Haven

<div class="outer"><div class="inner"><div class="center">✦✦✦</div> --- <div class="center"><span class="bigger">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 2s)[''Welcome to (text-colour:#d91717)[Haven]'']</span></div> <div class="center">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-delay: 1s)+(t8n-time: 2s)[Written by Victor T Damnrose. Programmed by Grem.]</div> --- <div class="center"><span class="bigger">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-delay: 2.5s)+(t8n-time: 2s)[(text-colour:#d91717)[✦[[Enter->Summary and Content Warnings]]✦]]</span></div> <div class="center">✦✦✦</div></div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner"><div class="center">✦✦✦</div> //"You life was never really your own -- not even on your wedding day. So you packed a bag, emptied your bank account, and hopped on a bus to the small town of Haven, hoping to leave everything holding you back behind. But now you're here, and the reality of running away seems to be chasing after you. Amongst other things."// <div class="center">✦✦✦</div> (text-colour:#d91717)[''Haven''] is a light horror dating sim that follows the journey of the main character (who you get to name & choose pronouns for) as they attempt to start a new life away from their abusive and oppressive family, partner, and past. Your choices will determine whether or not they succeed, and if so, what exactly that looks like. As such, we would like to give content warnings for the following: * Abuse from parents / family * Abuse from a romantic partner * Emotional & financial manipulation & control Enjoy! --- <div class="center"><span class="bigger">[''[[✦ Start Game ✦ ->Intro]]'']</span></div> <div class="center">✦✦✦</div></div></div>

(set: $ap to 0) (set: $rs to 0) (set: $ys to 0) (set: $fs to 0) (set: $vs to 0) (set: $js to 0) (set: $rsa to 0) (set: $ysa to 0) (set: $fsa to 0) (set: $vsa to 0) (set: $jsa to 0)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">There was once a great family built by riches and tradition. The family had but one child. An heir that, though surrounded by possessions, felt stifled and alone. For the heir was directed to follow the carefully charted path of their mother, and every previous head of the family. But the young heir dreamed of doing more with their life. They went to the matriarch with the hope of swaying them both from the path, with the hope that the matriarch would listen. The matriarch refused both, citing tradition, and the heir despaired. As the heir grew, they worried that they would never escape. Never be able to find their own path. One day, the heir met a knight and was promised a life no longer under the matriarch’s rule. The heir was charmed by the knight and accepted the promise without question. A year passed and the matriarch approved of the pair's betrothal. However, as the ceremony was planned, the heir began to see that the knight’s promise was not true. Rather than freedom, the heir was to be confined in yet another gilded cage. The heir had unwittingly trapped themself between two rigid systems of rule. Neither any better or worse than the other. On the night of the wedding, the heir asked for a moment of privacy. In this instant of quiet, laced with panic to the point of suffocation, they decided to act. They packed a single bag... and fled. The family, traditions, and betrothed were all left behind. --- [[✦ And a new path appeared at the heir’s feet. -> Arrive at Hotel]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">As I step into the hotel, I feel the air conditioning give me a quick blast, as though trying to blow the late spring heat off me. It is a local business, not a chain, called Jody’s Motel in the small town of Haven. It’s just what I need. The lobby is minimally decorated with a desk, a few chairs, a couch, and a large photo of a landscape that I passed by on the way here. Behind the desk is a person with freckles dotting their tan skin, dressed in a high collared dress shirt with a light cardigan. Clipped to their chest is a name tag that reads ‘Ramilah she/her.’ I step up to the desk, my only bag heavy on my shoulder. “Hi, uh, checking in?” The person at the desk seems to jolt and look up from where their attention was focused on the computer in front of them. They put a hand over their chest and huff in surprise. “Oh, damn, you scared me.” Their wide eyes are almost gold behind a pair of glasses. --- [[✦ “Are you ok?”->AaH1A]] [[✦ “I didn’t mean to.”->AaH1B]] [[✦ “What’s got you so focused?”->AaH1C]] </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Yeah, sorry about that!” They smile, gently reassuring me. (display: "AaH2") </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“It’s ok. Just a little distracted reading an article.” They smile, gently reassuring me. (display: "AaH2") </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh, nothing.” They shift on their feet, uncomfortable. “Didn’t hear you come in, is all.” (display: "AaH2") </div></div>

“Anyway, checking in, you said?” I nod. “Yeah, for...” --- //Enter your first name:// (set: $mc_name to "MC") (text-colour:#d91717)[(input-box:2bind $mc_name,"X=",1,"MC")] [[✦ //Check In//->Check In]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Right, got it right here.” They take a second to verify my ID and make some room keys. “Here you go!” They hand me the keys before pointing down a hallway off the lobby. “Elevators are down that way on your left, breakfast on the right from 6am to 10am. I’ve got you on the third floor. Any questions?” --- [[✦ “No, I think I’m all set.”->AaHNQ]] //Questions:// [[✦ “What do you have for breakfast?”->AaHQ1]] [[✦ "Do you have coffee all day?"->AaHQ2]] [[✦ "Can I ask that you keep me staying here a secret?"->AaHQ3]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Breakfast sandwiches, bacon, eggs, most of the usual stuff.” They list as if reading off a script. “Anything else?” --- [[✦ “Do you have coffee all day?”->AaHQ2]] [[✦ “Can I ask that you keep me staying here a secret?”->AaHQ3]] [[✦ “That’s all. Thanks.”->AaHNQ]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Yup! There’s also a coffee maker in your room.” They smile a practiced, patient smile. “Anything else?” --- [[✦ “What do you have for breakfast?”->AaHQ1]] [[✦ “Can I ask that you keep me staying here a secret?”->AaHQ3]] [[✦ “That’s all. Thanks.”->AaHNQ]] </div></div>

(set: $ap to $ap + 1)(set: $secret_room to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">They blink at me, smile dropping. “Of course! Say no more!” They quickly type something before looking back at me. “I put a note on your reservation not to allow any calls to your room, but I’ll also let our other front desk staff know.” They smile again, sympathetically I think, and I nod. “Thanks,” I say, glad they aren’t asking any questions. I don’t have the energy to explain myself and I’d rather avoid lying. [[✦ //Continue//->AaHNQ]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">They nod. “I’m Ramilah, by the way. She/her pronouns. If you need anything while you’re here please let me know.” She sounds sincere in a way I don’t know how to respond to. “(print: $mc_name),” I say, before realizing what I’ve said. “But you already knew that.” I shift my bag on my shoulder, trying not to let my embarrassment show. “(text-colour:#d91717)[(dropdown: 2bind $mc_pronouns,"they/them","she/her","he/him")] pronouns. It’s nice to meet you.” I turn to head toward the hall, and I hear Ramilah clap her hands together. “Oh! Sorry, one moment!” When I turn back, she seems to be writing something down. She finishes and holds out the paper to me. It’s a thick glossy material. “Since you’re new to the area, I figure a map can’t hurt! I went ahead and circled some of my favorite places, but again if you need anything let me know!” I look down to see a kind of cute rendition of the town that emphasizes the important and popular buildings and places with labels. Ramilah has circled two restaurants and a store in what’s labeled as Downtown but also a small building about halfway between that she’s labeled in blue marker as just ‘local coffee shop.’ --- [[✦ “Thanks.”->AaH3A]] [[✦ “Oh! You didn’t have to.”->AaH3B]] [[✦ //Leave.//->AaH3C]] </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I wish I could express more gratitude through the word but I don’t know how. Ramilah nods. “It’s no problem.” Looking back down at the map, I nod and turn to the elevators. (display: "Enter Hotel Room") </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs + 2)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The kindness of the gesture feels a bit overwhelming, even if it means nothing to her. Before I can finish my flimsy objection, she shakes her head. “I know, I wanted to, though.” Something about that leaves me speechless so I just nod and head to the elevators. (display: "Enter Hotel Room") </div></div>

(set: $rs to $rs - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">My head feels like a jumble of emotions for a moment, voice freezing in my throat. I nod, not risking a glance at Ramilah, and head to the elevators. (display: "Enter Hotel Room") </div></div>

I drop my bag as I step into the hotel room, rotating my shoulder to push away the ache. Without lifting it, I drag my bag inside far enough for the door to close behind me and let go of the strap. I continue into the room and collapse face-first on the large bed. The mattress and duvet are soft and inviting. I close my eyes for a moment and sigh. I pull out my phone and look at the lock screen. I ignored it for the hours of my trip and now have so many notifications that just seeing the number is a bit overwhelming. Without unlocking it, I open the notification bar to see more details. At the top of the list, it reads 22 missed calls and 2 new voicemails. I don’t look further and toss the phone at the pillows on my bed. Turning onto my back, I look at the map Ramilah gave me. I need to not think about this, and going out seems the best way to do that. The downtown area looks interesting… but I’m not hungry and don’t feel like window shopping at the moment. The coffee shop or the park seem more appealing for killing a few hours before getting dinner later. I stretch on the bed and yawn, feeling the ache in my back and shoulders from sitting still for so long. Part of me is ready to curl up and sleep away the next ten years, but a larger part would like to see a bit of Haven before I go to sleep. Coffee seems like the logical first choice. --- [[✦ //Go to Cafe//->Enter Cafe]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The first thing I notice as I step into the cool coffee shop and out of the heat is the lack of people. It isn’t empty but very few customers sit at the tables, and there’s no one at the counter. I look up at the large chalkboard menu and find something I like just as a worker stepped out from the curtain that I assume leads to the back. The worker smiles as I step up to the counter, brushing back their dark brown bangs. “Hey there, what can I getcha?” I hesitate, taking in the pins on their lanyard. The band is covered in pink, blue and purple stars arranged in a gradient. --- [[✦ “An iced latte, please. Medium.”->EC1]] [[✦ “A small black coffee.”->EC1]] [[✦ “A small peppermint frappe?”->EC1]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The worker nods, inputting my order in the computer before telling me the price. I hand them some cash and take a look around the space as they gather my change. It’s dimly lit in a way that makes it seem cozy, with enough light to read or work in. There are a few framed pieces on the walls with a small sign I can’t make out next to each one, though I assume they give details about the artist or list the price of the piece. There’s also a shelf by the door full of mugs with different designs. Maybe I’ll check them out later. It’s not like I was able to grab any mugs when I left… “Here’s your change,” the worker says, holding out their hand and snapping me out of my thoughts. --- [[✦ Take it and put it all in the tip jar.->EC1A]] [[✦ Take it and put part of it in the tip jar.->EC1B]] [[✦ Take it all and put it in my wallet.->EC1C]] </div></div>

(set: $ys to $ys + 1)(set: $tipped_yuke to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I accept it and deposit it in the tip jar. I don’t know what they’re making but it can’t be enough for the amount of work and training that comes with this kind of work. (display: "EC2") </div></div>

(set: $ys to $ys + 1)(set: $tipped_yuke to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I accept it then drop the coins and half the bills in the jar. I don’t know what they’re making but it can’t be much. Hopefully, even this will help make up for that. (display: "EC2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I accept it and tuck it in my wallet. With how uncertain my next step is, I don’t know if even that small amount will make a difference in the next few days. (display: "EC2") </div></div>

I turn to the rest of the shop and spot an empty table that doesn’t feel too close to the other customers but also doesn’t feel isolated. I take a seat and reach for my phone only to remember that I left it in the hotel room. I start to curse myself before I remember what is waiting for me on it and reach for my small notebook instead. I started keeping a notebook on me as a way to write down ideas at first, but it’s more of a journal now. The bell above the door makes me look up, and I notice a person in a light blue polo walk in. I watch as they hesitate and take a look around before spotting another guest. They glance at me as they make their way over, and I quickly look down, flipping my notebook open to the newest page. As I start writing what’s happened since yesterday, partially to process and partially to reassure myself, I see a figure move toward my table from my peripheral. I look up as they stop and realize it’s the worker. “Here’s your drink,” they say with a small smile. --- [[✦ “Thanks.”->EC2A]] [[✦ “I could’ve gotten it myself.”->EC2B]] [[✦ “I didn’t know company was included.”->EC2C]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“It’s no problem,” they set the drink on the table and hesitate. (display: "EC3") </div></div>

(set: $ys to $ys - 2)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Right, sorry,” they set the drink down and hesitate. (display: "EC3") </div></div>

(set: $ys to $ys + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">They smile, setting the drink down. They seem unsure what to do with their empty hands. (display: "EC3") </div></div>

“I was honestly more looking for an excuse to introduce myself.” They rub the back of their neck as I take a sip of coffee. “My name’s Yuke. She/her pronouns. You’re new in town, right?” She seems to say it as quickly as she can. --- [[✦ “Yeah.”->EC3A]] [[✦ “How’d you know?”->EC3B]] [[✦ “Why?”->EC3C]]

(set: $ys to $ys + 1)(set: $gave_yuke_name to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Yeah. My name’s (print: $mc_name), (print: $mc_pronouns) pronouns.” I flash a smile back, trying to reassure her. “Oh, cool!” She brightens. “How long are you staying?” (display: "EC4") </div></div>

(set: $gave_yuke_name to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“My name’s (print: $mc_name), (print: $mc_pronouns) pronouns. How’d you know I’m new?” I ask, a small anxiety nagging at me. “Haven doesn’t get many visitors that aren’t originally from here.” She smiles a little, seeming to sense the worry. (display: "EC4") </div></div>

(set: $gave_yuke_name to false)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Why?” I ask, a bit of anxiety and paranoia building. “Oh, I’m sorry! Haven doesn’t get many visitors that aren’t originally from here.” She holds her hands up, trying to motion that she meant no harm. (display: "EC4") </div></div>

