<div align='center' style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">PROLOGE</span> \
</div> <div align='center' style='font-size: 140%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">A Dream of Childhood </span> \
</div>
“I can see them! They’re here!”
The joyful voice of a man breaks through the silence and, as if on cue, the rest of the villagers gathered around the town’s entrance begin to welcome the visitors with their own shouts of excitement. More people are drawn by the sound, and before long, the previous group of ten becomes the massive crowd you see now.
Everyone had been counting the days to their visit since the moment a pigeon arrived with a letter from the High Church of Vocyr. As far as the rumors go, the missive stated that the Church would send some of their holy messengers to the biggest towns in the kingdom around summertime.
There was nothing about the purpose of their vistit, but the general consensus was that they were sent to protect the common folk from Moon and Her creatures. It made people //hopeful//. They gathered from morning to noon to wait and see if they could catch a glimpse of crimson or gold between the trees.
Until it finally, mercifully, happened today.
Children run from their mothers’ side and shove each other in a race to the front row, while others beg their parents to pick them up. Some people have fallen to their knees to praise Father Sun and His mercy, and more than one of them is crying. You aren’t sure if those are tears of joy or relief, but maybe it doesn’t matter.
And while you’re as eager as they are to see the unusual visitors, you have an advantage that none of them have: a higher, and better, viewpoint… from the top of a tree.
[[And you had dared to think it was an awful idea!]]
[[Of course, you believed in this plan from the start.]]
[[The how and why didn't matter, not when you have the best view!]]It was your mother’s idea, to be fair, and experience had led you to be wary of her adventurous nature.
So when she shared her plan to climb the tree near the village's entrance, you remained doubtful. It seemed like a waste of time, especially since the rest of the townsfolk would be waiting near the gates to greet the travelers upon arrival, but whatever issues you had with it disappeared once you saw //[[them.]]//
When your mother suggested the idea, you didn't give it a second thought. Experience had taught you that while her plans may not always be the best, they're always an adventure.
So you followed her away from the crowd, and when she climbed the tree near the village's entrance, you went after her with high hopes.
A faith that was rewarded when you saw //[[them.]]//
Like any other of your mother's ideas, this one was a bit more adventurous than the average villager's. That's why no one else thought of climbing the tree near the town's entrance to avoid the excited crowd forming around the gates.
And while you usually don't care about her wild streak, you can't help but feel grateful for it when you see //[[them.]]//
Glowing figures dressed in crimson robes, each one atop a beautiful white horse, emerge from the woods and fill the space around them with sunlight that seems to radiate from their skin.
The sight of those blessed by Father Sun.
Of the Ember Flames.
They wave and smile at the people gathered around them, but you don't see their faces as more than blurry patches in your mind. Their appearance is the least of your concerns as you watch on, nearly hypnotized by their light.
Magic flows from their fingertips to the empty runes that decorate the streets across town, bringing to life the dark markings as far as your eyes can see. They've probably covered the whole town with sunlight.
And such power has to be proof that Father Sun hasn't abandoned His children.
[[Mutter a holy verse.]]
[[Wave and shout your greetings.]]
[[The sight leaves you frozen with awe.]]A shaky sigh leaves your lips, the excitement of it all is nearly enough to make you forget the verses that you've memorized over the years, even those that you know like the palm of your hand. But endless nights of praying under distress and fear help you to remain in control of your feelings.
"Father Sun, share with us Your light, on earth as is it in Your sky. Lead us away from darkness…"
"To walk on your path," your mother finishes for you. Her tired eyes hold a softness that you hadn't seen in a long time. She takes your hand, and looks up to the darkening sky. "Our faith has been rewarded, little star. He heard our prayers."
You look up as well and realize that, with all the magic surrounding the town, you hadn’t noticed that Moon will rise soon, but something tells you that tonight there will be no need for locked windows and barricaded doors, [[that you’ll be safe.]]
The joy that you’re feeling overflows and, in a matter of seconds, your voice joins those below you in their cheers.
The shouts, the joy, the hope on everyone’s faces… it all seems so different from the quiet and empty streets that you’ve grown used to. Some part of you can’t believe how alive everything appears to be, and you revel in it.
"They've come to save us from Moon!"
You say to your mother, who jumps a little in surprise. She turns from the holy messengers to smile at you, bright and free of any burden. A real smile.
"Yes, my little star…" she takes your hand, and looks up to the darkening sky. "We'll be safe from now on."
You look up as well and realize that, with all the magic surrounding the town, you hadn’t noticed that Moon will rise soon, but something tells you that tonight there will be no need for locked windows and barricaded doors, [[that you’ll be safe.]]
You have no words for what you’re feeling, so you don’t even try to speak. Instead, you decide that gazing at the holy messengers and their power is good enough.
“They’re… incredible…” your mother says, her voice a little breathless. You struggle to understand the rest of her words with all the noise around you, but the hope in her eyes conveys more than any words could.
Hope.
Such a valuable and rare thing to possess these days. And now, you can see it in everyone's faces. Some of them express it with tears, others with cheers, and even some people dance and hug their loved ones.
And while you do none of those things, you feel light and free for the first time in a long time. Then, you turn towards your mother and take her hand, enjoying this moment in silence with her.
Something tells you that tonight there will be no need for locked windows and barricaded doors, [[that you’ll be safe.]]
[[Character stats]]
[[Lore]]<span style="color:#e39447">''Name:'' </span> You’re called $name, but in another life…
<span style="color:#e39447">''Appareance:'' </span> You have $eyecolor eyes and a $skincolor complexion. Your $haircolor hair is $hairtype and you kept it $hairlength. Most people would say you're $height.
<span style="color:#e39447">''Personality:'' </span> <<if $niceMC is true>>You're know for being genuine and kind,<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>You're know for being playful and sarcastic,<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You're know for having a strong temper,<</if>> <<if $brave is true>> facing danger with a brave face,<<else>> shying away from danger,<</if>> <<if $pesimista is true>> and looking at the worst side of life.<<else>> and looking at the best side of life.<</if>>
<span style="color:#e39447">''Skills:'' </span>
—Strength: $strength
—Charisma: $charisma
—Intellect: $intellect
—Skullduggery: $skullduggery
<<set $max=100; $faith = $faith; >>
<span style="color:#e39447">''Faith: $faith%'' </span>
//How much do you believe in the Church.//
<<print "<ul style='list-style:none; width:50%;'>"
+ "<li style='background:#C59A6F; color:#C59A6F; width: " + $faith + "%;' >" + $faith + "%</li>"
+ "</ul>" >>
<<set $max=100; $sin = $sin; >>
<span style="color:#e39447">''Sin: $sin%'' </span>
//Your willingness to stain your purity.//
<<print "<ul style='list-style:none; width:50%;'>"
+ "<li style='background:#C59A6F; color:#C59A6F; width: " + $sin + "%;' >" + $sin + "%</li>"
+ "</ul>" >><div style='font-size: 130%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">[[The Gods]] </span> \
</div>
<div style='font-size: 130%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">[[The Faith]] </span> \
</div>
<div style='font-size: 130%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">[[Her Teachings]] </span> \
</div>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/UbQZYwn.png" width="150em" height="150em">
Before the arrival of the Ember Flames, it bothered you how far away your house is from the main streets of the town, it made you feel like an easy target for the beasts of Moon, but now that you don’t have to worry about that, you’ve come like it.
Poppies grow all around your house, and you’ve made a habit of taking care of them. It’s there, with the flowers in your garden, that your mother finds you when she comes back from her job at the tavern.
“Look what I found, little star!" she calls from the path to your home, she's waving something in her hand.
“A letter?" you ask once she's next to you, reaching for it. She lets you take it. "From who? We don't have family in the nearby towns."
//Or any family at all.//
"I got it from the guardsmen," she smiles innocently, but at your frowning face, she laughs and adds: "All right, all right, you got me. Some of them were at the tavern, drank a little too much, and when I showed them the door, the letter fell out from one of their pockets. I just picked it up."
“Mom!”
She raises a hand to stop you, grinning from ear to ear. "Before you say anything, open it."
And you do. You unfold the piece of paper to find the beautiful sigil of a Sun with seven arrows across it. The words under it nearly make you drop the letter.
"It's from the High Church! I can't believe it!"
Is this a crime? Yes. Is this also the best news you’ve received this day? Also yes. So you don’t even bother with pretending you’re not happy. You pat the space next to you, motioning your mother to sit down.
"I saw it and I //knew// you would like it. And it even helps you practice your reading!” she laughs as she sits next to you, and eyes the poppies across the garden. “So while you're at it… I'll make you a flower crown!"
Then, she considers the colors of the flowers and the shade of your hair. "Ah, I know…”
[[“Red poppies for your black hair.”]]
[[“Yellow poppies for your brown hair...”]]
[[“Purple poppies for your blonde hair...”]]
[[“White poppies for your red hair...”]]
The sounds of raised voices wake you up just as the Sun comes out from the horizon, and the urge to fall asleep once again is strong.
The angry shouts don't worry you that much. You've grown accustomed to people coming over to fight with your mother from time to time. They raise their voices, call her a thief and lowly woman, and always end up leaving anyway when they're unable to prove her crimes.
[[They must be wrong, it can't be true!]]
[[It pains you to admit it, but they are right.]]
[[Your mother is a thief, so what?]]
[[They aren't wrong… and you find it amazing.]]
For the first time in your life, there are no screams during the night, no eyes stalking the edges of town from the darkness of the woods.
The town remains a beacon of light even during the night, like an eternal sunny day. And the next days are a blur of festivities and joy. There is dancing and genuine laughs from faces that had forgotten how to smile. There is peace. And everyone celebrates the arrival of your saviors from dawn to dusk.
But more importantly, [[your mother is happy.]]
It just can't be true. <<set $charisma to $charisma + 10>>
Your mother is a nice and caring woman, not a criminal. And while sometimes you don't know how she manages to keep you fed when she's unable to find work, you want to believe that she doesn't resort to stealing.
And… alright, she did take that cursed letter from the guardsmen, but as she said before, it fell out from their pocket and she only picked it up! That doesn’t count!
But no matter your feelings about it, there are bigger issues at hand, like the voices arguing outside your room. Something is different this time, something is wrong. No angry villager is asking for his coin back, and no enraged woman is claiming that her jewelry was stolen. But more importantly, the mocking tone that your mother’s voice takes on during these conversations is nowhere to be seen.
You shake your head, trying to clear your mind from all traces of sleepiness, and move away from your spot next to the window, where you fell asleep playing with a little wooden horse. You creep to the bedroom door, and once you’re close enough, you realize with surprise that they are talking about you.
[["I won't let you take her!"][$gender to "woman", $they to "she", $capithey to "She", $their to "her", $capitheir to "Her", $them to "her", $capithem to "Her", $theirs to "hers", $capitheirs to "Hers", $themselves to "herself", $capithemselves to "Herself", $kid to "daughter", $child to "girl"]]
[["I won't let you take him!"][$gender to "man", $they to "he", $capithey to "He", $their to "his", $capitheir to "His", $them to "him", $capithem to "Him", $theirs to "his", $capitheirs to "His", $themselves to "himself", $capithemselves to "Himself", $kid to "son", $child to "boy"]]
[["I won't let you take them!"][$gender to "person", $plural to true]]
Even though you wish it wasn't true, you've accepted long ago that your mother is a thief. <<set $intellect to $intellect + 10>>
You try to not think about it, but you’re reminded of the truth every time she comes home with food she shouldn’t be able to afford. And yet, you can’t condemn it, not when you've never gone a day without eating at least once thanks to her.
