Forest of the Lost

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<img src="images/titlescreen.png" width="550px"/> //The former king and queen were murdered in a plot to take over the throne. As the Heir's shadow, it is your responsibility to get the last survivor of the royal bloodline to safety and the only way to do that is to go through The Forest Of The Lost. You remember being told stories about how it came to be and about the people that reside inside of it, but mostly you remember that there are few that ever make it out alive. With The Thing that has been following you from the moment you first stepped into The Forest and the person you hired to guide you not caring about your lives, will you become another body lost to The Forest, a part of the many rumours that surround it, or will your mission succeed?// <<link 'Content Warnings'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup(''); Dialog.wiki('<<trigger>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> [[Begin the story.|0.0]]

<img src="images/prologue.png" width="310px"/> Large intricately woven banners hang from the tall walls in the main hall, decorated with depictions of what is to be celebrated; a successful harvest. Everything is draped in beautiful auburn colours and the people's garments are made to match. Lavish, rich-coloured gowns and doublets are seated at tables filled with fresh harvest, servants running around to please withering looks. Your right-hand woman, Annora, makes an okay sign from where she is positioned near the walls. You give her a curt nod as your eyes land on The Crown entering the hall. The King, The Queen and... [[The Heir, her dress captivating the room|0.01][$Agender = 'f']] [[The Heir, his dress captivating the room|0.01][$Agender = 'm']]

//Character stats <<set $ace = false>> <<set $aromance = false>> <<set $touchadverse = false>> <<set $bird = 'Makya'>> //Story stats <<set $codex = false>> <<set $stats = false>> <<set $relationships = false>> //RO stats <<set $Jfr = 50, $Jro = 0, $Jpromise = false>> <<set $Afr = 30, $Aro = 0, $Apromise = false>> <<set $Dfr = 10, $Dro = 0, $Dpromise = false>> <<set $Vfr = 0, $Vro = 0, $proposition = false>> <<set $Dname = false>> <<set $Vname = false>> <<set $estranged = false>> <<set $childhoodcrush = false>>

MAIN CHARACTER <<if $gender == 'm'>> <<set $mx = 'Mr'>> <<set $person = 'man'>> <<set $child = 'boy'>> <<set $they = 'he'>> <<set $They = 'He'>> <<set $them = 'him'>> <<set $their = 'his'>> <<set $Their = 'His'>> <<set $theirs = 'his'>> <<set $heir = 'prince'>> <<set $themself = 'himself'>> <<set $plural = false>> <</if>> <<if $gender == 'f'>> <<set $mx = 'Ms'>> <<set $person = 'woman'>> <<set $child = 'girl'>> <<set $they = 'she'>> <<set $They = 'She'>> <<set $them = 'her'>> <<set $their = 'her'>> <<set $Their = 'Her'>> <<set $theirs = 'hers'>> <<set $heir = 'princess'>> <<set $themself = 'herself'>> <<set $plural = false>> <</if>> <<if $gender == 't'>> <<set $mx = 'Mx'>> <<set $person = 'person'>> <<set $child = 'child'>> <<set $they = 'they'>> <<set $They = 'They'>> <<set $them = 'them'>> <<set $their = 'their'>> <<set $Their = 'Their'>> <<set $theirs = 'theirs'>> <<set $themself = 'themself'>> <<set $heir = 'heir'>> <<set $plural = true>> <</if>> JUDDA <<if $Jgender == 'm'>> <<set $Jmx = 'mr'>> <<set $Jperson = 'man'>> <<set $Jchild = 'boy'>> <<set $JThey = 'He'>> <<set $Jthey = 'he'>> <<set $Jthem = 'him'>> <<set $Jtheir = 'his'>> <<set $JTheir = 'His'>> <<set $Jtheirs = 'his'>> <<set $Jheir = 'prince'>> <<set $Jthemself = 'himself'>> <<set $Jplural = false>> <</if>> <<if $Jgender == 'f'>> <<set $Jmx = 'ms'>> <<set $Jperson = 'woman'>> <<set $Jchild = 'girl'>> <<set $JThey = 'She'>> <<set $Jthey = 'she'>> <<set $Jthem = 'her'>> <<set $JTheir = 'Her'>> <<set $Jtheir = 'her'>> <<set $Jtheirs = 'hers'>> <<set $Jheir = 'princess'>> <<set $Jthemself = 'herself'>> <<set $Jplural = false>> <</if>> AERAL <<if $Agender == 'm'>> <<set $Amx = 'mr'>> <<set $Aperson = 'man'>> <<set $Achild = 'boy'>> <<set $AThey = 'He'>> <<set $Athey = 'he'>> <<set $Athem = 'him'>> <<set $ATheir = 'His'>> <<set $Atheir = 'his'>> <<set $Atheirs = 'his'>> <<set $Aheir = 'prince'>> <<set $Athemself = 'himself'>> <<set $Aplural = false>> <</if>> <<if $Agender == 'f'>> <<set $Amx = 'ms'>> <<set $Aperson = 'woman'>> <<set $Achild = 'girl'>> <<set $AThey = 'She'>> <<set $Athey = 'she'>> <<set $Athem = 'her'>> <<set $ATheir = 'Her'>> <<set $Atheir = 'her'>> <<set $Atheirs = 'hers'>> <<set $Aheir = 'princess'>> <<set $Athemself = 'herself'>> <<set $Aplural = false>> <</if>> DUNNê <<if $Dgender == 'm'>> <<set $Dmx = 'mr'>> <<set $Dperson = 'man'>> <<set $Dchild = 'boy'>> <<set $DThey = 'He'>> <<set $Dthey = 'he'>> <<set $Dthem = 'him'>> <<set $Dtheir = 'his'>> <<set $DTheir = 'His'>> <<set $Dtheirs = 'his'>> <<set $Dheir = 'prince'>> <<set $Dthemself = 'himself'>> <<set $Dplural = false>> <</if>> <<if $Dgender == 'f'>> <<set $Dmx = 'ms'>> <<set $Dperson = 'woman'>> <<set $Dchild = 'girl'>> <<set $DThey = 'She'>> <<set $Dthey = 'she'>> <<set $Dthem = 'her'>> <<set $Dtheir = 'her'>> <<set $DTheir = 'Her'>> <<set $Dtheirs = 'hers'>> <<set $Dheir = 'princess'>> <<set $Dthemself = 'herself'>> <<set $Dplural = false>> <</if>> Varjell <<if $Vgender == 'm'>> <<set $Vmx = 'mr'>> <<set $Vperson = 'man'>> <<set $Vchild = 'boy'>> <<set $VThey = 'He'>> <<set $Vthey = 'he'>> <<set $Vthem = 'him'>> <<set $Vtheir = 'his'>> <<set $VTheir = 'His'>> <<set $Vtheirs = 'his'>> <<set $Vheir = 'prince'>> <<set $Athemself = 'himself'>> <<set $Vplural = false>> <</if>> <<if $Vgender == 'f'>> <<set $Vmx = 'ms'>> <<set $Vperson = 'woman'>> <<set $Vchild = 'girl'>> <<set $VThey = 'She'>> <<set $Vthey = 'she'>> <<set $Vthem = 'her'>> <<set $VTheir = 'Her'>> <<set $Vtheir = 'her'>> <<set $Vtheirs = 'hers'>> <<set $Vheir = 'princess'>> <<set $Athemself = 'herself'>> <<set $Vplural = false>> <</if>>

<<if $stats == true>> <<link 'Character Stats'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup('Character Stats'); Dialog.wiki('<<stats>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $relationships == true>> <<link 'Relationships'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup('Relationships'); Dialog.wiki('<<relationships>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $codex == true>>[[Codex|menu.codex]]<</if>> <<link 'Content Warnings'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup('Content Warnings'); Dialog.wiki('<<trigger>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>>

