Twine 3

You accept your fate as you are dragged away to the [[depths of the village.|Ending 1]] (track: "village", "stop") (track: "conflict", "stop") (track: "conflict2", "stop") (track: "dungeon", "play", "loop", true)

He stares at you for a brief moment, as if he can’t believe what you just did. He stands still for a second, but immediately darts away without you after more Talons start approaching. You are apprehended by two other Talons, and they start to walk you to the village’s dungeon. You decide it is best [[to not protest.|Accept your fate]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] (if:$ace_arrested)[Before he can say anything more, two members of the Talons grab him by his wings and start dragging him away from the scene. Wait! What’s going on? You can’t be doing this to me, a Talon! That dying bastard can no longer lead you! I will lead us to victory! (text-style:"rumble")[ You cuckoos!] Rook is now motionless on the ground. Ace is dragged away from the scene, he struggles at any moment he can. The sounds of the beasts are getting louder every moment. You remember Rook's advice for you to return home. (if: not $ace_mad)[[[Try to help Ace|Help Ace]]] [[Obey Rook and return home|Retreat back to your house]] [[Disobey Rook and try to fight the beasts|Flit Fights!]] ](else-if: not $ace_arrested)[Still following orders from a dying man, eh? Alright, you'll see soon enough what these actions will cost you. Rook jolts up with the last of his energy, and points straight at Ace. (text-style: "rumble")[...Ace, you traitor! You know nothing and yet follow this f..false prophecy! T..Talons! Get him o..out of my sight and let me rest in peace!] Rook falls to the ground, [[exhausted.|Ace Gets Arrested 2]] (set: $rook_advice to true) ] (track: "village", "stop")

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Before Ace can say anything more, two members of the Talons grab him by his wings and start dragging him away from the scene. Wait! What’s going on? You can’t be doing this to me, a Talon! That dying bastard can no longer lead you! I will lead us to victory! (text-style:"rumble")[ You cuckoos!] Ace is dragged away from the scene, struggling at any moment he can. The sounds of the beasts are getting louder every moment. You remember Rook's advice, that you should return home before it is too late. (if: not $ace_mad)[[[Try to help Ace|Help Ace]]] [[Obey Rook and return home|Retreat back to your house]] [[Disobey Rook and try to fight the beasts|Flit Fights!]]

(text-style: "rumble")[<h5>*SMACK*</h5>] You sit up, your back now stinging from pain. In front of you is Ace. (click-replace: "Ace.")[Ace, a member of the Talons, the elite soldiers appointed in your village that defend it inside and out. Ever since you moved in, he has been assigned to monitor you and ensure you fulfill your duties. Over time, you think you have developed a sort of friendship with him, despite his arrogance and constant teasing of you. He has never called you a friend, but you can just sense it is true. He enjoys challenging you, only to show how much better he is than you. You don't mind, as not many others even accept you in their presence. ]He doesn't look too pleased. Flit, get up! Our village is starving because of your damn antics! Even though you don't want to, you get up from your bed. Why was I ever assigned to look over YOU? That damn Rook doesn't see the value in any of us... Hey, wait a [[minute!|Ace1]] (track: "punch", "play")

You know I can be tough too, Ace, just look at how I fly! You start pretending to fly around your room. Ace, however, sees through the act. Don’t try to act tough, Flit! You don't understand how little you matter. You stop abruptly, and look into the serious eyes of Ace. But.. you’ve seen how far I’ve come! You’ll see how wrong you were when I become the greatest Talon to ever live! You lift one of your wings up in the air as if you were a superhero, and bask in the moment while Ace looks at you [[silently.|Ace2]] (track: 'flapping', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'bird2', 'play')

Yeah, okay. Enough with the self-pity. Follow me before we are too late. Before you leave, you grab a satchel from under your bed. You follow Ace out of your loft, where you both start flying towards the [[village’s community center.|Flying 1]] (track: 'flapping', 'playwhenpossible')

[[Open Satchel]] Eventually, you reach an opening in the forest, the stump of a tree marking the middle of it. As you begin your descent, you notice a glimmer coming from beside the tree stump. You decide this is a good place to start. Around the clearing, you spot several options for gathering resources. You also remember you have limited space to carry resources back. (if: $inventory contains "berries" or $inventory's length is 2)[<del>Collect some berries</del>](else-if: (not ($inventory contains 'berries')))[[Collect some berries]] (if: $inventory contains "rocks" or $inventory's length is 2)[<del>Search the pond</del>](else-if: (not ($inventory contains 'rocks')))[[Search the pond]] (if: $inventory contains "twigs" or $inventory's length is 2)[<del>Trot to the fallen log</del>](else-if: (not ($inventory contains 'twigs')))[[[Investigate the fallen log|Investigate a fallen log]]] (if: $inventory contains "mystery" or $inventory's length is 2)[<del>Investigate the glimmering</del>](else-if: (not ($inventory contains 'mystery')))[[[Investigate the glimmer|glimmer]]] [[End for the day|Adventure 3]]

[[Open Satchel]] (if: $inventory's length is 0)[For some reason, you decide to end the day without collecting anything. Oh well. ](else-if: $inventory's length is not 0)[You finish gathering the last of the resources. You feel satisfied with what you have accomplished, and decide to call it a day.] As you are packing up to leave, you notice that the sounds of the forest have become eerily still. You can no longer hear the hums of creatures or the gentle blow of the wind. You feel a strange sense of unease, and decide you should fly back to your village [[as soon as possible.|Adventure 4]] (track: "forest", "stop") (track: 'bird2', 'play')

<h5>(text-style:"rumble")[[[*THUMP* *THUMP* *THUMP*|Adventure 5]]]<h5> (track: "thump", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] Before you can even begin your flight back, you see three monstrous metal beasts emerge from the trees. They have long arms that can stretch and snap, sharp claws that seem to be able to tear anything apart, and huge mouths that swallow whole trees. The beasts have vivid glowing red eyes, which cut through anything blocking their path. You have never seen anything like them before. They seem to be doing your job, but with much more efficiency. You have an [[odd curiosity|Machines1]] for their workings. (track: "forest", "stop") (track: "tree-fall", "play") (track: "conflict", "play", "loop", true)

As your journey progresses through the forest, you encounter various animal communities, each with their own distinct features. While some of the villages seem prosperous and peaceful, others look as if they were ravaged by violence and death. You see lifeless bodies scattered among the ruin, evidence of what you think to be a brutal attack that wiped out everything. You try to ignore this, and focus on where you are [[headed.|Adventure 2]] (track: "village", "stop") (track: "forest", "play", "loop", "true")