But no matter your feelings about it, there are bigger issues at hand, like the voices arguing outside your room. Something is different this time, something is wrong. No angry villager is asking for his coin back, and no enraged woman is claiming that her jewelry was stolen. But more importantly, the mocking tone that your mother’s voice takes on during these conversations is nowhere to be seen.
You shake your head, trying to clear your mind from all traces of sleepiness, and move away from your spot next to the window, where you fell asleep playing with a little wooden horse. You creep to the bedroom door, and once you’re close enough, you realize with surprise that they are talking about you.
[["I won't let you take her!"][$gender to "woman", $they to "she", $capithey to "She", $their to "her", $capitheir to "Her", $them to "her", $capithem to "Her", $theirs to "hers", $capitheirs to "Hers", $themselves to "herself", $capithemselves to "Herself", $kid to "daughter", $child to "girl"]]
[["I won't let you take him!"][$gender to "man", $they to "he", $capithey to "He", $their to "his", $capitheir to "His", $them to "him", $capithem to "Him", $theirs to "his", $capitheirs to "His", $themselves to "himself", $capithemselves to "Himself", $kid to "son", $child to "boy"]]
[["I won't let you take them!"][$gender to "person", $plural to true]]
She does what she must to survive. To keep //you// alive. <<set $skullduggery to $skullduggery + 10>>
And you can't judge her for it when you've never known raw hunger thanks to her.
But no matter your feelings about it, there are bigger issues at hand, like the voices arguing outside your room. Something is different this time, something is wrong. No angry villager is asking for his coin back, and no enraged woman is claiming that her jewelry was stolen. But more importantly, the mocking tone that your mother’s voice takes on during these conversations is nowhere to be seen.
You shake your head, trying to clear your mind from all traces of sleepiness, and move away from your spot next to the window, where you fell asleep playing with a little wooden horse. You creep to the bedroom door, and once you’re close enough, you realize with surprise that they are talking about you.
[["I won't let you take her!"][$gender to "woman", $they to "she", $capithey to "She", $their to "her", $capitheir to "Her", $them to "her", $capithem to "Her", $theirs to "hers", $capitheirs to "Hers", $themselves to "herself", $capithemselves to "Herself", $kid to "daughter", $child to "girl"]]
[["I won't let you take him!"][$gender to "man", $they to "he", $capithey to "He", $their to "his", $capitheir to "His", $them to "him", $capithem to "Him", $theirs to "his", $capitheirs to "His", $themselves to "himself", $capithemselves to "Himself", $kid to "son", $child to "boy"]]
[["I won't let you take them!"][$gender to "person", $plural to true]]
Life isn't fair, especially not now. <<set $skullduggery to $skullduggery + 10>>
If your mother had played by its rules, you both would have died long ago of sickness, hunger, or by the beasts that roam the nearby woods. And yet, you're alive against all odds thanks to her. Such a feat it’s something to be admired, not condemned.
But no matter your feelings about it, there are bigger issues at hand, like the voices arguing outside your room. Something is different this time, something is wrong. No angry villager is asking for his coin back, and no enraged woman is claiming that her jewelry was stolen. But more importantly, the mocking tone that your mother’s voice takes on during these conversations is nowhere to be seen.
You shake your head, trying to clear your mind from all traces of sleepiness, and move away from your spot next to the window, where you fell asleep playing with a little wooden horse. You creep to the bedroom door, and once you’re close enough, you realize with surprise that they are talking about you.
[["I won't let you take her!"][$gender to "woman", $they to "she", $capithey to "She", $their to "her", $capitheir to "Her", $them to "her", $capithem to "Her", $theirs to "hers", $capitheirs to "Hers", $themselves to "herself", $capithemselves to "Herself", $kid to "daughter", $child to "girl"]]
[["I won't let you take him!"][$gender to "man", $they to "he", $capithey to "He", $their to "his", $capitheir to "His", $them to "him", $capithem to "Him", $theirs to "his", $capitheirs to "His", $themselves to "himself", $capithemselves to "Himself", $kid to "son", $child to "boy"]]
[["I won't let you take them!"][$gender to "person", $plural to true]]"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> my child! My…"
<<textbox "$pastname" "">> <<set $woman to true>>
At the sound of your name, you open the door a little bit, just enough to let you see what’s happening. You see your mother as expected, but next to her stands a man you’ve only seen on a handful of occasions: Cordell, the chief of the town's guards. And the corner of the room stands one of his subordinates.
The three of them stand with rigid postures, as if waiting for a signal to attack or retreat. The tension between them is palpable, and you wonder what you could have done for… whatever this is to have happened.
Then, your mother looks towards your bedroom and you fear you've been caught. But she only spares it a worried glaze before she resumes [[her discussion.]]"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> my child! My…"
<<textbox "$pastname" "">> <<set $man to true>>
At the sound of your name, you open the door a little bit, just enough to let you see what’s happening. You see your mother as expected, but next to her stands a man you’ve only seen on a handful of occasions: Cordell, the chief of the town's guards. And the corner of the room stands one of his subordinates.
The three of them stand with rigid postures, as if waiting for a signal to attack or retreat. The tension between them is palpable, and you wonder what you could have done for… whatever this is to have happened.
Then, your mother looks towards your bedroom and you fear you've been caught. But she only spares it a worried glaze before she resumes [[her discussion.]]"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> my child! My…"
<<textbox "$pastname" "">> <<set $nonby to true>>
At the sound of your name, you open the door a little bit, just enough to let you see what’s happening. You see your mother as expected, but next to her stands a man you’ve only seen on a handful of occasions: Cordell, the chief of the town's guards. And the corner of the room stands one of his subordinates.
The three of them stand with rigid postures, as if waiting for a signal to attack or retreat. The tension between them is palpable, and you wonder what you could have done for… whatever this is to have happened.
Then, your mother looks towards your bedroom and you fear you've been caught. But she only spares it a worried glaze before she resumes [[her discussion.]]"Why does it have to be $them? Half of the children in this town would be more than happy to take $their place! Just choose another!"
"Try to understand, Leonor,” he tries to reason with her, his voice strained with the effort of keeping his composure. He's failing. “The Ember Flames chose $them, not anyone else. They say that $pastname is special."
"Right!” she gives a sharp laugh. “Our dear saviors that have come sorely to take away our children, because fuck us and this cursed place!"
"Stop being so stubborn and think about $their future!” he finally snaps, motioning with his hand to your bedroom. “The Church can offer $them so much. A real education, safety… the honor of being an Ember Flame!"
“How dare you!” she growls, eyes livid with fury as she marches right to his face. “You want me to let $them die! And for what? A world that’s already condemned!”
[[“You know,”]] he whispers, his eyes widening in surprise. You're scared. Whatever is happening right now is far from what you're used to dealing with, and before you realize what you're doing, you get away from the door and climb through your bedroom window towards the glowing streets.
You don't have a plan. The town has no love for your mother, and while they usually treat you well enough, no one would be willing to hide you from the Church. And it's not like you could escape to the woods either, not with all the beasts that live in it.
But you also couldn’t stay one more second in your room, you had to do //something// before the guardsmen dragged you screaming to the Ember Flames, and if that was running without a destination in mind, [[then so be it.]]Even if you had stayed, what would that have accomplished? Getting caught faster? Putting your mother in even more danger? Having the Ember Flames come and snatch you from her arms? <<set $intellect to $intellect + 10>>
No, this was the only option you had if you wanted to see her again.
If you manage to hide until they stop searching for you, you’ll be free to return home. So you ignore the guilt that threatens to slow you down and continue running.
At least until a hand grabs you by the shoulder.
You don't have to turn around to see who it belongs to, the faint glow that radiates from it tells you everything you need to know.
[[Bite them.]]
[[Struggle.]]
[[Cry.]]
[[Freeze in fear.]]<<if $eyecolorknow is true>>You refuse to let it end like this, if they want you to go with them, then they’ll have to drag you screaming. <<set $reaction to "bite">>
In a flash, you turn around and clamp down your teeth into the hand of a young man. He cries out in pain, and you bite even harder when you taste blood. It gives you a sick sense of peace, he deserves to feel the pain that you’re carrying because of them.
Then, a sharp kick to your stomach sends you falling to the ground. It takes the air out of your lungs and leaves you frozen on the ground.
"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his pale skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<<else>>You refuse to let it end like this, if they want you to go with them, then they’ll have to drag you screaming. <<set $reaction to "bite">>
In a flash, you turn around and clamp down your teeth into the hand of a young man. He cries out in pain, and you bite even harder when you taste blood. It gives you a sick sense of peace, he deserves to feel the pain that you’re carrying because of them.
Then, a sharp kick to your stomach sends you falling to the ground. It takes the air out of your lungs and leaves you frozen on the ground.
You look up, and his harsh eyes meet…
[[Your black ones.]]
[[Your brown ones.]]
[[Your blue ones.]]
[[Your green ones.]]
[[Your hazel ones.]]
[[Your grey ones.]]<</if>>Your resolve has not faltered. <<set $brave to true>>
You’re not going with them unless they force you. And if he thinks you will go down without a fight, then he's sorely mistaken.
Ignoring the ache in your muscles, you get up from the ground and start running. You think you hear a “little shit” behind you, and then, the man shortens the distance with ease and grabs your arms, twisting them in a painful hold from behind you.
“Let me go!” you scream at him, struggling to break free, but it only manages to make him use more force.
“Remember, you chose to be a brat.”
The rest of the Ember Flames arrive shortly after that. And they drag you across the town while you struggle in their hold, scream for help, and even try to bite them when you can. But it's all for naught. Their grip is made of iron, and all your pleas fall on deaf ears.
And really, why would anyone help you? Half of the town is terrified by their power and the other half loves them blindly. The Ember Flames are holy messengers, their actions aren't to be questioned unless you're ready to face divine punishment by the Church.
You’re sure that some of the villagers are jealous of you, even as you scream and cry to be let go from the room they keep you in.
You pass the next days like that, in a cycle of defiance and despair while the young man that found you, Aiken, stays at your side all the time to keep you from running away, something that you try to do at every chance you get without success.
You also hear nothing from your mother, and when you ask about her, they only say that she’s been dealt with. You don’t ask for details for fear of hearing the worst, and you try to keep your tears from being seen by them.
On the third day, they depart to the capital with you. The townsfolk gather around the entrance once again, but this time they cry and beg them to stay while others glare at you and tell you to shut up, to be happy that you were chosen to travel with them.
None cares about your pain, they only see an ungrateful $child.
[[End of Prologue.]]<div align='center' style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">CHAPTER 1</span> \
</div> <div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">The Man From the Woods </span> \
</div>
You wake up with a gasp.
The bed is damp with sweat, and the covers are a tangled mess at your feet.
Your heart is pounding and, for a brief moment, you’re back in the town that you no longer remember the name of, listening to the cries of a desperate woman who begs you to come back. But it passes. And as your breathing calms down, you remember that you’re in The Emerad Hall, the great stronghold of the region of Yrrena.
Your eyes adjust to the darkness, leting you regconize your surroundings… A wooden table, a small chest and some other belongings that you know to be yours. The panic melts away. These are your quarters at the Northern Temple, the holy building located inside the castle’s grounds.
There’s nothing wrong.
You're safe.