Before Yuke or I can say anything else, the door dings again and she looks over. “Sorry,” she says as she looks back at me. “I need to get back to it, but…,” there’s a pause as she looks back at me. “I hope I’ll see you again sometime.” Before I can say anything in response, she’s heading back to the counter and asking the new guest if they want their usual. As I turn back to my notebook, I glance at the table where the guest with the polo sat down and accidentally make eye contact. They quickly look away, and I get back to writing out my account of the past two days, trying to ignore them. They were probably looking at something behind me or lost in thought. Still something about it makes my skin crawl. When I’m done with my writing and coffee, I look up to see that Yuke is busy and the other guest is gone. I tuck my notebook away and head out, tossing the coffee cup on the way. --- [[✦ //Exit Cafe//->Joel's Fucking Creepy]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I start walking in the direction of the hotel, not wanting to go much further into downtown than this for today, and notice the person in the polo standing on the sidewalk. They’re talking to someone else when they look up and notice me walking towards them. As I get closer, I try to look past them to attempt to avoid any conversation. Something about their gaze earlier just struck a point of anxiety. “Hey there!” The person in the polo smiles and waves. “How are you, today?” --- [[✦ “Fine.”->JFC1A]] [[✦ “Alright. Do you need something?”->JFC1B]] [[✦ //Ignore them.//->JFC1C]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Their smile falters briefly, but they press it back in place. “That’s good.” Their tone is saccharine and I quickly walk past them. Whatever they want to say, I don’t want to hear it. (display: "JFC2") </div></div>

(set: $js to $js + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Their smile seems to grow as they look me over, appraising me. There’s something about it that makes my skin crawl. I move past them, offering a polite smile in return. (display: "JFC2") </div></div>

(set: $js to $js - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk past them, deciding whatever they want, I don’t want to hear it. (display: "JFC2") </div></div>

They just turn and start following me. “Sorry to bother you, but I haven’t seen you in town before and I was wondering if you would be interested in hearing about our church?” --- [[✦ “No, thanks.”->JFC2A]] [[✦ “I’m not exactly religious.”->JFC2B]] [[✦ //Ignore them.//->JFC2C]]

(set: $js to $js - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Well it’s the Sanctuary of the Spirit and it's on the other end of downtown if you change your mind!” They step in my path, forcing me to stop. Their smile is sharp and I just want to leave. (display: "JFC3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“That’s ok! We’re a non-denominational church so we welcome all spiritual people!” They smile at me before stepping in my path, forcing me to stop. (display: "JFC3") </div></div>

(set: $js to $js - 2)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Excuse me?” they ask, stepping in front of me, to force me to a stop. “You’re being rude.” I give them a look, getting a bit angry at the idea that I’m the one that’s rude. (display: "JFC3") </div></div>

“Regardless,” they take my hand and press a pamphlet in it, “here’s some information on us. You should stop by.” Before I can say anything else, preferably about how this stranger shouldn’t touch random people however they wish, they’ve already started down the street. I look at the pamphlet and see a large white building on the cover with a circular stained glass window over the large double doors. I flip it over out of curiosity and see a picture of the person who just walked away. Father Joel Peterson. I huff and shove the pamphlet in my pocket as I start walking again. Not wanting to go back to the room with the mood that created, I head to the park near the hotel. --- [[✦ //Go to Park//->Chance Encounters]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The park is large and open, though there are a few signs for hiking trails further on. The breeze cools my skin, and I realize I’ve never seen so much green in one place. There’s a lake that presses against the edge of the park, and a vendor has a few paddle boats to rent, shaped like a few different animals. I can see a cabin-like building further along the dirt path, built so part of it is suspended over the lake’s edge. Overall, there are a few people but everyone seems to be caught up in their own business. This seems like a place I can find some peace if I want to. I walk along the path that borders the lake, enjoying the fresh air. While looking out over the water, I notice someone coming from the other direction that seems distracted. We both stop short, having noticed the other, and I step to the side, trying to give them the space to keep going. “Sorry,” I say, not sure if I should offer something else. “Oh no, I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going!” The person rubs the back of their neck with a smile. “That’s what I get for reading and walking.” They’re wearing navy coveralls with the sleeves rolled up to their shoulders, a jacket tied around their waist, and a hat. They hold up the clipboard they were apparently reading from. The back says Property of Haven Park Services. --- [[✦ “Do you work here?”->CE1A]] [[✦ “I wasn’t either, so I guess we’re both at fault.”->CE1B]] [[✦ “You should pay more attention.”->CE1C]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Hmm,” they glance at the back of the clipboard and chuckle. “Oh, yeah. I’m Fynn. He/him. I’m one of the park attendants. Nice to meet you!” He tucks the clipboard under his arm and holds out a hand. (display: "CE2") </div></div>

(set: $fs to $fs + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Let’s call it even then.” They smile and tuck the clipboard under their arm before holding a hand out to me. “I’m Fynn. He/him. I’m one of the park attendants. Nice to meet you!” (display: "CE2") </div></div>

(set: $fs to $fs - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">They nod. “Right, sorry.” They look down, seeming unsure, before they tuck the clipboard under their arm and hold their hand out. “I’m Fynn. He/him. I’m one of the park attendants. Nice to meet you!” (display: "CE2") </div></div>

--- [[✦ Introduce myself.->CE2A]] [[✦ “Uh…hi. Sorry, but I’m gonna go.”->CE2B]] [[✦ “Yeah, I didn’t ask.”->CE2C]]

(set: $fs to $fs + 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“I’m (print: $mc_name), (print: $mc_pronouns) pronouns.” I take his hand and am surprised by how cold his skin feels. Before I decide if I want to say anything about it, Fynn’s pulling his hand back. “Are you new to Haven? I don’t think I’ve seen you around.” --- [[✦ “Yeah.”->CE2AA]] [[✦ “Is it so easy to tell?”->CE2AB]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Fynn drops his hand when I don’t take it. “Right, no worries. Sorry to have bothered you.” He offers a smile before I walk past him. (display: "CE3") </div></div>

(set: $fs to $fs - 2)(set: $fynn_route_locked to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Fynn seems startled but drops his hand. “Sorry, you’re right. I’ll let you go then.” He smiles, though it looks strained, and I step past him. (display: "CE3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh, yeah.” I answer without really thinking, still distracted by the chill of his hand on such a warm day. (display: "CE2A2") </div></div>

(set: $fs to $fs + 2)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I flash him a smile, trying to ignore the strangeness. Fynn chuckles. “A lot of us grew up here so it’s kind of easy to spot newbees.” (display: "CE2A2") </div></div>

“Did you get in today?” He asks, taking his clipboard out from under his arm. “Pretty recently, yeah,” I say with a nod. “Cool.” Fynn smiles in a bright, easy way that feels contagious. “I need to get back to work, sadly, but if you need anything, I’m usually in the area.” I nod again as he steps past me. “See ya around, (print: $mc_name).” He waves as he walks backwards along the trail for a moment. I wave back and watch for a moment before heading down the trail myself. (display: "CE3")

I head on down the path a bit further before someone steps in my path, bringing a smell of herbs with them. I look up at them, about to say something, when I notice they’re glaring past me. I follow their gaze and see it’s directed at Fynn. “Did you notice it?” They ask, hands in their brown bomber jacket. --- [[✦ “Uh, sorry?”->CE3A]] [[✦ “What?”->CE3B]] [[✦ “Yeah.”->CE3C]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Hm,” they look at me, brown eyes almost analyzing me. “Nevermind.” (display: "CE4A") </div></div>

(set: $vs to $vs - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner>Their brown eyes narrow for a moment before looking at me. “Nevermind.” (display: "CE4A") </div></div>

(set: $vs to $vs + 2)(set: $lied_to_val to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">They nod before looking at me. Their brown eyes seem to be searching for something in mine. (display: "CE4B") </div></div>

“You’re new.” They only have an inch or two on me but the way they’re looking at me makes me feel even smaller. The intensity they’re bringing to this interaction feels almost funny with their floral pink shirt and the flowers woven into their braids. They pull something out of their jacket pocket and hold it out. “Here. Call me if you notice anything strange.” I take it, confused and a bit intimidated. It’s a business card that reads “Val (they/them), Hunter for Hire” with an address and phone number underneath. I nod and, before I can ask anything, they’re walking down the path after Fynn. As I watch them, I notice I can still smell herbs. Is that the smell of the flowers that were in their braids? Were they Valerian or Yarrow? I can’t remember which is which. I turn and follow the path through more of the park, enjoying the breeze and false isolation of walking alone. I watch some of the ducks on the lake and kids on the playground for a bit before I turn back to the entrance. The park is calm and I feel separated from the anxiety and worry that I came into town with. But the calm will end when I go back and check my phone. I can’t avoid it forever. --- [[✦ //Take my time walking back.//->CE5A]] [[✦ //Head back quickly and get it over with.//->CE5B]]

“You’re new.” They only have an inch or two on me but the way they’re looking at me makes me feel even smaller. The intensity they’re bringing to this interaction feels almost funny with their floral pink shirt and the flowers woven into their braids. They pull something out of their jacket pocket and hold it out. “Here. Call me if you notice anything else.” I take it, confused and a bit intimidated. It’s a business card that reads “Val (they/them), Hunter for Hire” with an address and phone number underneath. I nod and, before I can ask anything, they’re walking down the path after Fynn. As I watch them, I notice I can still smell herbs. Is that the smell of the flowers that were in their braids? Were they Valerian or Yarrow? I can’t remember which is which. I turn and follow the path through more of the park, enjoying the breeze and false isolation of walking alone. I watch some of the ducks on the lake and kids on the playground for a bit before I turn back to the entrance. The park is calm and I feel separated from the anxiety and worry that I came into town with. But the calm will end when I go back and check my phone. I can’t avoid it forever. --- [[✦ //Take my time walking back.//->CE5A]] [[✦ //Head back quickly and get it over with.//->CE5B]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk slowly back through the park, letting myself be distracted by small things I normally wouldn’t notice. By the time I reach the street, I feel grounded, like I’ve found a way to take a bit of the peace with me. For the first time in years, I feel prepared. --- [[✦ //Return to Hotel Room//->Return to Hotel Room]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I speed walk through the park, wanting to get the whole awful experience over with. With every step, it feels like I’m drawing closer to a breakdown. --- [[✦ //Return to Hotel Room//->Return to Hotel Room]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk into my hotel room to a silence that feels foreboding. Like the silence itself is holding its breath in anticipation. It isn’t late yet so I grab the bag I abandoned in the hall earlier and toss it on the bed. Hopefully putting a few of my things away will tire me out. Half an hour later, the essentials are out in places that give me easy access, and the bag is back on the floor. I fall on the bed and glare at my phone still laying amongst the pillows. --- [[✦ //Check it.//->RHR2]] [[✦ //Go to bed.//->RHR1B]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">With a sigh, I grab the phone and look at the lock screen. It looks like there are even more notifications than before. Tapping the notification bar, I see that the 22 missed calls and 2 voicemails has become 58 missed calls and 9 voicemails. I scroll past and see the next set of notifications list texts; 15 from Drew, 3 from Mom, and 1 from Dad. I can’t see the full texts without opening them. --- [[✦ //Read them.//->RHR2A]] [[✦ //Don’t.//->RHR2B]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I grab the phone and move it to the bedside table without looking at the screen. I don’t bother plugging it in, I doubt I’ll need it tomorrow. Especially if the messages won’t stop coming. I lay there for a moment, looking at the ceiling, not thinking, just existing, before I get up and get changed to sleep. Once changed, I get back in bed and feel the ache of sitting on the bus all day finally start to catch up to me. Before I can begin to doubt myself or regret what I've done, I’m asleep. --- [[✦ //Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(set: $rsa to (abs: $rs))(set: $ysa to (abs: $ys))(set: $jsa to (abs: $js))(set: $fsa to (abs: $fs))(set: $vsa to (abs: $vs))(if: $rsa >= $ysa and $rsa >= $fsa and $rsa >= $vsa and $rsa >= $jsa)[(if: $rs > 0)[(set: $path to "Ramilah - Good") (display: "Ramilah Day 1 Dream (Good)")]] (else-if: $ysa >= $rsa and $ysa >= $fsa and $ysa >= $vsa and $ysa >= $jsa)[(if: $ys > 0)[(set: $path to "Yuke - Good") (display: "Yuke Day 1 Dream (Good)")] (else:)[(set: $path to "Yuke - Bad") (display: "Yuke Day 1 Dream (Bad)")]] (else-if: $fsa >= $rsa and $fsa >= $ysa and $fsa >= $vsa and $fsa >= $jsa)[(if: $fs > 0)[(set: $path to "Fynn - Good") (display: "Fynn Day 1 Dream (Good)")]] (else-if: $vsa >= $rsa and $vsa >= $ysa and $vsa >= $fsa and $vsa >= $jsa)[(if: $vs > 0)[(set: $path to "Val - Good") (display: "Val Day 1 Dream (Good)")] (else:)[(set: $path to "Val - Bad") (display: "Val Day 1 Dream (Bad)")]] (else:)[(set: $path to "Joel - Bad") (display: "Joel Day 1 Dream (Bad)")] </div></div>

(set: $ap to $ap - 1)(set: $texts_read to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I tap the notification of texts from Drew and unlock my phone. Where are you? (print: $mc_name) this isn’t funny. Come on, just come out and we can talk about this. Don’t tell me this is about the other night. That was nothing. I told you it won’t happen again (print: $mc_name) if you dont pick up the goddamn phone i swear you just had to embarrass me in front of your whole family that your idea of repaying everything ive done for you? I back out of the conversation before I can read more and open the texts from mom. Hon, it’s ok to be nervous but isn’t this a bit of an overreaction? Why is there such a big withdrawal in your account? Call me. I back out of that one, shaking as I open the text from dad. youve upset your mother. im disappointed I blink back tears as I close the messenger completely. --- [[✦ //Listen to the voicemails.//->RHR3A]] [[✦ //Put the phone down.//->RHR3B]] </div></div>

