Masquerade

,,,,,

[[Everything is burning.]] (set: $talking to 0)

You feel the heat on your face and get a vague sense of where you are as you stand from your position on the floor. Through the flames, you can make out the shape of [[two people.]]

Sitting up now, you attempt to steady your breathing to no avail. All you want to do is calm down and try to relax so you can assess what you just saw. It was just a dream, but you can’t shake the feeling that you just witnessed a murder. You [[look at the clock.]]

7:40!? You meant to take a quick nap before your night out, but apparently you grossly overslept. Mr. and Mrs. Honeydew, your neighbors, are hosting their annual masquerade ball in under an hour! Although they’ve been putting these on for years, this is the first time you’ve been invited to one. You need to [[make a good impression.]] On the other hand… that dream was scary, and you could use some more [[sleep.|COWARD’S WAY OUT ]]

You shoot out of bed and cross your room to your bedroom closet. Sweatpants won’t do for a fancy masquerade ball, so you opt to change into your classiest formal wear. You also need a mask, of course. You bought a few in preparation because you couldn’t choose what style to go with… now’s the time. [[Bear| Leaving your House]] [[Owl| Leaving your House]] [[Frog| Leaving your House]] [[Rabbit| Leaving your House]]

You make your selection and don your favorite mask. You look in the mirror one last time and feel confident in your appearance; not too shabby for getting ready in 10 minutes. You shoot a wink at your reflection and walk out the door. The Honeydew’s house is just [[a few doors down.| Greeting at the door]]

You ring the doorbell and wait a matter of milliseconds before the door is flung open. A woman in a butterfly mask greets you at the door. [[You recognize her|Stepping inside the house]] all too well. (set: $talking to 1)

“Hello and welcome! Come on in and mingle!” She steers you inside with a gentle hand on your shoulder. You hope she can’t feel your heart racing. “Just don’t forget the rules: no taking your mask off or discussing your real identity, no matter what,” she says in a sing-song voice. The woman walks off to chat with other guests and you try your best to gather your wits and act natural. It was just a dream. You take a deep breath and [[enter the ballroom]].

You stand in a luxurious [[ballroom |BALLROOM TIMER]]where all of the party guests are talking amongst themselves, dancing, and enjoying hor d’oeuvres and drinks. You see some people you might recognize under all the ornate animal masks.Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. (set: $time to 800) (set: $talking to 0)(set: $eight to 1)

(set: $minutes to $time%100) (if: $minutes is 0)[[[You hear the clock strike on the hour.|CLOCKG]]](if: $minutes!=0)[[[...|Garden]]]

(set:$talking to 0)(set: $minutes to ($time%100))(if: $minutes is 0)[[[You hear the clock strike on the hour.|CLOCKL]]](if: $minutes!=0)[[[...|living room]]]

You walk up the winding staircase and hope you aren’t intruding on anything. You assume this is where the Honeydews’ bedrooms are, but most of the doors are locked. You see only one [[door at the far end|Bedroom]] of the hall that looks like it’s open a crack- there’s a sliver of light peeking through. You can’t tell if anyone’s inside. You feel like you're snooping, the thought to [[turn back |BALLROOM TIMER]] crosses your mind. (set: $snoop to 0)

(set: $minutes to $time%100)(if: $minutes is 0)[[[You hear the clock strike on the hour.|CLOCKD]]](if: $minutes!=0)[[[...|Dance Floor]]] (set: $talking to 0)

(if: $reflection is 0) [You sit by the fountain for a while, wondering who decided that fountains should have sculptures of naked babies on them. As least the rushing water is calming. You look up at the stars- its a crystal clear night- and [[reflect for a little while.]]] (if: $reflection is 1) [The water ebbs and flows. [[You're running out of time.|GARDENTIMER]]]

If you had a dollar for every species of plant in this garden, you’d have enough money for… well, something that didn’t cost more than 100 bucks. Lillies, daisies, tulips- everything’s here. Well, almost everything. As you wander through the garden, you can’t seem to find a single rose. It seems odd that such a seemingly complete garden wouldn’t have such a traditional flower. Oh, well. The flowers are pretty regardless. [[Pick one]] [[Go back||GARDENTIMER]]

Two wooden doors held firmly shut by an ornate (if:$key is 0) [metal lock] (if: $key is 1) [ [[metal lock]]]. Makes sense the Honeydews wouldn’t want guest snooping in their wine cellar. There's plenty of drinks in the ballroom, anyways. [[Go back|GARDENTIMER]] (set: $hatch to 1)

(if: $refresh is 0)[You decide some snacks are in order. While you put some potato chips on a paper plate you spot someone [[out of the corner of your eye.]]](if: $refresh is 1)[[[You aren’t hungry anymore.|GARDENTIMER]]]

Its a lovely party, if you weren’t so worried about impending murder you might even be having a good time. You always felt out of place in this neighborhood, surrounded by people richer than you could ever dream to be. Yet, you made it here, despite everything. You think of all the people that helped you along the way: your family, your mentors, your friends. It’s been a while since they’ve heard from you, hasn’t it? Maybe you should give them a call. [[If you make it out alive tonight.]]

[[You have more important things to do right now. |GARDENTIMER]](set: $reflection to 1)

You decide to pick a flower. There are so many, it couldn’t hurt, right? These people are rich enough already. You tuck it into your mask. [[Go back||GARDENTIMER]]

You see it- a swan mask- its wearer meticulously inspecting something in the garden. Something’s off, but before you can even move the figure is gone. You wonder if you even saw anyone there at all. Maybe all this is getting to your head. (set: $refresh to 1) [[Investigate]] [[Leave it alone|GARDENTIMER]]

You walk over to where the figure once stood. Its colder here, further from the light and warmth of the mansion. A chill runs through your body, you pick, you prune, trying to [[find whatever the figure was after.]](set:$time to $time+40)

You gain nothing but a few [[cuts on your hands.]] Whatever was here is gone now, if anything was here at all. [[Go back |GARDENTIMER]]

In the dark of the night it was impossible to spot the thorns hiding in [[the bushes.|find whatever the figure was after.]] You hope nobody will notice- the cold of the wind against the warmth of your blood is unnerving.

You try the key on the lock. You hear a [[click.]]

You stare down into the cellar. It's a murky, shadowy room- the ladder at your feet appears to be the only entrance. [[Decend|Wine Cellar]] [[Some things are better left alone.|GARDENTIMER]]

You didn’t think it could possibly get colder than the garden. You were wrong. Your eyes strain to see anything here. Thankfully a few rays of light shine down from the [[opened hatch.]] There are racks of [[expensive looking liquors on every side,]] some even older than you. The rows of wine continue into the darkness, you can barely make out something [[further down.]]

