House of Loki 1

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<img src="images/forest2.png" width = 800; /> \ <<set $intro to 0>> \ Deep in the Ironwoods of Jotunheimr, ''Loki'' hid three of his most wicked secrets. Nightmares to the one-eyed ''All-Father'' whose dreams they haunt by mere existence. For the ''Norns'' witnessed their threads of destiny and saw <<linkreplace "only...">>only... <div class="fade-in"><p><span class = "largefont">[[Ragnarok.|Secrets][$intro to 1]]</span> </p></div><</linkreplace>> <<audio wind play>> <<audio wind loop>> <<set $concern to 0>> <<set $song to 0>> <<set $honor to 0>> <<set $courage to 0>> <<set $reflection to 0>> <<set $Jorm to 0>> <<set $Fenrir to 0>> <<set $scale to 0>> <<set $mistle to 0>> <<set $item to "none">> <<set $switch to 0>>

Stylesheet Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-8dTwUVT2E&ab_channel=AdamHammond Inventory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJKNGY3JKJs&ab_channel=Zoroarrkk <<linkreplace "Click this" t8n>> <<timed 2s>><</timed>> <<set $value to $value + 1>> <<if $value is 2>> Give this message 2. [[]]<</if>> <div class="fade-in"><p>Fade in paragraph]</p> You see a large red, candy-like button. <<cycle "$presses" once>> <<option "Should you press it?" 0>> <<option "Nothing happened. Press it again?" 1>> <<option "Again?" 2>> <<option "That time it locked into place with a loud click and began to glow ominously." 3>> <</cycle>> The very <<cycle "$cycle" autoselect>><<option "song">><<option "howl">><</cycle>> that killed them also heralds them into ''Valhalla''. I see a <<link "lamp">><<replace "#lamp">> The switch doesn't seem to work!<</replace>><</link>> currently turned off. @@#lamp;@@ "loose from Leyding" or to "strike out of Dromi" have become sayings for when something is achieved with great effort. You sigh an ephemeral breath, warmth still stored in the hearth of your chest, as it fights a losing battle against the frigid phalanx.

At last you find the feral beast from which the howl bellowed. A small cub with a wiry coat of black fur and fierce eyes. A pale shadow compared to the horror conjured in the minds of men and All-Father, but a menace nonetheless. <<if $song is 1>>"Yours was a melancholy howl today, little brother.<<elseif $song is 2>>"Yours was a fierce song today, little brother.<</if>> Your call echoed to the edge of the Ironwoods. Soon all the Aesir will hear, and our parents may no longer ignore us." Fenrir turns his gaze away, grooming his paw with a lapping tongue. You notice he hovers protectively over something between his paws. 1. [[(Reach for the object)|Bite]] <<if $song is 1>>2. "[[Angrboda's not home, is she?|Angrboda][$reply to 1]]" <<elseif $song is 2>>2. "[[Still howling after Loki?|Angrboda][$reply to 2]]"<</if>> <<set $switch to 0>>

You pick up Fenrir and cradle him in your arms despite his clawed protests. A bellowing voice echoes in the distance, but the words are lost to the drum of your hearbeat. From the central atrium, you [[stalk your way to the kitchen.|Kitchen]]

You follow after Jormungandr, Fenrir closely nipping at your heels. The swelling wind howls through the manor like the siren calls of ''Ran'' calling the dead to sea. Yet the two figures show no disquiet in their composure. They patiently wait, berated by the lashing winds, a hammer in ones hand, and a sword in the others. <<if $axe is 1>>Your heart flutters at the thought of having to use your makeshift axe so soon. Even in the cold, sweat pools in your hands.<<elseif $horn is 1>>You remember your horn of eitr dangling at your belt. Should the need arise, hospitality may prove a deadlier weapon than force.<<else>>You're armed only with your wits and grace afforded by your half-Aesir lineage.<</if>> While Jormungandr slips into the shadows, you continue your [[frontal approach.|Approach]]

You tread homeward towards the howl, shambling beneath archways, one foot black with soot trailing ash in your wake as though the &emsp;&emsp;dead &emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp; follow &emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;your &emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp; &emsp;every &emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp;[[step]]. <<audio steps fadeoverto 12 0>>

You look upon the serpent, its face as large as a chariot, brow crested like a longbow. "Yesss." "Forgive me, Jormungandr. I wasn't watching my footing." You say with gentle concern. Looking around, the glint you saw earlier is lost in the blanket of shimmering snow. [[A brief moment of silence sets in.|Silence]] <<set $glint to 1>>

As you leave Jormungandr's chamber, the frozen corridor narrows with curtains of centuries old ice. It's sheen ripples with reflections of yourself, stirring memories of your parents. 1. [[Remember your father.|Father 1]] 2. [[Remember your mother.|Mother]] <<audio wind play volume 0.5>> \ <<audio corridor play>> \

<<cacheaudio "wind" "sfx/wind.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "howl" "sfx/howl.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "steps" "sfx/steps.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "corridor" "sfx/corridor.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "reveal" "sfx/reveal.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "maiden" "sfx/maiden.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "raven" "sfx/raven.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "item" "sfx/item.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "music" "sfx/music.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "musicfinale" "sfx/musicfinale.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "creak" "sfx/creak.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "woodsteps" "sfx/woodsteps.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "growl" "sfx/growl.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "lake" "sfx/lake.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "treefall" "sfx/treefall.mp3">>

You see a corpse with hollow set eyes and exposed bone. You lift a frail skeletal hand, black as coal, and tuck a veil of wispy blonde hair over your shoulder. <<set $reflection to $reflection + 1>> <<if $reflection is 2>> <<linkreplace "..." t8n>>The reflections... are you. Third and final <<if $intro ==1>>secret<<elseif $intro ==2>>nightmare<</if>> born out of infidelity between Trickster and Giantess. Walking between the veil of life and death, you continue onward, [[beckoned by the howl once more.|Fenrir]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[You turn your gaze to the right reflection.|Right reflection]] <</if>> <<audio reveal play>>

You see a maiden of pale skin crowned with radiant locks that drape down her tattered black dress like liquid gold. A belt of bronze discs emblazoned with the runic markings of ''Yggdrasil'' hang loosely around her waist. <<set $reflection to $reflection + 1>> <<if $reflection is 2>><<linkreplace "..." t8n>>The reflections... are you. Third and final secret born out of infidelity between Trickster and Giantess. Walking between the veil of life and death, you continue onward, [[beckoned by the howl once more.|Fenrir]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[You turn your gaze to the left reflection.|Left reflection]] <</if>> <<audio maiden play volume 0.7>>

You reach down to pet Fenrir who nuzzles his forehead in your palm. Despite the harrowing scene that decorates your courtyard, the little wolf was still young and impressionable. 1. "[[I brought you something.|Gift]]"