(set: $ap to $ap + 2)(set: $notifs_cleared to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I decide I’m not going to read them. I swipe away the text notifications. Emails move up to replace them. The ones I can see are spam, so I swipe them away too. Everything that slides up the list after that are app notifications from mobile games I barely play. Looking over the whole list again, I see the missed calls and voicemails at the top and tap the clear list button at the bottom. All the notifications swipe themselves away in a fluid motion that feels extremely cathartic. I watch the phone for a moment, waiting for some consequence. Instead, I just see the lock screen, a simple patterned wallpaper, and the time. “Ok.” I nod, feeling lighter than I have for decades. I set the phone on the bedside table, not bothering to plug it in, and get up to change into my pajamas. Once changed, I get back in bed and feel the ache of sitting on the bus all day finally start to catch up to me. Before I can begin to doubt myself or regret what I've done, I’m asleep. --- [[//Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

(set: $voicemails_listened to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I take a breath, trying to push past the knot in my stomach, and open my voicemail. 2 are from mom and the other 7 are from Drew. I stare at the first one that came through for a moment before opening it. “(print: $mc_name), hon, I need you to answer your phone.” Mom’s voice is tense and she pauses, attention likely elsewhere for a moment. “I don’t want to worry Drew if this is just nerves.” The voicemail ends and I rub my arm as I open the next one. “Babe, you’re scaring me.” Drew’s voice is fast, anxious in a way I haven’t heard before. “Just tell us where you are. We can talk through this. Don’t waste all your parents' money like this.” I almost let myself believe that (text-colour:#d91717)[Drew ((dropdown: 2bind $drew_pronouns,"He/Him","They/Them","She/Her"))] cares. --- [[✦ //Open the next voicemail//->RHR4]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I set my phone on the bedside table, trying to will my hands to stop shaking, and stare at it for a moment. My gut feels twisted. I force my eyes away and look at my bag for a moment. It takes a bit of time but I force myself to my feet. They are just texts. Just words on a screen. I take a breath and move to get ready for bed. Once changed, I get back in bed and feel the ache of sitting on the bus all day finally start to catch up to me. Before I can begin to doubt myself or regret what I've done, I’m asleep. --- [[✦ //Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I open the next one barely registering that it’s from several hours later. “Hey, babe,” Drew says the pet name like it’s a curse. I hear liquid slosh in the background. “Are you proud? Had to send all the people home. Had to shake their hands and apologize for you and your behavior.” I stop it there. I can’t listen to that. I hesitate and skip the next one to open the 5th voicemail. “Bitch!” Drew shouts, making me jump. They are talking but Drew is slurring theirs words so badly that it’s hard to make out what they are saying. I quickly stop this one. There are 4 more and I stare at them for a moment before I open the last one from mom. “Darling. You will call me when you hear this. You have a lot of explaining to do. Understand me?” Mom always was a woman of few words, but she lets her disappointment seep into her tone. In the past, hearing that would have been enough to crush my resolve. I take a shaky breath and it comes out as a sob. I can’t let this time be the same. The last one on the list is from Drew. It’s an hour more recent than the others. I open it. “(print: $mc_name), I’m sorry,” their voice is saccharine now. “I was angry and I shouldn’t have called you while I was drunk. Just come home. Please. We can talk about this, I swear.” They pause. “You mean the world to me.” I can’t tell if he’s sincere. There’s a beat before the message stops and I stare at the screen. There are still 2 more but I can’t stomach them. I lock the screen and set the phone on the bedside table. I take another shaky breath, trying to settle myself, trying not to start sobbing in my hotel room. It doesn’t work. I curl up on the bed and cry until I pass out, still fully clothed on top of the covers of the bed. --- [[✦ //Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

(if: $drew_pronouns contains "They")[(display: "RHR4 they")](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "She")[(display: "RHR4 she")](else:)[(display: "RHR4 he")]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I open the next one barely registering that it’s from several hours later. “Hey, babe,” Drew says the pet name like it’s a curse. I hear liquid slosh in the background. “Are you proud? Had to send all the people home. Had to shake their hands and apologize for you and your behavior.” I stop it there. I can’t listen to that. I hesitate and skip the next one to open the 5th voicemail. “Bitch!” Drew shouts, making me jump. She is talking but Drew is slurring her words so badly that it’s hard to make out what she is saying. I quickly stop this one. There are 4 more and I stare at them for a moment before I open the last one from mom. “Darling. You will call me when you hear this. You have a lot of explaining to do. Understand me?” Mom always was a woman of few words, but she lets her disappointment seep into her tone. In the past, hearing that would have been enough to crush my resolve. I take a shaky breath and it comes out as a sob. I can’t let this time be the same. The last one on the list is from Drew. It’s an hour more recent than the others. I open it. “(print: $mc_name), I’m sorry,” her voice is saccharine now. “I was angry and I shouldn’t have called you while I was drunk. Just come home. Please. We can talk about this, I swear.” She pauses. “You mean the world to me.” I can’t tell if he’s sincere. There’s a beat before the message stops and I stare at the screen. There are still 2 more but I can’t stomach them. I lock the screen and set the phone on the bedside table. I take another shaky breath, trying to settle myself, trying not to start sobbing in my hotel room. It doesn’t work. I curl up on the bed and cry until I pass out, still fully clothed on top of the covers of the bed. --- [[✦ //Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I open the next one barely registering that it’s from several hours later. “Hey, babe,” Drew says the pet name like it’s a curse. I hear liquid slosh in the background. “Are you proud? Had to send all the people home. Had to shake their hands and apologize for you and your behavior.” I stop it there. I can’t listen to that. I hesitate and skip the next one to open the 5th voicemail. “Bitch!” Drew shouts, making me jump. He is talking but Drew is slurring his words so badly that it’s hard to make out what he's saying. I quickly stop this one. There are 4 more and I stare at them for a moment before I open the last one from mom. “Darling. You will call me when you hear this. You have a lot of explaining to do. Understand me?” Mom always was a woman of few words, but she lets her disappointment seep into her tone. In the past, hearing that would have been enough to crush my resolve. I take a shaky breath and it comes out as a sob. I can’t let this time be the same. The last one on the list is from Drew. It’s an hour more recent than the others. I open it. “(print: $mc_name), I’m sorry,” his voice is saccharine now. “I was angry and I shouldn’t have called you while I was drunk. Just come home. Please. We can talk about this, I swear.” He pauses. “You mean the world to me.” I can’t tell if he’s sincere. There’s a beat before the message stops and I stare at the screen. There are still 2 more but I can’t stomach them. I lock the screen and set the phone on the bedside table. I take another shaky breath, trying to settle myself, trying not to start sobbing in my hotel room. It doesn’t work. I curl up on the bed and cry until I pass out, still fully clothed on top of the covers of the bed. --- [[✦ //Sleep//->Sleep]] </div></div>

(set: $d1_dream to "RG")//I’m sitting in a tree, my back against the trunk, staring at the canopy overhead. There are birds and squirrels traveling through the branches. A small song bird lands on the branch in front of me and chirps. “They like you,” Ramilah says, looking over from the branch she’s sitting on. // --- [[“How can you tell?”->RD1DGA]] [[“How high up are we?”->RD1DGB]]

(set: $d1_dream to "FG")//I’m floating in the lake, just looking up at the night sky and stargazing. I feel the ripple of someone gently float up next to me but don’t look away from the sky. “Beautiful, isn’t it,” they ask. I realize it’s Fynn floating with me and I smile. “Yeah.” There are so many stars I feel like I could never count them all. // --- [[“Know any constellations?”->FD1DA]] [[“What are we doing out here?”->FD1DB]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Ramilah shrugs with a small smile and I can’t help but smile back. “Just know,” she says as she looks up at the birds that seem to be sharing our space. Rather, I guess we’re sharing theirs.// (display: "RD1DG2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Ramilah shrugs with a small smile. “High enough,” she says as she looks up at the birds that seem to be sharing our space. Rather, I guess we’re sharing theirs.// (display: "RD1DG2") </div></div>

//I watch the bird in front of me as it hops closer, tilting its head like it’s inspecting me. It chirps again and opens its wings. Instead of flying away, it flutters onto my arm and starts to sing. “They really like you.” Ramilah chuckles. I smile, feeling something like pride warm my chest. The bird’s song stops and it hops around on my arm for a moment before it really takes off this time. And I wake up with that warm feeling still there.// --- [[//Wake up//->Wake Up]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(display: "Day 2 Start") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//“Only the ones I made up,” Fynn chuckles. “Tell me?” I ask, looking over. He smiles like he was just waiting for the question. He points out a cluster of three and then a single star a bit below it. “That one’s the lonely reed.” Then a row of stars with a triangle on one end and a y shape on the other. “There’s the fishbone.” He points out more as the night drags on and I listen, letting myself feel calm. When he runs out, we float in silence for a moment.// (display: "FD1D2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I feel the question tumble out, even as I feel like I know the answer. I just can’t seem to remember. “Looking at the stars,” Fynn chuckles. “Isn’t that obvious?” I look over, about to expand on my question, but when I look at Fynn something seems wrong. Something I can’t seem to place. He looks at me with a smile that I can’t help but mirror, noticing that his teeth are sharp and remind me of a shark’s. But somehow, that doesn’t seem to worry me. Fynn’s teeth have always been like that right? “Right. Yeah,” I look back up at the sky. We float in silence for a moment.// (display: "FD1D2") </div></div>

//“I used to wish I could swim through the sky when I was a kid,” Fynn says without warning. “That whole sky ocean. There’s got to be hundreds of things up there I could make friends with.” I look over again. “I know what you mean.” Saying it, I feel exposed in a way I’m not sure how to feel about. We settle back into silence, and I wake up with tears in my eyes.// --- [[//Wake up//->Wake Up]]

(set: $d1_dream to "VG")//I walk through downtown in a comfortable silence only broken by the conversations of the occasional small groups we pass. As Val and I approach a group coming from the other direction, they put a hand on my shoulder and gently guide me closer to the shops. They motion like they’re going to show me something in the window, but their attention is on the group. I watch Val, waiting for some que as to what’s put them so on edge.// --- [[“Everything ok?”->VD1DA]] [[“Which one is it?”->VD1DB]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//They nod at me as the group passes. Val’s blocking me from sight but it also means I can’t see the group. They pass and Val looks after them for a moment, focused on the person in the middle in a turtleneck. I find it a bit odd to be wearing a turtleneck when it’s so warm but don’t pay them any real attention.// (display: "VD1D2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//They glance at me before gesturing with their head at the store window. “Turtleneck,” is all I get from them for direction. But I notice that in the glass of the window, I can see the reflection of two of the three people in the group. Where the young person in the middle should be is an empty turtleneck and jeans walking between the other two. I watch as they pass, baffled that this person seems not to have a reflection.// (display: "VD1D2") </div></div>

//“Are we still getting ice cream?” I ask, hopeful but aware that Val takes their work very seriously. Val looks at me with a small smile. “Of course,” they say holding out their hand for me to take. I take it and wake up feeling safe.// --- [[//Wake up//->Wake Up]]

(set: $d1_dream to "VB")//I sprint into the lobby, adrenaline and fear forcing me faster. I glance around, hoping for anyone who could help me, but it’s empty.// --- [[//Try the elevator.//->VD1DBa]] [[//Take the stairs.//->VD1DBb]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I take the long hall to the elevator as I hear the sliding doors open behind me. I know who it is. I try to run faster. I run into the wall with the elevator button, hitting it hard and fast. Even as I know that won’t make the elevator come any faster. I look back, just as an arrow hits the control panel above my hand. I jump back, electricity crackling through the air as the control panel shorts. “Shit, oh fuck, shit,” I whimper, watching as Val steps closer. They don’t say a word as they aim their crossbow at my head and pull the trigger.// --- //I [[wake up ->Wake Up]]with an intense headache.// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I turn to the left, running to the stairwell at the end of the hall, hoping that they didn’t see me turn. I only make it a few steps before I hear the sliding doors open. I know it’s them. I can hear their boots as they run into the lobby. I can see the door to the stairs getting closer. I’m only a few steps away when a pain erupts in my side. It’s so much pain that it seems to blot out everything and my vision tunnels. All I can see is the door. I scream as I fall to the ground. I don’t need to look at it to know there is an arrow jutting out from just above my hip. One hand pressed to the wound, I try to slide myself closer to the door. Every inch of movement makes the tunnel vision worse. A boot kicks at my side, forcing me to roll onto my back. The door at the end of my vision is replaced with Val. They’re all I can see as they aim their crossbow at my head and pull the trigger.// --- //I [[wake up ->Wake Up]]with an intense headache.// </div></div>

(set: $d1_dream to "YG")I find myself sitting in the local coffee shop but the dim lighting has been turned all the way up, as though to chase away the darkness. I look over my shoulder and see that outside is pitch black. I turn back to the table and a figure is sitting in front of me. It’s Yuke. I jump, she definitely wasn't there before. She smiles cruelly and I realize that her teeth are too sharp. Filed to a point. Looking closer, she looks different. Almost the same but closer to how someone would draw her face from memory. “Welcome,” Not-Yuke says with a purr. I open my mouth, trying to find the words to ask any of the questions tumbling in my head, when something makes me pause. It feels like someone’s shouting at me from the other room. Telling me that this is a dream and I should try not to speak to this figure. I don’t know why or what will happen if I ignore that but something in my instinct screams that I should listen. --- [[//Say nothing//->YD1DGa]] [[“Where am I?”->YD1DGb]]

(set: $d1_dream to "YB")//I find myself sitting in the local coffee shop but instead of the dim lighting, it's dark with only a few lamps to light the corners of the shop. Outside of the big street facing window behind where I’m sitting, it’s almost pitch black. I turn back to the table and a figure is sitting in front of me. It’s Yuke. I jump, she definitely wasn't there before. “Sorry,” she says with a small smile I can just barely make out in the dark. “Didn’t mean to startle you.” I stare at her for a moment as the understanding that this is a dream seems to settle in my mind. “Are you alright? You look pale.” Yuke reaches across the table for my face. --- [[“This is a dream?”->YD1DBa]] [[“Please, don’t.”->YD1DBb]] [[Say nothing.->YD1DBc]]//

