Disenchanted

Browser lacks capabilities required to play.

Upgrade or switch to another browser.

Loading…

<<nobr>> <<set $gamechapter to "Chapter One: What Makes a Nightmare">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/chone.png]] </div> <br> <</nobr>>The nightmares aren't a new development. Actually, you've gotten quite used to them. They still suck, though. <div class="choice">[[You see the house burning down around you, the smoke suffocating as you try to escape.|fire nightmare]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's dark and you're alone, wandering the streets through fog that makes it impossible to see ahead.|dark nightmare]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You gasp for air, but only water enters your lungs as the tide pulls you down deeper.|drowning nightmare]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The brightness burns your eyes and there's a blade headed for your throat.|ro nightmare]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $firenightmare to true>> <</nobr>>The flames surround you and the scene is hauntingly familiar. A lot of your childhood is hazy, but you remember the burning of your home well. The ash in the air that threatened to strangle you, the hot air burning your skin and scalding your throat; it's imprinted in your mind with unfortunately stark clarity. This was the night you lost your parents, after all. The twisted nightmare version your brain cooks up is different, though, because you can't escape. No fireman saves you from the blaze, securing you in an ambulance. No one comes for you at all. Your only company is the figure watching you from the door, reaching a hand out toward you. <div class="choice">[[The form of a man, tall and lanky, hidden in the shadows and shrouded with death.|male wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The form of a woman, tall and lanky, hidden in the shadows and shrouded with death.|female wraith]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $darknightmare to true>> <</nobr>>This chill is one that seeps into your bones even as you sleep. A restless feeling, like something is stalking you... Like you're prey. You can't see far in any direction through the fog, the streetlights barely illuminating the murky night beyond. You hear footsteps behind you and continue to walk, anxiety spiking your pulse. Then you see //it//. It reaches a hand out to you, beckoning, and whatever lurks behind you halts abruptly. You dare not turn around, hesitant to take your eyes off the figure in front of you. Your savior? Or just another hunter? <div class="choice">[[The form of a man, tall and lanky, hidden and shrouded with death.|male wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The form of a woman, tall and lanky, hidden and shrouded with death.|female wraith]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $drowningnightmare to true>> <</nobr>>The water slams into your back as you fall, stealing your breath before it rushes into your lungs. You never imagined drowning, but people always made it seem peaceful. Like a better alternative to burning. You have to disagree. You try to open your mouth to scream, to beg, to //breathe//, but all that meets you is a relentless rush of water. It comes in through your mouth and nose, fast and all at once, impossible to escape. There is no one to rescue you. No one to mourn your death. No one is watching but the figure lurking above, looking down at you through the murky tide. It's quiet as it witnesses your near end; finally, when you think your lungs might explode, it reaches a hand down toward you from the surface. <div class="choice">[[The form of a man, tall and lanky, hidden in the ripples of the water and shrouded with death.|male wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The form of a woman, tall and lanky, hidden in the ripples of the water and shrouded with death.|female wraith]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $ronightmare to true>> <</nobr>>The face is blurry, the features indiscernible in the harsh and sterile light, but you feel like you know them. Like you //should// know them. They're going to kill you and //you ''know'' them//. It's nearly haunting. The knowledge strangles you with grief and you don't even truly know what you're mourning. The blade disappears into smoke right as it meets your skin, but the impact still sends you to the floor. Through the light, you see something else. A new figure, this time. An unknown. They reach out a hand, an eclipse over the sun that blocks the blinding light. <div class="choice">[[It's the form of a man, tall and lanky, hidden in the shadows and shrouded with death.|male wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's the form of a woman, tall and lanky, hidden in the shadows and shrouded with death.|female wraith]]</div>\

