure how to. You have some choice words for him as well…but yours are the sort better delivered at the end of a conversation, and not with 32 miles left to go in your trip. “Sam, I’ve got to tell you something,” your father finally manages. He turns the radio off. “The reason I was in West Overview was…it was to get Christine an engagement ring.” He stares at you, as if seeking some hint of your feelings on the matter. You do not respond. “We’ve been together for almost three years now,” he continues, “living together for almost two of them. She sees me like a husband already and, and her son sees me like-” [[“Like a father, right?” you say spitefully -> HelpingDad5]]

Now it’s his turn not to respond. Still 30 miles left…you didn’t want to talk about this for a while longer, but you suppose now is the appropriate time. One deep breath in, and... “Look Dad, you clearly don’t need my approval to live your life. You didn’t particularly care about my feelings when you ditched our family, so I’m not sure why you do now.” Your fists clench the steering wheel. “Do you have any idea how many nights I sat up listening to Mom crying, desperately hoping to hear the front door open? Praying to have you back from your little mid-life crisis motorcycle adventure? You can’t fathom the pain you caused!” Your vision blurs as angry tears drip down your cheeks, but you wipe them away: you’re not done talking yet. “I gave up on you a long time ago, before you ever met Christine. I don’t know her or her son in any meaningful capacity. But I know this much: You. Hurt. Me. And if you leave them the same way you left us, you’re gonna hurt them too. I wouldn’t wish that suffering on my worst enemy…so before you go and screw up more lives, think hard!” [[No one says another word for the rest of the trip -> HelpingDad6]]

You pull up outside Christine’s house. In the windows you can see lots of people moving around, and the street is packed with parked cars. Your father unbuckles and checks his watch. “Nearly 11 already,” he remarks, “have you eaten dinner?” “No,” you answer coldly. “Really? Come in and have some food! It’s the least I can offer.” “Thanks, but I’d rather-” “Oh my gosh, thank heavens you’re okay!” Christine’s cylindrical frame warbles down from the front porch. She’s in a dress made of tiny vertical silver bars, giving her the appearance of a chandelier on legs. “I done left my phone on the charger upstairs and didn’t even realize ‘til 20 minutes ago. I am so sorry!” Her southern accent is thicker than a slice of Texas toast. Your father gets out of the car and embraces her. “I’m fine muffin, it’s alright. Sam got me back safe and sound.” “Sam, you beautiful angel,” Christine says, “you come in out of that cold car right now and get yourself some grub, ya hear!” [[“Thanks, but I really need to get going.” -> LatetoGarrett]] [[“Alright, sure.” -> Christineparty]]

“Aww, that’s too bad,” laments Christine. “Well anytime you want, you stop on by. I’ll bake you a pie or somethin’!” You smile politely. She turns to your father and kisses him on the cheek. “I’m gonna head back in to the guests. I’ll see you in a minute.” Once Christine is back inside, your dad leans down to the passenger side window. “Well, thanks again Sam. You really helped me out tonight, and I won’t forget it.” He takes the jewelry box with the ring of his coat pocket and examines it. “…And I think I’ll take your advice on this as well,” he says, putting the box away. “I’ve caused enough pain in my lifetime. I don’t want to bring about any more.” You nod and start the engine. “Happy New Year, Dad.” “Happy New Year, Sam.” [[You drive off to Garrett’s house -> Ending6verA]]

“Great!” Christine says cheerfully. “Just park my car in right up in the driveway. I should NOT be on the road in my present condition!” You park your car behind Christine’s and follow her and your father into the house. The two of them promptly begin a conversation with other guests, leaving you to your own devices. After you raid the buffet, you sit down in the living room by the looping Yule Log video on their flatscreen TV. By this point there’s no way you’re making it to Garrett’s, so you text him and apologize. He assures you it’s no big deal and wishes you and the family a Happy New Year. With nothing else to do at this point, you pull out your Switch and turn it on. The anger fueling you earlier has faded, and you’re looking for something more relaxing. After a quick search through your library, you select Love Colors, a paint-by-number game. Plugging in headphones, you are immersed in the game’s soundscape. Beautiful ambient piano melodies intertwine with the soft drips of the paint as you color each block, reminding you of rainy day art projects from your childhood. Your mind wanders as your fingers seem to move on their own, filling in all the ones, then the twos, then the threes… “By golly, I seen one of these in years!” [[You look back to find an elderly woman standing behind you -> Christineparty2]]

The woman peers closer to the screen. “How does it work?” You show her how easy it is to play, with just buttons to switch colors and paint, and the joystick to move your cursor. “That’s real neat! Christine, honey, you seen this?” Christine walks over along with several other partygoers, and again you show off Love Colors. “Well that is just adorable!” Christine cries out. “How many people can do it at once?” the elderly woman asks. “Because back in my day I’d work on those with all my siblings.” You inform her the game supports 4 players, but you only have two Joy-Cons with you. “Oh that ain’t a problem, hon,” Christine assures you. “Chet! Bring that Switch holder thing and your Joy-Cons down here!” “But I don’t want no one touchin’ ‘em!” he yells back. “If you don’t want my boot touchin’ your rear end, you’ll bring all that down RIGHT NOW!” You snicker. You’ve never really spent time around Christine, but you’re starting to like her. [[Heavy footfalls pound down the stairs -> Ending3]]