You spring up from your bed, reminding yourself that you have duties to accomplish today. Some of your feathers now swirling in the air due to the abruptness of your movement. Great start to the day… you whisper to yourself. As you unlock the door, you see a red wing slide in and quickly open the door. The light emerges from the outside world, blinding you for a moment. You cover your face, and squint through the gaps between your wings. Standing in front of you is Ace.(click-replace: "Ace.")[Ace, a member of the Talons, the elite soldiers appointed in your village that defend it inside and out. Ever since you moved in, he has been assigned to monitor you and ensure you fulfill your duties. Over time, you think you have developed a sort of friendship with him, despite his arrogance and constant teasing of you. He has never called you a friend, but you can just sense it is true. He enjoys challenging you, only to show how much better he is than you. You don't mind, as not many others even accept you in their presence. ] He looks [[unenthused]] at the sight of you. (track: 'door-open', 'playwhenpossible')

(text-style:"rumble")[<h5>[[*BOOM!*|Rook gets hit!]]</h5>] (track: "slam", "play")

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] The beasts don’t seem to be alive! They are being operated by smaller creatures, who are riding atop of them. You see tiny figures pushing buttons, pulling levers, and turning knobs, all of which make the machines move and roar. You are amazed and confused by the sight, as you’ve never seen anything so complex and [[unnatural|Not real 2]] before.

[[Open Satchel]] You cannot believe what you are hearing, from a protector of the village no less! You start flying towards Rook, leaving Ace behind. (text-style: "rumble")[Hey! What the hell do you think you are doing?] You reach Rook, who is standing amongst a [[large crowd|Flit tells on Ace]] of other birds.

You recall Rook’s words and his impatience with your antics. You choose to be cautious and keep a steady pace [[towards your goal.|Adventure1]]

You feel a surge of adrenaline as you face the obstacles. Even with one eye, you are a master of precision and courage, and thus, are fearless of getting into danger. You accelerate your pace and dart through the maze of obstacles. (if: $rook_mad)[You remember Rook and his taunts to you, which only ignite your [[speed and resolve.|Adventure1]]](if: not $rook_mad)[You want to prove your might and skills to Rook, which only ignites your [[speed and resolve.|Adventure1]] ] (track: "whoosh", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] You hop over to the berry bush, and notice it is full of ripe, juicy berries. You have no idea what kind of berries these are, but they seem good enough to eat. [[Pick the berries]] [[Return to the stump|Adventure 2]]

[[Open Satchel]] You and Ace finally reach the town center, where you both land somewhere far from the conglomeration of birds surrounding a giant wooden sculpture of a historical figure. Flit, over here! Ace pulls a rock away from the ground, revealing a giant, shining object underneath it. The object is at least half the size of you. Only the best would come back with something like this! I’m shocked that none of you gatherers have ever stumbled upon anything even remotely as amazing. You look down on the object, which has some odd inscriptions on it. It has engravings that must have been made by technology [[beyond what your society possesses.|CommCenter2]] <div id="img"><img src="https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529Pics/walkie-talkie.png"></div> (track: "beeping", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] Ace.. you think we should say something to Rook about this? Imagine how much we could prosper if we had a bunch of these! Absolutely not! This is our secret, and you better not breathe a word of it to anyone. If Rook finds out, he'd take it from me and I'd be no more than the laughingstock of the village! Even less than a cuckoo!(click-replace: "cuckoo!")[cuckoo! <div id="nothing">Cuckoos are the lowest of the low in your caste system. They are weak cowards, those who are shunned. Those named as Cuckoos are often executed, as they have no worth in society and are just another mouth to feed. </div>] [[Call for Rook]] [[Play along with Ace]]

[[Open Satchel]] Eventually, the two of you decide to meet with the conglomerate at the statue. ...and that is why we must keep working hard, for the future of Skyfall! Rook is giving his usual pep talk to the people of Skyfall, your village. Great, we missed him in one of his motivational speeches again. Maybe you were right to sleep in today. You grin at Ace. Hey! Rook’s speeches are great! Always gets me fired up for a new day of exploration! You start making gestures in the air with your beak as if you were in the deep action of swinging a spear. Unsurprisingly, this catches the attention of many, [[including Rook.|Rook Mad 1]]

You decide to stay with Ace, despite your urge to fly down and [[help. |CommCenter1]] (track: 'bird1', 'play')

You try to ignore the weight of the bag on your body, and trudge on. The journey is exausting, but you know obeying Rook will get you one step closer to joining the Talons. You haul the satchel with determination, as if you were carrying the weight of a mountain on your wings, knowing you cannot afford to [[let the village down again.|Flit Flies Faster]] (set: $dropped_satchel to false)

Nature SFX and Music Ambient Sounds - Interactive Soundscapes by Procedural Worlds https://assetstore.unity.com/packages/tools/audio/ambient-sounds-interactive-soundscapes-142132 [[Back|Title]]

[[Open Satchel]] You and Ace look at each other for a moment, knowing you won’t be able to see one another for a while. You exchange a determined glance with Ace, then turn your back on him and make your way to the verdant forest. You take flight, and start to soar into the restful air, and gaze down upon the bleak village, deprived of both [[color and dignity.|Scavenge 1]] (track: "flapping", "play")

You need to fly faster. You let go of the satchel and watch it [[plummet to the ground.|Flit Flies Faster]] (if: $inventory's length is not 0)[Forgive me… Rook, I only do this for a noble cause.] (set: $dropped_satchel to true) (set: $inventory to (a:)) (track: "bagthump", "play")

The temptation to take the object overwhelms you, and you start to lug it over your body. You get rid of the $inventory, leaving it where you found the object. It is so heavy that it almost overwhelms you several times on your trek [[back to the stump.|Adventure 2]] (set: $inventory to (a:)) (set: $inventory to it + (array: "mystery")) (set: $inventory to it + (array: "mystery")) (track: "grab", "play")

Thank you for playing! Made by Sami Chamberlain for IGME 529.

You are kept in a dungeon with others who share the same fate as you, all who had been disloyal to Rook and his Talons. As the Talons leave, you are left to your own thoughts, and those of the others around you. Was it really worth the trouble? You don’t care about that anymore, as you want to be left to yourself, and care little about your surroundings. Just as a [[Cuckoo|Ending 1 pg 2]] would think.

Soon enough, you start to hear cries for help and start feeling the ground rumbling. Might as well let them handle it. As you slump over in the corner of your cell, the world around you starts to dissipate, magnificent colors swirling into darkness. ENDING 1/5 - Cuckoo

The pounding is getting louder, and the cries are getting quieter and quieter, but that doesn’t seem to bother you anymore. You embrace the comfort of your bed as the ground falls beneath you, crushing through the shards of wood and stone that used to be your home. You close your eyes and let go of everything, hoping this is all a dream, but you know well that it isn’t. ENDING 2/5 - COWARDICE

You fly away from the dark and broken world, and towards the dimming unknown. ENDING 3/5 - TRAITOR.