[[It’s always like this, the past haunts you.]]
[[You’ve forced yourself to bury it all deep down.]]
[[It took some effort, but you’ve made peace with it.]]
[[You welcome the nightmares, you don’t want to forget.]]
[[Joining the Church was the right option.]]Your determination wavers at his words.
So what if you scream and struggle at every step of the way? They’ll still get what they want in the end. What is even the point to show a defiant face?
You wanted to be brave for your mother, for all she did for you. And for a moment you truly managed to do it, but all the fire that felt inside of you died in the presence of this man, your doom.
And what were you even thinking? Even if you had managed to hide, someone would have turned you in to the Ember Flames. Half of the town is terrified by their power and the other half loves them blindly. No one escapes the Church and its members. Their word its divine law.
The man above you inspects your face, and he must see that your resolve has crumbled under the weight of your reality, because his posture relaxes a bit.
"Good choice,” he sighs and motions you to follow him.
And you do, because you don’t know what to do anymore.
You walk behind him as he returns to his group. And you try to ignore the jealous stares of the rest of the townsfolk. They would do anything to be as close as you’re to the Ember Flames, but you know the truth behind their actions, and it all feels like ash in your mouth.
The next days are a cycle of submission and frustration, while the young man that found you, Aiken, stays at your side all the time to keep you from running away. Something unnecessary, you haven’t tried to do that even when you've felt like you had a chance to escape.
You also hear nothing from your mother, and when you ask about her, they only say that she’s safe and in a place where she can’t reach you. It’s little to nothing, but it comforts you to know she’s alive, and when you try to ask for details, they tell you that if you keep behaving, you’ll see her before it’s time to leave.
On the third day, they depart to the capital with you. The townsfolk gather around the entrance once again, but this time they cry and beg them to stay while others stare at you with jealousy. It’s not fair that you get to travel with the holy messengers and they get condemned to stay here, where the sunlight that envelops the town will slowly fade until the nights of terror start again.
But you don’t pay attention to them, you’re searching the crowd for your mother. And it’s only when you give up that you see her crying face next to Cordell’s bleak one.
They’re the only ones who see your pain as you depart, and not a lucky $child.
[[End of Prologue.]]<<if $eyecolorknow is true>>You’re done being tossed around by life, and if you need to fight to earn your freedom, then you’ll do it. For yourself and your mother. <<set $reaction to "struggle">>
You struggle in their hold, twisting and pulling in different directions, screaming at the top of your lungs. You fight the man’s hold on you for what feels like an eternity, until all your energy runs out and they shove you to the ground.
“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<<else>>You’re done being tossed around by life, and if you need to fight to earn your freedom, then you’ll do it. For yourself and your mother. <<set $reaction to "struggle">>
You struggle in their hold, twisting and pulling in different directions, screaming at the top of your lungs. You fight the man’s hold on you for what feels like an eternity, until all your energy runs out and they shove you to the ground.
You look up, and his harsh eyes meet…
[[Your black ones.]]
[[Your brown ones.]]
[[Your blue ones.]]
[[Your green ones.]]
[[Your hazel ones.]]
[[Your grey ones.]]<</if>><<if $eyecolorknow is true>>You were going to be brave… You were, you truly were… <<set $lena to true>> <<set $reaction to "cry">>
But when the tears start gathering in your eyes, you’re unable to stop them. And everything you’ve pushed down floats to the surface.
The stress, the fear, the uncertainty… it all overwhelms you to the point that you can’t help but begin sobbing. And it’s such an ugly sight, your nose is running and fat tears fall down your cheeks. Soon you’re unable to support your own weight, and you fall to the ground, curling into a ball in a last-ditch effort to protect yourself from the world.
“Hey, don’t cry, I’m not going to hurt you…” a soothing voice comes from above you. “I just wanted to get your attention.”
You turn to look up to see a tall woman with dark skin and short, coily hair. Her sad, green eyes meet your $eyecolor ones. She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<<else>>You were going to be brave… You were, you truly were… <<set $lena to true>> <<set $reaction to "cry">>
But when the tears start gathering in your eyes, you’re unable to stop them. And everything you’ve pushed down floats to the surface.
The stress, the fear, the uncertainty… it all overwhelms you to the point that you can’t help but begin sobbing. And it’s such an ugly sight, your nose is running and fat tears fall down your cheeks. Soon you’re unable to support your own weight, and you fall to the ground, curling into a ball in a last-ditch effort to protect yourself from the world.
“Hey, don’t cry, I’m not going to hurt you…” a soothing voice comes from above you. “I just wanted to get your attention.”
You turn to look up to see a tall woman with dark skin and short, coily hair. Her sad, green eyes meet…
[[Your black ones.]]
[[Your brown ones.]]
[[Your blue ones.]]
[[Your green ones.]]
[[Your hazel ones.]]
[[Your grey ones.]]<</if>>You don’t know where this sudden spark of bravery comes from, but it fills you with determination. It makes you feel in charge of your body, and future, once again. <<set $brave to true>>
And it's in that moment that you decide that you’re not going with them unless they force you. If she thinks you will go down without a fight, then she's sorely mistaken. In the blink of an eye, you get up from the ground and start running.
But it’s not enough. The woman shortens the distance with ease and grabs your arms, twisting them in a painful hold from behind you.
“Let me go!” you scream at her, struggling to break free, but she keeps her hold steady.
“I’m sorry, I’m sorry...” and the worst part is that she truly sounds regretful.
The rest of the Ember Flames arrive shortly after that. And they drag you across the town while you struggle in their hold, scream for help, and even try to bite them when you can. But it's all for naught. Their grip is made of iron, and all your pleas fall on deaf ears.
And really, why would anyone help you? Half of the town is terrified by their power and the other half loves them blindly. The Ember Flames are holy messengers, their actions aren't to be questioned unless you're ready to face divine punishment by the Church.
You’re sure that some of the villagers are jealous of you, even as you scream and cry to be let go from the room they keep you in.
You pass the next days like that, in a cycle of defiance and despair while the young woman that found you, Lena, stays at your side all the time to keep you from running away, something that you try to do at every chance you get without success.
You also hear nothing from your mother, and when you ask about her, they only say that she’s been dealt with. You don’t ask for details for fear of hearing the worst, and you try to keep your tears from being seen by them.
On the third day, they depart to the capital with you. The townsfolk gather around the entrance once again, but this time they cry and beg them to stay while others glare at you and tell you to shut up, to be happy that you were chosen to travel with them. To them, it’s not fair that you get to travel with the holy messengers and they get condemned to stay here, where the sunlight that envelops the town will slowly fade until the nights of terror start again.
None cares about your pain, they only see an ungrateful $child.
[[End of Prologue.]]Some part of you had already given up, even before the weight of her words settled over you.
Yes, it's better if you make this easier for everyone. Even if you dared to scream and struggle at every step of the way they’d still get what they want in the end. At least if you behave they’ll treat you better, maybe they’ll even take pity on you and let you go at some point.
What a total disappointment. All you wanted was to be brave for your mother, and look at you, admitting defeat so easily…
But you know she’d understand that you had to surrender to survive, she wouldn’t think less of you. This was the only option.
Even if you had managed to hide, someone would have turned you in to the Ember Flames. Half of the town is terrified by their power and the other half loves them blindly. No one escapes the Church and its members. Their word its divine law. And you knew this from the start, you didn’t need a holy woman to remind you of that fact.
She inspects your face, and she must see that you have finally accepted your defeat, because she’s finally able to smile at you.
“Thank you,” she says and motions you to follow her.
You walk at her side as she returns to her group. And you try to ignore the jealous stares of the rest of the townsfolk. They would do anything to be as close as you’re to the Ember Flames, but you know the truth behind their actions, and it all feels like ash in your mouth.
The next days are a cycle of submission and frustration, while the young woman that found you, Lena, stays at your side all the time to keep you from running away. Something unnecessary, you haven’t tried to do that even when you've felt like you had a chance to escape.
You also hear nothing from your mother, and when you ask about her, they only say that she’s safe and in a place where she can’t reach you. It’s little to nothing, but it comforts you to know she’s alive, and when you try to ask for details, they tell you that if you keep behaving, you’ll see her before it’s time to leave.
On the third day, they depart to the capital with you. The townsfolk gather around the entrance once again, but this time they cry and beg them to stay while others stare at you with jealousy. To them, it’s not fair that you get to travel with the holy messengers and they get condemned to stay here, where the sunlight that envelops the town will slowly fade until the nights of terror start again.
But you don’t pay attention to them, you’re searching the crowd for your mother. And it’s only when you give up that you see her crying face next to Cordell’s bleak one.
They’re the only ones who see your pain as you depart, and not a lucky $child.
[[End of Prologue.]]<<if $eyecolorknow is true>>It’s over. <<set $lena to true>> <<set $reaction to "freeze">>
All your efforts to avoid your fate have been for nothing. Your mother’s efforts have been for nothing. And that hurts you so much that you’re unable to do anything but stay still.
All of your strength abandons you, and you collapse to the ground. For a moment, it’s like everything around has ceased to exist. All you’ve done is meaningless anyway, if they want to take you with them, they can do it. It doesn’t matter.
You stay that way, completely empty for a moment, and then, you come back to your body. A tall woman with dark skin and short, coily hair is shaking your shoulders.
“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<<else>>It’s over. <<set $lena to true>> <<set $reaction to "freeze">>
All your efforts to avoid your fate have been for nothing. Your mother’s efforts have been for nothing. And that hurts you so much that you’re unable to do anything but stay still.
All of your strength abandons you, and you collapse to the ground. For a moment, it’s like everything around has ceased to exist. All you’ve done is meaningless anyway, if they want to take you with them, they can do it. It doesn’t matter.
You stay that way, completely empty for a moment, and then, you come back to your body. A tall woman with dark skin and short, coily hair is shaking your shoulders. Her sad, green eyes meet your…
[[Your black ones.]]
[[Your brown ones.]]
[[Your blue ones.]]
[[Your green ones.]]
[[Your hazel ones.]]
[[Your grey ones.]]<</if>>The guilt paralyzes you. After all the things your mother has done for your sake, you decided to leave her when she needed you! <<set $charisma to $charisma + 10>>
Should you go back? Will she forgive you for this mistake? Or should you commit to running away? What if it’s already too late to help her? What if she’s dea—
Then, a hand grabs you by the shoulder.
You don't have to turn around to see who it belongs to, the faint glow that radiates from it tells you everything you need to know.
[[Bite them.]]
[[Struggle.]]
[[Cry.]]
[[Freeze in fear.]]
You don’t expect to make a real difference with your presence, but what if you run away and get captured anyway? Your last memory would be of her protecting you while you decided to leave her alone. <<set $strength to $strength + 10>>
You can’t be such a coward, especially when your mother needs you by her side. That is a burden you won't be able to carry for the rest of your life.
Having made up your mind, you’re ready to go back when a hand grabs you by the shoulder.
You don't have to turn around to see who it belongs to, the faint glow that radiates from it tells you everything you need to know.
[[Bite them.]]
[[Struggle.]]
[[Cry.]]
[[Freeze in fear.]]
Before you know it, you’re slamming the door open and running to her side. Her eyes widen in surprise, but you can only see the blood dripping from her nose. You crash into her, hugging her close, wishing that you could somehow make this right. Her cockiness falls apart, and she holds you in her arms as if she could somehow bind you to herself, so no one could ever take you away. <<set $eyecolorknow to true>>
Then, a sudden noise makes you look away from her.