//CONTENT WARNINGS// <<widget 'trigger'>>//Most of these warnings cannot be avoided and depictions of gore, death and violence will be present throughout most of the story.// * Symptoms of mental health issues and trauma * Panic attacks * Corruption of the mind * Torture, captivity and forceful experimenting (briefly mentioned) * Murder and attempted murder * Emotional and physical abuse (mentioned, referenced and flashbacks) * Mentions of rape * Scars, injury, etc. * Dismembering, starvation, burning alive and drowning * Hunting and preparing of animals <</widget>> //CHARACTER STATS// <<widget 'stats'>>The Shadow Name: $name $lname Weapon of choice: $weapon Your bird's name: $bird Appearance: You go by $they/$them and are a $person, your height would be considered $height. You have $hairtexture, $hair hair and keep it $hairlength. Your beautiful $eyes eyes compliment your $skin skin perfectly<<if $freckles == true>>, which is covered in freckles<</if>>.<<if $facialhair == false>> You have no facial hair.<<else>> You have $facialhair.<</if>><<if $tattoos == true and $tattootype == 'body'>> You have markings that cover your entire body.<<elseif $tattoos == true and $tattootype != 'body'>> You have markings on your body, specifically on your $tattootype.<</if>> <</widget>>

<<widget 'dbond'>> \<<if $Dfr >= 30 and $Dfr < 50 and $Dro < 2>> $DThey thinks you are somewhat capable, however $Dthey still does not trust your group to make it out alive. <<elseif $Dfr >= 50 and $Dfr < 70 and $Dro < 2>> $DThey has started to warm up to you but $Dthey still keeps $Dtheir distance. <<elseif $Dfr >= 70 and $Dfr < 80 and $Dro < 2>> $DThey is starting to trust you. <<elseif $Dfr >= 80 and $Dro < 2>> You are one of the few $Dthey trust completely and $Dthey has faith you will make it to the other side. <<elseif $Dro >= 2 and $Dro < 4>> You have caught $Dtheir eye, however $Dthey doubts you will survive. <<elseif $Dro >= 4 and $Dro < 7>> $DThey thinks you are interesting and is wondering where this will go. <<elseif $Dro >= 7 and $Dpromise == false>> You have $Dtheir full attention and you belong to the few $Dthey trusts. <<elseif $Dpromise == true>> You have promised each other to turn this into something serious if you make it out alive. <<else>> $DThey thinks you a burden, you would do well to remember you are only paying $Dthem to guide you through the forest, not to keep you alive. <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget 'jbond'>> \<<if $Jfr >= 30 and $Jfr < 50 and $Jro < 2>> Whatever happened has created a distance between you and Judda. <<elseif $Jfr >= 50 and $Jfr < 70 and $Jro < 2>> You and Judda have known each other for a very long time and the both of you share a good bond. $JThey has no doubt that you can protect the group and all make it out alive. <<elseif $Jfr >= 70 and $Jfr < 80 and $Jro < 2>> The only positive about this situation is that you and Judda have had more time to spend with each other, it has made you even closer than before. <<elseif $Jfr >= 80 and $Jro < 2>> You have always been each others rock, no matter what happens, you will always be there for each other. <<elseif $Jro >= 2 and $Jro < 4>> Is there a possibility to be more than friends...? <<elseif $Jro >= 4 and $Jro < 7>> It is clear that you and Judda are interested in being more than friends. <<elseif $Jro >= 7 and $Jpromise == false>> $JThey was worried what this might mean for the bond between the two of you, but it seems that although the nature of it has changed, you are closer than ever. <<elseif $Jprmise == true>> Judda has promised you that $Jthey will get the both of you out of here no matter. $JThey will make sure you have a future together. <<else>> Judda has lost all trust in you. <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget 'abond'>> \<<if $Afr >= 30 and $Afr < 50 and $Aro < 2>> Aeral does not know you very well, but $Athey trusts you with $Atheir life. <<elseif $Afr >= 50 and $Afr < 70 and $Aro < 2>> You have decided to let Aeral get closer to you, $Athey seems pleased by this. <<elseif $Afr >= 70 and $Afr < 80 and $Aro < 2>> Aeral would consider you a friend. <<elseif $Afr >= 80 and $Aro < 2>> Aeral trusts you more than anyone in $Atheir life. <<elseif $Aro >= 2 and $Aro < 4>> It seems this journey has sparked something between the two of you. <<elseif $Aro >= 4 and $Aro < 7>> Aeral is interested in you and wants to explore this more. <<elseif $Aro >= 7 and $Apromise == false>> $AThey already trusted you with $Atheir life, but now $Athey trust you with $Atheir heart too. <<elseif $Apromise == true>> You promised Aeral that if you got out of the forest alive that you would not go back to treating $Athem as your ruler. <<else>> Aeral no longer trusts you to get $Athem to safety. <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget 'vbond'>> \<<if $Vfr >= 30 and $Vfr < 50 and $Vro < 2>> It seems you have caught its attention, you wonder if that is a good thing or not. <<elseif $Vfr >= 50 and $Vfr < 70 and $Vro < 2>> $VThey has told you more about the forest and $themself. It seems $Vthey is not the only one that is curious anymore. <<elseif $Vfr >= 70 and $Vfr < 80 and $Vro < 2>> Albeit an unexpected bond, you and The Thing have a good one nonetheless. Time will only tell why $Vthey is interested in interacting with you. <<elseif $proposition == true and $Vro < 2>> $VThey has told you their true name and has given you a proposition, now it is up to you if you want to accept it. <<elseif $Vro >= 2 and $Vro < 4>> The Thing seems surprised, but pleased, by your reactions. Is it wise to engage with it like this? <<elseif $Vro >= 4 and $Vro < 7>> It seems the more time you spend with $Vthem, the more enthralled you become. Are $Vtheir feelings the same or is $Vthey after something else? <<elseif $proposition == true and $Vro >= 7>> Varjell has given you $Vtheir name and the possibility of a place beside $Vthem, will you accept? <<else>> The Thing has been stalking you from the moment your entered the forest, what does it want? <</if>> <</widget>>

<<widget 'reaches'>> <<if $plural == true>> reach <<elseif $plural == false>> reaches <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget 'is'>> \<<if $plural == true>> \'re <<elseif $plural == false>> \'s <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget 'goes'>> <<if $plural == true>> go <<elseif $plural == false>> goes <</if>> <</widget>>

The light golden brown of the dress stands out against $Atheir dark skin and the loose fabric hugs $Atheir slim figure. The seams pop against the bright fabric, woven with a darker brown, matching the leaf embroideries on the cape that hangs lowly from $Atheir shoulders. Your eyes land on the deep slit that reaches until $Atheir navel, the probable perpetrator of what has started a low whispering amongst the nobles below. You make your way up the large platform to stand behind your Crown, your eyes landing on the matching slit in the back of the dress. $Atheir long braid covers most of $Atheir back, beautiful orange jewels decorate it, connected by delicate golden chains. [['"You look as stunning as ever, my Crown"' ♡|0.02A][$Aro = 1]] [['"The dress is beautiful, my Crown"'|0.02B][$Afr += 5]] [['"I see you've got the nobles talking once again, my Crown"'|0.02C][$sarcastic = 1, $Afr += 5]]

A small, excited smile makes its way onto $Atheir face, "Thank you, I designed the dress together with the owner of The Mill, such a lovely shop." "I wasn't talking about the dress, my Crown." A stuttered "oh" leaves $Atheir lips and $Athey turns to the side, hiding $Atheir face. [[Your attention gets drawn to the loud sound of the main doors opening|0.03]]

An excited gleam enters $Atheir eyes, "It is stunning, no? I helped design it months ago with the owner of The Mill, such a lovely shop. They even imported this beautiful fabric from Fensee- I refrained from asking how exactly." "There are still a decent amount of active trading routes," you look down at some of the Wealbodian representatives, "Which is perhaps a topic better left undiscussed." [[Before Aeral can answer, your attention is drawn to the loud sound of the main doors opening|0.03]]