Fenrir falls back on his hind legs to sit statuesque, glimmering red eyes watching you expectantly. "You've scared all the hunters off again. Pretty soon Jorm will have no choice but to eat you." You chide. <span style="color:orange">Fenrir tilts his head with lopsided ears, your lack of praise unforseen. He glances around the empty hall, wondering what more you hoped for. </span> With his head raised, you have an opportunity now to [[reach for the object.|Bite]] <<audio corridor play>>

You look down to find a <<link "white dorsal scale">><<replace "#scale">> <span style="color:PaleGreen">Jormungandr's Scale added to inventory.</span> <<if $item is not "horn">> A droplet of ''eitr'' could have been harvested if you had something to store it in. But it falls to the snow and sizzles in an ephemeral vapor. 1. "[[Did I wake you?|Apologize Scale]]" <<if $item is not "none">>2. "[[I brought you something.|Jorm Gift]]"<</if>> <<elseif $item is "horn">>A droplet of ''eitr'' can be harvested if you have something to store it in. 1. [[The mead horn will do.|Horn]]<</if>> <<timed 0.5s>><<audio item play volume 0.8>><</timed>><</replace>><</link>> as large as an axe head, shimmering with rime. @@#scale;@@ <<set $scale to 1>> <<set $glint to 1>>

[[Return|Preface]] Exact spellings may vary depending on source. ''Aesir:'' Gods of the principal pantheon in Norse religion. ''Angrboda:'' A giantess and mate to Loki; mother of monsters. ''Eitr:'' A liquid susbtance and origin of all living things. ''Fenrir:'' A god-slaying wolf and child of Loki/Angrboda. ''Freyja:'' Goddess of seidr magic, love, war, and death. ''Frigg:'' Goddess of motherhood and hearth. ''Hel:'' Daughter of Loki/Angrboda and ruler of the Underworld. ''Hermod:'' A messenger god. ''Jormungandr:'' The world serpent and harbinger of Ragnarok; middle child of Loki/Angrboda. ''Jotun:'' One of the races of the nine realms. ''Loki:'' The trickster god and problem child of the Norse pantheon. ''Njord:'' Father of Freyja and god of the wind and sea. ''Ragnarok:'' The prophesized end of the world. ''Ran:'' Goddess of the sea and death. ''Thor:'' The powerful god of Thunder. ''Tyr:'' A valorous god of justice. ''Yggdrasil:'' A sacred ash tree central to the cosmos and the nine realms.

<img src="images/Hel.png" width = 800; /> <span class = "largefont">''House of Loki''</span> ''This game has sound.'' This is a short interactive story inspired by the poetic eddas of Norse mythology. Your choices will branch the narrative with contextual dialogue and new options. <span style="color:darkgray">If a choice appears gray,</span> it means your actions have locked you out of that decision, but not all branches are signified this way. Some are much more subtle and happen as you play. Written and drawn by Alex Kubodera <div style="text-align: center;"><span class = "medfont">☙ [[Begin|Intro]] ❧</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;">[[Appendix]]</div><div style="text-align: center;">[[Changelog]]</div><div style="text-align: center;">[[Credits]]</div> <<audio music play volume 0.5>>

"What have you got here?" You dust snow off a sturdy branch adorned with pearlescent white berries and jagged evergreen leaves. <span style="color:PaleGreen">Mistletoe added to inventory.</span> It would make for a comfortable handle if you had something to fashion a weapon out of it. <<if $scale is 1>>1. [[Use Jormungandr's scale.|Axe]]<<else>>[[Your feel the hairs on your nape rise as something hovers behind you.|Rebuke]]<</if>> <<set $mistle to 1>> <<timed 0.5s>><<audio item play>><</timed>>

https://skjalden.com/draupnir/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%A6vateinn https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helsk%C3%B3r https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singasteinn In Baldrs draumar, Odin rides to the edge of Hel to investigate nightmares that Baldr has had. He uses a spell to bring to life the corpse of a Völva. Odin introduces himself under a false name and pretense and asks for information from the völva relating to Baldr's dreams. The völva reluctantly proceeds to produce prophecies regarding the events of Ragnarök. https://blog.vkngjewelry.com/en/helheim-the-underworld/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_in_Norse_paganism#Funeral

<<if $switch is 0>>The youngest of these secrets dwells in a manor of stone and ice, //howling// like the tempestuous winds of ''Njord'' himself. Those frail of heart were paralyzed by its baleful wail, powerless but to await the hoarfrost clutches of winter. But you grew up with the howl -- a lullaby through winter and summer. You've deciphered its song long ago.<<elseif $switch is 1>>The howl beckons. But the dead who have succumbed to its frightful wail surround you, burial rites foregone by winter's might.<</if>> <<if $switch is 0>> 1. [[It's a mournful dirge.|Song][$song to 1]] 2. [[It's a call to arms.|Song][$song to 2]] <<elseif $switch is 1 and $honor is 0>> 1. [[(Follow the howl)|Howl]] 2. [[(Honor the dead)|Prayer]]<<elseif $switch is 1 and $honor >= 1>> 1. [[(Follow the howl)|Howl]] <span style="color:darkgrey">2. (Honor the dead)</span><</if>> <<if $switch is 0>><<audio howl play volume 0.8>><</if>> <<audio music fadeout>>

Whatever valor or desperation compelled them to venture to the foot of the manor, you recognize only fearful resignation in their frozen faces. There's little you can offer them in the way of grave goods, and the mounting snow will bury them until summer. The most you can do is [[bear witness]]. <<set $gate to 0>>

<<set $var to 0>>There are <<link "three bodies">><<replace "#bodies">> <<linkreplace "A red deer hart..." >>A red deer hart lies half exposed. Its antlers drip icicles, though not nearly enough to form rivers as the stories would have you believe.<</linkreplace>> <<linkreplace "A frost-bitten woman..." >>A frost-bitten woman, ill-prepared for the season embraces a tree. You notice a <span style="color:PaleGreen">torc</span> of twisted brass around her neck. What comfort it gave her in life, you hope carried over in death.<<set $var to $var + 1>><<if $var >= 2>><<replace "#proceed" t8n>>2. You look between the <<cycle "$item" autoselect>><<option "torc">><<option "horn">><</cycle>> and decide to [[take it|Item]].<</replace>><</if>><</linkreplace>> <<linkreplace "A warrior..." >>A warrior dressed in chainmail and wool desperately holds a <span style="color:PaleGreen">horn</span> in his leather grip. Even mead couldn't keep his cheeks blush this winter.<<set $var to $var + 1>><<if $var >= 2>><<replace "#proceed" t8n>>2. You look between the <<cycle "$item" autoselect>><<option "torc">><<option "horn">><</cycle>> and decide to [[take it|Item]].<</replace>><</if>><</linkreplace>> 1. [[Leave them be.|Leave]] <span id="proceed"></span> <</replace>><</link>> that still haven't been consumed by the snow. You would be remiss to return home empty handed. But the dead are not to be trifled with.@@#bodies;@@