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You feel a surge of responsibility as you witness the carnage of the beasts. You fly straight towards the danger, where Rook and his Talons are huddled together, [[preparing for battle.|Battle 1]]

[[<h2>Epilogue</h2>|Epilogue 2]]

A few months later, you are still unable to fly, but you are used to that now. You have grown to accustom to different tasks, such as gardening and raising your own resources without gathering resources in the forest. Ever since the day that the beasts came, there has been no threat to your village, and your people start to prosper. Buildings start being built back up, and the streets start becoming [[lively with business and chatter.|Epilogue 3]]

A statue has been erected in the town square, where the previous statue once was. It is a statue of Rook, showing his might and legacy to your village. He is remembered as a valiant hero. As for Ace, you have not seen him in a while, and are [[unsure of his whereabouts.|Epilogue 4]]

However, that doesn't matter that much anymore, as you are able to take care of yourself, [[right?|End screen]]

Somewhere in a lush forest, encrusted with the foliage of many milleniums of life… wind is soaring through the skinny branches of the trees, echoing itself through the flowing leaves. You are surrounded by a symphony of green and orange, flickering through your bedroom canopy as you lay restless on your crudely made bed. You contemplate with your eyes wide open, fully aware of what is expected of you [[later in the day.|Exposition 2]] (track: 'village', 'playwhenpossible', 'loop', true)

After some time, you hear a familiar flap of wings on the other side of your door. Something starts to relentlessly pound on your door. Flit! (click-replace: "Flit!")[Your name is Flit, and you are a bluebird that works as a gatherer in your village. You have been always known as an outcast, and often are shunned for your appearance and demeanors in public. You are not in the best shape, having patches on your body with no feathers, and you have an eye that doesn’t work. Despite this, you still manage to function in society, and find diligence to complete tasks given to you. ] Don't make me drag you out of there again! Ugh... just two more minutes... [[Answer the door]] [[Pretend to sleep]] (track: 'knocking', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'bird1', 'play')

In a swift motion, you reach into your satchel and pull out a stick. With determination in your eyes, you lunge forward and thrust the stick into the chest of one of the Talons. The impact sends them spiraling downwards, [[out of control.|Talon down 1]] But your victory is short-lived as more Talons swarm towards you, their wings beating furiously as they bombard you from all sides. (track: "stab", "play")

You hesitate for a moment, and then resolve to join the Talons. You have lived among them for most of your life, and you begin to realize that those manning the beasts [[do not have the same intentions|Push forward with the Talons]] as those who raised you.

[[Open Satchel]] You wake up on the forest floor, atop of a bed of flowers and a mess of your own feathers. You feel a sharp pain coming from the top of your head. Ow… how long have I been out? You straighten yourself out, and get up to observe your surroundings. Many of the trees are completely gone, with stumps being left as [[ghostly silhouettes|Flit Crashes 2]] of their past. (track: "forest", "play", "loop", true)

[[Open Satchel]] You remember. The creatures, claws. The teeth, gaping mouths. Everything comes back at an instant, hauntingly looming in your mind for a few brief seconds. I have to get back and warn everyone! You quickly get up and start flying towards the village at a brisk speed, afraid of what you will see [[when you return.|Flit panics 1]] (track: "flapping", "play")

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] A wave of courage overwhelms you, to avenge Rook and all you live for! You leap into the air, and fly towards the beasts, who have advanced dangerously close to the village. As you approach them, you notice [[something strange...|Beasts not real???]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Bushels of life start appearing in the horizon, the giant beasts now nowhere to be found. They must have retreated when they saw Rook! Absolutely nobody stops him, right? You smile, thinking of your brave leader and how he does anything in his power to [[protect his people.|Flit returns home]]

You glance back at your satchel that weighs you down. (if: $inventory contains "mysyery")[The noise from the object is also still persistent, which is not helping in the chaos.](else-if: $inventory's length is not 0)[It has all of your hard work for the day inside of it. You are flying much slower than you want, and are afraid that you won't make it back in time.](else-if:$inventory's length is 0)[There really is no use keeping it now.] [[Drop your satchel]] (if: $inventory's length is not 0)[[Continue flying with your satchel]]

(text-style: "rumble")[No, no, no…. It can’t be true. I did what Rook would do in that situation! I tried to warn them!] You decide that you can’t go back to your village, that you don’t belong there anymore. You want to find a place where you can show your courageous spirit. They obviously do not appreciate it. [[You need to prove yourself worthy to others.|Ending 3]]

The warfare lasts many minutes, and you decide to stay still in the brush, as you cannot do much to help yourself without giving your position away. However, you notice that the beasts start to turn around and retreat, even though none of them have sustained any serious damage. You hear the triumphant cries of the Talons echo through the air, and you feel a sense of relief and gratitude. Eventually, a Talon finds you on the ground and [[carries you back to the village.|Flit saved]] (masteraudio: "stopall")

You spend the next few days recovering from your wounds. Your house unfortunately did not survive the onslaught of the beasts, so you are being held in the town center until you can be relocated. Not being able to fly again doesn't bother you too much, as you fulfilled your dream of fighting amongst the Talons. You puff up your chest one last time, and smile as you look out the window into the sky, now filled with the beauty and wonder of the forest. ENDING 4/5 - Talon [[...|Epilogue]]

You feel a sharp pain as something hits you across your body and sends you flying. You struggle to regain control, which confuses you for a moment until you look at your wing in horror. It is now horrifically mangled. You plummet to the ground, unable to stop your fall. (text-style: "rumble")[Ow… please.. [[don’t..|Flit hides]]] (if: (not $dropped_satchel) and ($inventory contains "mystery"))[ In the midst of your pain, you can only focus on the buzzing of the object in your pouch. It has been noisy with static the entirety of the battle, however, a voice is starting to make itself prominent through the chaos. (text-style: "rumble")[<div id="nothing">⏃⊑, ⌇⊑⟟⏁! ⎎⍀⏃⋏☍⟟⟒ g̴̜̀ð̴̦̓†̶̘̊ ̵͍̋h̴̭́ï̶͓͗†̶͕́ ⟟⋏ ⏁⊑⟒ ⊑⟒⏃⎅ ⊑⏃⍀⎅, h̵̯̀ê̵ ï̶̯̑§̸̱̚ñ̶̯͝'̸̥͝†̶̻̉ ̵͙͘w̶̧͐å̷̫͝k̷̟̈́ï̵̧̎ņ̶̃͂ġ̴̱ ̵̱́µ̶̎ͅþ̴͉̂!</div>] ]