A soft laugh leaves $Atheir lips, "I simply helped design a beautiful dress, nothing more, nothing less." "As long as you believe yourself, my Crown." [[Your attention gets drawn to the loud sound of the main doors opening|0.03]]

romance: ♡ //The Crown's oath// I swear myself to the Crown My full devotion, my absolute faith My life, my mind The Merfolk <<if $merfolk == true>>The Merfolk are partly humanoid creatures that live in the sea. They are incredibly skittish creatures and very rarely interact with humans. Often confused with Sirens, which is a different species altogether. The Merfolk are not hostile creatures. However, they should only be interacted with on their terms. Known Powers: The Merfolk interact with the tides and the sea. The exact way of this interaction is unknown. Sailors sometimes make offerings to them before crossing particular dangerous waters, but it is not known if these affect the outcomes. Lakõ <<if $merfolk == true>>A smaller, freshwater variant of The Merfolk. They mostly have the same traditions and they are significantly less skittish than their bigger variants, most would describe them as playful. Known Powers: Mostly influences the moods of other creatures. The mood usually depends on how they are treated.<<else>>//Locked//<</if>> Spirits <<if $spirits == true>>info<<else>>//Locked//<</if>> Corrupted Spirits <<if $spirits == true>>info<<else>>//Locked//<</if>> Kealmer <<if $kealmer == true>>info<<else>>//Locked//<</if>> <<return 'Back to the menu'>> <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

A sour taste fills your mouth at the face of the man that enters, Balderich, the King's older brother. Annora raises her shoulders when you look at her and taps the knife on her belt twice, she's ready. Everything comes to a halt, a thick silence settling over the hall. Your eyes cast quickly behind Balderich, but no one has followed him. Somehow, that makes your stomach drop even more. "Sorry to interrupt your festivities, but I come bearing great news that just cannot wait," his voice thunders against the heavy silence. The King makes an exasperated gesture, his posture making his annoyance obvious. The Queen beside him has a calm look on her face, but her body is tense and she catches your eye when she turns to you. Her gaze flicks momentarily behind you, to the passageway you know is there, before her attention returns to the man beneath her. Balderich speaks again, his words making Annora and several other guards, ones you've trained beside for over a decade, raise their arms. Confusion and shock fog your mind and it takes the tautening of string to force your body to move. You yank Aeral out of $Atheir chair and rush $Athem to the passageway $Atheir mother had looked at, but you are not fast enough to spare either of you the sight of the arrow piercing The King's head, red spattering against gold. An audible scream leaves Aeral's lips, but you have already pulled $Athem into the narrow corridor, cutting off $Atheir long cape and throwing it in front of you. You push aside one of the many banners on the wall, pulling the final Crown alongside you into the dark. [[Continue|0.04]]

"Grab on to the back of my belt and follow my lead," you whisper to Aeral. The stone feels uneven and rough underneath your fingertips, dust collecting on them as you feel along the expanse of the wall. You can occasionally feel the cold metal of a sconce, but you are reluctant to light the way, lest they find the passageways. You move fast, the footsteps and blood-curdling screaming that fill the hallways beside you drowning out any noise the two of you can make. The curve of the wall alerts you to your whereabouts and you bend off to the right, a memory pulling you under. //The Queen leads you into her office, cluttered with books, drawings and trinkets. A younger Aeral is positioned on a large cushion in the corner, so engrossed in $Atheir book, $Athey hasn't even acknowledged anyone entering the room. "Your Majesty, you called for me?" you say, and after looking at Aeral, "My $Aheir." She gives you a curt nod as she leads you to a large table in the middle of the room, a blueprint of the castle laid out on top of it. "As you are now working for my darling $Achild, it is important to know the full layout of the castle if the need arises." She traces some small lines drawn between familiar rooms, "these, in particular, are important. They connect to most rooms and some need special mechanisms to open." she finishes by giving you a small version of the family crest, a metal stick protruding from the middle. "The key?" She confirms your question with another nod. "You have until the end of the week to learn the layout. I will be testing you by the end of it." You nod as you look over to the $Aheir still nose deep in $Atheir book. "Oh, don't worry, $Athey already knows all of them. Good luck with that."// Your mouth twitches in amusement at Aeral's hand still on your belt as you trace the lines of the crest, grabbing it as you feel a hole in the stone wall. The small brown bear, decorated with a sun in the middle, fits into the wall perfectly and the sound of ancient mechanisms fill your ears as you turn the crest anti-clockwise. Soft candlelight hits your face as the wall opens before you. [[...Light?|0.05]]

A sharp scream and an incoming candelabra quickly distract you from your initial confusion and you grab it, twisting the arm that is holding it and pushing the person against the wall, the candelabra clattering against the floor and the mop of auburn hair making a pained noise. "...Judda," you groan in annoyance as you let them go. Aeral has already pulled the crest from the wall, making it close again and hands you the key. //The latter two choices will mean the relationship between you and Judda has been estranged.// [[You looked back at the auburn-haired man, who was giving you a sheepish smile. Your best friend.|0.06][$Jgender = 'm', $estranged = false]] [[You looked back at the auburn-haired woman, who was giving you a sheepish smile. Your best friend.|0.06][$Jgender = 'f', $estranged = false]] [[You looked back at the auburn-haired man, who was giving you a sheepish smile. You had known him since you were young.|0.06][$Jgender = 'm', $estranged = true, $Jfr = 30]] [[You looked back at the auburn-haired woman, who was giving you a sheepish smile. You had known her since you were young.|0.06][$Jgender = 'f', $estranged = true, $Jfr = 30]]

"In my defence, I thought you were here to kill me," $Jthey says. You raise your brow, "And a battle cry is a good way to warn the person before attacking them?" $JTheir attention is no longer on you, however, and $Jthey pulls Aeral into a tight hug, "May Orovar bless your parents, I'm so sorry." The latter tensing up at the mention of $Atheir parents. <<if $estranged == false>>//The latter choice will make you adverse to touch// [[Judda pulls you into a hug after letting Aeral go|0.07A]] [[Judda gives you a warm smile after letting Aeral go|0.07A][$touchadverse = true]] <<elseif $estranged == true>>//The latter choice will make you adverse to touch// [[Judda squeezes your shoulder after letting Aeral go|0.07B]] [[Judda gives you a smile after letting Aeral go|0.07B][$touchadverse = true]]<</if>>

"I'm glad the both of you are safe," Judda says, $Jtheir voice thick with emotion. "I know someone that can get us out of the city, but we need a place to take refuge," $Jthey says as $Jthey steps back. You nod and look around the candle-lit room. The furnishes are primitive compared to the rest of the castle, a simple wooden table in the middle and dried meat and fruit kept in a dusted-over box in the corner- Enough to supply Aeral and you for several days, but staying isn't a luxury you have. You move towards the right wall and move a crate filled with bottles of distilled water, equally dusted as the rest of the room. Pulling a stone from the wall, another memory hits you. //A heavy breath leaves your lips as the wall of the safe room opens, The Queen sitting in the middle of it, turning around the <<link 'sandglass'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup(''); Dialog.wiki('<<hourglass>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> next to her. "One turn, better, but I expect half that next time." "Of course, Your Majesty." She shifts in her chair, her brows pinching together, "Nothing is permanent and nothing is safe from corruption, I have told you that before, no?" You don't know where she is going with this, you never really are, but you give a nod regardless. "The Crown is not excempt from this. Would we fall victim to either, or both, I want you to give this scroll to Aeral," she picks up a small scroll from the table and drops it into a container, moving towards the wall and loosening a brick from it, hiding the items behind it before turning to you once more, "Let it be one of the first things you do once you make your way here." You give her a tight nod, "Yes, Your Majesty." She walks towards you, her long cape dragging behind her. Her hand squeezes your shoulder, her nails digging into your flesh<<if $touchadverse == true>>, the touch making you sick to your stomach<</if>>, "You're an obedient kid, I know you will take good care of my dear $Achild. $ATheir life is most important, you understand that, right?" "I... I understand, Your Majesty."// You grab the circular wooden container, handing it to Aeral, "The Queen asked me to give this to you if we would find ourselves here under... If we would find ourselves here." $AThey grasp the container, a slight tremble to $Atheir hands. Opening the case, a scroll and a small figurine in the shape of a snake fall into Aeral's hand. $ATheir face hardens when finishing the letter and $Athey straightens up, holding the scroll above the candle and letting it fall to the stone beneath. "If you can get us out of the castle, I know where to go." $ATheir voice is harsh, bitter. Judda gives you a subtle shake of $Jtheir head, "I will take care of my end then, meet me in the forest west of the castle," $Jthey says, making $Jtheir way over to the wall opposite you came through and pressing a spot in the wall. You nod at the now open passageway, "How do you even know those exist, I'm certain The Queen never mentioned you having access." $JThey sends a smirk your way but doesn't answer you and you are left staring at the now-closed entrance. You turn towards Aeral, still looking at the small trinket $Atheir mother had left $Athem, "We'll take the way past the library, it's the slowest, but they will most likely start checking around the bed chambers and offices first, so hopefully it's the safest route." [[Continue|0.08]]