“Don’t let none of your friends break my stuff,” Chet warns her. Christine scowls at her son. “Chet, I paid for all this. It’s MY stuff. Now get back to your Language Arts project. Can’t have you failing that class again.” Chet grumbles his way back up the stairs as you set up your Switch in the dock. Soon Love Colors is onscreen, with 4 Joy-Cons paired and ready to go. Party guests flock to the console, intent on getting a nostalgic painting experience with modern flair…of course, some players are better suited than others. “Glen what are you doing?! That’s supposed to be green!” “How should I know? I’m colorblind, Harold!” “It has a number too! Guess you’re just blind, you old coot!” Your dad walks up next to you and puts his hand on your shoulder. “Christine’s parties tend to get pretty boring,” he admits, “thanks for breathing some life into this one.” “Sure, no pr-” “I CALL NEXT!” Your father lunges for an unused Joy-Con and begins to feverishly paint the kitten onscreen. You smile. This might not have been the nicest New Year’s Eve for you, but you feel like you’ve done some real good for a lot of other people. And there’s happiness to be found in that. ENDING 3/10 – A DIFFERENT KIND OF JOY [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Maybe a conversation with your father before New Year’s Eve could have helped today go differently…

You text Garrett on arrival, and he informs you the side door is unlocked. You enter and descend to the basement, where his enormous collection of games, consoles, and other assorted memorabilia is housed. The rest of the Adventurers Guild is present, but Morgan is nowhere to be seen. “Hey, you made it!” shouts Drew, “pop a squat, they’re dropping the ball in a minute.” You ask Garrett about his cousin, but he tells you they left right after the Gauntlet ended an hour ago. He places a hand on your shoulder. “I’m sorry Sam,” Garrett says, “I know you were hoping to spend time with Morgan tonight.” You nod. “It’s alright though. The important thing is we’re all here, and we get to ring in the new year together!” The rest of the group cheers in agreement. As the ball drops to signify the start of 2022, you recite the Adventurers Guild credo as a team... “To win, or blame lag for all of our losses, To slay and then teabag all high-level bosses, To always backup and support one another, Unless friendly fire lets us troll each other.” You don’t know what’s next for you in this new year, but you know your friends will be there for you all the way. ENDING 6/10: A NEW GUILD MEMBER [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: You should have a chance to speak to Morgan if get to Garrett's house on time

As you put your phone away, your stomach growls. Since no one else is home, you make yourself a sandwich, then begin to get ready for Garrett’s party. Up in your room, you ponder your outfit selection. What would Morgan want to see you wearing? Something cool, like your dad’s old leather jacket? Or maybe something funny, like your donkey-in-a-sombrero tee? Possibly some punk attire, like your ripped red-plaid skinny jeans? Or how about some sporty attire, like your knockoff Air Jordans from 2014? You garb yourself in all of it at once, then glance at the mirror and realize you look like some kind of fashion atrocity out of The Sims. You put everything that you were wearing before back on instead: ah, sweet normalcy. Perfection achieved. Your mother and Michael arrive home, and your brother stops by your room to showcase his newly completed 2021 Wishlist. You congratulate him on the accomplishment, then go downstairs. Your mother is working on the cookies, so you help her with them. 15 minutes later, they are baked and ready. “Alright, I’m out of here,” you tell her, “you two have a nice evening. I’ll be back late.” She nods. “Sounds good. Tell everyone I said Happy New Year!” “I will Mom.” [[Drive to Garrett’s house ->ArriveGarrett]]

Garrett throws his hands wide. “Welcome one and all to Garrett’s Last-Minute Last-Day Game Gauntlet, a glorius 4-hour journey into-” “You think he’s going to do the ringleader shtick all night?” Russ asks Drew. “I mean this whole thing has been a circus. All we need is the elephants at this point.” Garrett claps. “Hey! Eyes front, you jokers.” “Would you settle for an ‘eyes rolled?’” Russ inquires. Toast whips out his phone. The phone’s speakers blast a soundbite of “BOOM: HEADSHOT.” Drew turns to Toast. “I thought we were past the whole soundboard phase?” “Drew, if they can make a fourth Matrix movie after this many years, I can totally bring back the soundboard.” “ALRIGHT FINE,” Garrett says, “we’ll just skip the fancy introduction and go right to the event.” He hands out scorecards, clearly irritated by the group’s lack of decorum. [[You all look at your scorecards -> ArriveGarrett3]]