On your way back to the village, you witness the devastation that has befallen the civilizations that were once flourishing. Their homes lie in ruins, their people are scattered and dead. Families are grieving, their legacy erased. You hear rumbles in the distance, reverberating through the now empty field. The voices and sounds of the forest grow eerily silent, now a [[mere supplement|Flit Panics 2]] to the roars of the beasts. (if: $inventory contains "mystery")[Suddenly, you feel your satchel start to rumble as a bright light emerges from its opening. The shining object is glowing, and it is starting to make sound! It’s like nothing you’ve ever heard before - a series of crackles and pops, followed by something that seems to be speaking in a distant, yet familiar language. (text-style: "rumble")[<div id="nothing">H̵̡̽ê̸̗̑l̷͇̔l̷̨͆ð̵̝̓? ⋔⟟☌⎍⟒⌰,¢̸̢̔å̶̧̀ñ̷͕̔ ̴̧͘¥̷̙̔ð̴̢͆µ̵̗̃ ⍀⏃⎅⟟⍜ ß̸̱͌å̶̛͉¢̸͈͘k̸̩͠?<div>] You have no idea what it is trying to say to you, but it will not stop. You try to ignore it, but the sounds grow louder and more insistent. ]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] (if: not $dropped_satchel)[After some time, You](else:)[You] eventually establish sight with your village and are relieved that it is still standing. However, that relief is short lived as you see something that stops your heart for a moment. There is a bright red light pulsing at the town center, just like the eyes you saw [[on the beasts earlier.|Weird Glow 1]]

When you return, you are immediately treated for your injuries. As you look around the village, it is evident that the beasts have left a trail of destruction. Buildings are collapsed, and many others like you are being treated for injuries. There are some that didn't survive. As you are being treated, you are notified that you will likely never be able to fly again, as the damage that was done to your body is [[nearly unfixable.|Flit loses flight]] (track: "village", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] Rook senses your presence as soon as you approach him. He turns around and glares at you with his piercing eyes. Hey, you! Flit! How (text-style: "rumble")[dare] you interrupt this procession? His voice snaps through the air. Sir! You have to see this! It is amazing, maybe it will help us out of our troubles! You point to the spot where you left the object, and Ace is still standing next to it now facing you. He looks as if he is [[frozen in time.|Flit tells on ace 2]] (track: "intense", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] That thing over there? Hah! We already have a dozen of those! And YOU, Ace! Why are you not at your station? Must I treat you two the same from now on? B..but sir, you told me to get Flit... Yes, that was an (text-style: "rumble")[hour] ago! If I don't see both of you out of here soon, there will be consequences! You glance over to Ace, who is giving you a distasteful look. He promptly flies off without saying anything more. You think it is best for you to obey Rook, and get going. You take flight, and start to soar into the restful air, and gaze down upon the bleak village, deprived of both [[color and dignity.|Scavenge 1]] As you look back, you see Rook rushing over to the shiny object. (set: $ace_mad to true) (track: "flapping", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] That thing over there? Hah! We already have a dozen of those! Rook starts to approach you slowly. They're nothing but useless junk that we found in some ruins close to the village. Rook gets close to your face, bearing an intimidating look. Now, must I ask why you (text-style: "rumble")[aren't doing your job?] Sir, I was about to head farther into the forest! I don't want to disappoint you! Rook [[shakes his head.|Flit tells on Ace 3]]

Your name is Flit, and you are a bluebird that works as a gatherer in your village. You have been always known as an outcast, and often are shunned for your appearance and demeanors in public. You are not in the best shape, having patches on your body with no feathers, and you have an eye that doesn’t work. Despite this, you still manage to function in society, and find diligence to complete tasks given to you. [[Back|Exposition 2]]

[[Open Satchel]] The village used to be one of the most advanced you've ever seen, with filly constructed houses made up of the materials you gather, and contraptions that help simplify some workers' jobs. Due to a drought in supplies, some of the buildings have started to break and crumble down. Everything now looks decrepit. The Talons have started to reinforce buildings with rocks in an attempt to keep the structures from collapsing, however, there is no telling if that is going to be enough. As you soar over the village with Ace, you notice many birds who look as if they are too tired to move, despite it being so early in the morning. This has only been contributing to the loss of resources, as nobody seems to want to work any longer. Luckily, you aren't affected because of your diligence when foraging for the [[town’s resources.|Flying 2]]

[[Open Satchel]] You look to your side and see Ace, noticeably flying slower to allow you to keep up with him. Hey, Ace, do you think we should help some of those guys down there? They don't look great.. What? You know doing that would make us EVEN MORE late! They got themselves into that mess, they can get themselves out. But... what if they... No buts, Flit! Follow my orders. Besides, there is something I want you to see when we land. <del>(text-style:"blur")[Help the birds]</del> [[Continue Flying with Ace]] (track: 'bird1', 'play')

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Although the beasts are quickly approaching, you feel a pang of concern for your leader. You dive down to the ground, where Rook is surrounded by his Talons. He is barely breathing, and his eyes are [[dull and empty.|Rook Passing 1]]

You remember all the times that Ace has stuck up for you, and decide it is time to return the favor. You quickly run up to the guards, and slam into them with all your strength, knocking them off balance and removing their hold on Ace. As you look up, you see Ace’s eyes [[widen in surprise.|Ace Betrayal]]

(text-style:"rumble")[What must you say now?] Sir, you are making a mistake! Ace showed it to me earlier today and it wasn’t acting like that! Something is wrong with it! Rook pauses for a moment, looks over to the object, then his face [[twists with anger.|Hopeless? 2]]

(text-style:"rumble")[That traitor!] He was told not to tell anyone about it! Now EVERYONE knows about its secrets! Rook turns to his guards. Track down that rat and bring him to me as soon as you see him! [[...|Thump 1]] (set: $ace_arrested to true)

[[Open Satchel]] You walk over to the fallen log and see that it is covered with various forms of wildlife. There are mushrooms, and various forms of moss that cover the wood, making it difficult to see the bark of the log itself. There seems to be various twigs that are poking out of the stump, which can easily be harvested for wood [[Take the twigs]] [[Return to the stump|Adventure 2]]

You don't really care about the intruder, and proceed to bury your head between your pillows. (text-style: "rumble")[Ug.....] The sound of footsteps fade away as the softness of your pillows envelop you, drifting you into a peaceful slumber where you forget about your [[duties and troubles...|Ace Smacks Flit]] (track: 'bird3', 'play')

<h5>(text-style:"rumble")[[[*WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAM!*|Machines 3]]]<h5> (track: "punch", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] You were so captivated by the beasts that you failed to notice a metal claw, which slammed the ground next to you. Dust whirs up from the ground, obscuring your view of the beasts and your near surroundings. “Hello?? You…you better not mess with a member of the Talons! You’d have trouble coming your way! You try to puff up your feathers, as that has always brought you comfort, but your body is too shocked to do so. You start to feel the earth rumble as you lay on the ground, scared and confused. Rocks look as if they are floating above the ground, trembling in fear at the [[might of the beasts.|Machines 4]]

[[Open Satchel]] Ace? Is th..th..is another one of your jokes? Don’t make me tell Rook about you slacking off! Suddenly, you see a colossal, shining arm emerge from the clouds in front of you. Its giant crushing fingers looking right into your eyes. It quickly swipes at you, barely missing. Your eyes widen, and you immediately start flying as fast as you can away from the area. You keep an eye on the area behind you, just in [[ca…|Machines 5]]