A doubled kraa-kraa draws your attention to a <<link "silver-eyed raven">><<replace "#raven">> <img src="images/Raven.png" width = 800; /> \ It's watchful gaze puts you on edge and you feel a certain reprieve you left the dead undisturbed. With naught but your presence to honor them, you [[leave in peace and pursue the familiar howl|Howl]]. <<audio raven play>> <</replace>><</link>> perched on a tree. @@#raven;@@ <<set $honor to 2>>

<<if $item is "torc">>You remove the torc from the woman, snapping strands of her hair as you wrench it free. ''It'll make for a nice gift.'' <span style="color:PaleGreen">Torc added to inventory.</span> \ <<elseif $item is "horn">>You pry the drinking horn out of the soldier's dead hands, snapping a gloved finger off in the process. It's rim is padded with soft leather and makes for ''a fine vessel for mead or other liquids.'' <span style="color:PaleGreen">Horn added to inventory.</span><</if>> A doubled kraa-kraa draws your attention to a <<link "silver-eyed raven">><<replace "#raven">> <img src="images/Raven.png" width = 800; /> <span style="color:orange">It's admonishing gaze puts you on edge for pillaging the dead. </span> [[You hurriedly continue towards the familiar howl.|Howl]]<<audio raven play>> <</replace>><</link>> perched on a tree. @@#raven;@@ <<timed 0.5s>><<audio item play volume 0.8>><</timed>> <<set $honor to 1>>

With keen ears, you recognize its melody as <<if $song is 1>>a lonely cry that perpetuates isolation. It scatters birds from their roost, men from their posts, and mothers from their home.<<elseif $song is 2>>a vengeful pitch. It demands attention from those who neglect it. A feeling all too familiar.<</if>> [[Rouse yourself from the reverie.|Secrets]] <<set $switch to 1>>

Yet your footfalls stir the very earth to life as the ground beneath you <<linkreplace "breathes.">>breathes. A serpent, thick as the oldest oaks //slithers// underfoot towards a stone perch where it broods in its twisting form. ''Jormungandr'', the second of Loki's secrets stares at you with golden pupils slit like a black dagger. <img src="images/Jorm.png" width = 800; /> 1. [[You notice something glint in the snow.|Search]] 2. "[[Did I wake you?|Apologize]]" <<if $item is not "none" and $honor < 2>>3. "[[I brought you something.|Jorm Gift]]"<<else>><span style="color:darkgray">3. "I brought you something."</span><</if>><</linkreplace>> <<set $glint to 0>>

The wolf huffs. Despite his undeveloped tongue for language, Fenrir had wisdom that rivalled the Aesir, and heart as tender as any mortal. It was that clarity of mind that made the abandonment all the more painful. <<if $reply == 1>>"Mother was always absent in mind, now her body is too. Consider it a... a kindness. Perhaps when we next see her, she will be whole."<<elseif $reply == 2>>"We've long since expired his interest. He has his real family in Asgard. We're but an afterthought, if a thought at all."<</if>> Fenrir wordlessly lowers his head to the ground solemnly. 1. "[[We'll always have each other.|Praise]]"

<<if $item is "none" or $item is "horn">> You rummage through your belongings finding nothing compatible. The best you have to offer is your personality which he doesn't look particularly enthused by. 1. "[[I'll make it up to you, I promise.|No gift]]" <<set $switch to 1>> <<elseif $item is "torc">>You rummage through your belongings and find the torc. It's not much, but perhaps it will suffice. 1. [[Offer the torc.|Offer]]<</if>>

You extend the torc towards Fenrir who gives it a curious sniff. After a thorough inspection, he clamps his jaws around the torc and saunters some distance away to chew on it. So much for a new jewerly piece. But at least Fenrir looks content. Having left his spot, you notice [[something he left behind.|Object]] <<set $Fenrir to 1>>

"What have you got here?" The wolf snaps his jaws shut like a hunter's snare. Any sensation of pain is numbed by the decay and biting cold that afflicts half your body. "I sssee you are unburdened by the wisdom afforded your age." A voice croons from above with sardonic satisfaction. You turn your gaze skyward to Jormungandr's body coiling down a pillar. 1. "[[My wisdom rivals that of a deer.|Wise][$wise to 1]]" 2. "[[My wisdom is appropriate for my age.|Wise][$wise to 2]]" 3. "[[My wisdom surpasses Odin himself.|Wise][$wise to 3]]" 4. "[[I'm the eldest, therefore the wisest.|Wise][$wise to 4]]"

<<if $wise is 1>>"On that we agree." <<elseif $wise is 2>>"Clearly not." \ <<elseif $wise is 3>>"Don't be ssso modest." \ <<elseif $wise is 4>>"If only ssspeaking it would make it ssso." \ <</if>> "I thought you were brooding. What brings you here?" You ask defensively. "Ensuring your sssentimentality doesn't rub off on him." "What would you have me do?" "The wolf must learn to hunt. Whet hisss appetite with blood." Jormungandr shows the glint of his fangs. 1. "[[Perhaps you're right.|Jorm right]]" 2. "[[That's not necessary.|Jorm wrong]]"

<img src="images/intruders.jpg" width = 800; /> You squint your eye and make out the rippling silhouette of two large figures. "What will you do?" You ask. But Jormungandr already slithers stealthily towards them. You look down to Fenrir who seems eager for a fight, but the small starved cub is in no condition for a confrontation. 1. [[(Join Jormungandr and face the intruders.)|Fight]] 2. [[(Take Fenrir and hide.)|Hide]] <<set $switch to 0>>

The wielder of the hammer has a mane of fiery red hair, stocky build as large as an ox, and bracers of iron. His voice roils down the hall like thunder, raising the hairs on your nape. "Reveal yourselves, spawn of Loki!" You pause while still obscured in shadow, looking towards Fenrir who keeps his sharp eyes trained on them. With him beside you, you feel the embers of courage kindle in your heart. 1. "[[If you're looking for our father, he isn't here.|Disturbance]]" 2. "[[We weren't expecting any guests.|Disturbance]]"

"We've come at the All-father's behest. Step forth, child." You do as asked, unveiling yourself from the darkness into the blanched snow-reflected light. Though they make no sound, the aversion they have towards you is palpable. You recognize them as Aesir, the infamous Thor, and the stalwart Tyr. The latter is tall and slender, with braided brunette hair adorned with golden links. He wears a silvery-blue leather armor with hints of chainmail between his joints. 1. "[[To what do we owe this pleasure?|Pleasure]]"

"Given your feeble body and that malnutritioned pup, I am inclined to agree. But such is the will of the All-father, and he will not be questioned by the likes of you." Fenrir takes offence and bares his teeth, raising his hackles in dominance. "Not yet." You quietly whisper to the youngest. "Wasn't there a third monster?" Tyr asks, burying his sword tip into the ground as he nonchalantly leans against the hilt. As if summoned, Jormungandr bursts forth from the snow -- jaw as tall as a tree, fangs as long as spears. 1. "[[Get them.|Attack]]"