It’s the guard. His profile is against the wall, and the arm he used to slap your mother is painfully twisted behind his back. Cordell is behind him, eyes cold and professional. One of his hands keeps the pressure on the man’s face, while the other has a bruising grip on the offender’s arm.
"We don't touch innocent people. Do it again, and you'll lose the hand."
"But sir, what she said…!"
"Was spoken out of pain,” he says, applying even more force. The guard grunts in pain. “Are we clear?"
A moment passes. You can see the hate burning in the eyes of the man, clearly reluctant to surrender, but he finally caves.
"Yes, sir."
Cordell shoves him to the side, and motions to the front door with a tilt of his head. “Get out.”
The man glares at your mother, but he doesn’t protest against the order. He slams the door on his way out.
Cordell sighs, and when he turns to look at both of you, his eyes are full of regret. It’s not the first time he’s looked at you this way, but it always unnerves you.
[[The black of his eyes is so familiar.]]
[[That shade of brown is so familiar.]]
[[That shade of blue is so familiar.]]
[[That shade of green is so familiar.]]
[[That shade of hazel is so familiar.]]
[[That shade of grey is so familiar.]]A shade of... <<set $blueeyes to true>>
[[Ice blue.]]
[[Light blue.]]
[[Dark blue.]]A shade of... <<set $browneyes to true>>
[[Amber.]]
[[Light brown.]]
[[Dark brown.]]<<set $eyecolor to "black">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror. <<set $blackeyes to true>>
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]A shade of... <<set $greeneyes to true>>
[[Sage green.]]
[[Light green.]]
[[Dark green.]]<<set $eyecolor to "hazel">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror. <<set $hazeleyes to true>>
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]Whatever was happening between them doesn’t matter, what does is that you didn’t like it.
Cordell and your mother have never been close, and seeing them together like that… It was as bizarre as it was uncomfortable. You welcome the end of that weird moment with sincere relief.
But the peace is short-lived.
"Let me try to change your mind about the Church,” he breaks the silence, keeping his voice free of emotion. “About their offer.”
Your mother softens her hold on you and glares at the man. Her confidence has returned as if nothing had happened.
“I’m starting to believe you’ve gone deaf,” she says between gritted teeth, “I already told you, I’m not giving them my $kid.”
“Just think about it. These are dangerous times, and the Church would keep $them safe… or do you really want this life for $them?" a hint of annoyance breaks through his composure.
“I…” she falters for a moment, but his argument isn’t enough. Her eyes harden once again. “Today, tomorrow, a year from now on, the answer will always be no."
“Father Sun knows I tried,” he murmurs as he shakes his head in disappointment. He turns towards the front door and shouts: "Come in!"
Two men dressed as guards enter your home, one of them being the one who hurt your mother. A shiver runs through your body when you see a cruel smile on his face, it the situation turns violent, you know he’ll take the chance to hurt you.
[[Keep your cool.]]
[[Glare at him.]]
[[Hug your mother closer.]]
[[Tremble in fear.]]Cordell and your mother have never been close, and the few times you’ve seen them interact, their conversations were short and straight to the point. But seeing them this way… It feels like there’s something buried between them.
A story that you’ll never know.
"Let me try to change your mind about the Church,” he breaks the silence, keeping his voice free of emotion. “About their offer.”
Your mother softens her hold on you and glares at the man. Her confidence has returned as if nothing had happened.
“I’m starting to believe you’ve gone deaf,” she says between gritted teeth, “I already told you, I’m not giving them my $kid.”
“Just think about it. These are dangerous times, and the Church would keep $them safe… or do you really want this life for $them?" a hint of annoyance breaks through his composure.
“I…” she falters for a moment, but his argument isn’t enough. Her eyes harden once again. “Today, tomorrow, a year from now on, the answer will always be no."
“Father Sun knows I tried,” he murmurs as he shakes his head in disappointment. He turns towards the front door and shouts: "Come in!"
Two men dressed as guards enter your home, one of them being the one who hurt your mother. A shiver runs through your body when you see a cruel smile on his face, it the situation turns violent, you know he’ll take the chance to hurt you.
[[Keep your cool.]]
[[Glare at him.]]
[[Hug your mother closer.]]
[[Tremble in fear.]]You don’t look away from him, even as his eyes speak of ill intentions towards you and your mother. The expression on your face remains impassive until his grin transforms into a scowl, and finally, he looks away in frustration.
It’s a small victory, but you enjoy it anyway.
No one moves after that, and the silence in the room turns oppressive in a matter of minutes. It seems as if everyone is waiting for a signal, a gesture of aggression or surrender. And you find yourself frozen with everyone else.
Until Cordell cuts through the tension in the room and moves closer.
Your mother stands to her full height and raises her chin in defiance, but makes no move to stop him. Nothing about him seems threatening for now. Then, he extends a hand to you, looks firmly into her eyes, and grabs you.
"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> coming with me.”
[[Struggle in his hold.]]
[[Bite his hand.]]
[[Freeze.]]
[[Beg him to let you go.]]
You glare at him, willing all your anger to show on your face. But he grins wider, which only helps to frustrate you even further.
“My good man... Are you seriously picking a fight with a child?” she laughs, talking to him as if he were just a boy. Then, her voice turns sharp and full of venom. “Looks like Cordell doesn’t give you enough attention!”
The man becomes red with frustration, but he isn’t keen to test his superior’s patience, so he stays quiet and looks away.
It’s a small victory, but you enjoy it anyway.
No one moves after that, and the silence in the room turns oppressive in a matter of minutes. It seems as if everyone is waiting for a signal, a gesture of aggression or surrender. And you find yourself frozen with everyone else.
Until Cordell cuts through the tension in the room and moves closer.
Your mother stands to her full height and raises her chin in defiance, but makes no move to stop him. Nothing about him seems threatening for now. Then, he extends a hand to you, looks firmly into her eyes, and grabs you.
"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> coming with me.”
[[Struggle in his hold.]]
[[Bite his hand.]]
[[Freeze.]]
[[Beg him to let you go.]]
His heavy stare weights down on you, and searching for some kind of comfort, you turn to your mother to hug her even closer. She welcomes your embrace and strokes your back to comfort you.
“Keep looking at $them,” your mother dares him, venom dripping from every word. “And I’ll claw your eyes out.”
The man scoffs at her, but one look from Cordell is enough to keep him in line, and finally, he looks away in embarrassment.
You let out a shaky breath in relief.
No one moves after that, and the silence in the room turns oppressive in a matter of minutes. It seems as if everyone is waiting for a signal, a gesture of aggression or surrender. And you find yourself frozen with everyone else.
Until Cordell cuts through the tension in the room and moves closer.
Your mother stands to her full height and raises her chin in defiance, but makes no move to stop him. Nothing about him seems threatening for now. Then, he extends a hand to you, looks firmly into her eyes, and grabs you.
"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> coming with me.”
[[Struggle in his hold.]]
[[Bite his hand.]]
[[Freeze.]]
[[Beg him to let you go.]]
A tremor runs across your body, and once your mother feels it, she steps in front of you to shield you from his eyes.
“I had no idea animals were allowed to join the guardsmen!” she gaps in mock surprise, and then adds with a sharp laugh: “I don’t think I had ever seen a pig in uniform before!”
The man becomes red with frustration, but with Cordell’s previous warning in mind, he stays quiet and looks away.
You let out a shaky breath in relief.
No one moves after that, and the silence in the room turns oppressive in a matter of minutes. It seems as if everyone is waiting for a signal, a gesture of aggression or surrender. And you find yourself frozen with everyone else.
Until Cordell cuts through the tension in the room and moves closer.
Your mother stands to her full height and raises her chin in defiance, but makes no move to stop him. Nothing about him seems threatening for now. Then, he extends a hand to you, looks firmly into her eyes, and grabs you.
"$capithey <<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>> coming with me.”
[[Struggle in his hold.]]
[[Bite his hand.]]
[[Freeze.]]
[[Beg him to let you go.]]
He yanks you away from her before she can react. And the men behind him move quickly, intercepting your mother as she charges at Cordell. <<set $strength to $strength + 10>>
"Let me go!" you scream as you tug and twist away from him, led only by instinct. He lets you struggle in his arms without hurting you, waiting patiently for you to tire yourself out. But his calmness in front of your anger only serves to make you more desperate.
You turn towards your mother, and see both men at her sides, each one holding one of her arms. The hate in her gaze makes you shiver, even if it isn't directed at you.
Then, Cordell starts pulling you towards the front door.
"Wait! Let me say goodbye!" your bravery falters, and you decide that if you need to beg for a last moment with her, you'll do it. You grab his arm and look at him with pleading eyes. "I need to do this!"
Conflicting emotions play out in his eyes. He’s torn between finishing his duty and granting your request, but the latter wins after a tense moment. He sighs, and signals his men to free your mother. "Be quick."
He lets you go, and you immediately rush to hug her, hiding your face into her neck. She holds you close, [[and does the same.]]He yanks you away from her before she can react. And the men behind him move quickly, intercepting your mother as she charges at Cordell. <<set $strength to $strength + 10>>
You don't hesitate to clamp down your teeth on the hand that's grabbing you. And while he lets out a hiss of pain, he makes no move to stop you as you draw blood with the force of your bite.
You look up, expecting to see anger, maybe surprise. But what you see on his face shocks you enough to let him go.
He seems… sad, but thankful as well. As if dealing with his feelings has been made easier by receiving a punishment.
A wave of disgust hits you, the last thing you want is to comfort him.
Then, Cordell starts pulling you towards the front door.
"No! Wait! Wait! Let me say goodbye!" you scream at him, half begging and half demanding. But if pleading for a last moment with your mother is what it takes, then you'll do it. "I need to do this!"
Conflicting emotions play out in his eyes. He’s torn between finishing his duty and granting your request, but the latter wins after a tense moment. He sighs, and signals his men to free your mother. "Be quick."
He lets you go, and you immediately rush to hug her, hiding your face into her neck. She holds you close, [[and does the same.]]He yanks you away from her before she can react. And the men behind him move quickly, intercepting your mother as she charges at Cordell. <<set $intellect to $intellect + 10>>
A thousand ideas run through your mind. Should you run? Maybe you should try to bite him, or you could at least scream!
But in the end, no matter how much you try to move, you're unable to do anything but stand frozen next to him as his men subdue your mother.
Then, Cordell starts pulling you towards the front door and you break free from your shock.
"Wait! Let me say goodbye!" you cry out, grabbing his arm and pleading with your eyes. You've finally chosen how to react, and you hope that begging was the right option. "I need to do this! Please…"
Conflicting emotions play out in his eyes. He’s torn between finishing his duty and granting your request, but the latter wins after a tense moment. He sighs, and signals his men to free your mother. "Be quick."
He lets you go, and you immediately rush to hug her, hiding your face into her neck. She holds you close, [[and does the same.]]
He yanks you away from her before she can react. And the men behind him move quickly, intercepting your mother as she charges at Cordell. <<set $charisma to $charisma + 10>>
You don't bother with struggling to break free, you know it's impossible to escape him through strength alone. Instead, you turn to face him and start begging.
"Please, let me go!" you cry out, desperately trying to move him, to make him change his mind. "Please! I want to stay with my mother! Please!"
Tears start to fall down your cheeks, and the sight breaks through Cordell's coldness. He frowns and, for a brief moment, you see true anguish in his eyes. It doesn't last long.