You text Garrett on arrival, and he informs you the side door is unlocked. You enter and descend to the basement, where his enormous collection of games, consoles, and other assorted memorabilia is housed. The rest of the Adventurers Guild is already present, but Morgan is nowhere to be seen. “Eyyyy look who it is!” Toast exclaims, “my new best friend Sam. The rest of you can leave now.” “Sam and I spent plenty of quality time this week,” Russ comments, “and some of it I was even awake for.” “I hope you know I stepped things up after we trained,” Drew assures you, “I WILL be keeping this competitive tonight.” “The Gauntlet can only have one winner,” Garrett states, “but I wish you best of luck in earning 2nd place.” He winks at you. The bathroom door behind you opens, and you feel breath on the back of your neck. “You’re getting pretty popular around here.” You know the voice before you even see their face. Morgan spins playfully past you and drops into a an empty chair by the television. [[You spot an open chair and sit down too -> ArriveGarrett2]]

“Everyone plays every game,” explains Garrett. “Multiplayer games will be head-to-head, single player games will played in turns and graded on whatever criteria is listed on that sheet. The winner of each game gets five points on the card, second place gets four points, and so on. Whoever has the most points at the end of the Gauntlet wins. “And what, pray tell, is the prize for winning?” Morgan asks. “One year of digital homesharing from all my platforms to yours!” Garrett announces. “You’ll have full access to my library of over 3,000 digital games across PC and console, yours to use as you see fit for a full year!” “Dang…” says Drew, obviously impressed. “Siv Ha!" shouts Toast. "No but seriously, that’s pretty awesome.” “…How about, maybe, a $20 Wawa gift card instead?” asks Russ. Everyone stares at him like he’s insane. “Come on! Who’s gonna play 3,000 games?...okay how about a $15 gift card?” [[Almost time now... -> ArriveGarrett4]]

Everyone grabs their set of Joy-Cons at Garrett’s Switch boots up. You feel a nudge in the ribs from Morgan’s direction. “Ready for this, newbie?” “Never underestimate your opponent,” you reply, “it’s the fastest way to lose.” Morgan laughs. “And here I thought that was just being bad at the game.” Garrett launches the first game on the list. “The Gauntlet has begun!!!” LET’S DO THIS (if: $Game is 0)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletHardFail]] ] (if: $Game is 1)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletSoftFail]] ] (if: $Game is 2)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletSoftFail]] ] (if: $Game is 3)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletNearWin]] ] (if: $Game is 4)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletNearWin]] ] (if: $Game is 5)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 6)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 7)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 8)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 9)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 10)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 11)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 12)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ] (if: $Game is 13)[ [[LET'S DO THIS ->GauntletWin]] ]

It truly is a gaming battle for the ages. Each round, you bounce between genres like a pinball (though ironically enough, pinball is not one of the genres included), from fighting to racing to sports to strategy. Simply recalling the controls of each game without a refresher is a challenge in itself. The competition is as fierce as you expected, too. Garrett takes an early lead, thanks to an exemplary performance in Not Not – A Brain Buster and Om Nom: Run. (You also get the impression he may have more experience with these games than he initially let on…) But as the rounds pass, Russ and Toast team up to sabotage him and drag down his scores, even at the expense of their own. After the two combine their forces and crush Garrett’s army in Fort Triumph, they all find themselves so far behind in score that a comeback would be statistically improbably. Eventually you and Drew rise to the top of the pack, but Morgan is very close behind you. Drew runs into some truly unfortunately luck in the second-to-last game, Golf Club Wasteland, and drops significantly back in the running. Now it’s just you and Morgan vying for first place, dogfighting mano a mano in Red Wings: Aces of the Sky. You find yourself on a collision course, guns whittling down each other’s health. Morgan barrel rolls early to dodge your shots, giving you an opening…but the only way to win is a perfectly timed barrel roll, colliding with them during the invincibility frames to destroy their plane. [[Do or die time -> BIGWIN]]

It truly is a gaming battle for the ages. Each round, you bounce between genres like a pinball (though ironically enough, pinball is not one of the genres included), from fighting to racing to sports to strategy. Simply recalling the controls of each game without a refresher is a challenge in itself. The competition is as fierce as you expected, too. Garrett takes an early lead, thanks to an exemplary performance in Not Not – A Brain Buster and Om Nom: Run. (You also get the impression he may have more experience with these games than he initially let on…) But as the rounds pass, Russ and Toast team up to sabotage him and drag down his scores, even at the expense of their own. After the two combine their forces and crush Garrett’s army in Fort Triumph, they all find themselves so far behind in score that a comeback would be statistically improbably. Unfortunately, your lack of practice with the games means you’re even FURTHER behind. As Drew and Morgan duel for first place, you find yourself straining to keep yourself out of last by scoring better than Russ in Wave Mode of Ghostrunner. Wave 7 appears onscreen. You need to survive this to edge out his score…You drop down from the rafters onto one of the four raised platforms, slashing a shielded enemy from behind. You wall run to a mounted target and destroy it, then leap into the melee below. The last 4 swordsmen rush you at once. [[Do or die time -> LITTLEFAIL]]