Fenrir flits forward like an arrow, claws extended as he leaps toward Tyr. With quick steps he thwarts the wolf, bracing the fiend by the scruff of his neck. Jormungandr attempts to swallow Thor whole, but the Aesir clamps the serpent's jaws open with his gloved hands and booted feet. With a twisting toss, he sends Jormungandr cleaving through the trees. <<if $axe is 1>>You feel for the handle of your makeshift axe and draw it loose. 1. [[Help Fenrir|Tyr Axe]] 2. [[Help Jormungandr|Thor Axe]]<<else>>1. [[Help Fenrir|Tyr]] 2. [[Help Jormungandr|Thor]] <span style="color:darkgray">3. Draw your axe loose.</span><</if>>

With fists reared, you charge Tyr who holds Fenrir hostage between his fingers. The slender warrior deftly pivots as you fumble forward with a wide miss. He grips your hair like rope, yanking your head back with a whip into his knee. Darkness overtakes your vision as comets streak across your waning sight. [[You fall like an axed sapling into the snow.|Unconscious]]

You stumble towards the red-maned Aesir who wastes no breath in whipping his arm around to backhand you. For a moment you're soaring, weightless as a raven. The wind flutters your clothes, a heat swells in your cheek. The harsh reality of cold and rock hits you as you skid through the snow. [[Darkness overtakes your vision as stars streak across your waning sight.|Unconscious]]

The kitchen is mostly barren save for snow coated herring, oatmeal, and cookware of clay and soapstone pots. You're privy to a hidden pantry below the table where Jormungandr used to hide when he was as small as Fenrir. Lifting the hay concealed latch, you [[descend into a storeroom of dust and cobwebs.|Wait]] <<timed 6s>><<audio creak play>><</timed>>

You shush Fenrir as he sniffs for the fish above the floorboards, pawing at the wood. Perhaps Jormungandr has already consumed both intruders and sated his hunger. You peak through the cracks of the floorboard where a sliver of light shines through when... [[...Heavy footfalls resonate from above.|Eyes]]

You flinch as dust cascades down into your eye, bumping your head against a support beam. "What a meager sum. I would've expected a banquet in the house of Loki." You hear his boots step around the table, the wooden planks straining to support his heft. A pot crashes to the ground. Oats spill across the floor. But soon the sound departs. [[And you can breathe again.|Breath]] <<audio woodsteps play>>

You release your stranglehold on Fenrir's muzzle. He tolerated the injustice for as long as self-preservation demanded. But with the stranger's departure, an unsettling realization begins to set in. Jormungandr had failed. "What shall we do, Fenrir?" 1. [[(Stay put)]] 2. [[(Escape the manor)]]

[[Return|Preface]] Written and drawn by Alex Kubodera Some images were created in Midjourney and painted over (No artist's names were used in generations) Sound FX edited using Audacity Sound FX from <a href="https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=101985">Pixabay</a> Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/ob-lix-17147719/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=109867">OB-LIX</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=109867">Pixabay</a>

From the dark, you hear the sound of lapping water. It ebbs and flows, as day passes to night and dawn rises again. You awake on the white loam shores of a lake beneath an ash tree that pierces the skies. At the base of its trunk that spans the horizon, three women pour water onto its roots. [[You lift yourself off the sand and stagger your way over to them.|Norns]] <<set $next to 0>> <<set $who to 0>> <<set $what to 0>> <<set $why to 0>> <<set $how to 0>> <<audio wind stop>> <<audio lake volume 0.7 play >>

You carefully funnel the droplet into the horn. While eitr is regarded as the life-bringer of giants, the ichor is fiercely poisonous. Tugging the straps, the leather seal fastens securely around the brim of the horn. <span style="color:PaleGreen">Eitr filled horn added to inventory.</span><<timed 0.5s>><<audio item play volume 0.8>><</timed>> 1. "[[Did I wake you?|Apologize Scale]]" <<set $horn to 1>>

You wedge Jormungandr's scale into the split base of the branch, securing it in place with some fabric strips. The tapered edge of the scale makes for a poor woodcutting tool, but deadly as a weapon for puncturing flesh. "What will your frail limbsss accomplish with that?" You hear the sardonic silibance of Jormungander slither down from above. "It's the unexpected tooth and fang that scars a predator." "Better to kill than to maim." The serpent hisses in retort. "Only if they are deserving." You return tactfully. "You may have no choice." 1. [["What do you mean?"|Choice]] <<set $axe to 1>> <<set $mistle to 0>>

"Guesssts. They have the ssstench of our father." You glance towards the manor's distant entryway, veiled in a flurry of snow. 1. [["I see naught but a curtain of white, Jormungandr."|Father]]

You extend your eitr laden horn as a peace offering. The taller of the two looks upon you judiciously. Thor on the otherhand is suddenly taken by thirst. "It seems even Loki has taught his children proper hospitality. Would you believe that, Tyr?" "No." 1. "[[We ensure our guests are treated as family, no matter the occasion.|Drink]]"

Thor whisks the horn from your grasp and unfastens the seal, draining the horn dry. "What paltry sum is this? Dare you insult us?" "I'm afraid we don't have much to offer." You say, keenly watching his reaction. "Bitter too. This mead is terrible. Just what I'd expect from his kin." 1. "[[My name is Hel.|Immune]]"

Thor tosses the empty horn aside. He moves towards you, towering as an ash tree in Autumn with head aflame. He gathers phlegm in his throat, then spits a wad of blood onto the snow. "You take after your father more than you know, Hel." "Frigg would be disappointed." Tyr interjects. Misjudging the constitution of an Aesir, you're left to confront the consequences of your actions with moral support from Fenrir who lingers beside you, raising his hackles in dominance. "Come with us quietly, or painfully. The choice is yours." 1. [[Go quietly.|Surprise][$surprise to 1]] 2. [[Go painfully.|Surprise][$surprise to 2]]

<<if $surprise is 1>>You hesitantly admit defeat, lowering your head and raising your arms in submission.<<elseif $surprise is 2>>You grit your teeth and curl your fingers into a fist.<</if>> "Wasn't there a third monster?" Tyr asks, burying his sword tip into the ground as he nonchalantly leans against the hilt. As if summoned, Jormungandr bursts forth from the snow -- jaw as tall as a tree, fangs as long as spears. 1. "[[Get them.|Attack]]" <<set $poison to 1>>

[[Return|Preface]] ''12/16/2022'' 1.01 Minor bug fixes - Minor grammar edits - Fixed a bug where you could give the torc to Jormungandr without picking it up earlier - Enlarged "Ragnarok" text when it appears in the intro for DRAMATIC EFFECT - Broke up some larger chunks of text into separate passages ''12/11/2022'' 1.0 Initial release