(set: $d1_dream to "JB")//With a small groan, I open my eyes and find darkness. I can’t see anything. I shift and find I can’t move. My knees ache and I recognize that I’m kneeling but my hands are bound behind my back. When I move, I hear metal. I hear something like chanting coming closer.// --- [[//Struggle.//->JD1DBa]] [[//Pretend to sleep.//->JD1DBb]]

<div class="center">✦✦✦</div> <div class="center"><span class="bigger">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 2s)[''[Day 2]'']</span></div> --- <div class="center"><span class="bigger">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-delay: 1.5s)+(t8n-time: 2s)[(text-colour:#d91717)[[Start->Morning in Hotel Room]]]</span></div> <div class="center">✦✦✦</div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I move to stand, shifting my hands to try and get free. “Please, please,” I whisper to myself as I get to my feet. No matter what I do, my hands seem stuck. I take a step forward and hear more metal move behind me before my hands are forced back. Trying not to cry out from the sudden pain, I step back and feel the cool metal chain that’s connected to my wrists. Before I can do anything else, the chanting seems to get suddenly louder. As though something that was muffling it was removed. The voices, so insync I can’t pick any individual’s out, surround me. I feel a hand grab my bound wrists before a blow to my knees knocks me into a kneeling position again. The hand moves into my hair, forcing my head back.// (display: "JD1DB2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I slouch, shifting my hands all the while, looking for some way to free them. Suddenly, the chanting seems louder. As though something that was muffling it was removed. I force my hands still and hope that ignorance can somehow save me. Instead, I feel a hand grab my hair and force my head back. I can’t help the cry of pain I let out.// (display: "JD1DB2") </div></div>

//Suddenly, the room is silent. The strange chant seeming to echo out of wherever we are. “My brothers and sisters! At last we stand ready to call forth the Nameless One and bring his power upon the world!” I gasp as a cold metal touches my throat, frozen in fear. There’s a moment of tense stillness before the metal is pushed into my neck and dragged through.// --- [[And then I sat straight up in bed, gasping.->Wake Up]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Not-Yuke sighs when I close my mouth. “You’re no fun.” She grumbles, resting her hand on her cheek. I start slightly with the realization that her skin, where Yuke was pale, transitions to tar black around the elbows. And the tips of her fingers are sharp, like blades connected to her palm. She looks at me, smile spreading again. “Hmm, you may be more fun if you’re that easy to scare.” Her other hand taps on the table between us with a rhythmic and metallic sound.// (display: "YD1DG2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Not-Yuke laughs, a hand covering her mouth as her form shakes with it. I start slightly with the realization that her skin, where Yuke was pale, transitions to tar black around the elbows. And the tips of her fingers are sharp, like blades connected to her palm. “Oh, I am so glad that you are so ignorant,” she says sounding overjoyed. She leans forward on her elbows, smile so impossibly wide. “Maybe I’ll answer your question next time, little one.”// (display: "YD1DG2") </div></div>

//I feel something strange as she stares at me. The feeling of leaving. Not that I’m physically getting up, just that I won’t be here anymore in a moment. Not-Yuke waggles her sharp fingers at me... --- ...and I [[wake up->Wake Up]] with a sense of dread.//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I don’t mean to say it as a question, but it comes out as one. I’ve never had a lucid dream before, but this doesn’t feel like how I would’ve expected. I don’t feel in control. “Yeah, sorry.” Yuke drops her hand, looking at the floor.// (display: "YD1DBFin") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Yuke stops and lets her hand drop. Her expression is somewhere between apologetic and disappointed. “Sorry,” She looks at the floor, pulling her hands into her lap. “I should’ve asked.”// --- [[“Yeah, you should’ve.”->YD1DBba]] [[“It’s ok.”->YD1DBbb]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I bat her hand away without actually touching her. Something screams at me not to answer her. To minimize my reactions to her as much as I can.// (display: "YD1DB2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I feel a little bad when she flinches at my tone, but I don’t apologize.// (display: "YD1DB2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I feel nauseous as I say it. Like something inside me is objecting.// (display: "YD1DB2") </div></div>

//Yuke sighs. “I was hoping we could talk. Hoping I could...” she hesitates as she pulls her hands into her lap. “Apologize.”// --- [[“For what?”->YD1DB2a]] [[Say nothing.->YD1DB2b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//The question is out of my mouth before I can really process that I wanted to ask it.// (display: "YD1DBFin") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I try to keep my face as neutral as I can but something must indicate my lack of understanding.// (display: "YD1DBFin") </div></div>

//“I didn’t mean to bring you here. I don’t exactly have control over it.” She shifts in her seat, glancing at me. Something interrupts us. This time it's a feeling that I’m leaving. Not that I’m physically getting up, just that I won’t be here anymore in a moment. “Sorry, out of time,” is the last thing I hear before I [[wake up->Wake Up]] disoriented.//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I stare into the mirror after brushing my teeth, trying to recall anything about my dream. Sleep has fogged my thoughts, making any attempt to remember a struggle. (if: $d1_dream is in "RG_VG")[I can remember the feeling of calm, of safety.](else-if: $d1_dream is in "YB")[I can remember being somewhere that felt so real.](else-if: $d1_dream is in "YG")[I can remember sharp teeth, smiling at me.](else-if: $d1_dream is in "VB_JB")[I can remember fear – no //terror//. Worse than any nightmare I’ve ever had before.](else-if: $d1_dream is in "FG")[I can remember the feeling of vulnerability… or openness. Either way it was a good feeling.] I rub my eyes and blink hard to try to push away the last dregs of grogginess, hoping that will sharpen my focus, but it pushes the dream further away. My phone buzzes on the bedside table and I instinctively go to see what the screen says. It’s a text from Drew. I watch the screen until it darkens again. (if:$notifs_cleared is true)[It was the only notification besides the one telling me my battery is at 5 percent. I could see the beginning of the message but I couldn’t bring myself to read it.](else:)[It stacked itself with the rest, giving nothing of its contents away. The sheer amount of them is overwhelming, without even considering their contents. The only thing on the screen registering in my mind is the red mark in the battery icon telling me to plug in my phone.] --- [[Plug in the phone->MHR1a]] [[Leave it alone->MHR1b]] </div></div>

(set: $phone_charged to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I plug in the phone and set it back on the bedside table. I’m not even sure why, but something about the action feels so ingrained that I need to do it. The idea of letting it die scares me–not because I need it, yesterday proved that. I’m more afraid of how Drew will react when he calls and the phone doesn’t even ring. (display: "MHR2") </div></div>

(set: $phone_charged to false)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I hesitate, feeling a pull to plug in the phone and not let it die. But I consider it for a moment and realize I have no need to watch Drew and my family continue to call and text. No one I would want to talk to has my phone number or any other way to contact me. I sit heavily on the bed with the knowledge that my only line of communication to the people I left behind is about to be completely severed. If only for as long as I let my phone sit lifeless. (display: "MHR2") </div></div>

It’s my first full day in Haven. I get to decide how I want to spend my day for the first time in… I can’t remember how long. I pull out the map Ramilah gave me and notice the last time I folded it up I tucked something inside. It’s the pamphlet and the business card that were handed to me yesterday. I look for both locations on the map. The church is on the other end of downtown marked by a large cross. The address on the card is in the downtown area, only a couple of buildings away from the store Ramilah circled. Both the church guy, Joel was his name, and the person in the leather jacket were strange–though Joel was more creepy–but it might be nice to check these areas out. --- (display: "Change Location")

(if:$locations_visited < 3)[(if: $location is "Hotel Room")[[[✦ //Ramilah said there’s coffee all the time downstairs, and it’s early enough that I could get breakfast.//->Day 2: Hotel Lobby Morning]]](if: $lobby_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Lobby")[[[✦ //The hotel has a really nice lobby, I could hang out there. I wonder if Ramilah’s working right now.//->Day 2: Hotel Lobby Afternoon]]] (if: $cafe_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Cafe")+(if: $location is "Lobby")[[[✦ //This coffee isn’t great, maybe I should get some better coffee at the coffee shop?//->Day 2: Cafe]]](if: $cafe_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Cafe")[(if: $location is not "Lobby")[[[✦ //I could go get better coffee at the coffee shop and maybe one of their baked goods.//->Day 2: Cafe]]]] (if: $downtown_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Downtown")[[[✦ //I want to go explore and do some window shopping. And maybe I can check out this address.//->Day 2: Downtown]]] (if: $park_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Park")[[[✦ //I think I need some fresh air. The park seems like the best place to do that.//->Day 2: Park]]] (if: $lake_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Lake")[[[✦ //I saw some paddle boats on the lake yesterday. I wonder if I could get one today.//->Day 2: Lake]]] (if: $sanctuary_visited is not true)+(if: $location is not "Sanctuary")[[[✦ //I’m really curious about this church.//->Day 2: Sanctuary]]]] (if: $locations_visited > 0)[[[✦ //I think I’m done for the day. I’m gonna head back to my room.//->Day 2: Return to Hotel Room]]] (set: $locations_visited to $locations_visited + 1)

(set: $lobby_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I step off the elevator, into the lobby, and look around for a moment. Something about the decor still makes me smile. It feels personalized in a way that makes it feel like it was tailored to the town and owner’s taste in a way I’ve never been able to myself. At least not until now. I head over to the coffee station in the lobby and spot Ramilah at a table nearby. She looks up from her plate and smiles when she spots me. I wave and she waves me over. --- [[Go over.->D2HLM1a]] [[Get coffee first.->D2HLM1b]] </div></div>

(set: $cafe_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk into the coffee shop and see that there’s a small line. Yuke and another worker are at the counter. Yuke’s taking the orders while the other worker makes them. There aren’t many people staying in the shop once they get their coffee, and I can see a few tables open. It takes almost no time before it’s my turn to order. I step up, and Yuke seems to startle when she sees me. “Oh, hey!” she seems nervous all of a sudden. “What can I get for ya?” --- [[✦ //Same as yesterday.//->D2C2]] [[✦ //Try something new.//->D2C2]] </div></div>

(set: $downtown_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk through downtown mostly window shopping for now and enjoying the breeze. There’s quite a few restaurants and clothing stores on the main street that makes up downtown. The variety of them is surprising for such a small town. I pause outside of a bookstore and look at their window display featuring a few books I never got to read at home. I’m considering heading inside when I see a familar looking bomber jacket in my peripheral. I turn just in time to see Val walk into a store. I take a few steps closer and notice that the address is the same as the one on the business card they gave me. The window has a display of crystals, incense, and books. --- [[✦ Go in.->D2D1a]] [[✦ Keep exploring.->D2D1b]] </div></div>

(set: $park_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk through the park following the hiking trail while I enjoy the fresh air and gentle breeze. It’s not as hot as yesterday but still warm enough that the breeze is soothing instead of cold. As I walk, I let my mind wander–not focusing on Drew or family issues. Instead, I think through what I’d want to do. In a perfect world, what would I want to do tomorrow if I had no limits? --- [[✦ I’d like to go other places and see what I can of the world. Make some memories.->D2Pa]] [[✦ I’ve always liked writing, maybe I could write more. Experiment with it.->D2Pb]] [[✦ I’d like to learn about things I was sheltered from. Maybe I‘lI find something I’m passionate about.->D2Pc]] [[✦ I’m not really sure, but I have the time to work it out and try new things.->D2Pd]] </div></div>

(set: $lake_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(if: $fynn_route_locked is true)[I walk up to the small pier, looking for the paddle boat vendor from yesterday. When I don’t see them, I walk down the pier, deciding to just enjoy the view of the water. The water is dark but calm and I watch as a flock of ducks land on the surface. I’m tempted for a moment to take a seat on the edge of the pier and enjoy the calm but the air shifts. The wind picks up and the water becomes choppy. I don’t feel like I’ll be able to enjoy the fresh air so I turn and head back down the pier. --- (display: "Change Location")](else:)[I walk up to the small pier, looking for the paddle boat vendor from yesterday. When I don’t see them, I walk down the pier, deciding to just enjoy the view of the water. I take a deep breath and enjoy the quiet for a moment. “Nice to see you again,” someone says from behind me. I whip around, not recognizing the voice. Fynn’s standing at the end of the pier. --- [[✦ “Shit! You scared me.”->D2L1a]] [[✦ “Oh. Hey, it’s nice to see you too.”->D2L1b]] [[✦ “Fynn. Please don’t scare me like that.”->D2L1c]]] </div></div>

(set: $sanctuary_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk up to the large white building that’s on the brochure and look at the stained glass for a moment. I couldn’t tell what it was on the brochure but I figured that was due to the small size. In person, looking up at it, I still can’t make out an image. It just looks like a bunch of colors. I’m not super familiar with churches but that feels strange. I thought that stained glass was supposed to show saints or scenes from the bible. I step up to the door and am about to push it open, when it opens and I see Joel. I stop in surprise and he smiles. “You came!” He steps aside, ushering me in. --- [[✦ “Uh, yeah. Hi.”->D2S1a]] [[✦ “Yeah. Thought I’d take a look.”->D2S1b]] [[✦ “Oh, you’re here.”->D2S1c]] </div></div>