You look up, out, away from the cellar. The stars in the sky dance for you. Climb back up? [[Yes|GARDENTIMER]] [[No|Wine Cellar]]

You pretend you’re in a spy movie, pulling on various bottles, half expecting the entire rack to flip over, revealing some secret lair. [[You aren’t so lucky.|Wine Cellar]]

It's so dark here you have to hold your hands out in front of you just so make sure you don’t bump into something. You feel your knee knock into something with a thunk. Part of you just wants to [[go back|Wine Cellar]], but the other wants to [[know more.]]

You gesture for the woman in the monarch butterfly mask to dance with you, and she follows you onto the floor with a glance back at the scarlet masked man. So… [[Be polite. | monarch polite]] [[Ask her about hosting. | monarch hosting]] [[Ask her about her family. | monarch family]] (set: $talking to 1)

(if:$killer is 1) [[[He doesn't seem to be around...|Dance Floor]]](if:$killer is 0) [You beckon the man with the scarlet butterfly mask to dance with you and he follows with a smile. [[Introduce yourself. | Scarlet intro]] [[Ask about his work. | Scarlet work]](if: $photo is 1)[ [[Show him the photo]]] [[Goodbye for now. | Scarlet goodbye]](set: $talking to 1)]

(if: $photo is 0)[You approach a plain-looking teenage girl in a blue butterfly mask. “Care to dance?” She looks taken by surprise. “Oh — uh, sure!” “Wonderful. So…” [[Be polite. | blue intro1]]](if:$photo is 1)[You approach a plain-looking teenage girl in a blue butterfly mask. You remember the photo, she looks similar to the girl in it. Older, sure, but you're sure its her. “Care to dance?” She looks taken by surprise. “Oh — uh, sure!” “Wonderful. So…” [[Be polite. | blue intro1]] [[Show her the photo]]](set: $talking to 1)

A man in a yellow-tinged fox mask winks at you from across the room. You feel drawn to him, but somehow more nervous than before. “Hey there…” you say to him shyly. “Hey there, pretty stranger.” (set:$talking to 1) [[Be polite | fox intro]]. [[Ask him about the hosts | fox host]]. [[Flirt with him]].

(if:$killer is 0)[(set: $talking to 1)You make your way across the dance floor to a woman in an extravagant swan mask and a big layered gown. “Care to dance?” you ask. “Well, sure, sweetie!” [[Be polite | Swan intro]]. [[Ask how she knows the hosts | Swan host]].(if: $photo is 1)[ [[Show her the photo ]].]] (if:$killer is 1)[ [[She doesn't seem to be around...|DANCETIMER]]]

As you go to dance, a little boy in a mouse mask runs across the floor in front of you. He runs right into your legs with an [[“OOF!”]]

(set: $talking=0 ) (set: $reflection=0 ) (set: $key=0 ) (set: $snoop=0) (set: $time= 830) (set: $photo = 0) (set: $hour = 0) (set: $minutes = 0) (set: $upstairs = 0) (set: $bomb = 0) (set: $shakira = 0) (set: $butler = 0) (set: $hatch =0) (set: $mouse =0) (set: $refresh = 0) (set: $killer = 0) (set:$empathy = 0) $kickedoutending

(if: $talking is 0)[<script>$('tw-passage').addClass('talking-0');</script>]\ (else-if: $talking is 1)[<script>$('tw-passage').addClass('talking-1');</script>]\

One, a tall, extravagantly dressed woman in a butterfly mask. The other is shrouded in darkness, and you can’t make out much of their appearance. What you do see, seconds later, is the knife in their hand plunging into the masked woman’s chest. You begin to scream. Before you see her body hit the ground, you [[wake up]] in a cold sweat.

(set: $minutes to ($time%100))(if: $minutes is 0)[[[You hear the clock strike on the hour.|CLOCKB]]](if: $minutes!=0)[[[...|ballroom]]](set:$talking to 0)

You open the door at the end of the hall to a luxurious bedroom with the biggest bed you’ve ever seen, an equally grand bookshelf, a beautiful vanity topped with overfilled jewelry hangers, and a wardrobe with twin doors. You conclude this must be Mr. and Mrs. Honeydew’s quarters, and close the door behind you. You feel like snooping around in the hosts’ private life is probably not the most polite thing to do. (set: $upstairs to 1) [[Oh well. |Snoop options]] [[Leave. |BALLROOM TIMER]]

Unfortunately politeness isn’t your #1 priority right now, considering everyone might die. Snooping it is. You might not have much time, so you must choose wisely where to investigate first. [[Bed]] [[Bookshelf]] [[Vanity]] [[Wardrobe]] (set: $talking to 1)

You walk over to the bed and bend down to get a good look underneath. You see some extra sheets and a few pairs of fancy slippers. You put them on your hands and pretend to be a bear. (if: $snoop is <2)[[[That was fun. |Snoop options]]] (if: $snoop is 2) [[[That was fun. |Oof]]] (set: $snoop to $snoop+1)

You cautiously approach the vanity; knocking anything over on top could be a very expensive mistake. Instead of rummaging around the surface of the vanity you decide to look inside the drawers. The top two are filled with makeup palettes and brushes, the next with socks and underwear. You’re about to give up here until you open the bottom left drawer to a bunch of overturned picture frames. [[Finally something interesting.| Family photos]]

You open the double doors of the wardrobe and see neatly hung garments organized into sections for each half of the couple. The most casual item in here is a perfectly ironed white dress shirt… seems like the Honeydews aren’t the casual types. Aside from the lack of comfy sweatpants, you don’t see any horrors hiding here. You (if: $snoop is <2)[[[close the wardrobe. |Snoop options]]] (if: $snoop is 2) [[[close the wardrobe. |Oof]]] (set: $snoop to $snoop+1)

You approach the bookshelf and examine the titles for clues. The shelf is filled with literary classics like Heart of Darkness and Pride and Prejudice, nothing that particularly sticks out. You think of the old lever-disguised-as-a-book cliche and pull out a few random ones just in case there’s a secret door behind the shelf. (if: $snoop is <2)[[[No dice. |Snoop options]]] (if: $snoop is 2) [[[No dice. |Oof]]] (set: $snoop to $snoop+1)

You flip them over and see various photos of the Honeydews about ten years younger, some including a little girl who you assume is their now teenage daughter Elizabeth. What catches your eye, though, is one photo in particular… one with an extra kid. It looks like all the rest, a nice family portrait of the neighbors you’ve known for years, but Mrs. Honeydew holds a baby wrapped in a blue blankie. They’re all smiling, but her eyes betray her pained expression. Your skin crawls at the haunting image. (if: $snoop is <2)[[[You’re done here. |Return]]] (if: $snoop is 2) [[[You’re done here. |Oof]]] (set: $snoop to $snoop+1) (set: $time to $time +40)

You’re crossing the room as you hear a rythmic noise nearby. You can’t tell if it’s your heart pounding in your chest or the sound of footsteps rapidly approaching, but you begin to sweat regardless. You frantically look around for somewhere to hide. Maybe you can slip inside the wardrobe, or-- Click. Too late. You recognize the sound of someone opening the door, the sound of someone about to find a masked stranger in their bedroom. [[Bad news.| KICKED OUT ]] (set: $talking to 0)