<h5>(text-style:"rumble")[*CRASH!*]<h5> … … [[…|Flit Crashes]] (track: "hit-tree", "play") (track: "conflict", "stop")

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You start hearing panic coming from all directions, brewing up into a chaotic storm. You soar into the air and spot the monstrous beasts closing in, however, they are still far away enough to give you some hope. They are ripping apart everything in their way, and show no signs of slowing down. [[Retreat back to your house]] [[Engage the beasts]] (track: "metal-slice", "play")

Woah.. so… strong…. [[...|Machines 2]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You fly closer and get a closer look at the beings. They are much larger than you expected them to be, and have multiple appendages that can lift and pull heavy objects. You feel a jolt of recognition, as they resemble the ones who rescued you when you were a child. (click-replace: "rescued you when you were a child.")[rescued you when you were a child. You had a rough life, being abandoned by your parents at birth and left to die in the unforgiving mud of the forest floor. Miraculously, two individuals picked you up one day, and started to nurture you back to health. They were much taller and bigger than you, but you didn’t mind that. They taught you a few words of their language, and eventually named you “Flit”, something you still carry to this date. Of course, not everything went smoothly, but you slowly gained your strength back. Eventually, you learned to fly, and were set free into the world, clueless of what would be out there for you. ] [[You owe them your life.|Not real 3]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Behind you, you hear a group of Talons flying in formation, shouting commands and preparing to attack. You’ve always admired the Talons, their courage and strength. A lifelong dream of yours was to join their ranks and become one of them. You feel torn, as if you had to choose between two parents. [[Try to convince the Talons to not fight|Try to convince the Talons to not fight.]] [[Push forward with the Talons|Flit Copes]] [[Retreat Home|Retreat back to your house]] (track: "village", "stop")

(if: $inventory's length is 0)[You look down into the dark abyss of your satchel, and only the coating of dust that you neglect to take care of glares back. ](if: $inventory's length is not 0)[You peer into your satchel and see what you have collected. (if: $inventory contains "berries")[(link-reveal:"Some berries..")[ They look edible, however, some are a bit darker than others. Maybe out of season..]] (if: $inventory contains "twigs")[(link-reveal: "Some twigs..")[ They are quite pointy...]]] (if: $inventory contains "rocks")[(link-reveal: "Some rocks..")[ They can probably be used to fortify a few of our houses... maybe?]] (if: $inventory contains "mystery")[(link-reveal: "A strange object...")[ like the one Ace showed you earlier today. Looks otherworldly.] ] (link-goto: "Close Satchel", (history:)'s last)

You decide to pick the berries. What could go wrong with having [[more food?|Adventure 2]] (set: $inventory to it + (array: "berries")) (track: "grab", "play")

You decide to play along for now, knowing Ace will be persistent in having you not say anything to [[Rook.|CommCenter3]]

You pretend you aren’t home, and proceed to cover your head with a pillow you were sleeping on. Eventually, you hear the lock on your door click, and it jolts open. You sit up in your bed, and you haven't been accustomed to the light yet, so it is incredibly blurry. You see a red figure [[approaching you|Keep Sleeping]] (track: 'door-open', 'playwhenpossible')

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You join the ranks of the Talons and fly in formation with them, a rush of adrenaline surges through you as you get closer to the beasts. Remember the plan, men. On my signal. You hold your breath and wait for the command, [[eager to prove yourself to the Talons.|Talon fight 2]]

(if:$rook_advice)[You decide to follow Rook's orders and return home.](else-if: not $rook_advice)[You decide it is safer to return home and let the Talons handle the situation. You fly to your house and bolt the door, trying to ignore the thumping and cries of fear that fill the air. ] You curl up in your bed amidst the panic, and talk yourself to sleep thinking about tomorrow and the potential to [[return to normalcy.|Ending 2]] (masteraudio: "stopall") (track: "village", "play", "loop", "true")

[[Open Satchel]] (text-style: "rumble")[HEY! You two! Come forward at once!] You feel a surge of excitement, as you always looked up to Rook and what he has done. Ace, on the other hand, [[looks petrified at his presence.|Rook Mad 2]] (track: "intense", "play")

[[Open Satchel]] Y..Yes sir! Flit, move it! You follow Ace’s lead to the front of the crowd. When you arrive at the front, you are met with the menacing stature of Rook, who is one of the biggest and strongest birds of your civilization. There are stories of him defeating great monsters, many times bigger than him. He has been at the helm for as long as you remember, and has no mercy for those who [[cross him.|Rook Mad 3]] (track: 'bird3', 'play')

[[Open Satchel]] Where have you two been? The roll call was an hour ago, and we already sent our expedition team out! Ace is next to you, petrified as he knows of his strict duties and the punishments that befall those who disobey. Sir!... Don’t open your mouth now! You know how important it is for us to be punctual! We barely have any supplies left, and we are losing more and more every day! Ace is giving you a [[sour look.|Rook Mad 4]]

[[Open Satchel]] And you… Ace! How can I trust you to be a part of the Talons if you can’t even follow orders and be here on time? Ace snaps his head towards Rook at an instant. Sir! I… I’m sorry, si.. [[Rook shakes his head.|Rook Mad 5]]

[[Open Satchel]] Sorry won’t cut it from now on. If I catch either of you trying to make tomfoolery out of our situation again, I’ll personally throw you out of this village! I won't let you down again, Sir! You can count on me! You extend your wing into a salute violently, causing a few feathers to fly [[everywhere.|Rook Mad 6]]

[[Open Satchel]] Spare me the enthusiasm you worthless runt. You are to go into the lush to gather some twigs for the revamp of our houses, and you will do so hastily. And you, Ace! You will keep watch of the perimeter of the village and alert me of any danger. Don’t you dare let me down again! A sense of frustration overwhelms you from hearing Rook’s words. You had always respected him as a leader, but you are now questioning if he really respects your presence. Does all the enthusiasm [[really matter?|Departure]] (set: $rook_mad to true) (track: 'bird2', 'play')

Flit! What are you doing here? I told you to gather materials! Why did you come back empty handed? You panic and run towards Rook, hoping he will listen to what you saw. Sir, please, you have to listen to me. There are giant beasts heading this way, and they have alread.. (text-style: "rumble")[SILENCE!] How dare you lie to me like this to excuse your actions? (text-style:"rumble")[No, no!] I really mean it, they stopped me from getting anything to bring back! Rook looms over you, a deadly look glimmers in his eyes. Flit... You have disappointed me for the last time.... I no longer accept you as one of us! Rook signals to two of the Talons, who march over and grab you by your wings and drag you in front of him. You fall to your knees, [[looking up at him|Rook Madder 2]] with fear and desperation.