by Dakota Smith

<<set $gamechapter = "">> <<set $socialmedia to false>> <<set $met_viktor to false>> <<set $met_lucia to false>> <<set $met_lucien to false>> <<set $met_cameronf to false>> <<set $met_cameronm to false>> <<set $met_cameronnb to false>> <<set $met_penny to false>> <<set $met_harlowf to false>> <<set $met_harlowm to false>> <<set $met_amrita to false>> <<set $met_amrit to false>> <<set $met_theodora to false>> <<set $met_theo to false>> <<set $met_charlotte to false>> <<set $met_charles to false>> <<set $met_averyf to false>> <<set $met_averym to false>> <<set $met_wraithf to false>> <<set $met_wraithm to false>> <<set $metviktor to false>> <<set $metluci to false>> <<set $metcameron to false>> <<set $metpenny to false>> <<set $metharlow to false>> <<set $metami to false>> <<set $mettheo to false>> <<set $metcharlie to false>> <<set $metavery to false>> <<set $metwraith to false>> <<set $met_orlovs to false>> <<set $stability to 40, $maxStability to 100>> <<set $intelligence to 5, $maxIntelligence to 100>> <<set $physical_strength to 5, $maxPhysical_strength to 100>> <<set $dexterity to 5, $maxDexterity to 100>> <<set $alchemy to 5, $maxAlchemy to 100>> <<set $precog to 5, $maxPrecog to 100>> <<set $magiccap to 5, $maxMagiccap to 100>> <<set $healing to 5, $maxHealing to 100>> <<set $charm to 5, $maxCharm to 100>> <<set $pride to 50>> <<set $impulse to 50>> <<set $humor to 50>> <<set $accepting to 50>> <<set $emotional to 50>> <<set $guile to 50>> <<set $kind to 50>> <<set $wraithconnection to 10, $maxWraithconnection to 100>> <<set $viktor_friend to 50, $maxViktor_friend to 100>> <<set $viktor_love to 0, $maxViktor_love to 100>> <<set $luci_friend to 10, $maxLuci_friend to 100>> <<set $luci_love to 0, $maxLuci_love to 100>> <<set $penny_friend to 20, $maxPenny_friend to 100>> <<set $penny_love to 0, $maxPenny_love to 100>> <<set $cameron_friend to 10, $maxCameron_friend to 100>> <<set $cameron_love to 0, $maxCameron_love to 100>> <<set $harlow_friend to 10, $maxHarlow_friend to 100>> <<set $harlow_love to 0, $maxHarlow_love to 100>> <<set $theo_friend to 40, $maxTheo_friend to 100>> <<set $theo_love to 0, $maxTheo_love to 100>> <<set $ami_friend to 20, $maxAmi_friend to 100>> <<set $ami_love to 0, $maxAmi_love to 100>> <<set $charlie_friend to 20, $maxCharlie_friend to 100>> <<set $charlie_love to 0, $maxCharlie_love to 100>> <<set $wraith_friend to 0, $maxWraith_friend to 100>> <<set $wraith_love to 0, $maxWraith_love to 100>> <<set $avery_friend to 20, $maxAvery_friend to 100>> <<set $avery_love to 0, $maxAvery_love to 100>> <<set $name to "">> <<set $surname to "">> <<set $nickname to "">> <<set $major to "">> <<set $elemspecialty to "">> <<set $precogstatus to "">> <<set $topsurgery to false>> <<set $breastremoval to false>> <<set $breastaug to false>> <<set $female to false>> <<set $male to false>> <<set $ftm to false>> <<set $mtf to false>> <<set $ftnb to false>> <<set $mtnb to false>> <<set $nb to false>> <<set $agender to false>> <<set $theirs to "">> <<set $theyre to "">> <<set $themself to "">> <<set $they to "">> <<set $their to "">> <<set $them to "">> <<set $They to "">> <<set $Theyre to "">> <<set $Their to "">> <<set $Them to "">> <<set $hair_c to "">> <<set $hair_l to "">> <<set $hair_p to "">> <<set $hair_s to "">> <<set $eye_c to "">> <<set $skin_c to "">> <<set $height to "">> <<set $species to "">> <<set $wing_c to "">> <<set $tail_c to "">> <<set $dracawings to false>> <<set $dracahorns to false>> <<set $nephilimwings to false>> <<set $cambitail to false>> <<set $cambiwings to false>> <<set $sirentail to false>> <<set $gills to false>> <<set $charliename to "Unknown">> <<set $charlie_isfemale to false>> <<set $charlie_ismale to false>> <<set $charlie_malefemale to "">> <<set $charlie_manwoman to "">> <<set $charlie_menwomen to "">> <<set $charlie_boygirl to "">> <<set $charlie_sondaughter to "">> <<set $charlie_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $charlie_fathermother to "">> <<set $charlie_brothersister to "">> <<set $charlie_husbandwife to "">> <<set $charlie_heshe to "">> <<set $charlie_hisher to "">> <<set $charlie_himher to "">> <<set $charlie_hesshes to "">> <<set $charlie_caphisher to "">> <<set $charlie_capheshe to "">> <<set $charlie_caphesshes to "">> <<set $charlie_himherself to "">> <<set $luciname to "Unknown">> <<set $luci_isfemale to false>> <<set $luci_ismale to false>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "">> <<set $luci_heshe to "">> <<set $luci_hisher to "">> <<set $luci_himher to "">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "">> <<set $aminame to "Unknown">> <<set $ami_isfemale to false>> <<set $ami_ismale to false>> <<set $ami_malefemale