Tyr holds Fenrir hostage between his fingers. The little wolf helplessly dangles like a sheet in the breeze. With white knuckles you warily strafe around the warrior. You wouldn't put it past the Aesir to use Fenrir as a shield. As if reading your thoughts, Tyr idly stows the wolf away in a sling around his back, muzzled and tied with the deft rope work of a masterful sailor. 1. [[Wait for an opening.|Opening]] 2. [[Strike with vengeance!|Strike]]

The fauna scatter as the giant serpent's writhing form devastates the forest. Thor claps his hands together, content with his handiwork. You take the opportunity to sneak upon the unsuspecting Aesir and [[raise your axe with white knuckles.|Thor Strike]] <<audio treefall play>>

You wait as snow accumulates around your feet. Nearby the sounds of Jormungandr struggling against Thor shake the earth as trees topple and the very ground cracks open. You've never seen the serpent so defiant. Or is it desperation? And yet as gales strip the trees of snow, Tyr stands unperturbed by the commotion. "Do you need an invitation? Come on then." He goads. If ever there was a moment, it has long since passed. 1. [[You raise your axe, and charge.|Charge]]

Taken by the spirit of the berserker, blood rushes through your head and heart, your cold limbs alight with a newfound heat. 1. [[Foxfooted, you dart forward and swing!|Swing]]

The slender warrior deftly pivots as you fumble forward with a wide miss. He grips your hair like rope, yanking your head back with a whip into his knee. [[You fall like an axed sapling into the snow, vision taken by darkness.|Unconscious]]

Tyr manages an awkward pivot a moment late and you feel the drag of flesh as blood coats the end of your scalehead axe. Red pools in the fabric above his right elbow, draining down his arm. You dig your feet into the ground like roots finding purchase and scream a warrior's cry. 1. [[Bring the axe down!|Blood]]

Tyr moves like a snake in the blink of an eye as your elbows lock against his shoulders. His blood soaked hand smears his liquid-life across your eyes. You're blinded by red, swinging wildly as fear entwines your limbs. You try deseprately to see, and in a brief moment of clarity you wish you didn't. Tyr winds up a large fist that pummels your gut like a boar's charge. Darkness overtakes your vision as comets streak across your waning sight. [[You fall like an axed sapling into the snow.|Unconscious]] <<set $maim to 1>>

Blood rushes through your head and heart, your cold limbs alight with a newfound heat. The axe comes bearing down like Jormungandr's teeth... ...But is deflected against Thor's iron bracers. "I can smell your approach, witch." For a moment you're soaring, lightless as a raven. The wind flutters your clothes. A heat swells in your cheek. [[You never even saw his hand.|Smacked]]

The harsh reality of cold and rock hits you as you skid through the snow unearthing the soil. With blurred vision you gaze up to the red-maned Aesir towering above you. "Rest well. We have a long journey ahead of us." [[Darkness overtakes your vision as comets streak across your waning sight.|Unconscious]]

<img src="images/asgard.jpg" width = 800; /> You groggily awake on the cold floors of a great hall. White pillars rise into a translucent vaulted ceiling where a shimmer of gold cascades down like the aurora borealis. <<if $maim is 1>>To your left you see Tyr, a bandage wrapped around his arm as he kneels down to feed Fenrir a slab of meet.<<else>>To your left you see Tyr, kneeling down beside Fenrir feeding him a slab of meat.<</if>> To your right, Thor stands idly by indulging some mead. Both the Aesir look right at home. [[A voice booms from above you atop a high throne.|Odin]]

"Daughter of Loki. I understand you've never visited the hallowed halls of Asgard." A caped figure with a snow white beard and golden eye-patch, the All-father to the Aesir, gazes down upon you. "Speak." Thor ushers. 1. "[[Why did you steal us from our home?|Raven]]"

In unison they all turn to look upon you. "I told you she'd come." One of them says. "She was already here." Says the other. "Sisters, she is here now." Says the last. <<if $who is 0>>1. [["Who are you?"|Who]]<<elseif $who is 1>><span style="color:darkgrey">1. "Who are you?"</span><</if>> <<if $what is 0>>2. [["What are you doing?"|What]]<<elseif $what is 1>><span style="color:darkgrey">2. "What are you doing?"</span><</if>> <<if $how is 0>>3. [["How did I get here?"|How]]<<elseif $how is 1>><span style="color:darkgrey">3. "How did I get here?"</span><</if>> <<if $next >= 2>>4. [["Why am I here?"|Why]]<</if>>

"We are all that has been." "And all that will be." "But you may call us..." "The Kindly Three." [[1. You have more questions.|Norns]] <<set $who to 1>> <<set $next to $next +1>>

"Nurturing." "Tending." "As all living things require." "No matter how unspoken their desire." [[1. You have more questions.|Norns]] <<set $what to 1>> <<set $next to $next +1>>

"So that we may look upon you." "The shear to our skein." "Where all threads end." "Before the world is born anew." 1. "[[Speak plainly, I beg you.|Wrong]]" 2. "[[What omens do you speak of?|Wrong]]"

"You are not dead." "Nor are you alive." "Adrift, though not for long." [[1. You have more questions.|Norns]] <<set $how to 1>> <<set $next to $next +1>>

"Judgement soon awaits." "Judgement is cast. "Judgement has passed." The three women lift their hands drawing a curtain of night over your eyes. You're plunged into the darkness... falling... and falling... [[and falling...|Asgard]] <<audio lake fadeout>>

"I have seen how you and your mongrel kin live." Odin pronounces as a silver-eyed raven swoops in from a tall arched window onto his throne. <<if $honor is 1>>"You desecrated the dead for some paltry trinkets." The All-Father accuses. "Would you have me bury all our trespassers?" You retort in defiance.<<elseif $honor is 2>>"Were it not for my raven, you would have pilfered the dead for some paltry trinkets." The All-Father accuses. "That's not true!" You retort in defiance.<</if>> "You're dangerous and impulsive, resorting to violence when peace is offered." <<if $maim is 1>>"Just look at Tyr." Odin gestures with his scepter.<<else>>"Were they not wiser to your machinations, who knows what injuries they might have sustained." Odin gestures with his scepter.<</if>> "You send warriors to kidnap children. What show of peace?" You plead. "You insult us, All-father." Thor interjects. "We would have destroyed these curs if not for the kindness you extended them." An ominous silence falls. 1. "[[What have you done with Jormungandr?|Jorm]]"

Thor brusquely takes a swig of his mead, wiping his beard with the back of his hand. "I wove him between trees til his bones snapped, then threw the beast over cliff's edge." Fenrir perks his ears up. You meet his gaze, a pit of sorrow strangling your heart. "Food for the fish." The Aesir shrugs, quenching his thirst with an audible glug. 1. [[Let rage consume you|Angry]] 2. [[Quiet your rage|Calm]]

You clench your fists and surge towards Thor, but you're paralyzed by shock when Odin lifts his hands. Shackles of lightning bind you to the floor, dragging you down to your knees in submission. Thor has a glint of sadism, stepping forward with hammer in hand as he extends Mjolnir toward your chest. Lightning crackles between you and the hammer in agonizing arcs as your flesh singes. 1. "[[A-and you call us... monsters?|Judgement]]"