It truly is a gaming battle for the ages. Each round, you bounce between genres like a pinball (though ironically enough, pinball is not one of the genres included), from fighting to racing to sports to strategy. Simply recalling the controls of each game without a refresher is a challenge in itself. The competition is as fierce as you expected, too. Garrett takes an early lead, thanks to an exemplary performance in Not Not – A Brain Buster and Om Nom: Run. (You also get the impression he may have more experience with these games than he initially let on…) But as the rounds pass, Russ and Toast team up to sabotage him and drag down his scores, even at the expense of their own. After the two combine their forces and crush Garrett’s army in Fort Triumph, they all find themselves so far behind in score that a comeback would be statistically improbably. Unfortunately, your lack of practice with the games means you’re even FURTHER behind. As Drew and Morgan duel for first place, you find yourself straining to keep yourself out of last by scoring better than Russ in Wave Mode of Ghostrunner. Wave 7 appears onscreen. You need to survive this to edge out his score…You drop down from the rafters onto one of the four raised platforms, slashing a shielded enemy from behind. You wall run to a mounted target and destroy it, then leap into the melee below. The last 4 swordsmen rush you at once. [[Do or die time -> Ending5verA]]

You hit the first enemy with a shuriken and slash the second. A quick dodge gets you past the third, but you fail to block the fourth one’s strike and die. As a result, you end the Gauntlet in dead last. “I’ll be honest, I have no idea how you scored worse than I did,” Russ comments to you, “because honestly I never even played like half these games until today.” Morgan ultimately beats Drew in their Red Wings match and wins the Gauntlet. You watch the two of them chatting after the proceedings are complete, but you can’t bring yourself to initiate a conversation with Morgan after performing so poorly. You’d probably be laughed straight out of the basement… You excuse yourself to use the bathroom, then quietly duck out of the party when no one is looking. Under the cover of night, you start your car and drive home. Hopefully Garrett hosts another tournament in the future, where you can redeem yourself for this epic defeat. Maybe then you’ll have the confidence to chat with his cousin. ENDING 5/10: THE GUILD FOOL [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: When it comes to practicing for the Gauntlet, every session, no matter the game, improves your overall skill.

You hit the first enemy with a shuriken and slash the second. A quick dodge gets you past the third, and you block the fourth one’s strike before countering. You bide your time as the remaining soldier paces around you in an AI approximation of traditional bushido technique. When you see your opening, you take it down, and successfully keep yourself out of last place in the process. “Still, it’s kind of embarrassing it was even that close,” Russ comments, “because honestly I never even played like half these games until today.” Morgan ultimately beats Drew in their Red Wings match and wins the Gauntlet. You watch the two of them chatting after the proceedings are complete and wait for an opening to talk to Morgan. When Drew steps away to use the bathroom, you see your chance. You approach Morgan. “What’s up Sam?.” [[“So you’re a decent at video games…but what about board games?” -> Board]] [[“Nice shooting back there. Real pro-gamer stuff.” ->ProGamer]] [[“That should have been me fighting Drew!” -> Sour]]

Bullets tear through your plane. You health bar is pixels away from death. Just a moment more…one more moment… No dice: your craft has taken too much damage, and explodes before you can reach the front of Morgan’s airplane. “We have a winner!” shouts Garrett, returning to his patented game show host voice. You congratulate Morgan on their victory, then mosey over to the snack table. You’re still eating a few minutes later when Morgan comes over and sits by you. You nearly choke on the Cheese Puff in your mouth and struggle to swallow it. “I’m curious, what were you trying to accomplish at the end?” Morgan questions you. You explain about the invincibly frames in the barrel roll. “I saw Russ do it to Drew in their match completely by accident, when they were just colliding to waste time and annoy Garrett. That’s where got the idea from.” A look of bemusement crosses Morgan’s face. “How Perceptive…it makes me wonder, what else you do you have hidden up your sleeve?” You like where this conversation is going. [[“Ask me anything.” -> MorganQ1]]

Bullets tear through your plane. You health bar is pixels away from death. Just a moment more…one more moment… You smash the barrel roll button and enter invincibility just as you reach the front of Morgan’s airplane. Their fighter explodes, while yours escapes the fiery explosion unscathed. (Well, apart from the fact that your plane is kicking out plumes of black smoke, and your health is all but completely empty.) “We have a winner!” shouts Garrett, returning to his patented game show host voice. Morgan stares dumbfounded at the screen, trying to process the defeat. A few minutes later you’re eating some snacks when Morgan comes over and sits by you. You nearly choke on the Cheese Puff in your mouth and struggle to swallow it. “A well-fought match…you have my respect. But how did you know about the collision invincibility?” Morgan questions you. “It is taught in the tutorial and I missed it?” You laugh. “No. Russ did it to Drew in their match completely by accident, when they were just colliding to waste time and annoy Garrett. That’s where got the idea from.” A look of bemusement crosses Morgan’s face. “How Perceptive…it makes me wonder, what else you do you have hidden up your sleeve?” You like where this conversation is going. [[“Ask me anything.” -> MorganQ1]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