“What in God’s name are you doing in my bedroom?” You turn around slowly to face the woman in the monarch butterfly mask staring daggers at you. Before you can even attempt to explain yourself, she yells for backup. “BUTLER!!” [[Uh oh.| KICKED OUT ENDING]]

It’s been a couple of weeks since the party, and it’s clear your pride wasn’t the only thing damaged that night. When you were able to get over your shame enough to pass by the neighbors house again, well, there wasn’t much house left to see. What wasn’t burned to the ground was roped off with caution tape, and there were city cleanup workers picking up scattered debris. The news said they hadn’t figured out the cause yet, but there was a huge explosion that killed everyone inside. You wish you had figured out what was going on that night, who set off the bomb, who stabbed the woman in your dream… but you’re grateful to have [[made it out alive.|ENDING SCREEN]] (set: $kickedoutending to 1)

(set: $minutes to $time%100)(set: $hour to ($time-$minutes)/100) (if: $time%100 is 20) [[[Its $hour : 10 .|ballroom]]](if: $time%100 is 60) [[[Its $hour : 30 .|ballroom]]] (if: $time%100 is 0) [[[Its $hour :00 .|ballroom]]]

You pocket the photo and head back [[downstairs.|BALLROOM TIMER]] (set: $photo to 1) (set: $upstairs to 2)

[[You're done snooping for now, don't you think?|BALLROOM TIMER]]

You keep going, hoping nothing will jump out at you. Bending down, you grasp at the air until your hands hit [[whatever you just bumped into.]] It feels… soft?

You run your hands along the object. Your minds trails off, you remember the feeling of being tucked into your bed earlier today. That's what this is, then. [[A bed]]… in a wine cellar?

You stand upright, confused. You shift backwards and the back of your leg hits [[something else.]]

You turn around suddenly, startled. For a moment, nothing. Another moment, and then another and you finally feel safe again. You breathe a sigh of relief and reach down to feel the new object. Its soft, another bed, but your hand runs over [[something bumpy.]]

You pull on the covers, grabbing at whatever was under them. It's a weird... box... thing. There’s no way you’ll be able to tell what it is without [[bringing it into the light.]]

You carry the object towards the exit, until you can [[make out what it is.]]

[[uh oh.]]

You’re no demolitions expert, but that is definitely a bomb. A dark box of god knows what, wrapped in black tape with a small, blinking device strapped to it. From what you know from movies- probably to [[detonate it]] remotely.

You feel the blood rush from your face to your gut. Your mind is in a million different places, but one thing you know for sure is that this thing could go off at any time. What are you supposed to do? Just[[ leave this thing here]] to blow up, or [[try to disarm it?]] Bringing it out of the question- you have no idea who will see you.

You need another plan. The last thing you need is for this thing to blow up in your face. Literally. Someone left this here for a reason, and figuring that out comes first. The bomb is neatly tucked back under the sheets before you [[get the hell out of here.|GARDENTIMER]] (set: $bomb to 1) (set:$time to $time+40)

You can’t just do nothing, can you? Who knows when this thing will blow. You look for colored wires and find nothing. All you can think to do is [[rip off the smaller device.]]

You take in a sharp breath and [[pull the thing apart.]]

[[...]]

[[Nothing happens.]]

You place your hand over your heart, happy to be alive. You’re breathing so heavy you don’t hear the footsteps behind you [[until its too late.]]

You feel something sharp penetrate deep in between your shoulder blades. Cold metal… then searing pain unlike any you’ve ever felt. Your upper body warms up as wetness trickles down your back. A figure comes around from behind you as you fall to your knees and takes the bomb from your weakening grip. The last thing you see is your attacker placing the bomb back under the sheets and walking out of the room. [[Darkness overtakes your vision.|ENDING SCREEN]] (set: $disarmending to 1)

ENDINGS 1) (if: $cowardending is 1)[ [[Coward's Way Out]]] 2) (if: $karaokeending is 1)[ [[Killer Karaoke]]] 3) (if: $flirtending is 1)[ [[Dance 'Till You're Dead]]] 4) (if: $kickedoutending is 1)[ [[Snooped Too Much]]] 5) (if: $disarmending is 1)[ [[At Least You Didn't Explode]]] 6) (if: $disasterending is 1)[ [[Blood and Fire]]] 7) (if: $bombending is 1)[ [[Bring Down the House]]] 8) (if: $murderending is 1)[ [[in Cold Blood]]] 9) (if:$runawayending is 1)[ [[On the Run]]] 10) (if: $falseending is 1)[ [[A Night Better Forgotten]]] ??? (if: $trueending is 1)[ [[A Night To Remember]]] TRY AGAIN? [[From the beginning.|Start]] (if: $eight is 1)[[[From 8:00|enter the ballroom]]] (set: $talking=0 )(set: $reflection=0 )(set: $key=0 )(set: $snoop=0)(set: $photo = 0)(set: $hour = 0)(set: $minutes = 0)(set: $upstairs = 0)(set: $bomb = 0)(set: $shakira = 0)(set: $butler = 0)(set: $hatch =0)(set: $mouse =0)(set: $refresh = 0)(set: $killer = 0)(set:$empathy = 0)

You hear a commotion from inside the house, specifically [[the ballroom.]]

Yeah, another nap sounds good right about now. You go back to bed and [[sleep through the party.|ENDING SCREEN]] (set: $cowardending to 1)

You can’t bring yourself to go back. [[Not yet.|GARDENTIMER]]

(if: $bomb is 0) [You decide to take a break from all the commotion inside and walk out to the garden. It's quite lovely, you can’t help but feel at ease here. The quiet chirps of crickets and the pitter-patter of water from the fountain helps you relax. [[The fountain]] is at the center of the garden, surrounded on all sides by a [[small jungle of plant life.]] The garden stretches to the side of the house, the fading light barely illuminating the entrance to what must be a [[wine cellar.]] There’s a small table against the opposite wall with [[refreshments.]] You can hear the music of [[the ballroom|BALLROOM TIMER]] behind you.] (if: $bomb is 1) [You feel more on edge now. If you weren’t sweating through your skin, maybe you could appreciate the nice garden. The quiet chirps of crickets and the pitter-patter of water blur together- all you can hear is the ticking time bomb in the [[wine cellar]]. [[The fountain]] is at the center of the garden, surrounded on all sides by a [[small jungle of plant life.]] There’s a small table against the opposite wall with [[refreshments.]] You can hear the music of [[the ballroom|BALLROOM TIMER]] behind you.](set: $talking to 1)

(set: $hour to ($time-$minutes)/100)(if: $time>=1200)[ [[Its Midnight.]]] (if: $time<1200)[ [[It's $hour:00|Garden]]] (set:$time to $time+20)