"Thank you for keeping Aeral safe." "It's my duty." Judda gives you a look you can't quite place and takes a step backwards, "I know someone that can get us out of the city, but we need a place to take refuge," $Jthey says. You nod and look around the candle-lit room. The furnishes are primitive compared to the rest of the castle, a simple wooden table in the middle and dried meat and fruit kept in a dusted-over box in the corner- Enough to supply Aeral and you for several days, but staying isn't a luxury you have. You move towards the right wall and move a crate filled with bottles of distilled water, equally dusted as the rest of the room. Pulling a stone from the wall, another memory hits you. //A heavy breath leaves your lips as the wall of the safe room opens, The Queen sitting in the middle of it, turning around the <<link 'sandglass'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup(''); Dialog.wiki('<<hourglass>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> next to her. "One turn, better, but I expect half that next time." "Of course, Your Majesty." She shifts in her chair, her brows pinching together, "Nothing is permanent and nothing is safe from corruption, I have told you that before, no?" You don't know where she is going with this, you never really are, but you give a nod regardless. "The Crown is not excempt from this. Would we fall victim to either, or both, I want you to give this scroll to Aeral," she picks up a small scroll from the table and drops it into a container, moving towards the wall and loosening a brick from it, hiding the items behind it before turning to you once more, "Let it be one of the first things you do once you make your way here." You give her a tight nod, "Yes, Your Majesty." She walks towards you, her long cape dragging behind her. Her hand squeezes your shoulder, her nails digging into your flesh<<if $touchadverse == true>>, the touch making you sick to your stomach<</if>>, "You're an obedient kid, I know you will take good care of my dear $Achild. $ATheir life is most important, you understand that, right?" "I... I understand, Your Majesty."// You grab the circular wooden container, handing it to Aeral, "The Queen asked me to give this to you if we would find ourselves here under... If we would find ourselves here." $AThey grasp the container, a slight tremble to $Atheir hands. Opening the case, a scroll and a small figurine in the shape of a snake fall into Aeral's hand. $ATheir face hardens when finishing the letter and $Athey straightens up, holding the scroll above the candle and letting it fall to the stone beneath. "If you can get us out of the castle, I know where to go." $ATheir voice is harsh, bitter. Judda gives you a subtle shake of $Jtheir head, "I will take care of my end then, meet me in the forest west of the castle," $Jthey says, making $Jtheir way over to the wall opposite you came through and pressing a spot in the wall. You nod at the now open passageway, "How do you even know those exist, I'm certain The Queen never mentioned you having access." $JThey sends a smirk your way but doesn't answer you and you are left staring at the now-closed entrance. You turn towards Aeral, still looking at the small trinket $Atheir mother had left $Athem, "We'll take the way past the library, it's the slowest, but they will most likely start checking around the bed chambers and offices first, so hopefully it's the safest route." [[Continue|0.08]]

<<widget 'hourglass'>> A different word for hourglass. Used mostly by seafarers as a measure of time and to measure the speed of a ship. Time was given in turns, the exact time of it depending on the size of the hourglass and the coarseness of the sand. <</widget>> <<widget 'Barghest'>> "Town ghost" can refer to any spirit that haunts a settlement, but is most often used when referring to a Barghest; A large, often black, hound that is seemingly corrupted and tends to appear near human settlements. It is incredibly aggressive and known for decimating entire towns.<</widget>>

The damp stone beneath your fingers and the cool breeze that blows through the passage confirm that you are in the outer walls, nearing the entrance close to the western gate. Loud voices and the clanking of heavy armour flutter past you, making you and Aeral freeze. "I heard Annora found hidden passages around the great hall, they seem to span the entire castle and parts of the city." A second guard grunts in agreement, "They even brought in a wretched witch to help with the locked ones." //Curse Orovar's bones.// As the footsteps and conversation dissipate, you motion for Aeral to start moving again. A light sigh of relief leaves you as you hear the scraping of an iron grate underneath your feet. It hasn't been used for some time, your arms straining with the effort it takes to pull it free. You slowly lower yourself into the even darker passage, looking up at your Crown in anticipation. <<switch $touchadverse>><<case false>>You extend your hand to help Aeral down and support $Atheir weight as $Athey lowers $Athemself.<<case true>>Aeral lowers $Athemself in the dark alongside you.<</switch>> Trusting your memory, you quicken your step, the danger of being heard no longer there. You lead the both of you through the twist and turns only slowing down when you know the exit is within hand's reach. You grab the crest for the last time and turn the lock, stopping when you can feel a light trickle of charged energy wash over your skin. "Run," you whisper to Aeral harshly, pushing $Athem to the other side of the gate<<if $touchadverse == true>>, ignoring the feeling that travels over your skin.<</if>> The gate behind you closes as the torches scattered on the wall light up, blinding you momentarily. [['"Shadow"'|0.09]]

Her voice sounds like metal clanking against metal and you fight to keep your voice devoid of emotion, "Traitor." Her face twists in anger and what you presume to be the witch behind her lifts their hand, the heat of a flame dangerously close to your face following. Annora puts a hand on the person's arm, the flame retreating to its torch, "It's not too late to join us." Your focus wasn't on her, however. It was on piercing blue eyes, harsh stares and digging nails- On words that filled your ears like honey-laced venom. "I have a duty, we all have. We have sworn ourselves-" She takes a careful step forward, interrupting you, desperation clinging to her voice, "They don't care about us nor their people, you //have// to know that. After everything, how can you still stand there, act as their shield?" Your body tenses as the memory of a voice whispers words in your ear, ones you mimic out loud, "The Crown above all else." Annora's body slackens and she steps back, the witch, now in full view, raising their hand once more and the burning pain of a flame around your throat squeezing makes your knees buckle. Thoughts of your death and them chasing Aeral fill your mind, //your duty//. You reach through the flames, ignoring the burning of your flesh and yank on the chain around your neck, revealing a small glass bottle filled with shimmering green liquid. Aiming for the witch's feet, their screaming fills your ears as the force of whatever you threw, throws you against the gate behind you. [[The last thing you see is Annora's mangled body falling at your feet|0.10]]

//The golden light of the morning sun hits your face and the harsh sound of the wooden stick in your hands thumping against Annora's fills the space between you. Her much younger face is alight with an excited smile, affecting you with her own. A particularly hard hit has her practice pole falling out of her hands and you sweep yours under her feet, making her fall to the ground. A laugh punches out of your lungs as you let yourself fall beside her, turning to face her and seeing her look at you. "One day I'll beat you, I swear it." "Maybe if you stop getting distracted by the stable hand, you'll actually have a chance." You sit up, trying to find the telltale sign of a blonde ponytail through the others training on the field, but a harsh punch to your shoulder makes you look back at your friend. "She's inside to make preparations for tomorrow." "And you know that, how?" The smile on her face turns into a worried look and with it, the open field changes for draped walls and silken sheets beneath your hands. Her lips move, an angry gesture accompanying it, but you are focused on her face- older now, covered in scars. Her dark curls no longer bounced with every movement, her hair short and practical. Sharp pain on your arm catches your attention, her hands expertly draping the wound on it in a loose, damp cloth. "You did the right thing." Your mouth opens against your will, you aren't in control, maybe you never really were, "I went against them, such actions are not appropriate." She dampens another cloth, moving to your back to tend to the wounds there- she doesn't answer. Your surroundings change, Annora's face coming into view once more, no longer full of emotion. Empty, dead eyes and blood-stained tears looking back at you instead- your hand the cause.// [[Continue|0.11]]