Morgan thinks. “Let’s start easy: music.” “I mean I like it, sure. The melodies, the harmonies, the symphonies…the other e’s.” Morgan snorts. “Wow! Your jokes are almost as bad as my cousin’s! Almost. But anyway, what I MEANT was, what sort of music are you into?” [[“Honestly I really like Ska. It’s so peppy and fun!” -> Ska]] [[“Classical, all the way.” -> Classical]] [[“Anything but church music. Makes my head hurt.” -> NotChurch]] (if: $Rock is true)[ [[SPECIAL: ”Well I have started getting into Classic Rock recently.” ->Rock]] ] (if: $Chiptune is true)[ [[SPECIAL: “I usually don’t tell people this, but I sort of dig chiptunes.” ->Chip]] ]

Morgan laughs. “Board games? Sure, I’ll beat you down in Candy Land any day.” “Oh please, Candy Land is a game of chance. Whip out the Scrabble board, Reversi…heck, I’d take you on in Mancala.” “Mancala!” Morgan sounds genuinely surprised. “A game of culture…would not have pegged you as a mancala player.” “But you certainly could peg me as a Battleship or Cribbage player.” A smile creeps across Morgan’s face. “Culture AND wordplay…very nice. It makes me wonder, what else you do you have hidden up your sleeve?” Morgan sits down in a chair, and gestures for you to sit in another opposite it. You oblige, liking where this conversation is going. [[“Ask me anything.” -> MorganQ1]]

Morgan cocks her head and laughs. “‘Pro-gamer?’ I didn’t know anyone actually used that phrase outside of memes…but thanks I guess? Really wasn’t all that hard with these competitors.” They walk away to grab some Sweedish Fish from the snack table. That was it: your chance to chat up Morgan…and you came off like a complete amateur! You excuse yourself to use the bathroom, then quietly duck out of the party when no one is looking. Under the cover of night, you start your car and drive home. Hopefully Garrett hosts another tournament in the future. Then you can redeem yourself for this epic defeat, and maybe find a way to start fresh with his cousin. ENDING 5/10: THE GUILD FOOL [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: In conversation, the correct answer isn’t always the obvious one, but it’s never the bitter one.

“I mean, it would have been if you hadn’t sort of…massively struck out on most of the games.” Morgan shrugs. “Better luck next time, I guess.” They walk away to grab some Sweedish Fish from the snack table. That was it: your chance to chat up Morgan…and you came off like a complete jerk! You excuse yourself to use the bathroom, then quietly duck out of the party when no one is looking. Under the cover of night, you start your car and drive home. Hopefully Garrett hosts another tournament in the future. Then you can redeem yourself for this epic defeat, and maybe find a way to start fresh with his cousin. ENDING 5/10: THE GUILD FOOL [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: In conversation, the correct answer isn’t always the obvious one, but it’s never the bitter one.

Morgan raises an eyebrow. “Ska? That stuff that all the local bands cover, but somehow their covers sound better than the originals? No thanks.” Well that was a bust. When someone puts it that way, it’s hard to believe you like ska either. Still, it’s so catchy! [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ2]]

Morgan rapidly fires another question. “Favorite composer?” “Tchaikovsky.” “Favorite piece?” “Trepak from The Nutcracker Suite” “Why?” “I have a childhood memory of seeing the ballet with my parents. It was before they divorced…and it was just a really nice day.” You pause for a moment. “Also it’s a great song to blast while doing 90 on the highway.” Morgan chuckles. “Both totally valid reasons.” [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ2]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

hurt? It has such a full and rich sound! You must be going to the wrong churches…or you’re secretly Satan.” Well that was a bust. You think back to the time you got holy water in your eye as a kid, and it burned way more than it should have. Maybe you ARE Satan… [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ2]]

“STARTED getting into Classic Rock?!” Morgan is taken aback. “You’re either into it or you’re not. That kind of love is in your blood!” “Okay okay, I’m into it! Cut me some slack: my mother refused to introduce it to me when I was a kid…reminded her too much of my dad.” Morgan bites her tongue. “Ah, can relate…my mom’s favorite ice cream flavor was strawberry. She passed when I was little, and ever since then my dad can’t taste the stuff without vomiting. So we never had strawberry ice cream in the house.” You shrug. “If it makes you feel better, you’re not missing anything. Chocolate is by FAR the superior flavor.” Morgan grins. “I can get behind that.” [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ2]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

Morgan laughs a little. “Wait, you mean the little blippy songs from old video games?” “No, not the crummy ones!” you retort, “the classics: To Far Away Times from Chrono Trigger, Jess’ Theme from Advance Wars 2, the title track from Mega Man 3…actually pretty much anything from Mega Man 3...” Morgan stares blankly at first, but then their lips curl into a knowing smile. “I was testing you, and you passed…although I have to dock you half a point for not mentioning anything from Vectorman.” You laugh. “Alright, fair enough.” [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ2]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

Morgan ponders another question. “Alright. You have 5 minutes to watch videos on the internet, and then you can never watch one again. What do you put on?” “Wait,” you say, scratching your head, “are they shutting off just my internet’s videos, or like the whole internet’s? Because I could just go to the-” “4 minutes 45 seconds!” “Alright! I’d watch…” [[“The newest movie teaser trailers.” -> Trailer]] [[“A world news recap.” -> News]] [[“…actually, I feel like I shouldn’t describe that content.” -> Smut]] (if: $Fail is true)[ [[SPECIAL: ”A fail compilation. Gonna laugh until I can’t no more.” ->Failcomp]] ] (if: $Lifehack is true)[ [[SPECIAL: “A lifehack tutorial. Probably try to sneak in two or three.” ->Lifehack]] ]