You look around you at all the party guests, dressed to the nines with carefully concealed faces. Dancing is as good of an excuse as any to gather intel on a murder, right? You could [[pass on the dancing for now,|BALLROOM TIMER]] or try to pick a dance partner without raising suspicion. [[Monarch butterfly]] [[Scarlet butterfly]] [[Blue butterfly]] [[Fox]] [[Swan]] [[Mouse]]

(set: $hour to ($time-$minutes)/100)(if: $time>=1200)[ [[Its Midnight.]]] (if: $time<1200)[ [[It's $hour:00|Dance Floor]]] (set:$time to $time+20)

You're here now, in the ballroom. You notice a door leading outside to a [[backyard garden|GARDENTIMER]] on the furthest wall. There are also open double doors on the left side of the ballroom leading to what seems to be a [[living room|Living room]], and a (if: $upstairs is 0)[[[spiral staircase| Upstairs]]] (if: $upstairs is 1)[[[spiral staircase|Bedroom]]](if: $upstairs is 2)[[[spiral staircase|Upstairs2]]] on the right. You can hear the [[clock|TIME]] ticking behind you, above the doorway. Or you could just stay here and [[dance|DANCETIMER]] with the other guests. Maybe they can help you get some idea of what’s going on here... (set: $talking to 0)

(set: $hour to ($time-$minutes)/100)(if: $time>=1200)[ [[Its Midnight.]]] (if: $time<1200)[ [[It's $hour:00|ballroom]]] (set:$time to $time+20)

(if: $shakira is 0)[A little distraction can’t hurt… probably. You walk up to the karaoke machine where a man in a deer mask is scrolling through the song list.] (if:$shakira is 1) [Everyone seems to be having a good time, now. Your preformance seems to have lifted everyone's spirits. The man in the deer mask is still lingering around.] [[Talk to him. | Deer ]] (if: $shakira is 0) [[[Make a song selection. | Song select]]]

(set:$talking to 1)You make your way over to the dart board. A middle-aged lady in a purple wolf mask eyes you as you approach. "You up for a game?" you ask. "Ha, you're gonna regret even asking that, I'm undefeated. But sure, if you're looking to get your butt handed to you." [[Take the challenge]] [[Back down]]

(set: $talking to 1)You make your way over to who must be a butler, holding a plate of tasty looking foods and drinks. He looks tired, maybe even a bit depressed. It must be exhausting having to wait on so many people for hours.(if: $key is 0) [You notice a ring of keys on the butler's hip and you can't help but wonder what doors you could unlock with it.] (set: $butler to 1)(if: $key is 0)[ [[Ask to Borrow the Keys]]] [[Ask About Work]] [[Ask for Some Food]] [[Goodbye for Now|Living room]]

(set:$talking to 1)(if: $shakira is 0)[He doesn’t seem much for conversation at the moment, browsing through the song list on the [[karaoke machine.| karaoke]] ] (if: $shakira is 1)[“Wow, that was amazing!” he says, suddenly much more eager to talk. “Shakira is my favorite musician. Iconic.” “Why thank you! So I wanted to ask you earlier,,,” [[You from around here? | Deer neighborhood]] [[What’s your name? | Deer name]] [[How do you know the host? | Deer host]]]

“Mind if I…?” You gesture to the machine. “Oh, no, not at all, go ahead!” The man chuckles. “It’s taking me forever to choose, anyway.” You smile at him and take control of the machine. There’s a vast array of top 40 hits to choose from, but two at the top of the list really speak to you. What’ll it be? [[“Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira | Shakira]] [[“All Star” by Smash Mouth | Killer Karaoke ending]]

The beat to one of your favorite songs of all time by pop superstar Shakira floods the room. You don’t even need to look at the screen ‘cause you have this all memorized, down to every note. You knock it out of the park and perform brilliantly! As the song comes to an end, everyone in the room claps wildly. Even the butler cracks a smile, though it doesn’t compare to the deer man’s grin. Looks like you’ve gained a few [[fans. |Living room]](set: $shakira to 1)(set: $time to $time+40)

The beat to “All Star” from the hit movie Shrek blasts from the machine speakers. Everyone rolls their eyes at the awful song choice. You shyly sing the first line of the song, but before you even get to “hey now” the butler pulls the plug. “Come on now,” he says with disappointment in his voice, “this is a distinguished party. You have terrible taste and a worse voice. Get out.” You go home and cry into your pillow because you aren’t funny. [[Nice job, you fool.|ENDING SCREEN]] (set: $karaokeending to 1)

You rush in to see whats the matter. As soon as you step in you feel something [[wet on your face.]]

You look up at the cieling. The sprinklers are going off, but you don’t see or smell any [[fire.]]

[[You remember the fire.]]

Something is wrong. You look around frantically and see her- the butterfly, the host. She’s hurrying the party guests into the living room, away from the sprinklers. All you can think about is [[the fire.]]

Someone… something has to start the fire. (if: $bomb is 0)[[[Do you know what could cause such a thing?|No Bomb path]]](if: $bomb is 1)[[[Do you know what could cause such a thing?|Bomb path]]]

You know where the bomb is. You left it there, but now is the [[time to act.]]

You have no idea. But you do remember your dream. Even if the fire starts, perhaps you can stop the murder. [[Do you know who could do such a thing?]]

You rush to the Garden and down into the wine cellar. [[The bomb]] is right where you left it, blinking now even more furiously.

You show the man the photo. “I found this on the floor,” you lie, “I wanted to give it back.” You glance up from the photo at the man. His features are softer now, as if deep in thought. You take in a silent breath and finally ask.. [[“Whos the baby?...”]]

The man looks down at the floor and you wonder if he will ever speak again. He does. “That was our son. He.. passed away, a few years ago. It was a terrible thing, really, but… he was sick. From birth. Disabled, in and out of the hospital… my wife got over it fairly quickly..” He looks ready to cry, obviously barely holding it together. [[“But nobody took it harder than Elizabeth.”]]

He gets up, looking directly at you with his beady little eyes, “HeYA!!” he starts, full of energy, “Wanna play a GAME!? Get into some TROUBLE!? I’m bOooOoored…” (if: $butler is 1)[ [[Have the Boy Steal the Keys]]] [[Play a Game]] [[Goodbye for now|DANCETIMER]] (set: $talking to 1)(set: $mouse to 1)

Having little kids do your dirty work might be bad, but you need clues before someone gets hurt. You tell the boy you bet he can’t manage to [[steal the butler’s keys]] without getting caught.

A grin appears on the little boy’s face, apparently he loves a challenge.“I can do it! I’ll steal the key! It’ll be FUN!!!” Before you can get a word in, the boy [[scampers away.]]

A few minutes later the boy comes back, pulling on your arm. He’s holding a whole [[ring of keys,]] the ones you saw on the butler’s hip. You have to say that [[you’re impressed.]]