The shaking ground beneath you awakens you from your restless slumber and your veins fill with panic. You shoot up before your eyes have adjusted to your surroundings and you blink slowly, wooden beams and cotton walls filling your vision. //Carriage//- although, produce wagon is probably more accurate. A sound in the corner draws your attention to the $Aheir, nestled beneath some sheep's fur. Your body slackens with relief, $Athey's made it. Your relief, however, is quickly followed by confusion. You look down at your hand to see the raised bumps of your scars, confirming everything that happened. The sound of the cloth behind you moving scatters the incoming questions before they settle further, auburn curls and amber eyes filling your vision. [[Butterflies fill your gut and you give Judda a relieved smile ♡|0.12Ar][$Jro = 1]] <<if $estranged == false and $touchadverse == false>>[[You pull Judda into a tight hug|0.12A][$Jfr +=5]] [['"You made it, thank God"'|0.12B][$Jfr +=5]] <<elseif $touchadverse == true and $estranged == false>>[['"You made it, thank God"'|0.12B][$Jfr +=5]] <<elseif $estranged == true>>[['"You made it"'|0.12C][$Jfr +=5]] [[Give an awkward smile|0.12D]]<</if>>

$JTheir arms tighten around you, "You made it," you sigh into $Jtheir shoulder. A lopsided smile forms on $Jtheir face as $Jthey pulls back, "I told you, no? I can get myself out of anything." [['"Can you get yourself out of telling me how I ended up in this wagon?"'|0.13][$codex = true]]

A lopsided smile forms on $Jtheir face, "I told you, no? I can get myself out of anything." [['"Can you get yourself out of telling me how I ended up in this wagon?"'|0.13][$codex = true]]

$JThey returns it with one of $Jtheir own, "It seems everything turned out alright, huh? Aeral is safe and so are we." [['"Which begs the question, how did I end up in this wagon?"'|0.13][$codex = true]]

A lopsided smile forms on $Jtheir face, "I told you, no? I can get myself out of anything." [['"Can you get yourself out of telling me how I ended up in this wagon?"'|0.13][$codex = true]]

<<if $touchadverse == false>>$JThey pulls you out of the cart and into $Jtheir arms, making your heartbeat spike, "I know it's your job, but stop putting yourself in danger," $Jthey mutters into your neck.<<elseif $touchadverse == true>>$JThey places $Jtheir hand next to yours on the side of the cart, "I know it's your job, but stop putting yourself in danger," $Jthey sighs.<</if>> "I'm glad you're safe too, Judda." $JThey pulls back from you, staying in arms reach, "I can get myself out of anything, you know that." [['"Yeah? Even telling me how I ended up in this wagon?"'|0.13][$codex = true]]

-Bestiary now available- Judda takes a step backwards, a nervous laugh bubbling past $Jtheir lips, "How about we focus on our last stop? Aeral said $Athey needed to come here before we arrived at Forelein." "...Last stop?" The journey is supposed to take a fortnight, you would need several stops, even with Judda and you switching who was upfront. But as you look around and the crooked, weathered village sign catches your attention, you know you have had to be out for at least a week. Only a few letters were readable, but you know what it used to say, //Weldorn//. Unassuming, even before death had made its home. The Queen had made you and Aeral accompany her on several occasions, what she did here, you never knew, made to wait outside the humble church. "You were out for twelve days, we're not sure why, nothing was waking you up- The salves and potions we used served to heal your wounds, at least," Judda says, pulling your attention to $Jthem. You don't have the answer yourself, your hand brushing along a now bare, scarred throat. As always, you had taken without question, //acted// without. A thought made its way into the forefront of your mind, "Was this village not terrorised by a <<link 'town ghost'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup(''); Dialog.wiki('<<Barghest>>'); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>>?" "It has been abandoned for several years now, but it will not intervene with our purpose," a voice sounds behind you. Turning around, you can see Aeral perched on the carriage's edge, the furs held tightly around $Athem and eyes half-lidded in exhaustion. [['"Our purpose?"'|0.14]]

<center>Erdon</center> <center><img src="images/Map.jpg" width="1250px"/></center> Baueruss Status: Kingdom House: Bear National Language: Baueres Religion: Diverse. They mainly follow the Church of Orovar (montheistic) Government: Monarchy, King Balderich Short History: Before the endless cliffs split the land apart, Baueruss and Wealbode were one Kingdom. After they lost much of their land, many other parts also split from it, causing it to be the size it is today. Even though, many still speak Baueres as a second language in other parts of Erdon. Wealbode Status: Kingdom House: Snake National Language: Baueres/Wealen Religion: Diverse. The beliefs are mainly polytheistic Government: Parliamentary Monarchy (The Oasis) Short History: The land was long ruled by a ruthless Queen, the people suffering greatly. A young girl, now usually referred to as Lady Abayomi, banded together the people and took over the castle. It would take many years after her passing for Wealbode to get a system where the people had a voice. Huohl Status: Territory House: Dragon National Language: Ohlish Religion: Polytheistic Government: Democratic Monarchy Short History: After Baueruss lost Wealbode, the people of the Huohl declared independency and a 50-year war was fought before the peace treaties. Even with those in place, tensions around the borders have always been high and many die when trying to cross it. Fensee Status: Empire House: Kraken National Language: Fenseen/Baueres Religion: Worship a personification of the sea Government: Monarchy, Emperor Xun Jing Short History: The war between what is now called Fensee and Wealbode started many, many years ago. The land used to belong to a small, individual clan, but when one of the past Kings tried to take over the land, a long and bloody war started. Currently they are fighting over the eastern borders, where much rich soil lies. Clan Territories Status: Several Territories National Language: Dependent on Clan Religion: Dependent on Clan, mostly deities connected to nature Government: Independent Chieftains Short History: The Clan Territories are what many call the 'Unruled land'. Different tribes reside in the land, it is mostly considered unsafe to travel across. [[Return to the menu|menu.codex]] <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

<center>A piece of the balled, "Great King Baueruss"</center> <center>One united land, bountifull and green The greed of nature, threatening us all Our Great King, bravely on his way Nature knows no mercy, dooming us all The Endless Cliffs, splitting one united land </center> //The full Ballad is taught in all schools in Baueruss and a yearly play is performed at most village centres on the day of The Great King's Journey, better known as Journey-day.// <center>The Creation of Erdon</center>The Creation of Erdon is a heavely debated subject, depending on the region you're in and even the person you talk to, the stories differ greatly. Baueruss Most believe in the single Goddess, Orovar. Legends talk about Erdon being born from her womb and after she created the land we stand on, she slowly gave pieces of herself away to perfect it. Her limbs created the hills, mountains, caves and cliffs that decorate the land, her endlessly long hair created the wild waves of the ocean, her breath gave life to the animals, her mind populated the ground with greenery, rivers and trees. Finally, she gave her heart, to the first group of people. Huohl The Huohl people believe that everything, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem, has a Deity tied to it. The origin stories of Erdon are somewhat vague, but the general belief is that all of the indivual Deities came together to create Erdon and take responsibility for their respective creations. With their beliefs, comes the duty that everything must be respected, as you would otherwise disrespect a Deity. For everything that is taken, something should be returned and offerings should be given in accordance. Wealbode The people in Wealbode mostly believe in "The House Of The Gods", a mythical place where all seven Gods reside. Erdon was created when the first God, Bayo, and the second Goddess, Ama, were fighting over the position of the stars. In their dispute, a barren land formed from the sparks from their weapons. The other Gods saw what had happened and called a meeting between all the seven Gods and decided to use their gifts to create what is now Erdon as a means to harbor peace between them. Fensee When The Fensee Empire was still a small clan, it mostly consisted of fisherman. These fisherman believed in a single God, Haiyan, who was the personification of the sea. These fisherman believed that Erdon used to be completely covered in water and that over time, Haiyan raised parts of the sea. The habitants of the sea became curious of what was above, but they didn't know they couldn't survive out of the water. When the young God realized what was happening, he gave them the gift of air and these ancestors would eventually become the creatures that now traverse Erdon. This is now the primary religion and many temples in Haiyan's name have been build since. It is custom to make an offering the God if you wish to travel across the sea. Clan Territories As of now, there are three major clans. All of them have different beliefs, although generally they all have their roots in nature and are mostly polytheistic. Most Clans also include the magical inhabitants in their mythology, which is unlike the other regions, who usually see magical creatures as deviant and dangerous. [[Return to the menu|menu.codex]] <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

forest rules and lil notes or smth [[Return to the menu|menu.codex]] <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