You restrain your anger that would further cast you as a foregone monster in the All-father's eyes. "How could you..." You quaver between grit teeth. Fenrir follows suit, backing away from the offered meat to expose his bloodied fangs. "You are ignorant to the woven skein of the Norns." Odin begins. "The havoc you and your brothers will cause is unimaginable. It is my decree to separate the three of you, so that such calamity will never come to pass." 1. "[[You kill our brother... and now you deem to split our family?|Judgement]]"

"The pain you feel now is the price of restoring peace across the nine realms. You will have ample time to mourn the serpent in your new home." Odin declares. 1. "[[Where are you sending me?|Banishment]]"

"Past Nifelheim where you have more in common with its denizens. Perhaps there, you may find solace in a new life." "And Fenrir?" "I will watch over him, here in Asgard." Tyr says as he rises to his full height. <<if $abandon is 1>>Fenrir doesn't meet your gaze, the memory of you abandoning him to Thor etched in his heart.<<else>>Fenrir protests, sidling over to your side. You wrap your arms around the fluff of his neck and embrace him dearly.<</if>> 1. "[[Will I get to see him again?|Goodbye]]"

You find the coffin-like nook somewhat comforting, nestled in with Fenrir like a bug in amber. It hardly seems wise to risk discovery when the pantry has already been overlooked. But Fenrir's concern for Jormungandr clouds your mind as well. "He'll be alright..." [[A second set of lighter footsteps enters the kitchen.|Tyr kitchen]]

Seizing the opportunity, you lift the latch and crawl out of the cubby with Fenrir in tow. He deftly leaps for the frozen herring and is content to let it thaw in his jaws. With a satisfied swish of his tail, the wolf prances back over to you. You sneak past the draped entryway and peak out towards the main atrium. Neither of the intruders are to be seen. If you can reach the southern corridor, [[a window will lead you out into the forest.|Window]]

They circle above judciously, pausing by each cabinet and stone nook. "Come out, daughter of mischief. Thor may be careless in his impatience, but I am not." Wood creaks with each of his patient passes, until silence eventually falls. Dust and hay suddenly veil your head as you gaze upon the stalwart Tyr -- tall and slender, with braided brunette hair adorned with golden links. He wears a silvery-blue leather armor with hints of chainmail between his joints. "We've come at the All-father's behest to escort you to Asgard." Caught in a compromising position, you clear your throat and reply. 1. "[[For what purpose?|Reason]]"

"He has deemed you and your kin dangerous." "Dangerous? We've hardly left this manor since birth." "It is not what you have done, but what you have yet to do. The All-father has seen, and spoken." 1. "[[Perhaps he is mistaken.|Mistake]]" <<if $horn is 1>>2. "[[A simple misunderstanding mead can't mend, surely.|Poison Tyr]]"<<elseif $axe is 1>>2. [[(You feel for the handle of your makeshift axe and draw it loose.)|Axe Tyr]]<</if>>

"We don't have much, but even here we pride ourselves on our mead." "Oh? Given the state of your home, I would think such things a luxury." "It's my personal treasure, for when the cold bites harder than Fenrir." "You would offer this to me?" "We are nothing if not hospitable." [[You hand the eitr filled horn from your belt over to the Aesir.|Poison Tyr 2]]

Taken by the spirit of the berserker, blood rushes through your head and heart, your cold limbs alight with a newfound heat. [[Foxfooted, you dart forward and swing!|Swing 2]]

"Then we will let you go. After you're brought to Odin." Before you can even react, the pommel of his sword comes careening into the side of your head. [[Darkness overtakes your vision as comets streak across your waning sight.|Unconscious]]

Tyr unfastens the seal, smelling the aroma. "There's not much." "I'm afraid we don't have much to offer." You say, watching his reaction keenly. "A rather bitter smell too." "A method of heightening the sweetness when it touches your tongue." He gives it a taste, but prompty tosses the horn aside. "The All-father was right in his judgement of you, nefarious witch." Misjudging the constitution of an Aesir, you're left to confront the consequences of your actions alone. Before you can even react, the pommel of his sword comes careening into the side of your head. [[Darkness overtakes your vision as comets streak across your waning sight.|Unconscious]]

You feel the drag of flesh as blood coats the end of your scalehead axe. Red pools in the fabric above his right elbow, draining down his arm. You dig your feet into the ground and [[yell as you bring the axe down.|Blood 2]]

But Tyr moves like a snake in the blink of an eye. His blood soaked hand smears his liquid-life across your eyes. You're blinded by red, swinging wildly as fear entwines your limbs. You try deseprately to see, and in a brief moment of clarity the pommel of his sword come careening into the side of your head. [[Darkness overtakes your vision and you fall like an axed sapling.|Unconscious]]

With fox-footed steps, you sneak down the hall when a voice echoes from a distance. <span class = "smallfont">"Find anything?"</span> They're far enough away that you hurry along when suddenly... "NOTHING!" booms from an adjacent room. Out steps a red-maned bear-like man, clothed in furs with iron bracers and a hammer firmly clasped in one hand. You recognize the imposing Aesir as Thor. Your eyes meet as he grimaces at your visage. "By Odin's beard..." 1. "[[Odin nor Frigg welcome trespassers.|Insult]]" 2. [[(Capitalize on his aversion and run.)|Run]]

"Tis no petty slight as that. The All-father has ordained the arrest of you...monsters." "Why?" You ask in disbelief, recounting what mundane activities could have incited the eye of the All-father. "He has deemed you and your kin... dangerous." "He is mistaken." You contend solemnly as Fenrir raises his hackles. "Given your frail body I am inclined to agree. But the All-father has seen, and spoken. Come willingly. I assure you the alternative is far less desirable." 1. [[(Run)|Run]] 2. [[(Surrender)|Surrender]] <<if $horn is 1>>3. [[(You remember your eitr laden horn.)|Poison Thor]]<<elseif $axe is 1>>3. [[(You feel for the handle of your makeshift axe.)|Axe Thor]]<</if>>

"This hardly seems the topic to discuss without a hornful of mead. Might our humble house off you some?" You extend your eitr laden horn as a peace offering. "It seems even Loki has taught his children proper hospitality. Who among the Aesir would've thought?" 1. "[[We ensure our guests are treated as family, no matter the occasion.|Drink 2]]"

With white knuckles you draw your axe loose, your cold limbs alight with a newfound heat as you raise it above your head. You bring the axe down like Jormungandr's teeth, bracing yourself to be bathed in blood. But your scale-head axe clings off of Thor's iron bracers, throwing you off balance. The Aesir doesn't hesitate to strike you across the face as you hurtle into the stone wall. [[Darkness overtakes your vision as stars streak across your waning sight.|Unconscious]]