You notice a key that’s unusually ornate, (if: $hatch is 0)[it will probably be [[useful later.|you’re impressed.]]] (if: $hatch is 1) [it matches a lock [[you’ve seen before somewhere.|you’re impressed.]]]

“I did it! I did it, just like you said!” The boy kicks his legs in delight, “That was fun! Let’s play games again, hokay?” The boy gives you a fist bump before continuing to run and dance across [[the ballroom.|DANCETIMER]] (set: $time to $time+40)(set:$key to 1)

“You CHEATED!?!” The boy pouts a little bit, realizing he lost. He quickly recovers, rocking back and forth on his heels, "Hokaaay... since you won, I'll tell you a [[secret!!!]]"

“YOU LOSE!!!” The boy claps his hands and does a little dance. You feel a little bad until you realise its just rock paper scissors, and you're an adult. [[Play again|Play a Game]] [[Goodbye for now|DANCETIMER]]

Your eyes perk up as the boy giggles to himself, "My Mommy says... I'm not allowed to go down in the wine cellar... because thats where the adults hide fun things!" The boy giggles again and you roll your eyes a bit. [[Goodbye for now|DANCETIMER]](set: $time to $time + 40)

You ask to borrow the keys. “Certainly you must be joking,” he says, almost insulted, “the keys are for staff only.” His words only make you [[want the keys more.| butler]] (if: $mouse is 1)[You think of a certain mouse who might be willing to snatch them for you.]

The butler shrugs. “Could be better, could be worse.” His short response makes you think that maybe he’s afraid to speak too poorly of [[his employer.]]

“Of course!” The butler offers the plate to you and you take a few little cups of bite sized food. You take a bite and smile at the flavor. The cheese is particularly tasty, and you feel much happier having [[had a good snack.| butler]]

You ask about Mrs. Honeydew and the butler looks a bit skittish. “She’s… a gracious host. Very thourough. Has everyone working… overtime to be prepared for the party.” The butler looks like he regrets speaking so much an stands up straight once again, “I hope you are [[enjoying the party.”| butler]]

You didn’t disarm it before, but now [[you have no choice.]]

You grab the blinking part of the device and [[rip it off]] of the bomb.

[[…]]

[[Nothing happens. ]]

You inhale sharply, only now realizing how fast your heart was beating. Thats one less thing to worry about. But [[the culprit]] is still out there.

You think it over, but you can't see why they would go so far as to kill someone. You need proof before you go around accusing people of [[murder.]]

“Wow, I’m so sorry, that’s awful…” you struggle to find the words. “Yeah, it really is, isn’t it. I’ve healed, but I don’t think our daughter will ever get over it. She hates her mother more than anything.” You [[look down at the floor.]]

Elizabeth. The blue butterfly. You remember your earlier conversations about her and her mother. If anyone was going to do such a terrible thing, [[it would be her.]]

Maybe there’s still time to [[get Mrs. Honeydew to safety,]] even if you can’t catch the murderer.

You climb back up the ladder and hurry to where you saw everyone gathering. You look around frantically but you can’t find that [[monarch mask.]]

[[You hear a scream from another room.]]

By the time you get there [[its already too late.|STABBING ENDING]]

You never forgot it. Running in with the other guests at your side, stumbling into the pool of blood. It was a tragedy. Everything after that was a blur. The police sirens, the questioning, the investigation that never seemed to end. And the worst part… [[The killer was never found.|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $murderending to 1)

“How are you doing on this fine night, Miss?” you ask, leading her in a simple step. “Oh, I’m just splendid, just perfect, amazing,” she replies enthusiastically… almost too enthusiastically. It’s kind of unsettling, actually. “Well that’s… [[great! | monarch options]]”

“So, if I’m not mistaken, you’re the host of these parties, right? What’s that like?” “Yes! I am. It’s great fun, really, especially since it’s been years because…” She stumbles in the dance and quickly corrects herself with a fake smile, “I mean, didn’t I say when you came in no talking about who we are?” “Oh, uh, sorry about that [[Miss. | monarch options]]”

“I feel like I’m sensing a pattern here… are butterflies the Honeydew family animal for tonight?” “Oh yes! I said we shouldn’t talk about our identities… but I guess since you found out on your own I don’t mind. The scarlet butterfly is my husband,” she smiles nervously. “And the blue one ?” “Ah… her… well…” she trails off and her cheerful facade wavers. You take it as a sign to [[change the subject. | monarch options]]

[[Be polite. | monarch polite]] [[Ask her about hosting. | monarch hosting]] [[Ask her about her family. | monarch family]] [[Say goodbye. | monarch goodbye]]

You’ve been dancing for a while and she doesn’t seem to be telling you anything that could explain your vision of her murder. “I think I’ve taken enough of your time, there are people out there just waiting to be hosted!” you joke. “Hm, you’re right, stranger. [[Keep having fun |DANCETIMER]] darling!” (set: $time to $time+40)

“Hello sir,” you say with a smile, “Enjoying the party?” “It’s perfect. Everything my wife hoped it would be. I’m glad everyone’s getting along so well even though so much time has passed since [[the last time]] we did something like this.”

“I hope I’m not prying… but what do you do for work? It must be pretty intense to afford such a grand party, not to mention your house,” you muse. “Ah no problem at all, I’m an open book, at least as much as the wife will allow.” He laughs nervously. “She’s the main breadwinner of the house actually, she’s a bigtime executive for a high end cosmetics conglomerate. I’m just a stay at home [[dad | Scarlet options]] .”

His wife is staring at you two on the dance floor, and the tension is becoming a bit too much to bare. “I’m gonna go get a drink, it was nice talking to you sir!” He smiles at you and nods in response as you [[walk away|DANCETIMER]]. (set: $time to $time+40)

Realization hits you like a devastating tsunami. Could it be? Elizabeth hates her more than anything… but enough to kill her own mother in cold blood? No one else has given you so much as a hair of evidence, and her intense need for revenge seems like as good a reason as any to kill. [[It must be her.]] (set: $killer to 1)

“Hey, are you alright? I didn’t mean to get so heavy, I’m sorry, please don’t mention this to my wife--” “I’m… okay. I mean- I won’t. I just have to go now.” You cut him off mid sentence and [[walk away|DANCETIMER]] from the tense situation. (set:$time to $time +40)

What are you supposed to do? You realize the bomb is still in your hands. Obviously you need to go [[back to the ballroom,]] but you can’t seem to think straight.

You think it over, but you can't see why they would go so far as to kill someone. You have to find another way to stop them, randomly accusing someone is out of the question. The last thing this party needs is [[more chaos.]]

Elizabeth. The blue butterfly. You remember your earlier conversations about her and her mother. If anyone was going to do such a terrible thing, [[it would be her. ]]

[[You need to stop her.]]

You look around desperately for a butterfly mask. A blue one, an orange one, it doesnt matter- you need to [[intervene]] before something happens.

[[You see her out of the corner of your eye.]]