(set: $lobby_visited to true)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I step into the lobby and look around for a moment. Something about the decor still makes me smile. It feels personalized in a way that makes it feel like it was tailored to the town and owner’s taste in a way I’ve never been able to myself. At least not until now. I don’t see Ramilah, unfortunately. There's another person at the desk I don’t recognize, and they seem busy. I grab some coffee and take a second to decide where to head next. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I kick off my shoes with a sigh. It’s been a long day but not necessarily in a bad way. {(set: $rsa to (abs: $rs)) (set: $ysa to (abs: $ys)) (set: $jsa to (abs: $js)) (set: $fsa to (abs: $fs)) (set: $vsa to (abs: $vs)) (if: $rsa > $ysa and $rsa > $fsa and $rsa > $jsa and $rsa > $vsa)[(set: $path to "Ramilah")] (else-if: $ysa > $rsa and $ysa > $fsa and $ysa > $jsa and $ysa > $vsa)[(set: $path to "Yuke")] (else-if: $fsa > $rsa and $fsa > $ysa and $fsa > $jsa and $fsa > $vsa)[(set: $path to "Fynn")] (else-if: $vsa > $rsa and $vsa > $ysa and $vsa > $fsa and $vsa > $jsa)[(set: $path to "Val")] (else-if: $jsa > $rsa and $jsa > $fsa and $jsa > $ysa and $jsa > $vsa)[(set: $path to "Joel")] (else:)[(set: $path to "None")]} (if: $path is "Ramilah")[Ramilah is sweet, though sometimes it’s a little overwhelming.](else-if: $path is "Fynn")[I feel like I got closer to Fynn. He seems sweet.](else-if: $path is "Yuke")[I feel like Yuke’s nervous around me but she wants to be friends. I think I do too.](else-if: $path is "Val")[I don’t know how I feel about Val, they seem angry and closed off but, after today, I don’t know if I feel safe around them.](else-if: $path is "Joel")[I saw Joel but I didn’t have to listen to him for long.](else:)[I got the space to just be without needing to exist on someone else’s terms.] I look at my phone, still sitting where I left it (if: $phone_charged is true)[plugged in, a light blinking in the top corner.](else:)[dark and most likely dead.] I turn away and head to the bathroom to get ready for bed. My thoughts are focused on the phone as I start brushing my teeth. I think about how Drew will probably continue to try to reach out to me and how each text and call will feel as I deal with them until I can change my number or get a new phone. A realization that feels so obvious it makes me feel like an idiot makes me pause. (if: $phone_charged is true)[I spit out my toothpaste and grab the phone off the bedside table. I sit on the bed and tap the notification bar out of habit more than anything else.](else:)[Toothbrush still in my mouth, I grab my phone and plug it in. I toss it on the bed to charge just enough to turn on, while I finish my routine. When I come back, the phone’s at a solid 10 percent, which is enough for me. I turn it on, anxiously waiting for the boot up process to finish. I leave the phone on the bed and pace awkwardly as I wait, glancing at the screen everytime I hear it buzz. Finally, I see the lock screen come up and I reach for it. Then the messages start to come through. I recoil as my phone seems to constantly vibrate with the influx of messages that tried to come through while it was dead. Taking a deep breath, I wait for the vibrations to stop and sit on the bed. It feels like it takes ages but it's probably only a minute. I pick up the phone and I tap the notification bar for just a second. I’m not sure if it’s a sick curiosity, self-sabotage, or just a habit.] (if: $phone_charged is true and $notifs_cleared is false)[I knew last night I had a lot of messages but I never checked to see how many. Now there are so many that it makes me freeze, the number alone is enough to overwhelm. There’s 84 missed calls, 15 voicemails, 20 texts from Drew, 5 from Mom, 1 from Dad, and twitter and facebook dms from Drew. There’s more after those in the list but they all look unrelated, mostly emails and a few games I hardly play.](else:)[I hesitate as I take in how many notifications are listed. They’ve all stacked due to the amount of them. There’s 26 missed calls, 6 voicemails, 5 texts from Drew, 2 from Mom, and twitter and facebook dms from Drew. There’s more after those in the list but they all look unrelated, mostly emails.] I tap away, hesitating as I think of hitting the clear button at the bottom but deciding to focus on why I grabbed my phone first. Unlocking the phone, I go to contacts and scroll first to Mom. I open her contact and look at the phone for a second. --- [[✦ Block Mom.->D2RHRblock_mom]] [[✦ Don’t.->D2RHR don't block mom]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I hesitate, a little surprised, before heading to her table. (display: "D2HLM2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I point to the coffee station and she nods. I get my cup filled and grab the sugar and cream I want before heading over to her table. (display: "D2HLM2") </div></div>

“Hey, (print: $mc_name)! How was your first day in Haven?” Ramilah asks, motioning for me to sit. --- [[✦ “It was nice. Different.” //Sit.//->D2HLM2a]] [[✦ “Good. Thanks.” //Sit.//->D2HLM2b]] [[✦ “Ok.” //Keep standing.//->D2HLM2c]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“In a good way?” She asks as I take the seat she offered. --- [[✦ “So far, yeah.”->D2HLM2aa]] [[✦ “It doesn’t feel like I should be passing judgment after just one day.”->D2HLM2ab]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“No problem,” she says as I take the seat she offered. (display: "D2HLM3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">She nods, looking a little disappointed I don’t take a seat with her. (display: "D2HLM3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“That’s good!” Ramilah smiles. (display: "D2HLM3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">She nods. “That’s more than fair.” (display: "D2HLM3") </div></div>

She pokes at her breakfast and seems to be looking for the right words to say next. I wait, letting her take the moment she needs. (if:$secret_room is true)[(display: "D2HLM3_sr")](else:)[(display: "D2HLM4")]

“I won’t take up your morning, I just wanted to let you know that I told the rest of the staff that if anyone asks, we’ve never heard of you.” --- [[“Thank you. I…”->D2HLM3_sra]] [[//Nod.//->D2HLM3_srb]] [[“Right, right. Thanks.”->D2HLM3_src]]

“Well, breakfast is open for a bit longer if you want some. The bagels and rolls are baked fresh at a local bakery,” Ramilah says, smiling. --- [[“Thanks, I’ll give them a try.”->D2HLM4a]] [[“Maybe another day, I’m not really hungry yet.”->D2HLM4b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I smile back, and she nods. “Tell me what you think of them. I can show you where the bakery is if you like them.” (display: "D2HLM5") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">She nods. “Ok, no worries. Tell me what you think of them when you try them. I can show you where the bakery is if you like them.” (display: "D2HLM5") </div></div>

There’s a short silence as we both consider what to say next that’s broken by Ramilah’s phone. “Oh, sorry!” She taps the screen. “My alarm.” She lets out a huff. “I’ve got to get going. But, uh…” Ramilah looks at me and seems to consider something before continuing. (if: $path is "Ramilah - Good")[“I’m in room 202 if you need anything and I’m not at the desk. Even if it’s just to talk.” I open my mouth, surprised and about to object, but she waves it away. “I wouldn’t tell you that if I didn’t want to,” she tells me with a bright smile.](else:)[“I’ll see you around, yeah?” “Yeah.” I nod.] Ramilah gathers her plate and stands. With one more smile, she walks toward the elevators. --- [[Grab breakfast.->D2HLM5a]] [[Head out for the day.->D2HLM5b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I stand and grab a plate of food. The hot items are alright but the rolls are really good. Once I’ve eaten, I toss my plate and head for the door. Might as well start my day. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I stand and head for the door. Might as well start my day. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Thank you. I…” I hesitate not really knowing how to put my gratitude into words. Ramilah smiles in a way that comforts me.“Of course. And let me know if you need anything, ok?” I nod, grateful that she seems to understand I don’t have the words right now. (display: "D2HLM4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I nod, rubbing my shoulder. The idea of other people knowing I need help scaring me a little. Maybe Ramilah picks up on my unease, because she smiles at me reassuringly. “Let me know if you need anything else, ok?” I nod again, trying to quash the rest of the fear. (display: "D2HLM4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Right, right. Thanks.” I nod looking at the floor. I don’t like the idea of people I don’t know being told something like that outside of my control, but I logically understand that Ramilah isn’t the only person that works here. She can’t realistically field all the calls that come into the hotel. “Let me know if you need anything else, ok?” Ramilah smiles in a way that comforts me a bit. I nod, swallowing my fear. It’s hard to accept help after all these years but hopefully this is a step in the right direction. (display: "D2HLM4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Yuke nods.(if: $gave_yuke_name is true)[“And that’s (print: $mc_name), right?” She offers me a shaky smile and I smile back trying to calm her nerves. “That’s right.”](else:)[“And what name should I put that under?” She asks, keeping her eyes on the computer system. “(print: $mc_name). (print: $mc_pronouns) by the way.”] I hand her my cash as she tells me the total. When she takes it and hands me my change, I can’t help but notice that Yuke keeps glancing at me. Deciding to ignore it, (if: $tipped_yuke is true)[I drop a tip in the tip jar and head to claim a table.](else:)[I put my change in my wallet and head to claim a table.] I glance around for a moment at the other patrons before pulling out my notebook. I start writing what has happened since the last update and hesitate when I try to think about my strange dream. There’s even less that I remember now, just the sense that it wasn’t a typical dream. I glance up at the shop and see Yuke walking towards me with a drink in her hand. She smiles at me, though it’s a bit shaky. “Hey, uh, your drink,” she holds it up before setting it on the table. --- [[✦ “Thanks.”->D2C2a]] [[✦ “Everything ok?”->D2C2b]] [[✦ “Do you have an issue with me or something?”->D2C2c]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“No problem,” Yuke smiles a bit more confidently. She seems a bit relieved I’m not going to ask. (display: "D2C3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh, uh,” Yuke hesitates, rubbing her arm. “Yeah. Nothing you need to worry about.” She looks at the table and shifts on her feet. (display: "D2C3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Yuke flinches. “No, I, uh,” she pauses, rubbing her arm. “Sorry. I’ll leave you alone.” She hesitates before turning away. --- [[✦ Apologize.->D2C2ca]] [[✦ Let her leave.->D2C2cb]] </div></div>

“Wait,” I shift in my chair as she turns back to me. “I’m sorry.” “That was rude and I shouldn’t have said that. You’re just trying to do something nice for me.” “Oh, uh,” Yuke seems surprised, which makes sense. (if: $rude_to_yuke is false)[I did just snap at her.](else:)[I have been rude to her the last two days.] “I… thanks for apologizing,” she says looking down at the table. “I’m sorry too. Stress is just getting to me.” --- [[✦ “You don’t need to apologize.”->D2C2caa]] [[✦ “You don’t need to explain, life happens.”->D2C2cab]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I take my drink and watch her go back to the counter. I look at my notebook and put it away with a sigh. Taking a sip of my drink, I get up and leave. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“You don’t need to apologize. You’ve done nothing wrong.” An awkward silence settles between us as I try to think of what to say. “So…” () </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“You don’t need to explain, life happens. I get it.” An awkward silence settles between us as I try to think of what to say. “So…” () </div></div>

“How’re you liking Haven?” She asks. --- [[✦ “It’s nice. I’m glad I came.”->D2C3a]] [[✦ “I haven’t seen much of it yet, but I like what I’ve seen.”->D2C3a]] [[✦ “It’s different, not what I’m used to.”->D2C3b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Yuke nods and glances at the window that takes up one of the walls. It’s a good view of the start of downtown and a few people are walking by but it seems like this end is generally quieter. (display: "D2C4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh? In a good way?” Yuke looks genuine and a bit concerned. I nod. “Definitely.” She nods a little. (display: "D2C4") </div></div>

“I’m glad you like it. Small towns aren’t for everyone but Haven’s a good place.” --- [[✦ “Have you lived here long?”->D2C4a]] [[✦ “What’s your favorite part?”->D2C4b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh, I’ve been here for a couple years now. I grew up not far from here and moved here, uh, about four years ago.” (display: "D2C5") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Hm, probably downtown. Specifically how much variety there is in the shops.” “Have you seen any more than this stretch yet?” (if: $downtown_visited is true)[I nod.](else:)[I shake my head.] (display: "D2C5") </div></div>

Yuke opens her mouth to say something else when the bell over the door rings. She turns to look before looking back at me. “Sorry, work calls.” She heads back to the counter. I look down at my notebook. --- [[✦ //Write a note for Yuke.//->D2C5a]] [[✦ //Put it away and head out.//->D2C5b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I quickly write out a note saying that I enjoyed talking to her and that I’d like to talk sometime when she's not at work. I end the note with my phone number. Tearing the note out of my notebook, I stand and walk over to the counter. The customer is still ordering so I drop the note in the tip jar and wave at Yuke before I head out, tucking my notebook back in my pocket. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I put my notebook back in my pocket and stand. As I head out the door, I wave to Yuke. She waves back before turning back to her customer. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I open the door and hear a small bell jingle above my head. I look up to see an old silver bell attached to the top of the door, next to it a string of shapes. “Hey, can I help you?” The person behind the counter calls. I step inside and get a good look at the store. It looks old, like the building should be marked as historic, and there are merchandise sections that are blending into each other. The one by the door is a shelving section that holds different sized crystals, several drawing my eye. “First time?” The worker asks, drawing my attention again. The worker’s short hair is dyed pastel green and they have a piercing in the bridge of their nose. They’re leaning forward, holding themselves up by their elbows with a book in their hands. --- [[✦ “Yeah, I’m new in town.”->D2D1aa]] [[✦ “Oh, uh, I was actually looking for Val?”->D2D2]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The shop is interesting but not enough to make me step inside. I look at the window for a moment longer before continuing on. I see a lot of other interesting shops and almost step into a clothing store that sells clothes I’ve always wanted to wear but have never been able to. But my nerves get the better of me and I talk myself out of it. I get to the end of the main area and, not really interested enough to go in any of the shops, I decide that’s enough here for today. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">The worker nods, only glancing up from the book for a second. “Don’t let the cat out and don’t be fooled, he's an asshole. Let me know if you need help.” I nod and start walking around. I can smell something in the air and as I move further into the store, I can see an incense cone burning in a burner shaped like a tiger. As I look around, I’m also keeping an eye out for Val, or some indication that they’re here. I come to the end of my lap around the store by the jewelry and see a lot of really nice pieces. One of the necklaces hanging on the wall stands out to me. It’s simple, a brown cord wrapped around a cloudy, white crystal, but something about it draws my eyes back to it everytime I try to look at the other pieces. --- [[✦ Buy it.->D2D1aaa]] [[✦ Leave it.->D2D1aab]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I pull out the business card and the worker sighs. “Yeah, one sec,” they stand and put a slip of paper in their book. The counter they’re behind has a curtain behind it that they go through. I look around as I wait, not really knowing what to do. I hear footsteps and try not to stare at the curtain. “Oh, it’s you,” Val says as they step through. The same herb smell from yesterday comes into the shop with them and I can see the flowers in their hair are still fresh. --- [[✦ “Hi, sorry, I just saw you come in and was a little confused about this?”->D2D2a]] [[✦ “What’s a ‘hunter for hire’ mean?”->D2D2b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I take it off the hook and look at it closer. The gem is imperfect but the polish and cut are beautiful. With a small smile I take it up to the counter. The worker looks up and puts a slip of paper in their book. “Just that?” They ask as I set the necklace on the counter. I nod as they start hitting buttons on their register. “Could I wear it?” I ask as they reach for a bag. “Sure, yeah.” They slide it across the counter as I hand them my cash. I put on the necklace as they make change. I leave the shop feeling the weight of the necklace in a way that’s reassuring. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I pull myself away and head toward the door. It’s a beautiful piece but I can’t help but a voice in the back of my head tells me I shouldn’t waste my money. A voice that sounds like my mother. I continue through downtown, looking at shop windows but with a bit less enthusiasm. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I hold up the business card and Val sighs. (display: "D2D_lie") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val rubs their forehead in what looks like a soothing technique for a headache. (display: "D2D_lie") </div></div>