"This is for your own good."
Then, Cordell starts pulling you towards the front door.
"Wait! Let me say goodbye!" you beg, grabbing his arm and pleading with your eyes. If you were crying before, now you're sobbing. You can't imagine leaving without at least saying goodbye. "Please, I can't…"
Conflicting emotions play out in his eyes. He’s torn between finishing his duty and granting your request, but the latter wins after a tense moment. He sighs, and signals his men to free your mother. "Be quick."
He lets you go, and you immediately rush to hug her, hiding your face into her neck. She holds you close, [[and does the same.]]"$pastname, I need you to listen to me," she whispers, careful to not let the men around you notice it. "Run to your bedroom and escape through the window. Hide…"
"Mother, I don't know…" you're not sure about the plan, where are you even supposed to hide? No one will be willing to hide you from the Church! Is she asking you to go to the woods?
"Shh, just listen."
"That's enough," says Cordell, his voice is firm as he walks closer. "There are people waiting for $them. We need to go."
"I'll find you when it's safe to do so, I love you," she kisses the top of your head and steps away.
She moves closer to the front door, her steps are confident and speak of a plan, Cordell is quick to follow her and that leaves the coast clear to your bedroom.
You run and hell breaks loose.
Cordell rushes to intercept you, but he's pushed to the side as your mother shoves him with her body. You don't stop to see what happens next, but you can hear them fight as you make your way outside from the window.
The thought of your mother facing three men in a fight terrifies you, and the urge to look back gets stronger with each hurried step that you take. You know she’s a capable woman, and you’ve seen her dealing with violent villagers or drunken men at the tavern, but this is far from a fair fight.
And yet, some part of you believes that Cordell will make sure that she stays alive, at least. He wouldn’t let his men wound her in any fatal way, right? You have to believe that to be true, [[because you don’t know what you’ll do if she di—]]<<set $haircolor to "black">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]]
[[“...for that light shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that deep shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that chestnut shade, especially.”]][[“...for that dark shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that platinum shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that golden shade, especially.”]][[“...for that auburn shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that ginger shade, especially.”]]
[[“...for that red shade, especially.”]] <<set $hairtype to "wavy">>
She pats your head. "But let's not get carried away, you haven't read me that letter yet."
You frown at her. Every time you ask her about her past, she manages to change the subject one way or another. And while you should have gotten used to it by now, it only becomes more bothersome as you get older.
"Don't give me that look, little star!" she boops your nose, and laughs at your look of indignation. "You know how weak I am to those eyes of yours!"
[[It’s fine, two can play this game.]]
[[It's embarrassing, but it doesn’t work on you.]]
[[It's frustrating, and you temper flares up.]]<<set $hairtype to "curly">> <<set $scarfsleep to true>>
She pats your head. "But let's not get carried away, you haven't read me that letter yet."
You frown at her. Every time you ask her about her past, she manages to change the subject one way or another. And while you should have gotten used to it by now, it only becomes more bothersome as you get older.
"Don't give me that look, little star!" she boops your nose, and laughs at your look of indignation. "You know how weak I am to those eyes of yours!"
[[It’s fine, two can play this game.]]
[[It's embarrassing, but it doesn’t work on you.]]
[[It's frustrating, and you temper flares up.]]<<set $hairtype to "coily">> <<set $scarfsleep to true>>
She pats your head. "But let's not get carried away, you haven't read me that letter yet."
You frown at her. Every time you ask her about her past, she manages to change the subject one way or another. And while you should have gotten used to it by now, it only becomes more bothersome as you get older.
"Don't give me that look, little star!" she boops your nose, and laughs at your look of indignation. "You know how weak I am to those eyes of yours!"
[[It’s fine, two can play this game.]]
[[It's embarrassing, but it doesn’t work on you.]]
[[It's frustrating, and you temper flares up.]]"Please!" you give an exaggerated whine, falling on her lap and looking up at her with the saddest eyes you can muster. “You never tell me anything!” <<set $funnyMC to true>>
“Nothing?” she arches an eyebrow, biting back a smile. She pats your head, but your squirm away from her with an outlandish cry.
“I don’t even know your name! Somebody help me! I don’t know who this woman is!”
Laughing, she takes you in her arms and kisses your forehead, even as you keep on with your act. “I’ll tell you, little star. Calm down.”
Immediately, you stop and tilt your head to the side, expecting her to continue.
"I will…” she lets you go, and you take a seat next to her. “But once you're older. I just don't want to burden you with sad things.”
Disappointed, you open your mouth to press her further, but she gently touches your nose and smiles at you. “When the time is right, for now, let's just read what that letter says, alright?"
You pout, unsatisfied with the result, but you know she won’t talk about it anymore. She asked you to wait and that's what you'll do... for now. You’ll have another opportunity to ask again, you just need to wait.
She goes back to working on the flower crown, and you quickly go back to the letter to start reading it. When the beginning is revealed to be a whole paragraph of formalities, your mother tells you to skip to the good part, and that’s what you do.
"...darkness awaits us in the future. Mother Moon gets stronger each year and soon, we fear that the world will be shallowed in eternal corrup–”
“Shit!”
She grabs the paper from your hands, but not before you see it, the real reason behind the Ember Flames’ visit. They aren’t here to save you, the High Church has bigger problems than protecting a handful of villages.
//‘…tion. We require more Ember Flames if we wish to stand a chance against Her creatures. We shall take the children with potential, and force the transformation if necessary…’//
Your mother takes you in her arms, but you don’t return her embrace. She kisses your hair, and whispers a promise to keep you safe from everything, anything, nothing. She repeats it over and over again. But it doesn’t reach you. What can the love of a mother do against the power of God?
The words keep replaying in your head. Hopes, dreams, beliefs… everything has crumbled under the weight of a sheet of paper.
//’...some may die, but such is the price of [[salvation for us all.']]//"Mother…” you start, ignoring her antics and hiding your embarrassment under a stern expression. You keep your voice firm, showing that you won't let her get away with it. “I know you're trying to change the subject." <<set $niceMC to true>>
Her eyes sparkle with her usual mischief, not taking you seriously. And while you fidget a little bit, you still manage to remain stubborn until she sighs and loses her smile.
"Ah, well. I had to give it a try," she laughs, but it has no joy. Then, she takes your hand and for once she stays completely serious. “I'll tell you everything once you're older, I promise. But for now, let's just read what that letter says, alright?"
You nod, unsatisfied with the result but willing to move past it. She asked you to wait and that's what you'll do, you trust her to keep her word.
She goes back to working on the flower crown, and you quickly go back to the letter to start reading it. When the beginning is revealed to be a whole paragraph of formalities, your mother tells you to skip to the good part, and that’s what you do.
"...darkness awaits us in the future. Mother Moon gets stronger each year and soon, we fear that the world will be shallowed in eternal corrup–”
“Shit!”
She grabs the paper from your hands, but not before you see it, the real reason behind the Ember Flames’ visit. They aren’t here to save you, the High Church has bigger problems than protecting a handful of villages.
//‘…tion. We require more Ember Flames if we wish to stand a chance against Her creatures. We shall take the children with potential, and force the transformation if necessary…’//
Your mother takes you in her arms, but you don’t return her embrace. She kisses your hair, and whispers a promise to keep you safe from everything, anything, nothing. She repeats it over and over again. But it doesn’t reach you. What can the love of a mother do against the power of God?
The words keep replaying in your head. Hopes, dreams, beliefs… everything has crumbled under the weight of a sheet of paper.
//’...some may die, but such is the price of [[salvation for us all.']]//"You always do this," the irritation in your voice is evident, and she seems hurt by it. But you have already started and your mouth won't shut up. "Why can't you be honest with me?" <<set $fieryMC to true>>
"I'm sorry, little star," she takes your hand and looks genuinely regretful. "I want to be honest with you, I really do. But you're still too young to know some things… I'll tell you everything one day, I promise."
Your anger is washed away with her words, and guilt takes its place. You squeeze her hand and look down.
"Hey, I'm not mad," she smiles at you. "Let's forget about this and go back to that letter, alright?"
You nod, unsatisfied with the result but willing to move past it. She asked you to wait and that's what you'll do, you trust her to keep her word.
She goes back to working on the flower crown, and you quickly go back to the letter to start reading it. When the beginning is revealed to be a whole paragraph of formalities, your mother tells you to skip to the good part, and that’s what you do.
"...darkness awaits us in the future. Mother Moon gets stronger each year and soon, we fear that the world will be shallowed in eternal corrup–”
“Shit!”
She grabs the paper from your hands, but not before you see it, the real reason behind the Ember Flames’ visit. They aren’t here to save you, the High Church has bigger problems than protecting a handful of villages.
//‘…tion. We require more Ember Flames if we wish to stand a chance against Her creatures. We shall take the children with potential, and force the transformation if necessary…’//
Your mother takes you in her arms, but you don’t return her embrace. She kisses your hair, and whispers a promise to keep you safe from everything, anything, nothing. She repeats it over and over again. But it doesn’t reach you. What can the love of a mother do against the power of God?
The words keep replaying in your head. Hopes, dreams, beliefs… everything has crumbled under the weight of a sheet of paper.
//’...some may die, but such is the price of [[salvation for us all.']]//<<set $hairtype to "straight">>
She pats your head. "But let's not get carried away, you haven't read me that letter yet."
You frown at her. Every time you ask her about her past, she manages to change the subject one way or another. And while you should have gotten used to it by now, it only becomes more bothersome as you get older.
"Don't give me that look, little star!" she boops your nose, and laughs at your look of indignation. "You know how weak I am to those eyes of yours!"
[[It’s fine, two can play this game.]]
[[It's embarrassing, but it doesn’t work on you.]]
[[It's frustrating, and you temper flares up.]]
And then, //he// arrives [[at your doorstep.]]There's nowhere to hide, every crack and alleyway is bathed in sunlight.
[[But you keep running…]]You step on the flowers of your garden and move as if you were possessed.
There’s nothing on your mind [[but run.]]
And then you remember that you just abandoned your mother.
The realization strikes you like lightning.
[[There was no other option.]]
[[How could you do this to her?]]
[[You need to go back.]]<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''Kinatuh, the Sun:'' </span> \
</div> The main God of the religion in the continent of Balar, also called High Father, or just Sun by the heretics, is the brother of Itxchli. When the world was created, He shone upon the land and transformed the creatures that populated it into beings of light, creating the human race in the process. His actions gave order and balance to life, perfecting the chaotic invention of His sister, but in doing so He gained Her eternal hate.
<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''Itxchli, the Moon:'' </span> \
</div> Also known as Mother Moon by Her believers, and Moon by the general populace. She’s the sister of Kinatuh and the creator of the world. She’s stuck in an eternal battle against Her brother for control over the world, a conflict that is known as the cycle of day and night.
<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''The High Church of Vocyr:'' </span> \
</div> The main temple of the Faith, it’s believed to have as much power as the royal family, if not more. The Church is located in the capital of the Kingdom of Jurena, in Vocyr, where the main festivals in name of Father Sun take place. It’s also here where the Ember Flames are trained from childhood to become holy messengers of Kinatuh.
<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''Embler Flames:'' </span> \
</div> Those chosen by Father Sun as His messengers in the mortal world. They’re characterized by their glowing skin, the ability to summon sunlight, and their control over fire magic. No one knows how they are chosen, but it’s known that children manifest their powers overnight. The opportunity to join the High Church is seen as a great honor.