“Eh, you can always see trailers in movie theaters,” Morgan remarks, “seems like a waste to spend you final minutes EVER on internet videos watching something available elsewhere.” Well that was a bust. They’re right too. You’d almost forgotten about movie theaters after 2020, but they’re still around…and hopefully you’ll get to take Morgan to one sometime. [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ3]]

Morgan scoffs. “Pfft, lame.” Well that was a bust. Honestly you can’t even remember the last time you watched international news…well, except that once when the BBC messed up and kept running the show intro like a broken record while the anchor sat still as a statue at the desk. That was hilarious. [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ3]]

Morgan is confused for a moment. Then the lightbulb clicks on. “You can’t mean what I think you mean.” “Oh I mean it. And honestly, if faced with the same predicament, wouldn’t you choose the same?” “No!” Morgan retorts, “I’d look at…uh…cats.” “Just cats?” You stare into Morgan’s eyes unblinkingly, and watch their gaze slowly slide down to the floor. They absently scratch behind their left ear. “Just cats…probably...” They smirk a little. You feel like the two of you are in quiet agreement on this topic. [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ3]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

“Wait,” says Morgan, “you’re telling me you’re going to spend your last 5 minutes of internet video time watching people hurt themselves doing absolutely moronic things on camera?” “I mean, it’s how I’ve spent most of my internet video time thus far. Why stop now,?” “You have a point there…related question: you’ve seen Sail Cat, right?” “Finest entertainment of this century. Oscar-worthy.” Morgan smiles. “Wholly agreed.” [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ3]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

“Oh yeah, I forgot about those! I used to try those out all the time!” “Really? What sort of things did you do” “One time I hooked up my dad’s guitar into a mushroom. It creates the craziest distortion! …but then I had to stop it.” You cock your head. “Why?” “My dad wanted that part of his lunch back.” “Must have been a ROCKIN' lunch after that!” Morgan groans, but is clearly entertained by your terrible comedy. [[You await their next question. -> MorganQ3]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

“Okay,” says Morgan, “last question, and it’s a big one: what is the deepest thought you’ve had recently?” You take a moment to think about this one, reflecting on you’re your musings over the last week. [[Say you’re not really sure -> Unsure]] (if: $Happiness is true)[ [[SPECIAL: Talk about happiness ->Happiness]] ] (if: $Forgiveness is true)[ [[SPECIAL: Talk about forgiveness ->Forgiveness]] ]

You shake your head. “I’m not sure. All this week I’ve been busy preparing for this party, dealing with stuff for my mother and brother…I haven’t really had the opportunity to meditate on grander matters.” Morgan shrugs. “That’s fair. Just don’t forget how important it is to think about those things. Reflection leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us, and those deeper truths are more reliable guides than mere instinct. They’ll direct you on the way not just to a different future, but a better one.” “I’ll definitely keep that in mind.” [[Morgan stands up -> MorganRegards]]

“You can’t just give someone happiness and expect it to be there forever. It has a shelf life: it expires and rots. And if you try to use it after that, it’s toxic. Instead, you have to offer fresh happiness regularly to keep your relationships strong healthy.” Morgan stares at you. “Whoa…I did not expect that level of response. Consider me impressed.” You bow your head. “Just a leaf from my tree of wisdom.” Morgan scoffs. “Alright Confucius, calm down.” You both laugh. [[Morgan stands up -> MorganRegards]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

“Forgiveness doesn’t have to mean acceptance. You can still feel someone is wrong, KNOW that they’re wrong, and forgive them. Acceptable is logic: it comes from the head, hard and rigid. But forgiveness comes from the heart. It’s a balm to soothe anger and hate, and all the pain those feelings cause.” Morgan stares at you. “Whoa…I did not expect that level of response. Consider me impressed.” You bow your head. “Just a leaf from my tree of wisdom.” Morgan scoffs. “Alright Confucius, calm down.” You both laugh. [[Morgan stands up -> MorganRegards]] (set: $Morgan to it +1)

Morgan stands there regarding you. They seem to be deciding how they feel about you after the nights events. A bead of sweat rolls down the back of your neck. You hope that you don't look as tense as you feel. (if: $Morgan is 0)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganNice]] ] (if: $Morgan is 1)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganNice]] ] (if: $Morgan is 2)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganGreat]] ] (if: $Morgan is 3)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganGreat]] ] (if: $Morgan is 4)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganLove]] ] (if: $Morgan is 4)[ [[Morgan speaks ->MorganLove]] ]