“Mrs. Honeydew, [[look out-!]]” You cry out, running towards her. Elizabeth, the blue masked killer, meets your eye. You both move towards Mrs. Honeydew.

[[The bomb goes off.|BOMB ENDING]]

Its been a few weeks. You tried to rescue her that night, pull her from the debris that nearly crushed her, but you weren’t strong enough. Mrs. Honeydew is still in the hospital- you heard from your neighbors they don’t expect her to wake up. You told the police everything you could. The photo, though, was never recovered from the fire, and the rubble left nothing salvagable behind. To this day, you wonder how Elizabeth feels, how she sleeps at night, [[how she got away with it.|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $bombending to 1)

You stand there in the midst of all the confusion and [[it happens.]]

[[The bomb goes off.]]

[[You’re on the ground.]]

[[Everything is burning.|Everything is burning.2]]

[[You’ve been here before.]]

You see the two figures. The butterfly mask, the shadow approaching behind her. You try to move but you’re stuck in place. Your vision fades as you see the knife plunge into her chest. The last thing you hear is [[the scream.]]

[[You wake up in a cold sweat.|STABBING AND BOMBING ENDING]]

Another nightmare. It been weeks and weeks since you witnessed the murder, weeks and weeks since you got out of the hospital. You can’t get rid of the guilt. You knew that this would happen, tried your hardest to save her, but you failed. Every day you wish you could go back and [[do it all differently.|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $disasterending to 1)

You slept through all the fun. How boring. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You're improper taste in music got you kicked out. How could you do this to pop star legend, Shakira Shakira? [[I've seen the error of my ways|ENDING SCREEN]]

You flirted so hard you got kicked out. Was it worth it? [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You spent too long in the bedroom and got kicked out. You were so close to finding the truth, too. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You tried to be the hero at the right place and the wrong time. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

Everything that could go wrong went wrong. The house exploded and Mrs. Honeydew was murdered. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You caught the killer, but you failed to find the bomb. You've been outsmarted this time. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You found the bomb, but not the killer. Could have been worse, but it could have been a lot better too. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

At the end of it all, you turned in a murdered and averted certain disaster. But did you save the right person? [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

You found the truth and helped a grieving girl get revenge. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

“Why is that, by the way?” you ask. Maybe he’ll give you some useful information. “Well, you know, family problems… Things kind of… happened…” Or not. You decide to [[back off | Scarlet options]] until you have something to ask that might actually help you.

[[Introduce yourself. | Scarlet intro]] [[Ask about his work. | Scarlet work]](if: $photo is 1)[ [[Show him the photo.|Show him the photo]]] [[Goodbye for now. | Scarlet goodbye]]

You shake your head. Murderer. Ballroom. Murderer in the ballroom. You need to [[move.]]

[[!!!]]

You barely turn around when suddenly a hand is gripping your shoulder. [[Fight]] [[Flee]]

You swing desperately and your fist connects with you attacker’s jaw. They stagger back and you make out [[her face.]] Just as quick as you racted, she turns on you. Before you know it you’re on the ground and your face hurts more than it did a few seconds ago.

You try to run around your attacker but she only grabs you and pushes you back. As you stumble back you notice her weapon. And [[her face.]]

Elizabeth looms over you. You open your mouth to speak but nothing comes out. Elizabeth is eyeing the bomb in your hands. “HAnD it over-” you hear as you try to stand up. Elizabeth points the knife at you but you see she’s trembling more than you. [[Try to reason with her]] [[Try to fight her]]

“Please, calm down-” you try to find the words to de-escalate the situation. “CALM DOWN!?” Elizabeth wheezes, “I did not plan for YEARS.. I did not w-wait THIS LONG for some MANIAC to RUIN MY PLANS.” You can tell shes on the verge of a breakdown. [[Keep trying to reason with her|Reason]] [[Try to fight her]] (set:$empathy to 1)

You may be unarmed, but Elizabeth doesn’t look like she wants to fight. Not you, at least. You take the opportunity and [[lunge at her.]]

“Please,” you start, voice shaking, “Please… (if:$empathy is 0)[[why are you doing this?|getgot]](if:$empathy is 1)[[why are you doing this?]]...”

The fight is a blur. You suprise her, swinging at her face but just barely missing. You feel something slash at your arm, your mask falls to the ground and you hear it clatter. You both swing at eachother frantically until you finally shove Elizabeth hard enough to make her lose her balance. You grab at her hand and after wrestling with the girl you [[rip it from her hands.]]

You feel your arm bleeding. You point the knife at Elizabeth, somehow she looks paler than before. [[Force her to talk|Reason]] [[Turn her in]]

You keep the knife pointed at her and back up to the ladder. "HELP!" You call up, hoping someone can see you. Elizabeth glares daggers at you, you start getting shakier. Luckily, you hear [[footsteps]] coming your way, and a “Whos down there?”

“Oh yeah, I live just a few doors down. Weirdly never been invited to one of these parties though. I hear they were legendary years ago.” “Same here! How can we live on the same street as this huge house and never get invited to a party in the last 10 years, right?” you respond. [[“Anyways… |deer options]]”

“My name? Well you know that’s not allowed, hm? Wouldn’t want to break the rules, even for a dashing karaoke star like yourself.” He winks at you coyly. “Worth a shot with my biggest fan.” You decide to [[change the subject |deer options]] since he’s playing hard-to-get.

“Well, I don’t know her, really. I’m from the neighborhood, but that’s about it. The Honeydews are pretty reclusive.” “Yeah, I noticed,” you reply. “I guess she just invited everyone in the neighborhood to finally [[get us to all meet up.”|deer options]]

[[Are you from around here? | Deer neighborhood]] [[What’s your name? | Deer name]] [[How do you know the host? | Deer host]] [[Goodbye for now |Deer Goodbye]]

"I'll see you around!" The man smiles as you walk back into the [[living room.|Living room]](set:$time to $time+40)

You walk through the doors on the left into a less populated living room. There are a variety of activities to do here… maybe not the best use of time right now, but hey, [[karaoke | karaoke]] is always fun. There’s also a [[dart board | darts]], and you happen to rock at darts. There’s a [[butler | butler]] here with extra snacks too. You appreciate the break from the commotion of [[the ballroom. |BALLROOM TIMER]] (set: $talking to 0)

(set: $hour to ($time-$minutes)/100)(if: $time>=1200)[ [[Its Midnight.]]] (if: $time<1200)[ [[It's $hour:00|ballroom]]] (set:$time to $time+20)

"I think I'll take my chances," you reply, calling her bluff. "Let's go!" You begin the game, [[making conversation | wolf options]] as you play.

"Good choice." She smirks as you as you shakily [[walk away.|Living room]]

[[Be polite. | wolf intro ]] [[Trash talk.]] [[Ask how she knows the hosts. | ask wolf]] [[Finish up.]]