<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''Devouts:'' </span> \
</div> Those chosen by Father Sun as His messengers in the mortal world. They’re characterized by their glowing skin, the ability to summon sunlight, and their control over fire magic. No one knows how they are chosen, but it’s known that children manifest their powers overnight. The opportunity to join the High Church is seen as a great honor.<div style='font-size: 110%;'>\
<span style="color:#e39447">''The Children of Moon:'' </span> \
</div> People used to believe they were extinct until two decades ago. It started with sightings in the deepest parts of the woods, but as the years passed, the encounters became more frequent until they became the problem it’s now. There’s little to no information about them.You barely manage to hold back a gasp. You look at the man in the corner, seemingly bored by the conversation, but even if he isn’t one of the guardsmen that were allowed to read the letter from the Church, Cordell is one.
Your fingers tremble against the wooden door, and you wait frozen by terror for Cordell to punish her. You don’t know what he’ll do, but it’s known that thieves get their hands cut off. And yet, after mere seconds, he hides his shock and continues as if your mother hadn’t confessed to a horrible crime.
It leaves you relieved and confused in equal measure.
“And letting $them stay here isn’t the same?” he argues right back at her. “Look at this place! At least with the Church $they will have a chance to live.”
"I don't care!” she screams, rushing across the room to cover your bedroom door with her body. “I would rather have Sun die than let them have my $kid!"
"Blasphemous whore!" cries the man at the corner, his eyes burning with fury. And before Cordell can stop him, he marches to your mother’s side and slaps her.
The force of it is enough to push her to the floor, but she stays down for mere seconds. A bark of laughter leaves her lips. “Did you just slap me?” she says as she scrambles to her feet in a desperate attempt to keep protecting the door. “Slaps are for //whores// like me! Don’t tell me you don't know how to throw a punch!”
You see drops of blood on the ground.
[[Get away from here. Now.]]
[[Run to your mother.]]No.
When you see her again, you’ll finally make her tell you about her past. After this crisis passes, she’ll understand that you can handle it. And there will be time to ask her about Cordell, her life, who is the old woman that she mentions from time to time…
The thought is comforting, and you force yourself to keep thinking like that as you run through the glowing streets.
Yes, there will be time. This can't be the last time you see her. You just need to be strong for both of you. You can do that for her. You //must// do this for both of you.
But then, a hand grabs you by the shoulder.
You don't have to turn around to see who it belongs to, the faint glow that radiates from it tells you everything you need to know.
[[Bite them.]]
[[Struggle.]]
[[Cry.]]
[[Freeze in fear.]]<<set $eyecolor to "grey">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror. <<set $greyeyes to true>>
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $haircolor to "auburn">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "ginger">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "red">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "platinum">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "dark blonde">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "golden">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "light brown">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "dark brown">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $haircolor to "chestnut">>
“I’ve always liked your $haircolor hair,” she starts picking the poppies around her, and there's a sad glint in her eyes. "It reminds me of…” she catches herself and snorts, looking down at the flowers on her lap. “Look at me, getting sentimental over that old hag.”
“Who?” you ask, getting in a comfortable position to read the letter.
“Oh, just a mean woman that I used to know,” she says with nonchalance, her deft fingers making quick work of the flower crown. "But don’t worry about that. Do you know what I love even more about your hair?" she smiles at you.
[[“It’s straight like mine!”]]
[[“It’s wavy like mine!”]]
[[“It’s curly like mine!”]]
[[“It’s coily like mine!”]] <<set $eyecolor to "light green">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "sage green">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "amber">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "light brown">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "dark brown">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "light blue">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "dark blue">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "ice blue">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]<<set $eyecolor to "dark green">>His $eyecolor eyes reflect your own as if looking into a mirror.
"Leonor…" he moves slowly, afraid that any sudden movement would scare her away. But she stays still. Cordell smiles, and some genuine joy breaks through the sadness in his eyes. He raises a hand to touch your mother’s face. He’s trembling. “Let me…”
You lay frozen in her arms, torn between letting this continue and breaking the tension. You don’t know what is happening, and you aren’t sure how to feel about it.
But before you decide what to do, your mother takes a sharp breath and turns away from him, squeezing her eyes shut. Her hold on you tightens, and her hands move to turn you away from him as well, burying your face into her bosom.
The moment is broken.
You can see from the corner of your eye how Cordell let his hand fall to his side and moves away. There’s a flash of hurt before the coldness of his eyes returns, and they no longer look as similar as yours.
[[It’s a relief.]]
[[Somehow, it feels like you lost.]]Of course you had a nightmare, when do you //ever// not have one? <<set $haunt to true>>
They became your most loyal companions the day you were taken from your home. And you should count your blessings, at least this one wasn't about the… about what you experienced during your time at the High Church of Vocyr. <<set $faith to $faith - 10>>
You sigh, rolling over the edge of the bed to escape the wet patch of sweat that you left on your mattress.
You wipe your forehead and catch a glimpse of the holy marks that adorn your skin. Fine lines run across the back of your hand, forming a Sun made out sorely of spirals. They glow softly in the darkness of your room, and more importantly, they’re impossible to ignore once you acknowledge them.
They stand out against your…
[[Pale skin.]]
[[Olive skin.]]
[[Tanned skin.]]
[[Tawny skin.]]
[[Bronze skin.]]
[[Golden brown skin.]]
[[Deep brown.]]
[[Warm black.]]Some things are better left forgotten, and your past is one of them. You aren't $pastname anymore, there is no point in thinking about the life that was taken from you, memories will only hurt you, and whatever that child used to care about died with them long ago. <<set $forget to true>>
You can move past this nightmare. You haven't thought about… her in a long time, and you aren't going to start now. <<set $faith to $faith - 5>>
You sigh, rolling over the edge of the bed to escape the wet patch of sweat that you left on your mattress.
You wipe your forehead and catch a glimpse of the holy marks that adorn your skin. Fine lines run across the back of your hand, forming a Sun made out sorely of spirals. They glow softly in the darkness of your room, and more importantly, they’re impossible to ignore once you acknowledge them.
They stand out against your…
[[Pale skin.]]
[[Olive skin.]]
[[Tanned skin.]]
[[Tawny skin.]]
[[Bronze skin.]]
[[Golden brown skin.]]
[[Deep brown.]]
[[Warm black.]]You can deal with this.<<set $peace to true>>
This nightmare is nothing compared to those you used to have back then. They were so vivid that every time you'd wake screaming. Sometimes they revolved around your time at the High Church or the life you left behind.
It took a long time, but <<if $brave>>you managed to overcome it. You can't change what happened, and the only option is to move forward... even if sometimes the memories come back to haunt you.<<else>>you were able to leave the past to rest. At least most of the time.<</if>>
You sigh, rolling over the edge of the bed to escape the wet patch of sweat that you left on your mattress.
You wipe your forehead and catch a glimpse of the holy marks that adorn your skin. Fine lines run across the back of your hand, forming a Sun made out sorely of spirals. They glow softly in the darkness of your room, and more importantly, they’re impossible to ignore once you acknowledge them.
They stand out against your…
[[Pale skin.]]
[[Olive skin.]]
[[Tanned skin.]]
[[Tawny skin.]]
[[Bronze skin.]]
[[Golden brown skin.]]
[[Deep brown.]]
[[Warm black.]]It's not healthy, you know it only makes everything worse, but you can't help but cling to your nightmare. You repeat it inside your head, picking it apart to make sure you still remember your mother. Every time you do this, her features become a bit more blurry, and you fear the day you finally forget her face. <<set $welcome to true>>
So you welcome every reminder of your past, even those that only hurt you. It's a price you're willing to pay. <<set $faith to $faith - 5>>
You sigh, rolling over the edge of the bed to escape the wet patch of sweat that you left on your mattress.
You wipe your forehead and catch a glimpse of the holy marks that adorn your skin. Fine lines run across the back of your hand, forming a Sun made out sorely of spirals. They glow softly in the darkness of your room, and more importantly, they’re impossible to ignore once you acknowledge them.
They stand out against your…
[[Pale skin.]]
[[Olive skin.]]
[[Tanned skin.]]
[[Tawny skin.]]
[[Bronze skin.]]
[[Golden brown skin.]]
[[Deep brown.]]
[[Warm black.]]Years have passed since the day you were taken from your home, you're not sure how many exactly, but all you've lived has changed your mind about what happened that day. <<set $lessevil to true>>
It wasn't pretty, but going with the Ember Flames was the right choice in the end. At least now you have the protection of the Church and all the benefits that come with it, like their knowledge, a stable life, and even some status in your community.
It was worth it.
You sigh, rolling over the edge of the bed to escape the wet patch of sweat that you left on your mattress.
You wipe your forehead and catch a glimpse of the holy marks that adorn your skin. Fine lines run across the back of your hand, forming a Sun made out sorely of spirals. They glow softly in the darkness of your room, and more importantly, they’re impossible to ignore once you acknowledge them.
They stand out against your…
[[Pale skin.]]
[[Olive skin.]]
[[Tanned skin.]]
[[Tawny skin.]]
[[Bronze skin.]]
[[Golden brown skin.]]
[[Deep brown.]]
[[Warm black.]]The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "pale">>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "olive">>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "tanned">> The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "tawny">> <<set $moreno to true>>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "bronze">> <<set $moreno to true>>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "golden brown">> <<set $moreno to true>>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "warm black">> <<set $moreno to true>>The sight reminds you of the present, of [[your duty.]] <<set $skincolor to "deep brown">> <<set $moreno to true>>They're the physical proof of your commitment to Father Sun.
The holy scars that you wear will never let you forget that you're a…
[[Devout of the Faith.][$gender to "person", $they to "they", $capithey to "They", $their to "their", $capitheir to "Their", $them to "them", $capithem to "Them", $theirs to "theirs", $capitheirs to "Theirs", $themselves to "themselves", $capithemselves to "Themselves", $kid to "child", $child to "child", $devout to "Devout", $plural to true]]
[[Sister of the Faith.][$gender to "woman", $they to "she", $capithey to "She", $their to "her", $capitheir to "Her", $them to "her", $capithem to "Her", $theirs to "hers", $capitheirs to "Hers", $themselves to "herself", $capithemselves to "Herself", $kid to "daughter", $child to "girl", $devout to "Sister"]]
[[Brother of the Faith.][$gender to "man", $they to "he", $capithey to "He", $their to "his", $capitheir to "His", $them to "him", $capithem to "Him", $theirs to "his", $capitheirs to "His", $themselves to "himself", $capithemselves to "Himself", $kid to "son", $child to "boy", $devout to "Brother"]]Just $devout <<textbox "$name" "">> <<set $newnonby to true>>
You stare at the spirals that decorate the back of your hand.<<if $haunt>>
Sometimes, they are no more than another part of your past that haunts you. But while the nightmares at least leave you alone when you're awake, //this// is something that follows you everywhere. <</if>><<if $forget>>
Bitterness floods your mouth at the reminder. It’s just another thing added to the ever-growing pile in the back of your mind. You don't want to think about it, not now. <</if>><<if $peace>> But the reminder doesn't shake you.
You've learned to live with that fact, just like you've managed to deal with everything else that's happened until now.<</if>><<if $welcome>>
Sometimes you still think about that day, when you were told you weren't enough. And you often find yourself imagining all the ways your life could have been different. <</if>><<if $lessevil>> A price you had to pay.