“Well it was nice finally getting to chat with you,” Morgan says. You tell them the feeling is mutual, as they begin to pack up their belongings. “You leaving, Morgan?” Garrett asks, “Won’t even stick around ‘til the ball drops.” “Sorry, can’t. My dad wanted me home already. He’s texted me like 4 times.” You and the others bid Morgan farewell, and they depart. Garrett walks over to you and puts a hand on your shoulder. “I’m sorry Sam,” Garrett says, “I know you were hoping to spend more time with Morgan tonight.” You nod. “It’s alright though. The important thing is we’re all here, and we get to ring in the new year together!” The rest of the group cheers in agreement. As the ball drops to signify the start of 2022, you recite the Adventurers Guild credo as a team. “To win, or blame lag for all of our losses, To slay and then teabag all high-level bosses, To always backup and support one another, Unless friendly fire lets us troll each other.” You don’t know what’s next for you in this new year, but you know your friends will be there for you all the way. ENDING 6/10: A NEW GUILD MEMBER [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Various activities in the preceding days offer you guaranteed good answers for your chat with Morgan.

“It was great finally getting to chat with you,” Morgan says. You tell them the feeling is mutual. “Also I realized I don’t have your number. Can you give it to me?” You’re so flustered you forget your area code for a few seconds, but ultimately get Morgan your number. “Cool, thanks. I’ll text you mine.” They begin to pack up their belongings. “You leaving, Morgan?” Garrett asks, “Won’t even stick around ‘til the ball drops.” “Sorry, can’t. My dad wanted me home already. He’s texted me four times.” You and the others bid Morgan farewell, and they depart. A few minutes later, you’re struck by the sudden need to use the bathroom. You imagine it’s nerves from your conversation with your crush. The countdown is starting shortly however, and you’d hate to be in the bathroom when the ball drops. [[Hold it until after the countdown -> Ending9verA]] [[Go to the bathroom -> Bathroom]]

“Sam, I’m not usually one to rush to conclusions,” Morgan says, “but I think the two of us have a lot of chemistry. And I’d love to continue this soon..when there’s not a bunch of nosey jerks listening in!” Morgan spins to face the Guild, who you now realize are leaned over the couch staring at you. “Wait- us?” Toast says. “Psh, no way!” “We are NEVER like that,” Drew concurs. “Never.” Russ coughs. “I actually haven’t been listening. I’m just really enjoying this couch.” Based on the look in his eyes, you completely believe him. Garrett points to the TV. “Look, they’re about to drop the ball!” He turns the volume up. Everyone watches as the countdown begins. In its last few moments, Morgan slides over beside you. “You know, there’s a well-known tradition of kissing someone at midnight on New Year’s Eve…” “I thought you said you didn’t like rushing to conclusions.” “I’ll make an exception this one time.” At the stroke of midnight, you and Morgan lean in and kiss each other. It is the beginning what you hope will be an amazing new year, and a wonderful relationship long beyond it. ENDING 10/10: FLAWLESS VICTORY [[REPLAY ->Title]] Congratulations! Thanks for playing, and have a Happy New Year!

You decide you can hold it. No sense missing the ball drop. As the final minute of 2021 begins, Garrett walks over to you and puts a hand on your shoulder. “I’m sorry Sam,” Garrett says, “I know you were hoping to spend more time with Morgan tonight.” You shrug. “They have my number, we’ll see where it goes. But The important thing is we’re all here, and we get to ring in the new year together!” The rest of the group cheers in agreement as the ball drops to signify the start of 2022. About half an hour later, you’re getting ready to leave when you get a text from a number you don’t know. ?: Hey Sam, it’s Morgan :) sorry I had to leave so abruptly. (Not worth it at all…my dad’s party stinks.) I really did have fun chatting tho, and was wondering if maybe you’d like to get some coffee sometime? Thanks and Happy New Year! You bask in the glow of your phone screen, smiling giddily. Not even an hour in, and 2022 is looking up already. ENDING 9/10: HOPE FOR THE NEW YEAR [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: You shouldn’t hold it when you really need to pee. It’s bad for your bladder.

You really have to go, so you excuse yourself to the bathroom. As you’re using it, you notice something through the small window above the toilet: someone in a pair of black skinny jeans and sneakers is walking around outside. Isn’t that what Morgan was wearing? You wash your hands, then walk upstairs and outside. Sure enough, there’s Morgan pacing beside their car. “Everything okay?” you ask. “Yes!” Morgan replies hastily. “It’s just…my car’s dead. But I’ll be fine, just as soon as I can find an Uber driver to pick me up.” You look at the care. If all it really needs is a jump, you could probably take care of that. Alternatively you could offer to just drive Morgan home. Based on how often they’re at Garrett’s, you can’t imagine they live very far. [[Offer to jump the car -> Jump It]] [[Offer to drive Morgan home -> Drive Them]] [[Let Morgan Uber -> Uber]]

You offer to jump the car, and they accept. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, Morgan’s car battery is stone dead and refuses to turn over. “It’s alright, thanks anyway.” Morgan’s phone chimes. “I’ll be fine. My Uber driver will be here in under 5 minutes.” “Well, alright then.” You walk back toward the house. “Just do me a favor and text me when you get there safely, okay?” You pause for a moment. “Unless that’s too weird. I don’t want-” “It’s not weird!” Morgan says with a laugh. “I will. Thanks for caring.” You wish them a Happy New Year, and they offer the same sentiment. [[Go back inside -> Ending9verB]]