(if: $lied_to_val is true)[“I was really hoping you actually knew what was going on. Should’ve known you were another idiot.” They cross their arms, obviously disappointed in me. ](else:)[“If you don’t know, why should I tell you?” They cross their arms and scowl at me. “I’m not gonna hold your hand.”] --- [[✦ “Sorry, I really don’t know what you mean.”->D2D3]] [[✦ “You handed your card to me.”->D2D3]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val rolls their eyes before leaning forward to put their hands on the counter. Before they can respond, their eyes flick over my shoulder, caught by something behind me and they still. “How..?” They look at me again, expression becoming confused. “Come here.” I look over my shoulder and only see a section of different books and tarot card sets on the wall. --- [[✦ “Uh, what’s going on?” //Step forward.//->D2D3a]] [[✦ “Why?” //Stay where I am.//->D2D3b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I look at Val, taking a step closer to the counter, and they motion for me to come around the counter. (display: "D2D4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I look at Val, nervous and uncomfortable, but staying put. (display: "D2D4") </div></div>

“I’ll explain, just come on.” They hold open the curtain to reveal a hallway. --- [[✦ //Go.//->D2D5]] [[✦ “No, sorry, but I need a little more than that to follow you.”->D2D4a]] [[✦ “No. I need to know why before I go anywhere.”->D2D4a]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I step around the counter and behind the curtain. I stop immediately on the other side and look at Val, waiting for an explanation. Val steps past and starts walking down the hall. They stop at the first doorway and look back at me with a sigh. “Fuck,” they growl, just loud enough that I can hear. “Ok, short version is that something’s attached itself to you and whatever it is is dangerous. It can’t come back here. You have two options; come with me and let me figure out what it is and how to unattach it, or you turn around and leave.” Val crosses their arms and leans against the doorframe. --- [[✦ “What do you mean, ‘something’?”->D2D5a]] [[✦ “Attached?”->D2D5b]] [[✦ “And if I leave?”->D2D5c]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val glares at me, eyes glancing back to the section of books every so often. “Just,” they cut themselves off and take a breath. “I just need you to step past the threshold.” --- [[✦ //Go.//->D2D5]] [[✦ “Why?”->D2D4aa]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val pinches the bridge of their nose and mutters something. “Either get in here or leave. I can’t have you in the shop,” they say, looking behind me rather than at me. --- [[✦ //Go behind the curtain.//->D2D5]] [[✦ “Fine, bye then.”->D2D4aaa]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I turn and start towards the door. “Don’t come back,” Val calls. I leave without responding and sigh. After that, I’m not interested in downtown anymore. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Something, I don’t know what yet,” they grumble. --- [[✦ “You don’t have any idea?”->D2D5aa]] [[✦ “You know that’s not helpful, right?”->D2D5ab]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Yes, attached. Sometime yesterday,” they push off the doorframe. “Did anything strange happen yesterday?” --- [[✦ “Not really.”->D2D5ba]] [[✦ “You mean besides you handing me your business card?”->D2D5bb]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“You’re on your own. I can’t offer anything unless you come downstairs and let me take a look.” They glare at me. --- [[✦ “You realize you’re not making me want to follow you?”->D2D5ca]] [[✦ “And how do I know you’re telling the truth?”->D2D5cb]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val sighs again. “I could guess but I don’t know for sure and don’t have enough information.” (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val rolls their eyes. “I’m not here to hold your hand. Just to make sure you don’t get killed.” (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I think through what I did yesterday and the only strangeness was Val and Joel really. But even just being here is abnormal so I’m not sure what would be normal here. (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val rolls their eyes. (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“I don’t really care.” Val pushes off the door frame and takes a step closer. “But if you walk out that door, then you can’t come back. And I won’t help someone who doesn’t want it.” (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val shrugs. “Your choice.” Val pushes off the door frame and takes a step closer. “But if you walk out that door, then you can’t come back. And I won’t help someone who doesn’t want it.” (display: "D2D6") </div></div>

Val shifts, turning in the doorframe. “Look, you have your options. Now choose.” --- [[✦ “I can’t just follow you into your basement blindly.”->D2D6a]] [[✦ “Fine, I’ll come with you.”->D2D6b]] [[✦ “No, sorry, but I’m leaving.”->D2D6c]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Ok, then leave.” They motion towards the curtain. “I can’t give you information I don’t have.” I hesitate for a moment, glancing between them and the curtain. Val looks at me, not offering anything else. --- [[✦ “Fine. Alright.” //Go with them.//->D2D6b]] [[✦ “Fine.” //Leave.//->D2D6aa]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val nods and, without another word, starts down the stairs just past the doorway. I hesitate a moment before following them down the stairs. They’re old, hardwood that’s warped in places to curve down in the center, which forces me to focus on my steps down to keep my balance. When I reach the bottom, Val waves for me to follow them into a large room. Two of the walls are large bookshelves that are full of worn books. Val steps over to the opposite wall from the stairs where a desk sits, covered in more books and papers. They grab something off the desk and move toward the center, stopping just outside of a large circle drawn on the floor in white. “Stand there,” they say, pointing to a spot in the center of the circle. --- [[✦ “What is this?”->D2D7]] [[✦ “Why?”->D2D7]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Bye,” they say, motioning towards the curtain. “Try to stay alive for more than a few days.” Val turns and heads down the stairs just past the doorway. I head back out through the curtain and see the worker behind the counter reading again. They glance up at me. “Hope you didn’t piss them off,” they say, eyes already back on their book. I barely register the bell over the door as I leave, trying to work out if I made the right choice. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val glares at me. “If you want answers, do as I say.” --- [[✦ Step into the circle.->D2D8]] [[✦ “Ok, whatever.”->D2D7a]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I turn and walk back into the shop. The worker’s behind the counter again, back to reading. They glance up at me. “Hope you didn’t piss them off,” they say, eyes already back on their book. I barely register the bell over the door as I leave, trying to work out if I made the right choice. (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I step inside the circle, stopping in the center. Val nods and draws something on the edge of the circle with a piece of chalk. “Stay there. Don’t try to step out of the circle,” they say as they step away and roll a full length mirror over to me. They’ve positioned it so I’m looking at myself in the reflection. They move back to the desk and pick up one of the books. I hesitate, wondering if I can ask anymore questions without them snapping at me, and Val starts muttering something from the book. They’re staring at the mirror so I look over and watch as my reflection ripples. I see my reflection standing in the foyer of my parents house in my wedding dress/suit. I take a step back and the image changes again. (if: $path contains "Ramilah")[I’m in the hotel with Ramilah standing just behind my left shoulder.](else-if: $path contains "Fynn")[I’m at the lake with Fynn just behind my left shoulder.](else-if: $path contains "Yuke")[I’m in the coffee shop with Yuke just behind my left shoulder.](else-if: $path contains "Val")[I’m in the shop upstairs with Val just behind my left shoulder.](else:)[I’m in the church with Joel just behind my right shoulder.] I glance behind me, double checking that I didn’t move, and only see the stairs that lead upstairs. Looking back at the mirror, the image has changed a third time. Behind my reflection is a void of darkness, a space that looks entirely empty until it shifts and two black, clawed hands reach out to grasp my shoulders from behind. I jolt as I feel the weight of them on my shoulder. Before I can do anything, one of the hands slides up my shoulder to hold my neck. At first the hand just rests there before I feel it tighten. My breathing gets cut off as I watch a face start to become clear in the darkness. The eyes are white and familiar and the smile shows off rows of sharpened teeth. I try to grab at the hand but can’t get a hold of anything. My vision starts to darken and the mirror cracks. Suddenly, the pressure disappears and I fall to the ground. I sputter trying to get a good breath but my throat burns. I can hear a voice but can’t really hear the words it’s saying. Something touches my back and I flinch away. Val’s kneeling over me, hands held out, not touching me again but there. “Deep breath, come on,” they say, a fear laced through their voice. I try to focus on breathing with them and feel my nerves settling. “Shit,” Val sighs once I’ve taken several deep breaths in a row without coughing, “how the fuck did you get yourself a demon in a day?” I watch them stand and move over to the desk again. --- [[✦ “Sorry, did you just… Demon?”->D2D9]] [[✦ “What the hell was that?!”->D2D9]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“If you’re going to keep asking questions and fighting me on this, just leave.” --- [[✦ Step into the circle.->D2D8]] [[✦ “Alright, fine. Bye.”->D2D6aa]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val ignores me, rifling through the piles on their desk. --- [[✦ //Try to stand.//->D2D9a]] [[✦ “I kind of need an answer.”->D2D9b]] [[✦ “Val. What the hell was that?”->D2D9c]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I’m still shaking but I don’t know if I want to be here anymore. There are so many questions and Val hasn’t given me any answers yet. I try to get to my feet but my limbs feel like they’re asleep and I stumble, falling back down. Val glances over but quickly goes back to looking for something. “Don’t try to get up yet,” they say over their shoulder. I sit and put my head on my knees, trying to focus on my breathing. (display: "D2D10") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Hold on, just,” they say without looking over. I shift so I can sit with my head on my knees, trying to focus on my breathing. (display: "D2D10") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Hold on, just,” they say without looking over. “No, what the hell is going on? I was just, I don’t even know! What was that?” I run a hand through my hair, trying to calm down. “You keep saying you have answers but I was fine before I walked in here.” I’m shaking but I try to stand. My limbs feel like they’re asleep and I manage to get balanced on two legs. As soon as I take a step though, I end up on the ground again. Val sighs, not turning but pausing in their search. “You were not fine. You were ignorant,” they say, posture tense. (display: "D2D10") </div></div>

“That was a demon. I couldn’t tell what kind with how hidden it was, but it’s attached itself to you. I’m not sure why. It’s early enough I might be able to untether it,” Val says, staring at something on the desk. They look up from the desk but still don’t turn around. “For now, I’ll give you a protective charm.” They pull something out of the top drawer and hold it for a moment. When they turn around, their face is neutral in a way that doesn’t fit their earlier tone. --- [[✦ “For now?”->D2D10a]] [[✦ “You can’t get rid of it now?”->D2D10b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val nods, stepping over to me and handing me a necklace. (display: "D2D11") </div></div>

(set: $vs to $vs - 1)<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Val shakes their head, stepping over to me and handing me a necklace. (display: "D2D11") </div></div>

“I’ll need some materials I don’t have right now. I should be able to get them by tomorrow.” I take the necklace, not really looking at it. “What’s your number so I can let you know?” They ask. --- [[✦ “Uh, anyway I could call you instead?”->D2D11a]] [[✦ “I don’t exactly have a phone right now.”->D2D11b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I know I’m pushing off deciding if I’ll use my phone until later by asking, but I’m not going to make that decision right now after that. Val looks at me for a moment before nodding. (display: "D2D12") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">It’s not exactly a lie and I might as well just get a new phone to prevent things like this. Val frowns like they don’t believe me. (display: "D2D12") </div></div>

“Call the number on that business card tomorrow morning and I’ll let you know if I have everything,” they tell me, holding out their hand. --- [[✦ //Accept.//->D2D12a]] [[✦ //Try to stand on your own.//->D2D12b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I take their hand and Val helps me to my feet with little trouble. (display: "D2D13") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I start to stand on my own and am able to get up without help. (display: "D2D13") </div></div>

“You should put that on and go straight home or wherever you’re staying.” They gesture to the necklace. “If you don’t think you can get back, tell Shep to take you.” --- [[✦ //Nod.//->D2D13a]] [[✦ “Shep?”->D2D13b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I nod and start towards the stairs. (display: "D2D14") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“The person with green hair,” Val says with a dismissive wave. They move over to the desk and seem to be focused on the thing they found earlier. I head over to the stairs. (display: "D2D14") </div></div>