Please… everyone is in danger! You have to believe me! Rook shakes his head with disgust and turns away. To ever think you had a chance of becoming a Talon… Take him away! You start to be dragged across the cold floor of the village away from the crowd. However, you are reminded of the shiny object as it enters your view again. (set: $arrested to true) [[Accept your fate]] [[Tell the truth about the shiny object]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You push your way through the crowd and reach his side. You look at him with a mix of fear and sadness. Rook is still alive, but that cannot be said about his spirit. You nudge him, and he meets eyes with you. Sir! Please don’t leave us, you are the only one who can stop them! You can’t give up now! Rook looks at you with [[bitter contempt.|Rook passing 2]]

Flit! Let me see what you have collected. You hand over your satchel to Rook, who rips the bag open and peers inside. (if: $inventory contains "berries")[...some berries... ](if: $inventory contains "rocks")[...some rocks... ](if: $inventory contains "twigs")[...some twigs... ](if: $inventory contains "mystery")[...a foreign object? Hmm... interesting.... The object is still rattling with noise, Rook doesn't seem to mind it at all.] (if: $inventory's length is 2)[Hrmf, that should be acceptable.. Now, please Flit, return home for the day, I have to take care of this nonsense.](else-if:$inventory's length is not 2)[Rook doesn't look exactly pleased with what he sees. Tsk, I'm not sure why I expected more from you. Just go home, Flit. I have more important things to worry about right now. ] (if: $inventory's length is 2)[You are overjoyed with Rook's praise, so much so that you immediately salute and puff your chest out at the same time. Your feathers create a tornado around you.] (if:$inventory's length is 2)[Yes sir! It was a pleasure!](else-if:$inventory's length is not 2)[Y..yes sir.] Rook rolls his eyes, and starts to trot over to the conglomeration of the now loud and panicking mass [[surrounding the shining object.|Rook takes materials 2]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You see Rook’s body flung to the ground by a massive swipe from one of the beast’s claws. He crashes on the ground with a sickening thud. Many of the Talons consequently abandon their positions and dive down to help their fallen leader. [[Go check on Rook]] [[Ignore Rook and go to fight the beasts|Flit Fights!]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Dammit, Flit, why… can’t you just stay out of this? You’re just making things worse for yourself any everyone else…. Sir, please get up! We need you to stop them! You start to pull on Rook’s body, trying to prop him up. [[Rook swats your wings away. |Rook passing 3]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Flit, you’re… a fool. A brave fool, but.. a fool nonetheless. You… really don’t know what you are getting yourself into. You’re not.. a hero.. you are just a kid.. no different than how you were when I first took you in.. Rook falls completely to the ground. You have to leave.. now. Go home… and let the Talons handle this. Don’t worry [[about me..|Rook passing 4]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You turn around and see Ace, who is flying straight towards the conglomerate. He lands next to you and looks into your eyes. He notices many members of the Talons huddled around you. (if: not $ace_mad)[ Get yourself into trouble again? Hah! Maybe I can finally move on in life. ](else-if: $ace_mad)[ He does nothing but glare at you with cold eyes. You try to ignore him, but his glare draws your attention like a magnet. ] You don't respond to his presence visually. Eventually, Ace follows your gaze and sees Rook, who is now barely moving. His face turns expressionless, and he starts to approach Rook cautiously, each step of his [[drawing the attention of all.|Rook passing 5]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Wha... ! What's wrong? Rook, the mightiest of all... fell? Ace's voice sounds surprisingly calm. He kneels down to Rook. Its all too bad... but everything is overdue for a change. As Ace reaches out to touch Rook, a swarm of Talons create a wall in front of Ace, pushing him away and preventing him from [[getting any closer. |Ace Gets Arrested 1]] (if: $ace_arrested)[(text-style: "rumble")[I tho.. thought I told y.. ou morons to seize him!]]

(text-style: "rumble")[Enough!] The crowd ignores the calls of Rook, and keeps obsessing over the object. Rook stomps to the center and grabs the object, holding it above his head. (text-style: "rumble")[Is this what you all are scared of? Nonsense! No wonder why nothing gets done anymore!] Rook tosses the shining object off the [[edge of the village.|Thump 1]]

You glide past the village houses, their dull and faded colors barely registering in your vision. The poles and branches that line the pathways are like a challenge to you, daring you to get close enough to dodge them and feel the rush of doing so. You often enjoy this thrill, and take every opportunity to test your skills. [[Speed up and challenge yourself |Challenge]] [[Be more cautious|Caution]] (track: 'bird4', 'play')

The temptation to take the object overwhelms you, and you start to lug it over your body. It almost overwhelms you several times on your trek [[back to the stump.|Adventure 2]] (set: $inventory to it + (array: "mystery")) (set: $inventory to it + (array: "mystery")) (track: "grab", "play")

You pick up some twigs and [[carry them with you.|Adventure 2]] (set: $inventory to it + (array: "twigs")) (track: "grab", "play")

With a deafening crash, one of the Talons collides with a beast, striking the creature operating it. The creature lets out a blood-curdling scream as it frantically presses random controls, causing the beast to lose its balance and topple over. It lands on another beast, which also falls and crashes into yet another. A chain reaction is set off, and soon several beasts are collapsing into each other in a chaotic domino effect. A whirlwind of dust rises up, obscuring the area between you and the Talons. In the confusion, they lose sight of you [[and halt their pursuit.|Talon down 2]] (track: "slam", "play")

The air is now a chaotic storm of metal and wood debris flying everywhere. The Talons are caught off guard by the sudden disaster, and try their best to guard themselves from any of the falling debris. Some of them are hit, and they fall to the ground with broken wings and bones. Others are crushed by the beasts as they fall to the ground, impaled by sharp claws and edges. The air is filled with [[screams of pain and fear|Talon down 3]], as the Talons realize the graveness of their situation. (track: "metal-hit", "play") (track: "punch", "play") (track: "tracks", "play")

By some miracle, you escape the carnage unscathed. You gaze in horror at the scene of devistation; countless Talons and beasts lie dead or broken. You quickly fly away from the scene of destruction, feeling empty. You lost your heroes and saviors. As you fly, you start to have no aim or direction, only a sense of despair and regret. You wonder if your courage was your curse, the thing that [[kept you alive but doomed everyone else.|Flit breakdown 1]] (masteraudio: "stopall")

(text-style:"rumble")[For Sir Rook!] You hear the warcry and see the Talons dive towards the beasts. You follow them, and target the creature controlling the nearest beasts. (if: $inventory's length is 0 or ($inventory does not contain "berries"))[You aim for their head, hoping to [[disorient and knock them out.|Talon fight 3]]](if: $inventory contains "berries")[You look down to your satchel and remember you collected some berries. Maybe they can be used as a peace offering?] (if: $inventory contains "berries")[ (if: $inventory contains "berries")[ [[Offer the berries as a peace offering]]] [[Keep the berries and just fight!|Talon fight 3]] ]