“Why don’t I just give you a ride home?” you offer, “how far away do you live?” Morgan hesitates. “Not far, but I don’t want to impose-” “It’s no trouble!” you assure them. Ultimately after some brief back-and-forth, they gratefully accept your offer. You both get into your car and go. [[You follow Morgan’s directions to the house. ->DanesHouse]]

“You sure you’re okay out here?” you ask, “it’s pretty cold. Why not come back inside?” “No thanks, the party’s over…I wouldn’t want to be a bother.” Morgan’s phone chimes. “Plus it looks like my Uber driver will be here in under 5 minutes.” “Well, alright then.” You walk back toward the house. “Just do me a favor and text me when you get there safely, okay?” You pause for a moment. “Unless that’s too weird. I don’t want-” “It’s not weird!” Morgan says with a laugh. “I will. Thanks for caring.” You bid them a good night, and they offer the same sentiment. [[Go back inside -> Ending9verB]]

About twenty minutes later, you’re getting ready to leave when you get a text from a number you don’t know. ?: Hey Sam, it’s Morgan :) made it here safely. (Not worth it at all…my dad’s party stinks.) I really did have fun chatting tho, and was wondering if maybe you’d like to get some coffee sometime? Thanks and Happy New Year! You bask in the glow of your phone screen, smiling giddily. Not even an hour in, and 2022 is looking up already. ENDING 9/10: HOPE FOR THE NEW YEAR [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Morgan seems to enjoy spending time with you. Surely they wouldn't refuse a few extra minutes while driving home.

You pull up to Morgan’s house. Inside the silhouettes of people can be seen walking around beyond the window curtains. You courteously walk Morgan to the door. “Thanks so much for all this,” Morgan says. After a moment, they add, “I think you’re really great.” You smile. Morgan smiles. You lean in toward each other… Suddenly the front door flies open, and you both recoil away from each other. The man in the doorway is silhouetted by the living room light behind him. “What are you doing standing around on the porch, kid? It’s freezing out here: you’ll catch a cold!” Based on his tone, you surmise the man is Morgan’s father, and prepare to introduce yoursels. As your eyes adjust to the light, however, you are shocked to find your boss standing there looking at you. It suddenly dawns on him who you are, too. “Sam?!” You grimace and slowly extend your hand. “Uh…good evening sir. Happy New Year!” (if: $Work is 0)[ [[“Uh…good evening sir. Happy New Year!” ->Danebadend]] ] (if: $Work is 1)[ [[“Uh…good evening sir. Happy New Year!” ->Danebadend]] ] (if: $Work is 2)[ [[“Uh…good evening sir. Happy New Year!” ->Danegoodend]] ] (if: $Work is 3)[ [[“Uh…good evening sir. Happy New Year!” ->Danegoodend]] ]

Dane does not shake your hand. “Morgan what are you doing hanging around with this bum? Come on, get in here!” Morgan tries to explain how you drove them home, but Dane isn’t interested in the circumstances. Morgan glances back at you glumly as they follow Dane’s instruction. “As for you,” your boss says, “you lazy shift-skipping waste of air and space…you spend that ‘Happy New Year’ of yours FAR away from my house and my family!” He slams the door in your face. Deflated, you wander back to your car. The silence is deafening, punctuated only by your footfalls on the sidewalk: like the shuffle of a prisoner to their cell. If the first 10 minutes are anything to go by, 2022 is likely to be a rough year. As you start your car though, your phone chimes: it’s a text message from an unknown number. ?: Hey Sam, it’s Morgan :) sorry about my dad, he can be a real jerk. I really did have fun tonight tho, and was wondering if maybe you’d like to get some coffee sometime? (Don't tell your boss haha) Thanks for the ride and Happy New Year! You chuckle. Looks like 2022 might not be so bad after all. ENDING 7/10 – DANEIED [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Maybe if you were a more reliable employee, Dane would have welcomed your arrival…

Dane grabs your and shakes it vigorously. “Oh come now, no ‘sir’ talk around here! Call me ‘Dad!’” “DAD!” Morgan shouts, instantly turning red as a fire truck. “Calm down. Just having a little fun with my #1 Employee, right Sam?” He stops shaking your hand. Which falls limply to your side. You can definitely sympathize with Morgan’s discomfort. Dane waves you in. “Well don’t just stand there, both of you, get in here! Still plenty of fun to be had, snacks to be eaten. You know the drill!” He wanders off to the bowl of chips and dip on the coffee table. Morgan looks at you awkwardly. “I guess you already have my dad’s approval, huh?” “I suppose so.” Morgan slips their hand into yours. “Well that’s good. I was rather hoping he’d like you.” You grin. Together the two of you step into the house, closing the door behind you. ENDING 8/10 – MORGAN TESTED, DANE APPROVED [[REPLAY ->Title]] Hint: Not bad, but it’s a shame you weren’t together when the ball dropped…you might have gotten a kiss!