They remind you that your suffering was worth something, the Church could have sent you away, but you got the opportunity to stay, even if it wasn't in the way you wanted.<</if>>
<<if $niceMC is true>>You let out a long sigh, more out of tiredness than of frustration. You chase other matters out of your mind, choosing to focus instead on the fact that you won’t be getting any more sleep tonight.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>You tuck your face into your pillow and let out a small, mirthless laugh. What a way to wake up. There isn’t a better way to start your day than with an emotional crisis, huh?<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You cover your face with both hands, letting out a loud groan. Just your luck to be dealing with such complicated feelings first thing in the… morning…? Middle of the night…? Ugh, like it even matters!<</if>> You climb out of bed and walk, crossing the small space that is your room, until you’re before the thick piece of fabric that covers your locked window.
Moving the cloth aside, no light seeps into your room through the cracks of the barricaded window. There’s no way to tell how long it will be until the sun rises, not with the length of the nights changing every other day, but maybe you could do something while you wait…
Having an early start with the [[chores of the day]] is a good option. It would let you do more later in the day, and the extra work could go a long way to keep things stable. These days have treated you well, but as<<if $lena is true>> Lena says, it’s never good to grow too comfortable.<<else>> Aiken says, good things never last anymore.<</if>> One should always strive to do more, to sacrifice more for the benefit of the people.
<<if $niceMC is true>>Still, taking some time for yourself won’t hurt anyone… And there’s always the option to [[walk around the Temple]] and just //be// for a moment. You deserve a moment of peace if nothing else.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>And yet, it’s not like resting for a //moment// will singlehandedly send you to your downfall. You snort at your own thoughts. Yes, taking a moment to [[walk around the Temple]] won’t condemn anyone.<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You let out a small huff of frustration. Your duty is above everything else, but //one// moment of peace for yourself would be that terrible? Could you just [[walk around the Temple]] and be at ease for once?<</if>>Just $devout <<textbox "$name" "">>
You stare at the spirals that decorate the back of your hand.<<if $haunt>>
Sometimes, they are no more than another part of your past that haunts you. But while the nightmares at least leave you alone when you're awake, //this// is something that follows you everywhere. <</if>><<if $forget>>
Bitterness floods your mouth at the reminder. It’s just another thing added to the ever-growing pile in the back of your mind. You don't want to think about it, not now. <</if>><<if $peace>> But the reminder doesn't shake you.
You've learned to live with that fact, just like you've managed to deal with everything else that's happened until now.<</if>><<if $welcome>>
Sometimes you still think about that day, when you were told you weren't enough. And you often find yourself imagining all the ways your life could have been different. <</if>><<if $lessevil>> A price you had to pay.
They remind you that your suffering was worth something, the Church could have sent you away, but you got the opportunity to stay, even if it wasn't in the way you wanted.<</if>>
<<if $niceMC is true>>You let out a long sigh, more out of tiredness than of frustration. You chase other matters out of your mind, choosing to focus instead on the fact that you won’t be getting any more sleep tonight.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>You tuck your face into your pillow and let out a small, mirthless laugh. What a way to wake up. There isn’t a better way to start your day than with an emotional crisis, huh?<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You cover your face with both hands, letting out a loud groan. Just your luck to be dealing with such complicated feelings first thing in the… morning…? Middle of the night…? Ugh, like it even matters!<</if>> You climb out of bed and walk, crossing the small space that is your room, until you’re before the thick piece of fabric that covers your locked window.
Moving the cloth aside, no light seeps into your room through the cracks of the barricaded window. There’s no way to tell how long it will be until the sun rises, not with the length of the nights changing every other day, but maybe you could do something while you wait…
Having an early start with the [[chores of the day]] is a good option. It would let you do more later in the day, and the extra work could go a long way to keep things stable. These days have treated you well, but as<<if $lena is true>> Lena says, it’s never good to grow too comfortable.<<else>> Aiken says, good things never last anymore.<</if>> One should always strive to do more, to sacrifice more for the benefit of the people.
<<if $niceMC is true>>Still, taking some time for yourself won’t hurt anyone… And there’s always the option to [[walk around the Temple]] and just //be// for a moment. You deserve a moment of peace if nothing else.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>And yet, it’s not like resting for a //moment// will singlehandedly send you to your downfall. You snort at your own thoughts. Yes, taking a moment to [[walk around the Temple]] won’t condemn anyone.<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You let out a small huff of frustration. Your duty is above everything else, but //one// moment of peace for yourself would be that terrible? Could you just [[walk around the Temple]] and be at ease for once?<</if>>Just $devout <<textbox "$name" "">>
You stare at the spirals that decorate the back of your hand.<<if $haunt>>
Sometimes, they are no more than another part of your past that haunts you. But while the nightmares at least leave you alone when you're awake, //this// is something that follows you everywhere. <</if>><<if $forget>>
Bitterness floods your mouth at the reminder. It’s just another thing added to the ever-growing pile in the back of your mind. You don't want to think about it, not now. <</if>><<if $peace>> But the reminder doesn't shake you.
You've learned to live with that fact, just like you've managed to deal with everything else that's happened until now.<</if>><<if $welcome>>
Sometimes you still think about that day, when you were told you weren't enough. And you often find yourself imagining all the ways your life could have been different. <</if>><<if $lessevil>> A price you had to pay.
They remind you that your suffering was worth something, the Church could have sent you away, but you got the opportunity to stay, even if it wasn't in the way you wanted.<</if>>
<<if $niceMC is true>>You let out a long sigh, more out of tiredness than of frustration. You chase other matters out of your mind, choosing to focus instead on the fact that you won’t be getting any more sleep tonight.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>You tuck your face into your pillow and let out a small, mirthless laugh. What a way to wake up. There isn’t a better way to start your day than with an emotional crisis, huh?<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You cover your face with both hands, letting out a loud groan. Just your luck to be dealing with such complicated feelings first thing in the… morning…? Middle of the night…? Ugh, like it even matters!<</if>> You climb out of bed and walk, crossing the small space that is your room, until you’re before the thick piece of fabric that covers your locked window.
Moving the cloth aside, no light seeps into your room through the cracks of the barricaded window. There’s no way to tell how long it will be until the sun rises, not with the length of the nights changing every other day, but maybe you could do something while you wait…
Having an early start with the [[chores of the day]] is a good option. It would let you do more later in the day, and the extra work could go a long way to keep things stable. These days have treated you well, but as<<if $lena is true>> Lena says, it’s never good to grow too comfortable.<<else>> Aiken says, good things never last anymore.<</if>> One should always strive to do more, to sacrifice more for the benefit of the people.
<<if $niceMC is true>>Still, taking some time for yourself won’t hurt anyone… And there’s always the option to [[walk around the Temple]] and just //be// for a moment. You deserve a moment of peace if nothing else.<</if>> <<if $funnyMC is true>>And yet, it’s not like resting for a //moment// will singlehandedly send you to your downfall. You snort at your own thoughts. Yes, taking a moment to [[walk around the Temple]] won’t condemn anyone.<</if>> <<if $fieryMC is true>>You let out a small huff of frustration. Your duty is above everything else, but //one// moment of peace for yourself would be that terrible? Could you just [[walk around the Temple]] and be at ease for once?<</if>>There’s no sin in having a moment of peace between your duties.
//There is no sin,// you remark internally, trying to put yourself at ease. And having made up your mind, you walk to the chest where you keep your uniform before any feelings of guilt start forming inside you.
You’ve done this a thousand times before, so the darkness doesn’t bother you as you quickly adjust your smallclothes and…
[[A simple dress around your body.]]
[[Some humble trousers and a tunic around your body.]] <<set $gender to "none">>
<<set $they to "they">>
<<set $capithey to "They">>
<<set $their to "their">>
<<set $capitheir to "Their">>
<<set $them to "them">>
<<set $capithem to "Them">>
<<set $theirs to "theirs">>
<<set $capitheirs to "Theirs">>
<<set $themselves to "themselves">>
<<set $capithemselves to "Themselves">>
<<set $pural to false>>
<<set $kid to "child">>
<<set $child to "child">>
<<set $devout to "Devout">>
<<set $lena to false>>
<<set $nonby to false>>
<<set $woman to false>>
<<set $man to false>>
<<set $newnonby to false>>
<<set $newwoman to false>>
<<set $newman to false>>
<<set $eyecolorknow to false>>
<<set $blueeyes to false>>
<<set $blackeyes to false>>
<<set $hazeleyes to false>>
<<set $browneyes to false>>
<<set $greeneyes to false>>
<<set $greyeyes to false>>
<<set $niceMC to false>>
<<set $funnyMC to false>>
<<set $fieryMC to false>>
<<set $haunt to false>>
<<set $forget to false>>
<<set $peace to false>>
<<set $welcome to false>>
<<set $lessevil to false>>
<<set $walk to false>>
<<set $rushtohelp to false>>
<<set $failed1 to false>>
<<set $brave to false>>
<<set $carelooks to false>>
<<set $pesimista to false>>
<<set $muerteok to false>>
<<set $scarfsleep to false>>
<<set $moreno to false>>
<<set $tall to false>>
<<set $verytall to false>>
<<set $average to false>>
<<set $short to false>>
<<set $veryshort to false>>
<<set $strength to 0>>
<<set $charisma to 0>>
<<set $intellect to 0>>
<<set $skullduggery to 0>>
<<set $faith to 100>>
<<set $sin to 10>>
The garment is…
[[Small. It was specially made to suit your very short height.]]
[[Short, like your height.]]
[[Average size.]]
[[Large, just like you’re tall.]]
[[Very large. It was specially made to suit your very tall height.]]The garment is…
[[Small. It was specially made to suit your very short height.]]
[[Short, like your height.]]
[[Average size.]]
[[Large, just like you’re tall.]]
[[Very large. It was specially made to suit your very tall height.]]Once you’re satisfied, you… <<set $veryshort to true>> <<set $height to "very short">>
<<if $scarfsleep is true>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to quickly tame your hair.]]<<else>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]<</if>>Once you’re satisfied, you… <<set $short to true>> <<set $height to "short">>
<<if $scarfsleep is true>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to quickly tame your hair.]]<<else>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]<</if>>Once you’re satisfied, you… <<set $average to true>> <<set $height to "average height">>
<<if $scarfsleep is true>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to quickly tame your hair.]]<<else>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]<</if>>Once you’re satisfied, you… <<set $tall to true>> <<set $height to "tall">>
<<if $scarfsleep is true>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to quickly tame your hair.]]<<else>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]<</if>>Once you’re satisfied, you… <<set $verytall to true>> <<set $height to "very tall">>
<<if $scarfsleep is true>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Take off the scarf wrapped around your head to quickly tame your hair.]]<<else>>[[Take the time to stylish your hair as usual.]]
[[Spare a few seconds to tame your bedhead.]]<</if>><<set $carelooks to true>>As a $devout you’re supposed to live as a humble $gender, without jewels, fine clothes, or any kind of luxuries… but that doesn’t mean that you aren’t allowed to care for your appearance at all. Which is why you spend so much time making your $hairtype hair look good.
The process is familiar by now, and the darkness doesn’t stop you as you take care of your hair as you’ve done for years. It goes without issue until your…
[[Long hair is presentable.]]
[[Shoulder-length hair is presentable.]]
[[Short hair is presentable.]]As a $devout you’re supposed to live as a humble $gender, without jewels, fine clothes, or any kind of luxuries. It’s something that suits you just fine. You’ve never cared much for your appearance aside from being clean and looking decent enough.