"So how's your night going?" you ask. She scoffs at you and throws another dart. "Better now that someone came along to destroy!" She's clearly too heated for small [[talk. | wolf options]]

"Undefeated, huh?” you jest. “Who were you playing against, kindergarteners?” You were just joking around, but you notice how she throws her next dart just a little more violently. You fear for your safety a [[little bit | wolf options]].

“How does a darts extraordinaire such as yourself end up at a party like this?” “Ah, Mrs. Honeydew is a bit of a… frenemy, I guess you could say,” she says, throwing her next dart with precision. “We go to the same country club, and she’s always trying to one up me in every way… doesn’t dare to play me at my own game, though.” She trials off once in a while as she concentrates on throwing a dart. You never knew someone could throw a dart so angrily. You should probably [[change the subject | wolf options]].

“HA!” you yell, visibly startling the butler. “I win!” You do a little happy dance that’s cut short by your opponent slamming her fist against the wall. “Beginner’s luck. Play me again and you’ll see what I can really do. You’ll wish we never met, stranger.” You decide not to take her up on that offer, considering she looks like she’s ready to wring your neck. “Uhm… I’ll get back to you on that!” you lie, [[slipping away |Living room]] to leave the wolf to cool off. (set:$time to $time+40)

“So… enjoying the party?” you ask. “I am now that your beautiful self showed up,” he replies with a charming smile. You blush, almost forgetting about the task at hand. You need to [[get him to talk | fox options]].

“How do you know the hosts?” you ask. “You from around here?” “No, nothing like that. You would know me if I lived around here by now. I work with Mrs. Honeydew… or, rather, against her. Bloodthirsty lady, she is. Who knew the beauty industry would be so cutthroat.” “Oh, wow…” you comment, staring into his eyes. “But enough about work. We’re here to [[party | fox options]]!”

“You know… you’re a pretty good dancer,” you compliment.”And from the lower half of your face, not bad looking either.” “Hm, you’re not too bad yourself, darling.” He moves in close and holds your waist as you dance. You look deep into his eyes, and… [[Kiss him]]. [[Pull away]].

[[Be polite | fox intro]]. [[Ask him about the hosts | fox host]]. [[Flirt with him]]. [[Say goodbye | fox goodbye]].

You just met the guy, but what the heck. This life might be shorter than you thought, anyway. You lean in and kiss him. He tenses up in surprise but quickly returns the kiss. A few seconds that feel like a few hours pass before you [[feel a tap]] on your shoulder.

“Uhm… I gotta… go… to the bathroom actually!” you obviously lie. You can’t get distracted from the task at hand, plus you don’t want to cause a scene by making out in the middle of the dance floor. The fox looks disappointed as you awkwardly [[sprint away |DANCETIMER]].(set:$time to $time+40)

“I’ll see you again soon, I hope,” you say with a sigh, “but I have to go now.” “Aw, so soon? The night is young, anyway. [[Have fun |DANCETIMER]], and I hope we meet again!”

“Excuse me,” you turn around to face Mrs. Honeydew glaring down at you. “This is a sophisticated ball, not a teenage sleepover complete with spin-the-bottle.” “Oh, I’m sorry, we can leave —” your new friend starts. “No apology necessary. And you will leave, thank you very much. [[Get out | kiss ending]] of my house immediately.”

A few weeks have passed since that mortifying moment. Your dream came true after all… the house a few doors down isn’t much of a house anymore so much as a pile of rubble. A huge explosion destroyed the house and seriously injured everyone inside. The police questioned you, but they never found out exactly what happened. You don’t know if Mrs. Honeydew met her untimely death that night or not, police reports still haven’t been made and the Honeydews may have just moved somewhere with an actual roof. But hey, it’s not all bad. You made it out alive… and it’s all thanks to your [[new boyfriend.|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $flirtending to 1)

“How are you on this fine night?” you ask. “Oh, pretty good actually. It’s more exciting than I thought it would be, especially the food. Have you tried the hor d'oeuvres? They’re amazing. Not that I had any say in it, but still…” [[she rambles.|goaway]]

"Hey, is this you?" You pull the photo from out of your pocket and show it to her. Her face doesn't change, suprisingly. "Huh." She mumbles, "How did you... nevermind. Yeah, it is..." she seems a bit [[more interested in talking now,|bbutterfly options]] "That picture was taken, like, ten years ago..."

Suddenly, she stops dancing. "This is nice..." she mumbles, "but... I'm sorry, I don't really want to talk to anyone right now..." She looks tired, you chalk it up to teenage angst. "Oh, thats okay... [[see you later|DANCETIMER]], then!"

[[Ask about her mask.]] [[Ask about her mother.]] [[Ask about the photo.]] [[Goodbye for now. | blue goodbye]]

“I like your mask,” you say with a smile. “It’s cool how you have a theme with your family. You must be close.” “Close… with my family?? Never in a million years,” she laughs. “They just forced me to make an appearance in a pretty outfit… I’m like their little doll. It’s not so bad though, the dress is nice. Blue is actually my favorite color, so that’s cool.” She gets angry for a moment but gathers her composure. “Let’s not talk about my family, [[okay |bbutterfly options]]?”

“Actually, I wanted to ask you about your mom… what’s she like? I mean, what’s it like being the kid of a business powerhouse?” Her demeanor changes completely, neutral smile turning to red-faced anger. You can see her desperately trying to contain herself as she responds. “What’s it like… huh, where do I start? How many years back do you wanna go? How gruesome of a story are you comfortable with? Do you have a strong stomach?” “I’m sorry, I just —” “You just what, wanted to interrogate me or something? No, I refuse to speak about that beast. Why is always about her with you people? Everyone? We’re [[done here | blue mother 2]].”

“I should probably get back to perfecting my dance moves. See you later!” “Oh alright, have fun!” She waves as you [[step away |DANCETIMER]].

"So... the photo." "Yeah. Me, my brother, my mom, my dad. We took that one for a Christmas card." She responds drily. "You probably shouldn't steal things that aren't yours." You decide to [[change the subject.|bbutterfly options]]

She walks away as you stand with your mouth agape, totally speechless. What was that? What’d she mean “gruesome?” You didn’t think the young girl had that much fire in her, but the way her whole aura changed was… kind of terrifying. You’ve never seen such primal hatred in your life. [[Take a deep breath and get back to dancing |DANCETIMER]].(set:$empathy to 1)(set:$time to $time+40)

"W.. Who do you think you are?" Elizabeth snarls at you, "I don't even know you... why would I tell you ANYTHING..." She backs up against the ladder and you're not sure whether to [[let her run]] or [[turn her in.]]

Elizabeth stares at you for a long while and the silence threatens to [[choke you to death.]]

You caught her, but you can't bring yourself to turn her in. She's so young, and obviously something is wrong. "Get out..." you mumble, "I won't tell anyone. Just go. We can both forget whatever happened tonight-" Elizabeth's eyes widen at you but you can tell she's grateful. She climbs up the ladder [[without another word.|footsteps]]

"Well, if you dont trust me... I.. I have to [[tell someone-|footsteps]]" You feel odd saying it, but what other choice do you have?