The battle seems to be going in your favor, however, you quickly realize that none of the beasts are actually falling, but, you can hear the screams of Talons that are being knocked out of the air and being crushed by the powerful claws of the beasts. This doesn’t set you back, and you continue to attack the creature that is [[nearest to you.|WHAM]]

Before you lose sight of Rook, you make one last ditch effort to get his attention. That shiny object, thats from the beasts! Its what I saw! Rook stops in his tracks and turns around, locking eyes with you. That thing? That’s from the beasts? Ha! Don’t make me laugh. You’re lying through your teeth to save yourself. Are you really trying to be a hero, hmm? Rook starts approaching the object with a bitter expression. Once he reaches it, he kicks it over the ledge of the elevated platform your village rests on. He turns to you with [[contempt.|Hopeless? 1]]

<h5>(text-style:"rumble")[*THUMP*]</h5> Rooks look down at the ground where he dropped the shining object. Huh, heaver than it looks. <h5>(text-style:"rumble")[[[*THUMP*|Thump 2]]]<h5> (track: "thump", "play") (track: "village", "stop")

In the distance, you start to see trees falling down, each one making a loud crash as it hits the forest floor. Sir, look! Rook stares at the sight of the falling trees and looks astonished. He promptly starts rushing towards the Talon quarters. Talons, to me! We must set up our defences and protect our home! (if:$inventory's length is 0)[The two Talon warriors holding you let go and accompany Rook. They leave [[without saying another word to you.|Machines Back 1]]](else-if:$inventory's length is >= 1)[You completely [[forgot about the beasts!|Machines Back 1]]] (if: not $dropped_satchel)[Rook dropped your satchel as he lept in the air. You decide it is best to bring it along with you. No use if it gets lost.] (track: "conflict", "stop") (track: "village", "stop") (track: "conflict2", "play", "loop", true) (track:"tree-fall", "play")

<h1>Skyfallen</h1> <h2>Created by Sami Chamberlain</h2> <h3>[[Begin|Exposition 1]]</h3> <h4>[[Credits]]</h4> (set: $ace_arrested to false)(set: $rook_advice to false)(set: $rook_mad to false)(set: $ace_mad to false)(set: $arrested to false)(set: $inventory to (a:))

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You fly towards the Talons and call out to them. Wait! These beasts are not our enemies, they are our allies! They saved my life as a child! The Talons pause for a moment, stunned by your claim. The beasts are currently wreaking havoc on the outskirts of your village, yet you try to justify their actions. Sure, kid. And I’m the king of the world, right? (if: $arrested)[Now get out of our way before we really lock you up in the dungeon.](else-if: not $arrested)[Now get out of our way.] The Talons brush you aside and resume their attack on the beasts. [[Realize your shortcoming and join their attack|Flit Copes]] [[Try to stop them again]]

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You decide enough is enough, and fly between the Talons and the beasts. I cannot let you do this, they mean no harm to us! Please reconsider! The Talons grow upset at you, and try to push you away. You refuse to budge even an inch. Alright, we’ve had enough. You two, lock the brat up and we’ll talk to him later. You see two Talons flying towards you, ready to apphrehend you. (if: $inventory does not contain "twigs" and $inventory does not contain "rocks")[You have nothing to defend yourself.] (if: $inventory contains "twigs" and not $dropped_satchel)[As they approach you, you look into your satchel and are reminded of the sharp twigs that you collected earlier today.](else-if: $inventory contains "rocks" and not $dropped_satchel)[As they approach you, you look into your satchel and are reminded of the rocks you collected earlier today.] [[Accept your fate]] (if: $inventory contains "twigs" and not $dropped_satchel)[ [[Fight back]]](else-if: $inventory contains "rocks" and not $dropped_satchel)[ [[Throw rocks at the Talons]]](else-if: $inventory does not contain "twigs")[ <del>(text-style:"blur")[Fight back]</del> ] (track: "dungeon", "stop")

(text-style:"rumble")[<h5>[[*WHAM!*|Flit loses his flight]]</h5>] (track: "metal-hit", "play")

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] You fly down to the now heavily populated town center, and everyone is hovering around the origin of the red light. It happens to be the same place where Ace buried the shiny object he showed you earlier. As you get closer, you start to hear murmurs of panic throughout the crowd. (text-style:"rumble")[“Is that a weapon? Will my family be safe?” “Who dug THAT up? Does anyone here know what they are doing nowadays?” “Could that be from… the gods?”] Before you realize it, you are standing face-to-face with the shiny object. The middle of it is pulsating rapidly, producing enough light to illuminate multiple buildings. You grow oddly attracted to the [[warmth of the light.|Weird Glow 2]] (track: "beeping", "play") (track: "forest", "stop") (track: "village", "play", "loop", true)

(if: not $dropped_satchel)[[Open Satchel]] Suddenly, you hear heavy footsteps behind you. You turn around and see (if:$inventory's length is 0)[[[Rook|Rook Madder]]](else-if: $inventory's length is not 0)[[Rook|Rook Takes Materials]] stomping towards you, flanked by several members of the Talons.

[[Open Satchel]] You are drawn to the shiny object, despite everything else around you. It reminds you of the object Ace showed you earlier. You wonder about its origin, and what exactly the object is. You feel tempted to take it, but are unsure if it is safe or not. (if: $inventory's length >= 1)[ You don't think you can carry it unless you get rid of the $inventory in your pouch! [[Take the shiny object and empty your pouch|Empty Pouch]]](else-if: $inventory's length is 0)[[Take the shiny object]] [[Return to the stump|Adventure 2]]

door-open: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/door-open.mp3 slam: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/thump.mp3 bird1: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/birds.wav bird2: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/birds-2.wav bird3: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/birds3.wav bird4: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/birds4.wav flapping: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/flapping.mp3 hit-self: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/hit-self.mp3 snore: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/snore.mp3 metal-slice: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/metal-slice.wav metal-hit: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/metal-hit.mp3 village: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/village.mp3 tree-fall: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/tree-fall.mp3 clang: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/clang.mp3 big-hit: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/big-punch.mp3 tracks: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/tracks.mp3 knocking: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/knocking.mp3 whoosh: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/whoosh.mp3 beeping: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/beeping.mp3 conflict: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/conflict.mp3 conflict2: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/conflict2.mp3 forest: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/forest.mp3 grab: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/grab.mp3 thump: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/thump.mp3 punch: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/punch.mp3 hit-tree: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/hit-self.mp3 dungeon: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/closet-ambience.mp3 stab: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/stab.mp3 intense: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/intense.mp3 bagthump: https://people.rit.edu/scc8371/529_sfx/bagthump.mp3

You’re up late, aren’t you? Can’t be doing that if you want to be a Talon. No use helping your sorry ass if you can't even help us! Ace looks down at you with pity, fully knowing the power he has over you. Anyways, you are late for roll call. Rook is going to have your feathers if we get there any later. If you keep doing this, the village will be 6 feet under! Hey, wait a minute! I’m able to take care of myself, you know! You struggle free from Ace's [[grasp on you|Ace1]].