<center>Bestiary</center> *[[Barghest|blackhound]] [[Return to the menu|menu.codex]] <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

<center>Codex</center> *[[Geography|menu.map]] *[[Bestiary|menu.bestiary]] *<<if $historymenu == true>>[[History|menu.history]]<<elseif $historymenu != true>>//not available//<</if>> *<<if $notebook == true>>[[Notebook|menu.notes]]<<elseif $notebook != true>>//not available//<</if>> <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

<center>Barghest</center> Classification: Beast, magical, corrupted Average Lifespan: 12 years Danger level: 12/30 Origin: Unknown Environment: Human settlements Native Language: NA Diet: Large prey, mostly humans Tamability: NA The Barghest, more often called a "town ghost", is a large corrupted hound. Sightings are few and far between and highly unreliable, descriptions ranging from normal, sickly-looking dogs to large monstrous beasts. More reliable sources tend to agree that the beast resembles a normal breed, usually of a large variety, that bears a sickness that affects their behaviour and physique. The theory of these beasts once being normal dogs seems to align with reports of someone missing one that fits the description of the beast- Most often hunting dogs seem to be the larger targets of the corruption, the reasonings for this are unknown. These hounds are highly dangerous and are known for decimating entire towns, disappearing shortly after- it is highly advised to hunt the beast with large, trained groups to overwhelm and overpower it. [[Return to the menu|menu.bestiary]] <<link "Return to the story" $return>><</link>>

<<widget 'relationships'>> \The Confidant <<if $estranged != true>>Your closest friend and<</if>>Aerals right-hand-$Jperson. Name: Judda Age: 28 Species: Human Description: $JThey has soft auburn curls that reach $Jtheir ears and honey-brown eyes. $JThey would tell you $Jthey is 6', but $Jthey is actually 5'11. Bond: <<jbond>> The Heir The Crown, who you swore to protect. Getting $Athem to the other side of the forest is vital. Name: Aeral Nerstin Eld von Cyneheard Age: 24 Species: Human Description: A long dark brown braid cascades down $Atheir back, which is usually decorated with gems and small gold chains. $AThey has blue eyes and is just shy of 5'5. Bond: <<abond>> The Watcher The $Dperson you hired to guide you through the forest. Name: <<if $Dname == false>>//Unknown//<<elseif $Dname == true>>Dunnê<</if>> Age: //Unknown// Species: //Uknown// Description: $DThey stands at about 6'2 and covers the underside of $Dtheir face with a piece of cloth. $DThey has green eyes and you can see strands of blonde stick out from under $Dtheir hood. You think $Dthey is around 30 years old. Bond: <<dbond>> The Thing One of the forest people, you think it may be their leader. Name: <<if $Vname == false>>//Unknown//<<elseif $Vname == true>>Varjell<</if>> Age: //Unknown// Species: Kealmer Description: The first thing you notice are the stag antlers resting on $Vtheir shoulder-length black hair, they are decorated with flowers, moss and what seems like small bones. You estimate $Vthem to be about 6'7 and $Vtheir eye colour seems to be constantly changing. Appearance wise you would say $Vthey is probably 25, but you doubt that is $Vtheir actual age. Bond: <<vbond>> <</widget>>

Aeral stands up, rubbing the tiredness from $Atheir eyes, "To enact my mother's final wish." $AThey says, making $Atheir way towards the village without further explanation. <<if $estranged == false>>Judda and you exchange a look and $Jthey shrugs, following Aeral, leaving you little choice but to do the same.<<elseif $estranged == true>>Judda follows Aeral, leaving you little choice to do the same.<</if>> Decrepit houses and chipped stones surround you as you follow behind the other two, dark stains and claw marks covering the pathways below. //"One of those infected hounds decimated another town- Touched by evil, those things are. Town must've been cursed"//. The halls were never sparse of whispers, but for a village that The Queen often visited to be hit with such a thing, they were bound to increase tenfold. "You think the thing's still around?" Judda asks, slowing $Jtheir step to walk beside you. You try to think back on your studies, magical creatures had been a part of it, but without much need for the knowledge in practice, most of it forgotten. "I don't think so. They appear around towns, supposedly cursed, and disappear after the town runs empty." "That, or we will have one on our hands that will be particularly hungry," Aeral adds, stopping in the middle of a humble plaza. "Helpful as ever, $Aheir," Judda mumbles. Looking past them, a large brazier comes into view. The stark white marble clashes against the withering village, the elaborately carved lines reflecting handiwork you recognise from the braziers lining much of the outer royal castle. Aeral retrieves something from $Atheir pocket and you quickly recognise it as the serpent ornament from before. Without hesitation, $Athey throws it in the middle of the brazier, the trinket erupting into flames as tall as trees. [[A beacon|0.15]]

The heat is near unbearable and your hand shoots up to your throat, your breath quickening. You close your eyes, //you did what had to be done//, you tell yourself. "For how much everyone is taught to hate magic, your mother sure had a lot of access to it," Judda says, pulling you out of your spiralling thoughts. Aeral gives $Jthem a look, "As if you are not aware of their, //our//, hypocrisy." "You //know//-" [[Interrupt them|0.16A][$assertive = 1]] [[Take a seat|0.16B][$passive = 1]]

"Enough. You just lit a beacon that gives away our exact position and you want to argue about what? //Noble hypocrisy//? Get a grip." The both of them at least have half a mind to look guilty and you start making your way back to the carriage when loud trampling and high-pitched neighs make you stop in your tracks, //the horses//. You draw your... [[sword|0.17][$weapon = 'sword']] [[swallow (a two-ended blade)|0.17][$weapon = 'swallow']] [[bow|0.17][$weapon = 'bow']] [[daggers|0.17][$weapon = 'daggers']] [[axes|0.17][$weapon = 'axes']]

You let a sigh slip out as you take a seat on the edge of the stone path, this could take a while. They'd gotten the reputation of bickering siblings from the moment they had first interacted, you're almost surprised they call each other friends. Their bickering is interrupted by loud trampling sounds and high-pitched neighs, //the horses//. You draw your... [[sword|0.17][$weapon = 'sword']] [[swallow (a two-ended blade)|0.17][$weapon = 'swallow']] [[bow|0.17][$weapon = 'bow']] [[daggers|0.17][$weapon = 'daggers']] [[axes|0.17][$weapon = 'axes']]

You realise your mistake too late, sharp teeth piercing your side, forcing a pained shout out of your lungs. The beast shakes his head, tearing the skin from your body, making you collapse and gasp for air. Its teeth pierce your skin once again, the pain overwhelming and the darkness fast overtaking you as you let out a final, stuttering breath. <<back [img[images/death.png][0.17]]>>

You can hear the sickening sound of the hound's teeth knocking together on thin air, its momentary confusion gives you just enough time to <<switch $weapon>><<case "sword">>raise your sword, leaving a nasty gash in its shoulder<<case "bow">>step back and load your bow, the arrow piercing its shoulder<<case "swallow">>raise your swallow, leaving a nasty gash in its shoulder<<case "daggers">>pull out a dagger, the item piercing its shoulder<<case "axes">>raise one of your axes, leaving a nasty gash in its shoulder<</switch>>. It barely reacts- you've only seemed to anger it more. Amidst the dodging and weaving, you try to think back to droning voices and musty-smelling tomes, what you wouldn't give for Aeral's endless knowledge now- //The brain.// You remember now, $Athey'd told you. //"The source of the infection seems to stem from the brain, although the book mentions it is still unknown how it gets..."// With that in mind, you let the beast come closer and as it lunges for you once more you pierce its head with <<switch $weapon>><<case "sword">>your sword<<case "bow">>an arrow<<case "swallow">>your swallow<<case "daggers">>a dagger<<case "axes">>your axes<</switch>>. It struggles through its last breath, managing to knock you from your feet a final time before it fully sacks to the ground. You let out a heavy breath as you stand up to retrieve your <<if $weapon == "sword" or $weapon == "swallow" or $weapon == "axes" or $weapon == "daggers">>$weapon<<elseif $weapon == "bow">>arrows<</if>>, a leather band around the things neck catching your attention. Your finger traces over the letters engraved in the old collar, //"Birch"//. You rub your eyes and let out another sigh as you trudge back towards the shack, you could use another twelve-day nap. You open the creaky door, brown and blue eyes looking at you with intrigue. "The horses are dead." Judda gave Aeral a look, "If the horses are dead..." "...We'll have to walk," Aeral finished. [[A fornight passes|0.19]]