At the foot of the stairs, I take one last look around the space. Val’s leaning over the desk and the space feels darker somehow. The mirror is cracked diagonally and I can’t help but shiver looking at it. I make it upstairs without issue, but my head feels like it's going to explode. --- [[✦ Shep ends up taking me back to the hotel.->Day 2: Return to Hotel Room]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I’ve been stuck in one place for so long. I want to explore and see what’s out there. Maybe, someday, I’ll come back to Haven or I’ll fall in love with somewhere else. Either way, I want to see other places and meet new people. (display: "D2P2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I’ve been journaling since I was a kid and it’s always felt like something that could keep me stable–as much as I could be anyway. I could experiment with different things; format, genre, even the truth. Maybe even start a blog or look at publishing. (display: "D2P2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I was homeschooled for so long that I know there has to be gaps in my knowledge. I did enjoy learning in a lot of ways, maybe I could try to bridge the gaps. School or tutoring might be the simplest way to start but if I find out something that interests me I could dive into it myself. (display: "D2P2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I don’t really know what I’d want to do right now. The question seems so big but not exactly scary. It’s kind of freeing. I finally have time and space to figure out what I want to do and who I want to be. (display: "D2P2") </div></div>

I feel like my life could take a hundred different directions and there’s no wrong choice. The path circles around and, as I come back to the entrance, I feel refreshed. --- (display: "Change Location")

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I press a hand to my chest trying to calm my body. Closing my eyes, I take a breath to try to steady myself before looking back at Fynn. He’s lifted his hands as though to show me he’s not a threat. “Sorry. That’s my fault.” He offers a smile that’s both apologetic and reassuring. “I saw you walk up and thought you might need something.” (display: "D2L2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh,” I breathe out, taking another deep breath to try to steady myself. “Hey, it’s nice to see you too.” I cross my arms over my chest, hoping I don’t seem pathetic for reacting with panic. “Sorry I scared you,” he pauses, rubbing his neck, “I saw you walk up and thought you might need something.” (display: "D2L2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Fynn,” I breathe out, taking another deep breath to try to steady myself. “Please don’t scare me like that.” I run a hand through my hair and cross my arms over my chest. I’m relieved that it’s him but the shock made me unsure what to do with my hands. “Sorry I scared you,” he pauses, rubbing his neck, “I saw you walk up and thought you might need something.” (display: "D2L2") </div></div>

His apology feels sincere and he hasn’t come any closer, still standing at the end of the pier, like he’s trying to ensure I don’t feel any more stress. --- [[✦ “Right, yeah. I saw some paddle boats yesterday.”->D2L2a]] [[✦ “Oh, no. I just didn’t want to be in the hotel all day.”->D2L2b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Right, yeah. I saw some paddle boats yesterday. Are those available or just for special occasions?” I ask, glancing around at the shore line. “Sort of, yeah.” Fynn nods, taking a step closer but keeping to the side of the pier so he doesn’t block me in. (display: "D2L2a_fin") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh, no. I just didn’t want to be in the hotel all day.” I look back at the water. “Figured some fresh air would be better.” Fynn nods with a smile, taking a step closer but keeping to the side of the pier so he doesn’t block me in. “Makes sense. Any plans or just enjoying the view?” --- [[✦ “I had come looking for the paddle boats, but I don’t see them.”->D2L2ba]] [[✦ “Just the view for now.”->D2L2bb]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Ah, sorry,” Fynn offers an apologetic smile. (display: "D2L2a_fin") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I glance out over the water as a flock of ducks land on the still surface. Fynn’s smiling at them when I look back. “It can be breathtaking sometimes,” he says, not looking away as they start paddling along. I nod and watch them swim for a moment with him, enjoying the silence for a moment. (display: "D2L3") </div></div>

“The vendor isn’t really affiliated with the park, they just pay a permit to rent them out here. So they only come out on weekends and days it’s guaranteed to be busy.” I nod, a little disappointed. “But if you want to go out on the lake,” Fynn adds quickly. “You can rent row boats, canoes, and kayaks from us anytime the park is open.” I smile a bit. “That sounds good, but maybe next time.” Rowing seems like a bit more exercise than I was planning for today. (display: "D2L3")

“How are you liking Haven so far?” Fynn asks with an easy going smile. --- [[✦ “It’s nice. I’m glad I came.”->D2L3a]] [[✦ “I haven’t seen much of it yet, but I like what I’ve seen.”->D2L3b]] [[✦ “It’s different, not what I’m used to.”->D2L3c]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Fynn beams, rocking on his feet a little, like hearing I like Haven made him excited. “That’s good to hear.” (display: "D2L4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">He nods, smile widening. “That’s fair, there’s so much under the surface here.” (display: "D2L4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Good different? Or bad different?” His voice doesn’t hold any judgment, just curiosity. --- [[✦ “Good.”->D2L3ca]] [[✦ “I don’t think I can say yet, just different.”->D2L3cb]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I say it without hesitating and Fynn beams. “I’m glad.” (display: "D2L4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Fynn nods. “Fair enough. Let me know what you decide, though.” (display: "D2L4") </div></div>

“I’ve never been able to travel, so I like hearing what others’ opinions on Haven are.” His eyes seem a bit sad as he looks out over the water of the lake.“Sure, Haven isn’t one of a kind due to some attraction or destination and a lot of people use it as a pit stop. But it’s still one of a kind.” Fynn looks at me and seems to realize what he’s just said. “Sorry, I sound like a postcard.” --- [[✦ “No, I get it.”->D2L5]] [[✦ “Just a little. Doesn’t mean it’s not true.”->D2L5]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I smile, trying to reassure him, and he smiles back. “So, what’s Haven for you? A pit stop or the destination?” I hesitate, looking out over the water again. “I haven’t really decided yet,” --- [[✦ “I’d like to make it the destination.”->D2L6]] [[✦ “If it’s a pit stop, though, I’ll be back around.”->D2L6]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I hear the boards of the pier creak as Fynn moves. “Can I ask, what’s holding you back?” His voice is low, like he doesn’t want to overstep and spook me. --- [[✦ “Fear.”->D2L6a]] [[✦ “Sorry, I don’t really want to talk about that right now.”->D2L6b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I cross my arms, trying not to think too much about my situation. “A lot of fear.” “Do you want to talk about it?” I take a breath and shake my head. (display: "D2L7") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(display: "D2L7") </div></div>

“Got it. No worries,” Fynn says, tone serious. I look over and he’s watching me, not with any judgment, but with concern. I give him a small smile, appreciating the space. “Hey, Fynn!” I hear a voice call from behind me. Fynn and I look over to see someone I don’t recognize waving him over. Fynn flinches a little and looks at me apologetically. “Ah, sorry. That’s my boss.” He starts walking backwards off the pier. “I need to see what he needs but I’ll see you around, right?” --- [[✦ “Yeah.”->D2L7a]] [[✦ “I’m not going anywhere yet.”->D2L7b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“See you soon, (print: $mc_name),” Fynn smiles with a wave before turning and jogging over to his boss. Alone again, I turn back to the water and take a seat on the edge of the pier. The breeze is cool but not cold as I watch the ducks swim through the water. --- (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I smile at him, trying to project some confidence. “Good,” Fynn smiles back before turning and jogging over to his boss. Alone again, I turn back to the water and take a seat on the edge of the pier. The breeze is cool but not cold as I watch the ducks swim through the water. --- (display: "Change Location") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I’m a bit disappointed that he’s here. He was pretty creepy when we met and I don’t want to be around him any longer than I need to be. Hopefully, he’ll take the hint and I can get some space from him. “Come in, come in!” He keeps ushering me in until I step inside. (display: "D2S2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I’m a bit disappointed that he’s here. He was pretty creepy when we met and I don’t want to be around him any longer than I need to be. Hopefully, I can get away and take a look around on my own. “Yes! Of course!” He keeps ushering me in until I step inside. (display: "D2S2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I was hoping he wouldn’t be here right now–maybe passing out more pamphlets on the street–so I wouldn’t have to see him while I took a look around. “Yes, I am.” He smiles with his teeth and takes my arm to pull me inside. I step in and pull my arm away. --- [[“Don’t touch me.”->D2S1ca]] [[“Please don’t touch me.”->D2S1ca]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(display: "D2S2") </div></div>

Before I can say anything else, Joel closes the door behind me and says, “let me give you a tour!” --- [[✦ “I’m ok.”->D2S2a]] [[✦ “Thanks, but I’d like to look around on my own if that’s ok.”->D2S2b]] [[✦ “No.”->D2S2c]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“I insist.” He smiles, though it doesn’t quite reach his eyes, and I feel like refusing further would be rude. (display: "D2S3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Please, I insist.” He smiles and I feel like refusing further would be rude. (display: "D2S3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“I insist.” His smile is wide but doesn’t reach his eyes and it seems cold. It feels like there’s an undefined threat in his expression. (display: "D2S3") </div></div>

I glance around trying to see if there’s anyone else in the building, hoping at the very least that there are potential witnesses if something happens. Luckily, there are a few people milling around so I feel just a little bit safer. Joel seems to take my silence as agreement. “This is the foyer and community area.” He gestures to the entryway, a long hall that leads to a grand looking double door. Two doors lead off the sides of the hall with one close to the entrance and the other closer to the grand door. “This door is to our children’s area,” he says, pointing to the door closer to the entrance, and starts walking down the hall. “All of the decorations were done by our little ones.” I see different paper cutouts of crosses, doves, and apples taped up on the wall just outside the children’s area with crayon and colored pencil covering them. There are several that are just scribbled on while most seem to be neatly colored, even if the colors are clashing or strange combinations. Joel starts walking down the hall talking about the bulletin boards and how their events have brought joy to the community. I nod along, tuning him out as I look around for myself. When we get to the end of the hall, I look at the double doors and see that above them is a semi-circle of stained glass. It has a lot of the same colors as the face of the building but this one seems to show a sunrise. I glance back at the entrance and try to see if the window is any different from this side. As far as I can tell, it's still not something that makes an image, just a mass of colors. “And this is the main hall of worship!” Joel’s voice grabs my attention as he opens the double doors wide. The hall we step into is enormous, with a ceiling easily 20 feet high. The pews could probably fit most of the town. --- [[✦ “It’s so big.”->D2S3a]] [[✦ “Why so much space?”->D2S3b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">Joel smiles. “Of course! We can’t leave anyone without a place to worship!” (display: "D2S4") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Why would we not have the space? All who worship need a place and we will not turn them away.” (display: "D2S4") </div></div>

I nod like that makes perfect sense, not wanting to ask more questions. Walking further in, I look around and see that there are a few people in the pews with their heads lowered. A few others are moving around cleaning or coming and going. It feels strange for there to be this handful of people here but I never really went to church before so I wouldn’t know how many people tend to come at any given time. At the front, there’s a podium with a green cloth draped over it and a set up of candles just in front of it. “I’ll leave you for a moment of peace,” Joel says, putting a hand on my shoulder before he turns and walks out of the hall. I rub my arm, trying to forget how the weight of his hand felt, and sit in the nearest pew. There’s a near silence in the hall that feels calming. --- [[✦ //Let the calm in.//->D2S4a]] [[✦//Think about the past.//->D2S4b]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I take a deep breath, closing my eyes, and let the silence muffle my thoughts until I’m focused only on my breathing and relaxing. I spend a moment just taking stock of my body–the tension in my back, the slight ache of my feet from walking–and don’t think about anything beyond it, just how I can make myself most comfortable right now. After a few moments, I open my eyes. I feel refreshed and calmer than I have in a while. It feels like I can look at my situation with a clearer head after taking that moment to myself. I stand and take a look around. The hall seems quieter, the few of the people that were cleaning are gone and everyone still here seems to be in a similar gentle calm I just experienced. Maybe if I can avoid Joel, I can come back for some more clarity. (display: "D2S5") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I start thinking about the last few days, (if: $voicemails_listened is true)[about how angry Drew sounded.](else-if: $texts_read is true)[about how upset Drew was in those texts.](else:)[about how upset Drew probably is.] I try to focus on my feelings instead but years of dismissal makes it a struggle. My mind keeps sliding away from my reactions and onto how upset he seemed. I wonder how (if: $drew_pronouns contains "hey")[they](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "her")[she](else:)[he] and my parents explained my sudden absence. They probably tried to save face and that assumption just makes me unbelievably tired. I rub my forehead and close my eyes for a second. Would it be easier just to go back? Opening my eyes, I ignore the question for now and stand up. The hall seems busier, the few quiet noises I had barely registered before are now impossible for me to ignore. Despite the vastness of the space, I feel pressed in on by some invisible force. (display: "D2S5") </div></div>

I head to the double doors and open them as quietly as I can, trying not to add more sound to the space. I get back outside without seeing Joel again, which is a blessing. --- (display: "Change Location")

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I frown at the phone and close the contact. I can’t do that to her. Not yet at least. I scroll to Drew’s contact and take a breath. --- [[✦ Block Drew.->D2RHR block drew]] [[✦ Don’t.->D2RHR don't block drew]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I tap the block button and close the contact. Quickly, before I can think about it, I scroll to Dad’s contact and do the same with his. I scroll to Drew’s contact and hesitate for a second. --- [[✦ Block Drew.->D2RHR block drew]] [[✦ Don’t.->D2RHR don't block drew]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I hit the block button and drop the phone on the bed. I huff a breath out and stand up, needing to move. I pace around the room for a second, rubbing my arms. “Hoooh, my god,” I say to myself, as I start running through the potential consequences. (if: $drew_pronouns contains "They")[They are](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "She")[She is](else:)[He is] going to be so mad at me. What (if: $drew_pronouns contains "They")[are they](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "She")[is she](else:)[is he] going to do? Try to find me? I stop next to the bed, trying to stop that train of thought, and grab the tv remote from the bedside table. Moving the phone to the table, I collapse on the bed and start looking for something to watch. I settle on a movie I’d seen before and stare at the screen, trying to be interested in the characters until I [[fall asleep->Day 2: Sleep]]. </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I drop the phone on the bed, feeling overwhelmed and upset at myself for not having the courage to hit a button. But I can’t get the thought of (if: $drew_pronouns contains "They")[them](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "She")[her](else:)[jim] trying to find me out of my head. If I block (if: $drew_pronouns contains "They")[them](else-if: $drew_pronouns contains "She")[her](else:)[him], what’s to say that won’t make everything worse. I fall back on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Eventually, I sit up and switch the tv remote for my phone. I settle in bed and turn it on for noise more than anything else. I settle on a movie I’d seen before and stare at the screen, trying to be interested in the characters until I [[fall asleep->Day 2: Sleep]]. </div></div>