That’s why you only spend a few seconds taming your bedhead until you decide that your…
[[Long hair is presentable.]]
[[Shoulder-length hair is presentable.]]
[[Short hair is presentable.]]As a $devout you’re supposed to live as a humble $gender, without jewels, fine clothes or any kind of luxuries. It’s something that suits you just fine. You’ve never cared much for your appearance aside from being clean and looking decent enough.
That’s why you, after taking off the scarf wrapped around your head, only spend a few seconds taming your $hairtype hair until you decide that your…
[[Long hair is presentable.]]
[[Shoulder-length hair is presentable.]]
[[Short hair is presentable.]]As a $devout you’re supposed to live as a humble $gender, without jewels, fine clothes, or any kind of luxuries… but that doesn’t mean that you aren’t allowed to care for your appearance at all. Which is why you spend so much time making your hair look good.
You take off the scarf wrapped around your head, freeing your $hairtype hair so you can stylish it. The process is familiar by now, and the darkness doesn’t stop you as you take care of it as you’ve done for years. It goes without issue until your…
[[Long hair is presentable.]]
[[Shoulder-length hair is presentable.]]
[[Short hair is presentable.]]Then, you finally leave your room. <<set $hairlength to "long">>
The Northern Temple represents a small part of the total land occupied by The Emerad Hall, something that could be seen as an insult to Father Sun, but you’ve come to appreciate it. It’s thanks to its size that, now, you know it like the palm of your hand, not to mention that you’re also the one responsible for keeping it in good condition. If the building were any bigger, your work would feel like a divine punishment.
You walk through the deserted hallways, where glowing lines run across the walls, pulsing with a soft glow that you know to be<<if $lena is true>> Lena’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. She’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if she’s still recovering from the last time she did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help her, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing her in pain, she’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and her suffering is just another part of her duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against her since childhood, and seeing her in pain...]]<<else>> Aiken’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. He’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if he’s still recovering from the last time he did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help him, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing him in pain, he’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and his suffering is just another part of his duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against him since childhood, and seeing him in pain…]]<</if>> Then, you finally leave your room. <<set $hairlength to "shoulder-length">>
The Northern Temple represents a small part of the total land occupied by The Emerad Hall, something that could be seen as an insult to Father Sun, but you’ve come to appreciate it. It’s thanks to its size that, now, you know it like the palm of your hand, not to mention that you’re also the one responsible for keeping it in good condition. If the building were any bigger, your work would feel like a divine punishment.
You walk through the deserted hallways, where glowing lines run across the walls, pulsing with a soft glow that you know to be<<if $lena is true>> Lena’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. She’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if she’s still recovering from the last time she did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help her, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing her in pain, she’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and her suffering is just another part of her duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against her since childhood, and seeing her in pain...]]<<else>> Aiken’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. He’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if he’s still recovering from the last time he did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help him, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing him in pain, he’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and his suffering is just another part of his duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against him since childhood, and seeing him in pain…]]<</if>> Then, you finally leave your room. <<set $hairlength to "short">>
The Northern Temple represents a small part of the total land occupied by The Emerad Hall, something that could be seen as an insult to Father Sun, but you’ve come to appreciate it. It’s thanks to its size that, now, you know it like the palm of your hand, not to mention that you’re also the one responsible for keeping it in good condition. If the building were any bigger, your work would feel like a divine punishment.
You walk through the deserted hallways, where glowing lines run across the walls, pulsing with a soft glow that you know to be<<if $lena is true>> Lena’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. She’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if she’s still recovering from the last time she did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help her, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing her in pain, she’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and her suffering is just another part of her duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against her since childhood, and seeing her in pain...]]<<else>> Aiken’s magic. The light is duller than it was a moon ago. He’ll have to recast the protection around The Emerad Hall soon, even if he’s still recovering from the last time he did it.
[[You wish you could do something to help him, your only friend.]]
[[You don’t like seeing him in pain, he’s… special to you.]]
[[You aren’t close, and his suffering is just another part of his duty.]]
[[You’ve carried a grudge against him since childhood, and seeing him in pain…]]<</if>> <<set $eyecolor to "black">> <<set $blackeyes to true>>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>>Which are a... <<set $browneyes to true>>
[[Shade of amber.]]
[[Shade of light brown.]]
[[Shade of dark brown.]]Which are a... <<set $blueeyes to true>>
[[Shade of ice blue.]]
[[Shade of light blue.]]
[[Shade of dark blue.]]Which are a... <<set $greeneyes to true>>
[[Shade of sage green.]]
[[Shade of light green.]]
[[Shade of dark green.]]<<set $hazeleyes to true>> <<set $eyecolor to "hazel">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $greyeyes to true>> <<set $eyecolor to "grey">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "amber">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "light brown">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "dark brown">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "light green">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "sage green">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "dark green">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "ice blue">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "light blue">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $eyecolor to "dark blue">>
<<if $reaction is "cry">>She stands some feet away from you, giving you space to breathe.
She tries to smile at you, but it’s obviously forced and she quickly drops it.
“I wish I could tell you something to make you feel better, but…” with a sigh, she kneels before you, her crimson robes look like a pool of blood around her.
You shiver.
“The Church needs you. And we can’t leave without you,” she looks into your eyes, and you see your sadness reflected in her green orbs. “Please, don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "freeze">>“You scared me there!” she says as if she wasn’t the reason behind your lack of hope, but she isn’t mocking you. All you can see in her eyes is true worry.
Once she’s satisfied that you’re alright, she gets up and takes some steps away from you. A sad frown adorns her face.
“I know how horrible this must be for you, having to leave your home and your family. But please, come with us willingly. Don’t make this more difficult for yourself.”
[[Try to escape.]]
[[Surrender.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "bite">>"Shit! Why do I always get the ones that bite?" he groans, cradling his bloody hand near his chest. The red stands out against his fair skin. "Just great..."
He looks at you with obvious irritation and gives you a firm look to stay down. You try to stand just to annoy him, but he shoves you back to the ground with his foot and scowls at you. For a moment, you could have sworn you saw fire in his brown eyes.
"Look kid, we're taking you whether you want it or not. But I'm giving you one more chance to make this right: will you behave yourself?"
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>> <<if $reaction is "struggle">>“Finally tired?” the pale man above you asks in a mocking tone, but there’s clear amusement in his brown eyes. “That was stupid of you, kid. But at least you didn’t bite me, you’d be surprised how many brats have tried.”
As soon as he says it, you decide to try to do it once he gets close enough. You’ll give him a new scar. You’re going to bite him until you taste blood.
He looms over you, and maybe he takes some pity in your angry expression because the next thing he does is look away.
"I know what you’re thinking, but we're taking you whether you want it or not. It’s better if you behave."
[[Try to make a run for it.]]
[[Accept defeat.]]<</if>><<set $lenafriend to true>>Years have healed your heart and drained it of any ill feelings you ever harbored against her. Lena is your //friend//, maybe the only one you ever had. And while you wish you could do something to alleviate her pain… you know this is a sacrifice she must make to ensure the safety of the stronghold and its residents.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $lenalove to true>>It happened so slowly that you still don’t know when you started to see Lena with… other eyes. But it doesn’t matter, your feelings are nothing more than a shameful burden that you’ll have to bear alone. At least you can be at her side, help her through a sacrifice that you wish wasn’t necessary to protect the stronghold from Moon’s creatures.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $lenaneutral to true>>They say that all wounds close with time, but yours never fully healed. And while you don't wish Lena ill, and find her sacrifice to keep the stronghold and its residents safe a worthy cause, you also don't feel bad for her. This is her //duty//, after all.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $aikenfriend to true>>Years have healed your heart, leaving it free from any grudges you ever held against him. And even if he didn’t make it easy, Aiken became your //friend// at some point in your life. You wish you could do something to alleviate his pain… but you know this is a sacrifice he must make to ensure the safety of the stronghold and its residents.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]] <<set $aikenlove to true>>You don’t know when it happened, but at some point in your life, Aiken became dearer to you than he should have ever been. A secret you’ll take to the grave. You wouldn’t be able to bear the look of disgust he’d give you if he were to ever know about your shameful feelings, but at least you can be at his side, helping him through a sacrifice that you wish wasn’t necessary to protect the stronghold from Moon’s creatures.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $aikenneutral to true>>You didn’t like Aiken the first time you saw him, a feeling that remained true even with all the changes you’ve lived through. And while you don't find joy in his suffering, you also don’t feel bad for him. It’s his //duty// to keep the stronghold and the people safe no matter the personal cost. And that’s it.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $lenahate to true>>Lena's suffering is necessary to ensure the safety of the stronghold and its residents. Everyone is thankful, everyone loves her for her sacrifices... And you… You are thankful as well. Even if you've never been able to let go of your resentment against her, you admit that she's invaluable for your survival.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]<<set $aikenhate to true>>Aiken’s suffering is necessary to keep the stronghold and its residents safe from Moon’s creatures. And while his brash temper may not help his popularity among the people, everyone is thankful for what he does… And you… You know he’s invaluable for your survival… But you've also never been able to let go of your resentment against him.
You keep on walking, lost inside your mind. This is not the moment of peace you wanted.
It seems like you can’t escape from yourself tonight.
Your feet lead you through corridors and staircases. Soon, you’re walking on top of the wall that surrounds the land occupied by the Emerad Hall, and by extension, the Temple.
You look out to the inner part of the stronghold, to the gardens turned fields to harvest, and to the courtyards now used to raise animals. And yet, your mind is so far away that you don’t truly see them.
The cool breeze of the night feels refreshing on your skin, and your footsteps are the only thing breaking the silence. But then, a strong wind blows against you, shaking you from your thoughts with its coldness, and you realize where you are.
Of //who// must be looking down at you [[from the sky.]]The sudden realization makes you shiver, and while you don’t dare to look at the sky, you can see Her from the corner of your eye.
Even after all your training and experiences… even after //carving// Father Sun’s blessing on your hands, you still feel perturbed by Her presence. <<if $brave is true>> Still, you remain stubborn in your place atop the wall, focusing on the woods that surround the stronghold as you as a way to ignore Her.<<else>> And, deciding that you have nothing to prove by staying out here, you turn back and retrace your steps, staring at the woods below you as a way to ignore Her in the meantime.<</if>>
And it’s then, as you watch the edge of the woods, that you see something moving between the greenery. You step forward, trying to identify what you’re seeing. The light from the wall helps you in your endeavor, illuminates the area near the stronghold, and lets you see… a person collapsing against a tree.
It’s such an impossible sight that it manages to push all concerns about Moon out of your mind. You rush to the edge, gripping the banister and leaning over to get a better view of the figure. It’s then that you notice that they’re clutching their side as if they were wounded.
You search the nearby area with your eyes, fearing —but expecting— to see movement between the trees. There’s nothing. But you know it won’t stay that way for long, soon, a creature will come following their scent. That stranger is already dead.
…unless you do something.
[Turn around, determined to ignore them, and then… look back.]
[Rush to help them, you’ll deal with the consequences later.]
[Helping them is dangerous, stupid and the right thing to do.]
[Go back to your room, something about this isn’t right.]
[Walk towards the Temple’s entrance, pause and… go back to your room.]
[Leave them to their fate, not everyone can be saved.]
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<span style="color:#e39447">And that's all for now!</span> \
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<span style="color:#e39447">And that's all for now!</span> \
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