With dusk on the horizon, red and orange light the path in front of you, the pained sounds having made way for an eerie silence to settle around you. Halting near a small abandoned shack, you gesture towards your two companions, it was better to investigate alone. The weight of your $weapon feels comforting in your <<switch $weapon>><<case "sword" "bow" "swallow">>hand<<case "daggers" "axes">>hands<</switch>> as you make your way towards the wagon, blood and carnage coming into view with it. Your body tenses at the sound of crunching bones and you slowly raise your $weapon. You still as a large beast makes its way from behind the wagon, dragging a piece of one of your horses with it. Pale, torn white skin makes way for bones and leaking blisters, a foul smell accompanying it- What was once a large hunting dog, barely recognizable. It turns its nose up, sniffing once. Bloodshot eyes and teeth dripping with red turn to you with a loud snarl, lunging for your left arm before you have time to fully register it has smelled you. [[Dodge to the left|0.18.Death]] [[Dodge to the right|0.18]]

The first rays of sunshine break through the heavy foliage of the trees above, accompanying the chilly autumn breeze. Warm orange tones have started decorating the surroundings, the leaves that have already fallen crunching beneath your feet. A hunter's shack comes into view, rotting wood and broken planks betraying its age- the only sign of life is the smoke rising from the chipped chimney. Approaching the front, you make yourself home on the wooden log near the door and look up at the sky, it shouldn't be long now. You rest against the wall behind you and close your eyes, you can hear the creaking floorboards inside the house, but you let yourself have a moment's rest. The woods were clear, as they had been for the past week. Being so close to the gates, no soul would dare come near these parts. A loud, high-pitched screech has your lips twitching up into a smile. You raise your arm, feeling the pressure of sharp nails digging into your leather armour before you open your eyes and see the beautiful eagle you call your own. Large, brown-white feathers and a gorgeous white tail- she looks healthy. She gives an impatient chirp as you look her over and you let out a short laugh before relieving her of the small paper tied around her claw. You lightly brush a finger along her head, "Thank you.." //Please enter her name// <<textbox "$bird" $bird>><<button "Enter" "0.20">><</button>>

"Thank you, $bird." She lets out another chirp as she unfolds her wings and makes for the skies, probably off to hunt for a meal in the nearby river. You turn the small paper in your hands and let out a breath, opening the <<linkappend "letter">>. <center>The Oasis extends its utmost condolences for the awful events that took place. The current circumstances in Wealbode render them unable to arrange for outward excursions. The Oasis is more than willing to welcome the final Crown and $Atheir companions with open arms may they make their way into Alabe. ~May Lady Abayomi strengthen your resolve.</center> You let out another sigh as you make your way inside the shack. You hadn't expected anything else to come from this, but it had been worth a shot. The first thing you see when entering the hut is Aeral, sowing pieces of cloth together in what you guess to be a dress- The colours are more muted and the fabric thicker than what $Athey usually wears. You lean against the table next to $Athem, catching $Atheir attention and you give the piece of paper to $Athem. "Plan C, then?" Aeral asks as $Athey finishes reading it. [['"The Forest of the Lost it is"'|0.21][$historymenu = true]]<</linkappend>>

-History now available- That same chilly breeze from this morning now leaves goosebumps in its wake, the torn cloth covering the hole in the wall doing little to keep the elements at bay. You look down at the paper in front of you, the ancient script unreadable if not for the messy notes next to it. The Forest wasn't, albeit the most likely one, your first option. Rumours are just that and you were quite aware of that, but with the little amount that returned from their journey and with the ones that did, most having lost their mind, it becomes hard to ignore the danger it is painted as. //Ah-//. The memory comes back to you with the smell of freshly baked goods, the sound of joyous laughter and the sight of freshly picked flowers. The day of The Great King's Journey had always been a day of fond memories and full bellies, but after arriving at the castle, such celebrations seemed irrelevant. The [[Ballad|menu.history]] reminds you once more of why entering The Forest was your last option. You focus on the task at hand once more, the translation provided by the librarian of the nearby village summarizing the steps needed to enter The Forest. You had only caught slivers of iron on your patrols, but from what you heard, the gates were massive and one could not simply open them and be on their merry way. Then again, the ritual seemed quite straightforward- place a piece of paper with your name in the bowl near one of the statues' knees and draw some blood to seal the deal. For the amount of hushing and suspicious looks when you had asked around for information, you had somehow expected something a bit more... Frightening? Taboo? Nevertheless, you pick up the quill and write down your name, <<textbox "$name" "First name">><<textbox "$lname" "Last name">><<button "Enter" "0.22">><</button>>

You pocket the piece of paper, standing up to make some final preparations for your journey, but the creaking of your door stops you from picking up your $weapon. Judda stands in the doorway, seemingly apprehensive to enter and your attention shifts to the large canvas in $Jtheir hands, the painting hidden from your view. After a few more moments, Judda steps forward, harshly thrusting the canvas in your hands. "I uhm- I made this as a gift. For... For saving Aeral." $JThey frowns and rakes a hand through $Jtheir hair, "That's not true, I just wanted to make something for you. I uh... I thought you'd like it? <<if $estranged == true>>Maybe you can take this as like... Like a way to start again?<</if>>" $Jthey says, the doubt in $Jtheir voice apparent. You turn the canvas to reveal a painting of yourself, Judda and Aeral sitting in front of what you think to be The Lady- you remember seeing drawings of the statue in one of your history books. <<if $touchadverse != true>> \[[Hug Judda|0.customhug]] [['"Thank you, it's beautiful"'|0.custom]] [['"I.. Uhm.. Thank you"'|0.custom][$awkward = 1]] <<elseif $touchadverse == true>> \[['"Thank you, it's beautiful"'|0.custom]] [['"I.. Uhm.. Thank you"'|0.custom][$awkward = 1]] <</if>>

"I know you can't take it with you, but when we'll make it to the other side, I'll make sure that it won't just be a painting." $JThey makes $Jtheir way to the door but quickly turns around again, "Ah, I forgot. The guide we spoke about? I talked to them yesterday, they'll be meeting us at the entrance," $Jthey turns around again and before closing the door, "They have a real large stick up there, thought you should know." You shake your head as the door slams shut, //typical//. You eye the painting in your hand and hoist the large canvas on the desk, the old wood creaking in protest against the weight. Giving it a closer look, you realise your usual black leather is replaced by light silk and shining jewels. The first thing that catches your attention are the large jewels that form a crown on your head, the colour perfectly complementing your [[black hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'black']] [[light brown hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'light brown']] [[dark brown hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'dark brown']] [[auburn hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'auburn']] [[ginger hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'ginger']] <<if $gender == 'm'>>[[blond hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blond']]<<elseif $gender == 'f'>>[[blonde hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blonde']]<<else>>[[blond hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blond']]<</if>>

$JThey squeezes you before taking a step back, "I know you can't take it with you, but when we'll make it to the other side, I'll make sure that it won't just be a painting." $JThey makes $Jtheir way to the door but quickly turns around again, "Ah, I forgot. The guide we spoke about? I talked to them yesterday, they'll be meeting us at the entrance," $Jthey turns around again and before closing the door, "They have a real large stick up there, thought you should know." You shake your head as the door slams shut, //typical//. You eye the painting in your hand and hoist the large canvas on the desk, the old wood creaking in protest against the weight. Giving it a closer look, you realise your usual black leather is replaced by light silk and shining jewels. The first thing that catches your attention are the large jewels that form a crown on your head, the colour perfectly compliments your [[black hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'black']] [[light brown hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'light brown']] [[dark brown hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'dark brown']] [[auburn hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'auburn']] [[ginger hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'ginger']] <<if $gender == 'm'>>[[blond hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blond']]<<elseif $gender == 'f'>>[[blonde hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blonde']]<<else>>[[blond hair|0.custom1][$hair = 'blond']]<</if>>

and kept [[short|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'short']] [[ear-length|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'ear-length']] [[chin-length|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'chin-length']] [[shoulder-length|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'shoulder-length']] [[medium|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'medium']] [[long|0.custom3][$hairlength = 'long']]