You never got the full story, but you let the could-be killer go. If only you talked to her more. [[Go back|ENDING SCREEN]]

“How’s it going, madame?” “Oh, it’s going wonderful-esque! This party is such fun. Amazing what our hostess can put together — I mean, take credit for, at least,” she almost yells, rolling her eyes dramatically. [[“What do you mean, take credit for?” ]]

“How do you know the hostess?” “Mrs. Honeydew is my sister. I’m honestly surprised I was even invited… she asked for me and my son to come ‘round but strict-ally ordered my husband stay home. She’s stingy with her invites… just like she is with her money.” You try not to laugh at her strange mispronunciations. “Well she invited me, and I barely know her,” [[you reply.]]

You take the photo out of your pocket, “Do you.. Recognize any of these people?” She seems to jump at the opportunity to gossip, “Oh! Bless my soul… is that Benny? Poor boy… never lived too long… always sick! Truly heart-breakingful… everyone was devastated when he passed. [[‘Cept Elizabeth.]] She was more angry than anything.”

[[Be polite | Swan intro]]. [[Ask how she knows the hosts | Swan host]]. (if: $photo is 1)[ [[Show her the photo]].] [[Goodbye for now| Swan goodbye]].

“Well sure, she’s just seeing if she can get something from you. She knows my husband won’t let her walk all up-and-down-and-over him, so she leaves him alone. You, she’s still testing her limits with. It’s ridicul-esque, really.” Yikes. Even her funny way of speaking can’t soften the hostility she clearly harbors for [[her sister | Swan options]].

"Well, I'll see you later!" "Ta, ta, darling!" She smiles and waves at you daintily as you [[walk away.|DANCETIMER]](set: $time to $time+40)

“Ah you now, she has a tendancery to do that… use other people to bolster her precious ego.” Seems like the hostess is a sore topic. She doesn't seem to care if Mrs. Honeydew hears her criticism with the way she’s [[talking | Swan options]].

Its been a year. If things had gone better, there’d be another ball today. But they didn’t. You remember the police sirens, the glare that Elizabeth had shot you as she was escorted into the back of a police car. It could have gone worse. The police took the bomb as evidence and it didn’t take long for Elizabeth to be sent away. Where, nobody really knew. The Honeydews never spoke to anyone, in fact, they moved out of the neighborhood shortly after. [[At least everyone made it out alive.|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $falseending to 1)

“I’m sorry for your loss… He was your nephew then? The Honeydews’ son?” “Yes, and Liz’s little brother. He was always in the hospital… her by his side… but her mother seemed to give up on him. Too much work and too damaging to her precious reputation. Lizzie was only six, and I haven’t seen her really genuine-fully smile since. She’s so full of anger towards her mother and blames her completely. I don’t think she ever really forgave her for [[what happened | Swan photo 2]]!”

The realization hits you like a shockwave. Could it really be? Would her little brother dying of medical neglect by Mrs. Honeydew be enough to make Elizabeth want to kill her own mother? No one else has given you so much as a hair of evidence, and her intense need for revenge seems like as good a reason as any to kill. It must be [[her. | leave swan]]

“You okay honey? You look sick-like,” the swan says in a concerned tone. It’s impossible not to show the fear of your realization on your face. “I’m… I gotta go… Thanks for the info.” You slip away as quickly as possible. You have to [[do something |DANCETIMER]].(set:$time to $time+40)

[[“Fine.”]]

“Ten years ago, in this very wine cellar, [[I watched my mother kill my brother.”]]

You don’t dare say a word, scared she’ll stop talking. “He… he was sick. Always. In and out of the hospital, could barely walk or talk and… [[my mother hated him.]] She cared more about her fucking beauty buisness and her reputation than she cared about either of us.” Elizabeth wipes her face and you notice the tears rolling down it.

“So every year, during her big party she would send us both down here. So we wouldn’t embarrass her, I guess-” Elizabeth’s voice is steady but you can tell she’s trying hard to keep it together, “It was always dark and cold and we didn’t have anything to do. But… Benny would always smile anyways. [[He was like that.]]”

“Eventually we both would go to bed. When we’d wake up the butler would come get us and things would go back to normal… but-” Elizabeth’s voice wavers and you reach out a hand to [[comfort her]].

“But that year, I woke up in the [[middle of the night..]] And-”

“And my mom was there… and she.. And she was holding the pillow over his head a-and-” Elizabeth bursts into tears and makes [[a few sounds]] that are almost words.

“I.. I.. I never told- I never told anyone I-” she can barely speak between sobs, “e-everyone thought it was the.. the sickness that k-killed him- she l-lied to everyone-” Elizabeth hides her face in her hands and you understand [[that’s as much as you’re going to get.]]

[[Turn her in| blah]] [[Help her get her revenge]]

“Let me help you.” You say softly, and Elizabeth looks up at you, confused. “A bomb isn’t going to do anything but get the police involved, right? [[There are better ways to handle this.]]”

“There are better ways to handle this-” You say softly, “I know you want revenge but.. It’s not going to make anything better. You need to [[get help-]]”

Elizabeth stops crying, but [[won’t look at you. ]]

[[“I thought you would understand.”]] She mumbles into her hands.

She doesn’t move anymore after that. She won’t talk to you, either. Eventually [[you leave,|footsteps]] get help, and bring Elizabeth out of the wine cellar.

[[You hear the clock chime on the hour.]]

Everyone’s out in the garden, nobody can seem to get the [[sprinklers]] to turn off.

Suddenly, Elizabeth emerges from the house, calling out to everyone that [[“Everything’s back to normal!”]]

The party guests start heading back inside. You stay outside, though, [[waiting.]]

You see her, the orange butterfly mask, and make your way over to Mrs. Honeydew. “Excuse me,” you start, grabbing her arm, seperating her from the rest of the guests. “But I think someone opened the wine cellar door? Perhaps you should [[have a look.]]”

You both walk over to the [[open hatch.]]

[[“Oh, my! Thats not supposed to be-”]]

She never gets to finish her sentence as you put your arm around her neck, your hand over her mouth, and [[smother the woman]] until she passes out.

It was a horrible accident. At least, thats what the police report says. The graceful butterfly of a hostess went to fetch some wine and [[tumbled down the stairs.]]

Elizabeth lives with her Dad now, in a modest, smaller house. Despite everything, the Honeydews seem to be happier. Apparently Mr. Honeydew always dreamed of being a florist. Who knew? As for Elizabeth, you’re not quite sure. She’s closer with her Dad now, and the family comes to visit them more often. Sometimes you’ll see her pass your house on the way to school. Sometimes you wonder if what you did was right. Who knows. All you know is that when you see the Honeydews out for an afternoon walk, there's a smile on Elizabeth's face. [[THE END|ENDING SCREEN]](set: $trueending to 1)