"Fenrir, go!" You shout as the two of you split past Thor and make a mad dash for freedom. Thor's thundering feet gallop behind you as you strain for breath with every pump of your legs. 1. [[(Leap through the window.)|Leap]]

With much disdain, you offer your arms in submission. But Fenrir is not as keen to admit defeat without a fight. The wolf leaps, fangs drawn like a row of daggers. Thor spears his arm forward to clutch Fenrir by his throat as the cub flails like a flurry of razors. 1. [[(Talk Fenrir down)|Talk down]] 2. [[(Run and leave Fenrir behind)|Abandon]] <<if $axe is 1>>3. [[(You feel for the handle of your makeshift axe)|Axe Thor]]<</if>> <<timed 1s>><<audio growl play>><</timed>>

Lo brother mine, Whose pyre-heart burns, Quell thy flames to ember-coals, For weapons must be tempered When the forge next roars." 1. [[You reach out to retrieve Fenrir.|Fenrir Calm]]

With Thor occupied by Fenrir, self-preservation gnaws at you to run. You slip past his left side, the arm that holds your brother. The wolf gasps, madly clawing for survival as he sees you. 'I'll come back for you.' You convince yourself, desperately holding onto that notion as you [[scramble for freedom.|Scramble]] <<set $abandon to 1>>

Fenrir calms his demeanor, unnaturally so that betrays a keen comprehension. "You've made a wise choice." Thor states, shackling your wrists with iron binds. "I'm almost disappointed you didn't inherit your father's mischievousness." The mountain of a man broods. 1. "[[I wouldn't know. He's hardly around.|Hardly around]]"

"Fatherhood was never his strong suit." Thor concurs, picking the cub up by the scruff of his neck. He ushers you to the main atrium where a tall slender warrior idly waits. "Must I do everything, Tyr?" Thor hands Fenrir over to his companion. Tyr holds the cub in his palm, curiously extending a finger towards the snarling wolf's face. 1. "[[I wouldn't do that unless you want to lose a finger.|Finger][$finger to 1]]" 2. [[(Let Tyr find out for himself)|Finger][$finger to 2]]

<<if $finger is 1>>Tyr holds himself back, nestling the wolf into the furlined pocket of his garb instead. <<elseif $finger is 2>>Fenrir snaps at Tyr's finger, though the warrior seems hardly perturbed. He gently drops the wolf into the furlined pocket of his garb.<</if>> "We have a long journey ahead of us. Will you survive the cold?" He asks, looking you up and down. 1. "[[The cold never bothered me.|Cold]]"

While you are much immune to the numbing frost, your body is unused to the physical strain of trekking through the snow at the Aesir's pace. With every vapor of warm breath, your muscles fatigue, until you can move no more. You finally feel the cold start to settle in. As your vision succumbs to darkness, you see the silhouette of Thor look over his shoulder. [[Then the stars that speckle the night sky.|Unconscious]]

You close in on the window carved out of the cavern surface. Beyond its frame is a violent flurry of snow. A storm you could easily lose the Aesir in. But Thor's thundering feet gallop behind you as you strain for breath with every pump of your legs. 1. [[(Leap through the window.)|Leap]]

You dive through the hole, too small for Thor's hulking mass. With a rough tumble you feel the icy touch of snow, and for a moment, elation. You glance back to the window where you see Fenrir, unconscious in Thor's arms. Anger and shame comingle in a toxic brew that courses through your veins. [[You grit your teeth, determined to get revenge.]]

Lifting yourself off the ground, you decide to hide out in the forest until they leave. As you turn around, you barely see a tall slender warrior before his silver pommel whips across your temple. [[Darkness overtakes your vision and you fall like an axed sapling.|Unconscious]]

Thor whisks the horn from you, unfastening the leather seal and draining the horn dry. "There's hardly anything in here." The mountain man complains. "I'm afraid we don't have much to offer." You say, watching his reaction keenly. "Bitter too. This mead is terrible. Just what I'd expect from Loki's offspring." 1. "[[My name is Hel.|Immune 2]]"

Thor tosses the empty horn aside. He moves towards you, towering as an ash tree in Autumn with head aflame. He clears his throat, feeling a persistent itch. You've done it. The fool Aesir has ingested poison and will soon fall at your feet. Gathering phlegm, he spits a wad of blood onto the cavern floor. "You take after your father more than you know. That was devious, daughter of Loki." Misjudging the constitution of an Aesir, you're left to confront the consequences of your actions with moral support from Fenrir who lingers behind you. "Come with us quietly, or painfully. The choice is yours." 1. [[(Surrender)|Surrender]]

"The All-father has decreed the arrest of Loki's monstrous creations." "For what reason? We've hardly left this manor since birth." "It is not what you have done, but what you have yet to do. The All-father has seen, and spoken." 1. "[[Perhaps Odin is mistaken.|Mistaken]]" <<if $horn is 1>>2. "[[Perhaps we can discuss this over mead.|Poison]]"<<else>><span style="color:darkgrey">2. "Perhaps we can discuss this over mead."</span><</if>>

Odin slams the end of his scepter into the ground, resonating a shimmering sound. A brilliant light spanning the full spectrum of colors both seen and unseen manifests in a prismatic column. "Step forth." He commands. You take one final glance over to Fenrir, and then to Tyr who offers a nod in goodbye. Whether it is out of civility or contempt, you'll have a lifetime to decide. 1. [[Step into the light|Bifrost]] 2. [[Step away from the light|Bifrost no]]

<img src="images/helheim.jpg" width = 800; /> Your descent slows and your feet grace the ground. The light clears leaving you wide-eyed to see the ephemeral remnants of the Bifrost shimmer into oblivion. Beside you a raging river courses as far as the eye can see. Above you the roots of Yggdrasil all but shield slivers of sunlight. In those pockets touched by the life-giver, golden pastures blossom, while fields left in the darkness are withered and barren. 1. [[Fall to your knees|Alone]]

[[You are alone.|Alone 2]] <<audio musicfinale play volume 0.4>>

[[In a realm unknown and isolated, you walk until your feet can no longer carry you.|Prayer 2]]

You're absorbed by the pillar of rainbow. You can feel its force ripple around you as though you're being swept under a current. Its sensation is both hot and cold, like fire licking your limbs cooled by the touch of snow. You dare not open your eyes, for the brilliance of its light is blinding. You're taken by sudden weightlessness as you fall... and fall... [[and fall...|Helheim]]

You clutch your chest, keeling forward until your forehead touches the ground and you pray. "Hermod, deliver my heart To blood bound by sorrow. Let no distance spare The rage within my marrow. May Odin's rule make him sloth As we forge our strength with age, Let him know what he hath wroth, When we break free from our cage. Til their blood swells the seas, Til our bones burn to ash, They will know havoc, On the dawn of Ragnarok." _______________________________________________________________________ [[Outro]]