Your focus shifts down towards your eyes, dusted in a pretty pigment that compliments your [[black eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'black']] [[honey brown eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'honey brown']] [[chocolate brown eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'chocolate brown']] [[grey eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'grew']] [[blue eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'blue']] [[green eyes|0.custom4][$eyes = 'green']]

Looking down further, you can see [[no facial hair|0.custom5][$facialhair = false]] [[stubble|0.custom5][$facialhair = 'stubble']] [[a short beard|0.custom5][$facialhair = 'a short beard']] [[a long beard|0.custom5][$facialhair = 'a long beard']]

Traditional Wealbodian silk covers your body, the light fabric alien on you compared to your usual dark wardrobe. Regardless, the silk fits perfectly and the soft colours stand out against your [[fair skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'fair']] [[beige skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'beige']] [[olive skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'olive']] [[tanned skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'tanned']] [[bronze skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'bronze']] [[golden brown skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'golden brown']] [[dark brown skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'dark brown']] [[ebony skin|0.custom6][$skin = 'ebony']]

Judda and Aeral are sat next to you, the three of you painted with smiles on your face. [[You are shorter than Aeral (very short)|0.23][$height = 'very short']] [[You are about the same height as Aeral (short)|0.23][$height = 'short']] [[You are taller than Aeral (average)|0.23][$height = 'average']] [[You are about the same height as Judda (tall)|0.23][$height = 'tall']] [[You are taller than Judda (very tall)|0.23][$height = 'very tall']]

It was beautiful, hopeful, a dream. Emptiness settles in your heart once more as you are reminded of the things that will never belong to you. //"One should chase goals, not frivolities,"// a harsh voice echoes in your mind. You shake your head, you have things to do, things that need your full attention lest you want to make mistakes. [[The next morning...|0.24]]

You breathe in the crisp air around you, basking in the chirping of the birds and the rhythmic sound of three sets of footsteps, but alas, silence is short-lived with the two companions behind you. The heavy weight on your shoulders and a beak digging in your left cheek distract you from the noise behind and remind you of the needy bird on your shoulder, you comply with $bird's demands and pet her pretty feathers, the feeling of them beneath your fingers calming the nerves of what is ahead. $bird grows restless after a while, turning away from your touch and flying up and away from you. It is then you realise that you have arrived at the entrance of The Forest. A figure clad in darkness, hood pulled up and a mask covering most of their face is leaning against the iron gates, their gaze follows $bird until she the clouds block her from their view. As the figure sees you approaching, they stretch before coming to meet you halfway. [[Up close you can see the woman's piercing green eyes and a few blonde strands peaking from beneath her hood|0.25][$Dgender = 'f']] [[Up close you can see the man's piercing green eyes and a few blond strands peaking from beneath his hood|0.25][$Dgender = 'm']]

$DThey gives you and Aeral a short nod before looking over at Judda, extending $Dtheir hand expectantly. Judda bounces forward, trying to lay a hand on the $Dperson's shoulder, but $Dthey steps back quickly, inclining $Dtheir head to the side. "Ah c'mon, give an old friend a hug," Judda says with a playful tone, throwing a large pouch $Dtheir way. The masked $Dperson fishes out a shiny gold coin from the purse and gives a grunt of what you think is approval after inspection, "Still haven't grown out of being a nuisance, I see." Aeral stifles a laugh beside you and Judda puts a hand over $Jtheir heart in mock offence, your attention, however, is on the heavy coin purse $Jthey just handed over. You raise your brow at Judda. There is no way $Jthey just had that lying around. $JThey sees the question in your eyes and waves it off with an elaborate gesture, "Believe me, you don't want to know." A low monotone voice draws your attention, "We should make way, the forest isn't kind to wanderers at night." <<if $Dgender == 'f'>> \[[She is closer now and the sudden hitch of your breath catches you off guard ♡|0.26A]] [['"Of course"'|0.26B]] <<elseif $Dgender == 'm'>> \[[He is closer now and the sudden hitch of your breath catches you off guard ♡|0.26A]] [['"Of course"'|0.26B]]<</if>>

$DThey raises a curious eyebrow and it takes a second for you to gather your senses, "I uhm- Yes, of course, let's go." You step forward and grasp the paper with your name on it. You stop in your tracks, however, when for the first time your attention is fully on what is in front of you. Large, rusted iron gates stand as tall as ancient oak trees, the bars connected by patterns made from metal leaves. Two statues kneel beside the entrance, tree roots painting a hauntingly accurate picture of something half beast, half human. Even kneeling, the statues are as big as the gate and both are holding spears as sharp as ones made from metal. You make your way towards the left statue and place the piece of paper with your name in the bowl in front of its knees. Taking a small knife out of a satchel on your leg, you cut your palm, letting the blood mix with the paper below. Moments pass and nothing happens, making you wonder if you did something wrong, maybe the information wasn't- Your train of thought stops abruptly as the paper dissolves, leaving only black ink that mixing with the blood in the bowl. A slow trail of the mixture makes its way up the statue's knees and gathers at its eyes. It blinks. You tense. The sound of snapping wood fills your ears as it stands up and you stifle a scream, nearly falling backwards in your haste to get out of its way. But the statue never comes for you, it and its likeness stand up, touching the gate that turns a brilliant white as they slowly open it. As the grating of the entrance comes to a halt, their faces turn to you, leaving you with the taste of acid burning your throat. The hooded figure steps forward and makes $Dtheir way into the darkness that consumes everything behind the gates. [[You follow|0.27]]

You step forward and grasp the paper with your name on it. You stop in your tracks, however, when for the first time your attention is fully on what is in front of you. Large, rusted iron gates stand as tall as ancient oak trees, the bars connected by patterns made from metal leaves. Two statues kneel beside the entrance, tree roots painting a hauntingly accurate picture of something half beast, half human. Even kneeling, the statues are as big as the gate and both are holding spears as sharp as ones made from metal. You make your way towards the left statue and place the piece of paper with your name in the bowl in front of its knees. Taking a small knife out of a satchel on your leg, you cut your palm, letting the blood mix with the paper below. Moments pass and nothing happens, making you wonder if you did something wrong, maybe the information wasn't- Your train of thought stops abruptly as the paper dissolves, leaving only black ink that mixing with the blood in the bowl. A slow trail of the mixture makes its way up the statue's knees and gathers at its eyes. It blinks. You tense. The sound of snapping wood fills your ears as it stands up and you stifle a scream, nearly falling backwards in your haste to get out of its way. But the statue never comes for you, it and its likeness stand up, touching the gate that turns a brilliant white as they slowly open it. As the grating of the entrance comes to a halt, their faces turn to you, leaving you with the taste of acid burning your throat. The hooded figure steps forward and makes $Dtheir way into the darkness that consumes everything behind the gates. [[You follow|0.27]]

The darkness surrounds you, the feeling like the familiar autumn breeze of this morning. Your vision is useless, but a thousand pin pricks suddenly scurry across your skin, followed by a million voices whispering in your ears, your name on their invisible tongues, //$name $lname// and again- //$name $lname, $name $lname, $name $lname//... Until you are once again wrapped in nothing but that chilly breeze. <<timed 9s t8n>>Your skin picks up on the voices before your ears do and you ready yourself for them once more- They come back with a deafening volume. <<next 6s>><center>You have given your name to The Forest and with it your promise to heed our rules.</center> <<next 5s>><center>You have given your blood to The Forest and with it your essence runs through all of our veins.</center> <<next 5s>><center>You have given yourself to The Forest and with it your body can cross our land.</center> [[Continue|ForNow]] <</timed>>

<img src="images/titlescreen.png" width="700px"/> //Please save your progress on the previous page.// Thank you for reading Forest Of The Lost! This is the end of the current demo. For progress or questions you can follow me on Tumblr; https://www.tumblr.com/blog/theforestofthelost

<<timed 100ms t8n>><center>[img[images/chap1.png][Chapter 2]]</center><</timed>>

switches to D's pov and you can pick pronouns then (sees the shadow on their knees in pain- this is when the voices bombard you) *something happens when Judda/Aeral walk into the forest