(if: $path is "Ramilah")[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Ramilah")](else-if: $path is "Fynn")[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Fynn")](else-if: $path is "Val")[(if: $vs > 0)[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Val - Good")](else:)[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Val - Bad")]](else-if: $path is "Joel")[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Joel")](else:)[(if: $ys > 0)[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Yuke - Good")](else:)[(display: "Day 2 Dream: Yuke - Good")]]

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I open my eyes to see a fire flickering in front of me. I’m sitting on a log in the woods with Ramilah sitting next to me. She’s roasting a marshmallow and sitting close enough to be in my space but not to touch. Something about her presence feels reassuring and safe. --- [[✦ “Thanks for making the fire.”->D2DRa]] [[✦ “I’ve never had a s’more before.”->D2DRb]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I smile and she smiles back. “Of course,” she says it like there was no question that she would help. We sit in silence for a bit as she takes the marshmallow off the stick with a graham cracker and tops it with a piece of chocolate and a second cracker. “Here.” Ramilah leans in just a bit to hand me the smore. I hesitate in accepting it, not sure if the cracker will be hot. She smiles and adds, “It’s best if you leave it for a second so the chocolate melts a little.”// (display: "D2DR2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//The realization is out of my mouth before I really consider saying it and I feel embarrassed for a moment. “Well, it’s time to change that,” Ramilah says in a way that’s matter of fact and without judgment. I watch as she slides the marshmallow onto a graham cracker and tops it with the chocolate and the second cracker. “It’s best if you leave it for a second so the chocolate melts a little,” she tells me as she hands it to me.// (display: "D2DR2") </div></div>

//I smile as she puts another marshmallow on the stick. The silence settles over us again and I hear the sounds of animals nearby in the night. It’s peaceful, with no expectations, only a fire, s’mores, and some good company. Darkness seems to creep in around the fire and for a moment, I think it’s the fire dying, but it moves faster and faster until my vision is taken over by black. “Well, this is interesting,” a voice says all around me. “I may be able to get a two for one with this.” [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner"> <div class="center">✦✦✦</div> <div class="center"><span class="bigger">(transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 2s)[''To ''](transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 4s)[''Be ''](transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 6s)[''Con''](transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 8s)[''tin''](transition: "fade")+(t8n-time: 10s)[''ued'']</span></div> <div class="center">✦✦✦</div> </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I’m sitting with Fynn in the sand. He’s telling me about some of the species that live in the lake with excitement, hands moving rapidly as he talks. “Oh!” He stops and reaches for a pocket in his jacket. “I almost forgot, I got you something.” --- [[✦ “What? What do you mean?”->D2DF2]] [[✦ “You… got me something?”->D2DF2]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//“It’s just something small I found,” he says, pulling out a little box. “It just reminded me of you.” He hands the box to me, smiling at me. I take it and look between him and the box. Fynn nods and I pull the top off. Inside is a small pink and purple stone. “It’s agate,” Fynn tells me. “Sometimes crystals appear on the shore or bottom of the lake. Agate seems to be the most common one but I couldn’t tell you why.” I gently pick up the agate and it’s smooth in my hand. I smile and turn it over in my hand. “Thank you.” I look up to him, not really sure what to say. “I, uh, actually have something for you too.” I pull a small keychain I found in a local store out of my pocket. “It’s not wrapped or anything.” “Don’t worry about that,” Fynn says, beaming at me. I hand him the key chain and watch his eyes light up as he takes in the little metal axolotl figure. He holds it up to the light. “This is so good!” I smile rubbing the agate with my thumb. “I’m glad you like it.” “Some of the things y’all think up there on the surface are amazing.” He’s turning it in his hands, like he needs to memorize all the details. As he says it, I can’t help but take a look around and remember that we’re sitting at the bottom of the lake. Underwater. I look back at him and can see his mouth moving, but there’s no sound. Black starts to cloud my vision and I try to blink it away but it just moves in further and further, until I can’t see anything. “Well this is interesting,” a voice says all around me. I feel like there’s something watching me but I can only see darkness. “Something for another day, perhaps. I’m much more interested in you.” [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//For a moment, I feel myself falling. It feels like time stretches as I try to turn in the air to land in a way that won’t hurt. I hit the ground on my back and let out a grunt, more from the shock of landing than pain. “Don’t be a baby about it,” someone over me says. I open my eyes and see Val holding their hand out to me to help me up. “Come on, you need to know how to take a hit just as much as throwing one.” --- [[✦ Take their hand.->D2DVG1a]] [[✦ Get up on my own.->D2DVG1b]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I take their hand, letting them pull me to my feet, and rub my back for a moment. It will be one big bruise tomorrow.// (display: "D2DVG2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//With a huff, I stand, ignoring their hand as I rub my back. Val rolls their eyes but doesn’t address it. // (display: "D2DVG2") </div></div>

//“Remember, feet apart, knees bent, hands up,” they list as I shift back into a fighting stance. Val grabs my wrists, forcing my hands higher. “If you can’t get the basics down, I can’t bring you with me. I need to be sure you won’t die.” --- [[✦ “I can get it.”->D2DVG2a]] [[✦ “Right, so you’ve said.”->D2DVG2b]]//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(display: "D2DVG3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//“And I’ll keep saying it until you can get this down.”// (display: "D2DVG3") </div></div>

//“Getting a hunter’s license isn’t easy and it’s dangerous work.” Val hesitates, letting go of my wrists and taking a step back. Their voice lowers to almost a whisper as they add, “you can still help in other ways. Archiving, research…” --- [[✦ “This is where I want to help.”->D2DVG4]] [[✦ “You’re repeating yourself again.”->D2DVG4]] [[✦ “I already made my choice, I’m not changing my mind.”->D2DVG4]]//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Val sighs, reaching up to rub at their forehead in a way that’s familiar now. I can see their mouth moving as they meet my eyes again but I can’t hear any words. “Huh?” I ask, but Val doesn’t seem to hear me. They shift into their stance and my vision starts to black out at the edges. As they throw a punch, my vision blacks out. I blink into the darkness but it’s just inky black. “So that brat’s still around?” A voice says all around me. “No bother, they’ll be dealt with later.” [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I’m unpacking boxes at my new apartment when I hear a knock at the door. I head over and look out the peephole. As soon as I catch a glimpse of the figure on the other side, the door explodes inwards, hitting me with enough force to knock me to the ground. The figure is on top of me before I can move, a knife held over me, aimed at my throat. I grab their wrists, stopping the knife but unable to push it back. “For God’s sake, Val!” I shout, trying to get out from under them. Val pulls their hands up, trying to get them free of my grip, but I hold tight. --- [[✦ “I can’t get a security deposit back if you keep kicking my doors in!”->D2DVB2]] [[✦ “I just got here! At least let me unpack!”->D2DVB2]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//(if: $ap > 3)[I shift, trying to get them off me, and my grip slips. Val wrenches their hands free and brings the knife down towards my throat. I watch as their hands bring it closer in slow motion, darkness creeping in on my vision. I feel the blade’s press just before I’m plunged in darkness. A voice all around me tsks as though disappointed. “This can’t continue.”](else:)[I shift, rolling to get on top of them, and trap their hands on the ground. “I’m just trying to live my life! I haven’t done shit to you or anyone else!” I can see Val’s mouth moving as they say something but I can’t hear anything. Darkness moves in from the edges of my vision and I’m suddenly unable to see anything either. “Can’t have you learning anything too soon, little one,” a voice says all around me.] [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I’m standing in the hall of worship of the church among the pews. There are several people scattered around me but I’m at the front row and everyone else is behind me. They’re all chanting something and many have their arms raised in the air. I look to the person in the row behind me, about to ask what’s going on, when the doors at the back of the hall open. Joel walks in, flanked by two others. All three are wearing clergy robes but Joel’s are white while the two others wear black. Joel’s hands are held out in front of him, palms up, and something is dripping from them as he takes each step. The liquid looks almost black, but where it falls on his white robes it blooms red. As he gets closer, I can smell metal and realize it’s blood. Joel’s blood. He gets to the front, stepping up onto the raised area, and the chant swells. Something about the air feels charged, like the room is full of static electricity. --- [[✦ “What the fuck.”->D2DJ1a]] [[✦ Keep watching.->D2DJ1b]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I watch in stunned silence, not entirely comprehending what is happening.// (display: "D2DJ2") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I move towards the raised area, looking for anyone else that sees how messed up this is. “What are you doing? He’s going to die!” Before I can make it more than a step closer, the clergy flanking Joel move towards me.// (display: "D2DJ2") </div></div>

--- // [[✦ Leave.->D2DJ2a]] [[✦ Stop this.->D2DJ2b]]//

//Still chanting, they grab me and force me to the front. Joel smiles as they force me to my knees in front of him. He reaches to the pedestal, considering something I can’t see, before picking up a dagger. (if: $ap > 3)[I struggle against the hold of the clergy behind me but they hold strong. My vision begins to black out at the edges as Joel brings the dagger to my neck. I watch his mouth move, forming words, but the sound is gone. I feel the blade’s press just before I’m plunged in darkness. A voice all around me tsks as though disappointed. “This can’t continue.”](else:)[I struggle against the hold of the clergy and feel my hands come free. They reach for me again but I slip by and rush to the door at the end of the hall. The chant stutters as several people stop to try and grab me but I shake off their holds. I crash through the door and charge to the front door when I see it’s free of obstacles. The hall begins to grow longer and, with every step forward, my vision gets darker and darker. When all I see is black, I finally stop running. “You certainly are growing,” a voice says all around me. “Though this is a cause for concern.”] [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]//

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I walk to the end of the pew, not about to stick around any more. Before I can make it down the center walkway, two of the chanters at the end of their rows step out in my way. (display: "D2DJ3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">I move towards the raised area, looking for anyone else that sees how messed up this is. “What are you doing? He’s going to die!” Before I can make it more than a step closer, the clergy flanking Joel move towards me. (display: "D2DJ3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//I open my eyes after what feels like no time at all and I’m sitting in the coffee shop. The lights are on all the way again but rather than banishing shadows to the corners of the space, the shadows crowd the edges. It makes the shop feel smaller and cramped. (if: $d1_dream is "YG")[The same figure that’s not quite Yuke sits across the table from me, clawed fingers drumming on the tabletop. “Hello again,” she says with a sharp smile. The dream I struggled to remember during the day is now clear in my head and I remember meeting her yesterday.](else:)[Across from me is a figure that looks like Yuke but not quite. The details are off, like someone’s drawn her from memory. She’s drumming her fingertips on the table and I look down, the movement and sound drawing my eyes, only to see black hands that aren’t human. The fingers are stretched and come to a sharp point that looks like it could cut through skin easily. “Welcome, little one,” Not-Yuke says with a smile that’s full of pointed teeth. I open my mouth, questions burning on my tongue, when something makes me pause. It feels like someone’s shouting at me from the other room. Telling me that this is a dream and I should try not to speak to this figure.] --- [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY1a]] [[✦ “What are you?”->D2DY1b]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//“Booo,” she says as I close my mouth. “Come on, play a little. It will be so dull if we just sit here all night.” Not-Yuke leans forward, seeming to stretch across the table much farther than she should be able to. “You’re lucky tonight, child. But that luck is running out.” She’s leaning into my face and I can see that her eyes have been blacked out. I can’t help but lean back, trying to keep any distance I can. Not-Yuke settles back in her chair watching me for a moment. “How about this, little one,” she says, smile curling into a smirk. “I’ll give you a bread crumb that may just help you get started.” --- [[✦ “What do you get out of this?”->D2DY1aa]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY1ab]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//“Yes, yes, you have questions,” Not-Yuke waves her hand like she’s clearing the air. “If you want answers so desperately, you’ll need to gain them another way.” She leans forward like she’s sharing a secret. --- [[✦ “How?”->D2DY1ba]] [[✦ “Why can’t you just-”->D2DY1bb]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY1bc]]// </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Not-Yuke chuckles to herself. “Just a bit of amusement.” “Regardless, just ask Yuke why she moved to Haven.” --- [[✦ “That’s it?”->D2DY2a]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY2b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Really? Nothing?” She sighs, tapping her fingers. “Regardless, just ask Yuke why she moved to Haven.” --- [[✦ “That’s it?”->D2DY2a]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY2b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">//Not-Yuke shrugs. “That’s all.”// (display: "D2DY3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">(display: "D2DY3") </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Oh nothing too complicated.” “All you need to do is convince Yuke to tell you why she moved to Haven.” --- [[✦ “That’s it?”->D2DY2a]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY2b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“I don’t want to,” Not-Yuke interrupts with a glare. “All you need to do is convince Yuke to tell you why she moved to Haven.” --- [[✦ “That’s it?”->D2DY2a]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY2b]] </div></div>

<div class="outer"><div class="inner">“Don’t start that with me now. It’s a bit too late.” Not-Yuke frowns. “All you need to do is convince Yuke to tell you why she moved to Haven.” --- [[✦ “That’s it?”->D2DY2a]] [[✦ Say nothing.->D2DY2b]] </div></div>

//(if: $d1_dream is "YG")[This feels like a trap, but before I can consider it, that feeling of leaving I had last time comes back.](else:)[This feels like a trap, but before I can consider it, I feel something like car sickness. The feeling of leaving this space but not actually moving.] Not-Yuke gives me a wave. “Enjoy your day, little one.” [[And I jerk awake.->Start Day 3]]//