Thank you for reading! While this story ends here, Hel's journey is just beginning - whether through your own imagination or further support for this project. My goal with this game is simply to share my love of mythology and hopefully inspire you to research figures you're interested in or have heard about in pop culture. Their stories may surprise you! If you're interested in my other projects or following me on social media: <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/356650/Deaths_Gambit_Afterlife/" target="_blank">Death's Gambit: Hardcore 2D action Souls-like</a> <a href="https://www.wattpad.com/user/KeiKube" target="_blank">Crimson Court: Dark Gothic Short Story</a> <a href="https://medium.com/@alex.kubodera" target="_blank">Medium: Game Design Essays</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KeiKube" target="_blank">Twitter</a> [[Return to the beginning.|Preface]] <<audio musicfinale fadeout>>

<<if $item is "torc">>You hold up the brass necklace in offering to the serpent.<<elseif $item is "horn">>You hold up the horn in offering to the serpent.<</if>> Jormungandr flicks his tongue as his head slowly hovers towards you. "What foolsss game are you playing, sssister?" "It's a custom of theirs. Trinket-giving. I saw the villagers do it." "You should not assspire to their savagery." <<if $glint is 0>>"But look, isn't it nice?" You glance down dejected, and notice the glint you saw earlier is lost in the blanket of shimmering snow.<<else>>"But look, isn't it nice?" You glance down dejected.<</if>> "Sssave it for our brother. Perhaps it will cease his incessant howling." 1. "[[She's still not back?|Gone]]" 2. "[[I'll see what I can do.|Carry on]]"

You look upon the serpent, its face as large as a chariot, brow crested like a longbow. "Yesss." "Forgive me, Jormungandr. I wasn't watching my footing." You say with gentle concern. "Yet you have the vigilance to essspy one of mine ssscales." "Would you have me return it to you?" You ask, extending the frost encrusted scale. "A tree no sooner longs for the leaves it shedsss." [[A brief moment of silence sets in.|Silence]] <<set $Jorm to $Jorm + 1>>

"No. Nor ssshould we expect her return." "Where has she gone?" "Ssshe has gone to look for our father." "Oh." "Precissssely." 1. "[[I'll see what I can do.|Carry on]]"

<<if $item is "torc">>"You've been spending too much time watching them, sssister." "Our father could be there, hiding." "He is not. I would smell him." You fidget with the object you pilfered off the dead. 1. "[[I brought you something.|Jorm Gift]]"<<else>>"You've been spending too much time watching them, sssister." "Our father could be there, hiding." "He is not. I would sssmell him. Instead of trekking to Askurdalr, you should tend to our kin's incessssant howling. He's hardly ceased sssince her departure." 1. "[[She's still not back?|Gone]]" 2. "[[I'll see what I can do.|Carry on]]"<</if>>

She seemed to think letting you hold a bow was enough for you to one day be like ''Skadi''. You developed some finess, able to hit still targets. <<if $reflection is 2>><<linkreplace "..." t8n>>[[A howl interupts your thoughts.|Interupt]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[Reflect on your father.|Father 1]] <</if>> <<set $agility to 1>>

She was absent in both mind and body. You've tried looking out for your brothers in her stead, but you've always been frail and sickly. <<if $reflection is 2>><<linkreplace "..." t8n>>[[A howl interupts your thoughts.|Interupt]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[Reflect on your father.|Father 1]] <</if>> <<set $strength to 1>>

Men deemed it effeminate and furtive behaviour, as they might anything they don't understand. You managed to learn a hexing galdr or two. <<if $reflection is 2>><<linkreplace "..." t8n>>[[A howl interupts your thoughts.|Interupt]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[Reflect on your father.|Father 1]] <</if>> <<set $magic to 1>>

You look to your left reflection and see a corpse with hollow set eyes and exposed bone. You lift a frail skeletal hand, black as coal, and tuck a veil of wispy blonde hair over your shoulder. <<set $reflection to $reflection + 1>> Though you don't share your mother's look, you know you owe this ghastly side to her -- the witch of the Ironwoods. She had been consumed by the Old Ways until her obsession turned to your father. You recall the last moment you shared with her. 1. [[She was teaching you how to hunt.|Hunt]] 2. [[She was teaching you Old Magic.|Magic]] 3. [[She never taught you much of anything.|Nothing]] <<audio reveal play>>

You look to your right reflection and see a maiden of pale skin crowned with radiant locks that drape down her tattered dress like liquid gold. A belt of bronze discs emblazoned with the runic markings of ''Yggdrasil'' hang loosely around her waist. <<set $reflection to $reflection + 1>> You owe your beauty to your father, but not much else. He had a reputation among the Aesir for mischief, equally beloved and abhorred. His talents for shapeshifting ended with him. <<if $reflection is 2>><<linkreplace "..." t8n>>[[A howl brings you back to the present.|Interupt]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>>1. [[Reflect on your mother.|Mother]] <</if>> <<audio maiden play volume 0.7>>

You're stirred from your memories. You carry their burdens as the third and final secret born out of infidelity. But they do not define you. [[And so you carry on.|Fenrir]]

Fenrir huffs with audible disappointment. "You coddle him ssso." You hear the sardonic sibilance of Jormungandr from above as his body coils down a pillar. "What would you have me do?" "The wolf must learn to hunt. Whet hisss appetite with blood." 1. "[[Perhaps you're right.|Jorm right]]" 2. "[[That's not necessary.|Jorm wrong]]"

"You cannot deny hisss nature." "Do you speak of being Aesir?" "A wolf that cannot kill is no wolf at all. Aesir need not ssspill blood but to quench their egosss." 1. "[[Well, if anyone can teach him, it's you.|Teach]]" <<if $agility is 1>>2. "[[I can pass on what mother taught me.|Teach]]"<<else>>2. "[[I don't approve, but I'll do my best.|Teach]]"<</if>>

"We have jusssst the opportunity." Jormungadr flicks his tongue towards the entrance. You glance past the manor's atrium to the distant entryway, veiled in a flurry of snow. "I see naught but a curtain of white, Jormungandr." "They have the [[ssstench of our father|Father]]."

"You cannot deny hisss nature." "Do you speak of being Aesir?" "A wolf that cannot kill is no wolf at all. Aesir need not ssspill blood but to quench their egosss." 1. "[[If anyone can teach him, it's you.|Teach]]" <<if $agility is 1>>2. "[[I can pass on what mother taught me.|Teach]]"<<else>>2. "[[I'll do what I can.|Teach]]"<</if>>

You back away from the light, glancing over to the Aesir who condemn you. You're not ready to depart. Not like this. 1. [[You turn to run.|Run 2]]

But Thor is already there, his presence as inexorable as fate itself. "There is no escape, child. This is your destiny." Odin rules. You suffocate as Thor seizes you by the throat, and though your senses numb, you can vaguely hear the barking of Fenrir nearby. [[Thor walks you over to the Bifrost.|Bifrost]]

"That'll make a fine ssswitch for rebuking our uninvited guesssts." Jormungandr hisses as he appears from above, slung between stalactites like vine. 1. [["What do you mean?"|Choice]]