[[Open Satchel]] You soar over to the edge of a nearby pond, its waters churning with restlessness. Every so often, a splash erupts from its depths, sending ripples cascading across the surface. As you survey the scene, you realize that you have nothing to carry water back to your village. But then, your eyes fall upon the rim of the pond, where it is strewn with small pebbles and minerals. You think back to the Taloins' tireless efforts to reinforce the village's buildings. However, the rocks look heavy, and you aren't sure if you can handle many of them. (if: $inventory's length >= 1)[ You don't think you can carry the rocks unless you get rid of the $inventory in your pouch!] [[Collect some rocks]] [[Return to the stump|Adventure 2]]

With a sense of determination, you begin to gather the rocks, one by one. But, with your stature, the weight of the pebbles is a heavy burden to your wings, which are now starting to [[feel strained.|Adventure 2]] (set: $inventory to (a:)) (set: $inventory to it + (array: "rocks")) (set: $inventory to it + (array: "rocks")) (track: "grab", "play")

With a swift motion of your beak, you grab as many berries as you can from your satchel and release them, sending them tumbling towards the beasts below. The sun catches their skin, and they glisten into your eye, reflecting the clear sky and filling your vision with a burst of color. Soon enough, the berries meet the front of a beast, splattering over its translucent body in a mess of vibrant hues. The creature operating the beast is no longer visible to you, and shortly after, the beast stops moving. (text-style: "rumble")[Thats it! They must be looking for our berries!] With all of your might, you turn around to the Talons and [[inhale as deep as you can.|Flit prepares for speech]]

In a desperate attempt to defend yourself, you reach into your satchel and pull out a large rock. The Talons approaching you take notice and begin to dive towards you at breakneck speed. With a deep breath, you release the rock from your grasp, but it misses its mark and falls to the ground with a thud. In an instant, two Talons tackle you to the ground, pinning you down as more of their companions catch their breath. They begin to drag you towards the village, [[their grip unyielding.|Accept your fate]]

(text-style: "rumble")[HEY!!] Your shout echoes across the battlefield, drawing the attention of multiple Talons. They turn towards you, their expressions a mix of surprise and confusion. One of them approaches you with a look of concern on their face. As the Talon reaches you, it extends its wings around your body, shielding your view of the battlefield. They direct you towards a nearby tree, where you both land on a thick branch. Once there, they lock eyes with you. Kid, this is no place for you. We can handle this, just go home. B..but the berries! They can stop the beasts! You point to the beast that was drenched in your berries. The Talon doesnt bother looking and [[shakes their head.|Talon Sarcasm]]

Wow, kid, you’re (text-style: "rumble")[such] a genius! Those berries are the best thing that ever happened to us! I bet those beasts are trembling in fear of your tiny berries! Too bad we only have a few of them… and look at all those others coming to join the fun. Now, why don’t you do us all a favor and scram? It would be a real shame if something happened to you. He nudges your wings, which are much scrawnier than theirs. In the corner of your eye, you can see a berry bush like those you saw earlier during your expedition. [[Obey them and return home|Retreat back to your house]] [[Try and get more berries to continue the fight]]

You act on your instinct and launch yourself into the air and soar towards the berry bushes like a bullet. They are only a few wingbeats away. You snatch as many berries as you can, feeling their juicy flesh burst in your beak. You cram them into your satchel, which swells quickly with the bounty of your harvest. With your satchel full of berries, you fly back to the chaotic battlefield and start to rain down the berries at random. Some of them land on the beasts' bodies, enough to make a few more stop in their tracks. As you look closer, you see that smoke is arising from where the berries land, as if they are melting through the flesh of the beasts. That's strange... how come I'm fine holding them? You watch in awe as the berries work their magic, and notice that many of the Talons are taking advantage of the distraction and [[attacking the creatures inside.|Berries 2]]

You repeat the process of getting berries and dropping them on the beasts until none remain on the berry bush. You manage to stop many of them, but there are some that remain unscathed. Fortunately, your efforts along with the fighting spirit of the Talons caused them to turn away and begin retreating from the area. You see the creatures that once operated the broken machines scramble out of them as they jump into beasts that are still functional. As they do so, you hear a cacaphony of warcries coming from the Talons, overjoyed that they have [[successfully defended the village.|Defended 1]]

As you bathe in the cacophony of voices, you hear a familiar voice behind you, full of anger and impatience. You turn around and see the same Talon who dragged you away from the scene earlier. His eyes are narrowed and his beak is clenched. He flies towards you and grabs you by the wing, pulling you close to his face. You little cuckoo! Didn’t I tell you to go home and stay out of trouble? What do you think you’re doing, flying around like a fool? Do you have a death wish or something? You look back at them with the same [[fire in your eyes.|Defended 1.5]]

You gaze at the Talon, who looks deflated and lost. You flash a smile at him and puff out your chest. But hey, you guys listened to Rook, and I didn’t. He should be thanking you guys, not me. Don’t let my shadow darken our glory. The Talon nods at you with a hint of gratitude, nudges you gently one last time, and takes off without [[another word.|Realization]] (masteraudio: 'stopall') (track: 'forest', 'playwhenpossible', 'loop', true)

Hey, don't be so feisty now! Look at those berries on the beasts, those were from me! You point towards the destruction of multiple beasts below, most of them still steaming as their bodies evaporate from what looks to be shiny skeletons. This time, the Talon looks down and widens their eyes in shock. Wha... no! That is the blood of beasts spilling at our presence as [[Rook promised us so!|Defended 2]]

You watch them soar away, leaving you alone in the sky. You feel a pang of sadness, knowing you will never join them as a Talon. But you also realize that you belong in the forest, not in the war. You turn around and head back to your home, feeling a new sense of freedom and purpose. As you fly over the trees, you catch a glimpse of the shining object that Rook tossed away. It is still chirping and buzzing, as if trying to tell you something. You wonder for a moment what it means, but then you shrug it off. It doesn’t matter to you anymore. When you reach your home, you flop down on your bed and watch the setting sun through the canopy in your bedroom. You smile and drift off into sleep, dreaming of new adventures and discoveries. ENDING 5/5 - Gatherer [[...|Epilogue V2]]

[[<h2>Epilogue</h2>|Epilogue v2 2]]

A few months later, you aer still tending to the forest, going out on expeditions and returning materials for the village. You are passionate for what you do, and do what you can for the betterment of the village. Ever since the day that the beasts came, there has been no threat to your village, and your people start to prosper. Buildings start being built back up, and the streets start becoming [[lively with business and chatter.|Epilogue 3]]