to "">> <<set $ami_manwoman to "">> <<set $ami_menwomen to "">> <<set $ami_boygirl to "">> <<set $ami_sondaughter to "">> <<set $ami_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $ami_fathermother to "">> <<set $ami_brothersister to "">> <<set $ami_husbandwife to "">> <<set $ami_heshe to "">> <<set $ami_hisher to "">> <<set $ami_himher to "">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "">> <<set $ami_capheshe to "">> <<set $ami_caphisher to "">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "">> <<set $theoname to "Unknown">> <<set $theo_isfemale to false>> <<set $theo_ismale to false>> <<set $theo_malefemale to "">> <<set $theo_manwoman to "">> <<set $theo_menwomen to "">> <<set $theo_boygirl to "">> <<set $theo_sondaughter to "">> <<set $theo_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $theo_fathermother to "">> <<set $theo_brothersister to "">> <<set $theo_husbandwife to "">> <<set $theo_heshe to "">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "">> <<set $theo_hisher to "">> <<set $theo_himher to "">> <<set $theo_hesshes to "">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "">> <<set $theo_caphisher to "">> <<set $theo_mrms to "">> <<set $averyname to "Unknown">> <<set $avery_isfemale to false>> <<set $avery_ismale to false>> <<set $avery_malefemale to "">> <<set $avery_manwoman to "">> <<set $avery_menwomen to "">> <<set $avery_boygirl to "">> <<set $avery_sondaughter to "">> <<set $avery_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $avery_fathermother to "">> <<set $avery_brothersister to "">> <<set $avery_husbandwife to "">> <<set $avery_heshe to "">> <<set $avery_hisher to "">> <<set $avery_himher to "">> <<set $avery_hesshes to "">> <<set $wraithname to "Unknown">> <<set $wraith_isfemale to false>> <<set $wraith_ismale to false>> <<set $wraith_malefemale to "">> <<set $wraith_manwoman to "">> <<set $wraith_menwomen to "">> <<set $wraith_boygirl to "">> <<set $wraith_sondaughter to "">> <<set $wraith_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $wraith_fathermother to "">> <<set $wraith_brothersister to "">> <<set $wraith_husbandwife to "">> <<set $wraith_heshe to "">> <<set $wraith_hisher to "">> <<set $wraith_himher to "">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "">> <<set $wraith_capheshe to "">> <<set $wraith_caphisher to "">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "">> <<set $cameronname to "Unknown">> <<set $cameron_isfemale to false>> <<set $cameron_ismale to false>> <<set $cameron_isnonbinary to false>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "">> <<set $harlowname to "Unknown">> <<set $harlow_isfemale to false>> <<set $harlow_ismale to false>> <<set $harlow_isnonbinary to false>> <<set $harlow_malefemalenb to "">> <<set $harlow_manwomannb to "">> <<set $harlow_menwomennb to "">> <<set $harlow_boygirlperson to "">> <<set $harlow_sondaughterchild to "">> <<set $harlow_capsondaughterchild to "">> <<set $harlow_fathermotherparent to "">> <<set $harlow_brothersistersibling to "">> <<set $harlow_husbandwifespouse to "">> <<set $harlow_heshethey to "">> <<set $harlow_hishertheir to "">> <<set $harlow_himherthem to "">> <<set $harlow_hesshestheyre to "">> <<set $harlow_capheshe to "">> <<set $harlow_caphisher to "">> <<newmeter 'Stability' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Stability: $stability %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Intelligence' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Intelligence: $intelligence %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Physical_strength' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Physical strength: $physical_strength %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Dexterity' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Dexterity: $dexterity %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Precog' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Precognition: $precog %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Alchemy' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Alchemy: $alchemy %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Magiccap' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Magical Capability: $magiccap %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Elemental' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Elemental: $elemental %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Healing' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Healing: $healing %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Charm' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Charm: $charm %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Viktor_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $viktor_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Viktor_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $viktor_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Penny_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $penny_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Penny_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $penny_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Luci_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $luci_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Luci_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $luci_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Cameron_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $cameron_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Cameron_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $cameron_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Harlow_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $harlow_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Harlow_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $harlow_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Ami_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $ami_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Ami_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $ami_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Theo_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $theo_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Theo_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $theo_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Avery_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $avery_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Avery_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $avery_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Wraith_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $wraith_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Wraith_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $wraith_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Charlie_friend' 1>> <<colors '#aea6a4'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Friendship: $charlie_friend %'>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter 'Charlie_love' 1>> <<colors '#ffb6c1'>> <<sizing '18rem' '1.5em'>> <<label 'Romance: $charlie_love %'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $drowningnightmare to false>> <<set $firenightmare to false>> <<set $darknightmare to false>> <<set $ronightmare to false>> <<set $viktorcrush to false>> <<set $luciex to false>> <<set $greetings to false>> <<set $ignoredami to false>> <<set $amiishot to false>> <<set $okayillbite to false>> <<set $dindin to false>> <<set $theocarriesbooks to false>> <<set $missedluci to false>> <<set $heardvomit to false>> <<set $notouchplease to false>> <<set $hemophobia to false>> <<set $mentionedvoice to false>> <<set $wakeupwiththeo to false>> <<set $wakeupwithvik to false>> <<set $wakeuppoly to false>> <<set $wakeupalone to false>> <<set $telltheo to false>> <<set $tellvik to false>> <<set $tellcharlie to false>> <<set $telltheovik to false>> <<set $tellall to false>> <<set $dracatail to false>> <<set $polyfriendnightmare to false>> <<set $polynightmare to false>> <<set $nightmarealone to false>> <<set $charlienightmare to false>> <<set $viknightmare to false>> <<set $theonightmare to false>> <<set $goodsportamri to false>> <<set $sittingonbench to false>> <<set $amireconciled to false>> <<set $amistillcold to false>> <<set $gotamisnumber to false>> <<set $elbowedcam to false>> <<set $major to "">> <<set $luciblocked to false>> <<set $camblocked to false>> <<set $amrirequest to false>> <<set $acceptedamri to false>> <<set $declinedamri to false>> <<set $followedcharlie to false>> <<set $username to "">> <<set $nohaley to false>> <<set $trinket to "">> <<set $dressertrinket to false>> <<set $believeharlow to true>> <<set $coldwraith to true>>

<span class="foo">$gamechapter</span>

Disenchanted

<<widget "are">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>are<<case false>>is<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "were">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>were<<case false>>was<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "s">><<switch $plural>><<case true>><<case false>>s<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "fair_minus">><<fair_plus $args[0] -$args[1]>><</widget>> <<widget "opposed_stat">><<nobr>> <div class="statBar"><<set _args2 to Math.round($args[2])>> <div style="float:right"> $args[1] <<= 100 - _args2>>% </div> <div class="statLeftBg" @style="'width:' + _args2 + '%'"> </div> <div> $args[0] _args2%</div> </div> <</nobr>><</widget>> <<widget "intelligence">><<set $intelligence to Math.clamp($intelligence + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "physical_strength">><<set $physical_strength to Math.clamp($physical_strength + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "dexterity">><<set $dexterity to Math.clamp($dexterity + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "precog">><<set $precog to Math.clamp($precog + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "alchemy">><<set $alchemy to Math.clamp($alchemy + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "magiccap">><<set $magiccap to Math.clamp($magiccap + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "healing">><<set $healing to Math.clamp($healing + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "charm">><<set $charm to Math.clamp($charm + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "stability">><<set $stability to Math.clamp($stability + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "pride">><<set $pride to Math.clamp($pride + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "impulse">><<set $impulse to Math.clamp($impulse + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "humor">><<set $humor to Math.clamp($humor + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "emotional">><<set $emotional to Math.clamp($emotional + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "guile">><<set $guile to Math.clamp($guile + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "accepting">><<set $accepting to Math.clamp($accepting + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "kind">><<set $kind to Math.clamp($kind + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "viktor_friend">><<set $viktor_friend to Math.clamp($viktor_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "viktor_love">><<set $viktor_love to Math.clamp($viktor_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "luci_friend">><<set $luci_friend to Math.clamp($luci_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "luci_love">><<set $luci_love to Math.clamp($luci_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "cameron_friend">><<set $cameron_friend to Math.clamp($cameron_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "cameron_love">><<set $cameron_love to Math.clamp($cameron_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "penny_friend">><<set $penny_friend to Math.clamp($penny_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "penny_love">><<set $penny_love to Math.clamp($penny_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "harlow_friend">><<set $harlow_friend to Math.clamp($harlow_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "harlow_love">><<set $harlow_love to Math.clamp($harlow_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "ami_friend">><<set $ami_friend to Math.clamp($ami_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "ami_love">><<set $ami_love to Math.clamp($ami_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "charlie_friend">><<set $charlie_friend to Math.clamp($charlie_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "charlie_love">><<set $charlie_love to Math.clamp($charlie_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "theo_friend">><<set $theo_friend to Math.clamp($theo_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "theo_love">><<set $theo_love to Math.clamp($theo_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "avery_friend">><<set $avery_friend to Math.clamp($avery_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "avery_love">><<set $avery_love to Math.clamp($avery_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "wraith_friend">><<set $wraith_friend to Math.clamp($wraith_friend + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>> <<widget "wraith_love">><<set $wraith_love to Math.clamp($wraith_love + $args[0], 0, 100)>><</widget>>

[[Your Status]] [[Skills]] [[Relationships]] <<if $socialmedia is true>> [[Owler and Spellgram]] <</if>> [[Index]] [[About]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/howyoudoin.png]] </div> <br> <<if $greetings is false>> Who are you? Do you know, Unchosen? <<else>> <<if $nickname is "$name">> You are <<print $name>> <<print $surname>>. <br><br> <<elseif $nickname is not "$name">> You are <<print $name>> "<<print $nickname>>" <<print $surname>>. <br> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $species is "">> <<else>> You are a $species. <br><br> <</if>> ''How's your mental health?'' <<showmeter 'Stability' `$stability / $maxStability`>> <br> ''And the rest of you?'' <div class="statss"> <<opposed_stat "Cocky" "Modest" $pride>> <<opposed_stat "Hasty" "Logical" $impulse>> <<opposed_stat "Humorous" "Earnest" $humor>> <<opposed_stat "Accepting" "Bitter" $accepting>> <<opposed_stat "Emotional" "Stoic" $emotional>> <<opposed_stat "Underhanded" "Honest" $guile>> <<opposed_stat "Merciful" "Cruel" $kind>></div> <</nobr>> [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/skills.png]] </div> <</nobr>> <<showmeter 'Intelligence' `$intelligence / $maxIntelligence`>> <<showmeter 'Physical_strength' `$physical_strength / $maxPhysical_strength`>> <<showmeter 'Dexterity' `$dexterity / $maxDexterity`>> <<showmeter 'Precog' `$precog / $maxPrecog`>> <<showmeter 'Alchemy' `$alchemy / $maxIntelligence`>> <<showmeter 'Magiccap' `$magiccap / $maxMagiccap`>> <<showmeter 'Healing' `$healing / $maxHealing`>> <<showmeter 'Charm' `$charm / $maxCharm`>> Elemental Specialty: $elemspecialty Precognitive Status: $precogstatus [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/relations.png]] </div> <br> <<if $metviktor is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">Viktor Orlov</div> <<showmeter 'Viktor_friend' `$viktor_friend / $maxViktor_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Viktor_love' `$viktor_love / $maxViktor_love`>> <br> <<else>> Time to wake up, Unchosen. <</if>> <<if $metcameron is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">Cameron Fletcher</div> <<showmeter 'Cameron_friend' `$cameron_friend / $maxCameron_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Cameron_love' `$cameron_love / $maxCameron_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metluci is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">$luciname Rivera</div> <<showmeter 'Luci_friend' `$luci_friend / $maxLuci_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Luci_love' `$luci_love / $maxLuci_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metcharlie is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">$charliename Ortiz</div> <<showmeter 'Charlie_friend' `$charlie_friend / $maxCharlie_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Charlie_love' `$charlie_love / $maxCharlie_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $mettheo is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">$theoname Parker</div> <<showmeter 'Theo_friend' `$theo_friend / $maxTheo_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Theo_love' `$theo_love / $maxTheo_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metharlow is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">$harlowname Mitchell</div> <<showmeter 'Harlow_friend' `$harlow_friend / $maxHarlow_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Harlow_love' `$harlow_love / $maxHarlow_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metpenny is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">Penelope Eliades</div> <<showmeter 'Penny_friend' `$penny_friend / $maxPenny_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Penny_love' `$penny_love / $maxPenny_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metami is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">$aminame Singh</div> <<showmeter 'Ami_friend' `$ami_friend / $maxAmi_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Ami_love' `$ami_love / $maxAmi_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metwraith is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">The Wraith</div> <<showmeter 'Wraith_friend' `$wraith_friend / $maxWraith_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Wraith_love' `$wraith_love / $maxWraith_love`>> <br> <</if>> <<if $metavery is true>> <div style="font-size:1.5rem;font-weight:bold;">Avery Monroe</div> <<showmeter 'Avery_friend' `$avery_friend / $maxAvery_friend`>> <<showmeter 'Avery_love' `$avery_love / $maxAvery_love`>> <br> <</if>> <</nobr>> [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/index.png]] </div> <</nobr>> <div class="choice">[[People|People]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Species|Species]]</div>\ [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/people.png]] </div> <br> <<if $met_viktor is false>> Keep playing to unlock Index entries. <<elseif $met_viktor is true>> <div class="choice">[[Viktor Orlov|index viktor]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_orlovs is true>> <div class="choice">[[Mikhail Orlov|index mikhail]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Taisiya Orlova|index taisiya]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Katerina Orlova|index katerina]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Sofia Orlova|index sofia]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_cameronf is true>> <div class="choice">[[Cameron Fletcher|index cameron f]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_cameronm is true>> <div class="choice">[[Cameron Fletcher|index cameron m]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_cameronnb is true>> <div class="choice">[[Cameron Fletcher|index cameron nb]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_lucia is true and $luciex is true>> <div class="choice">[[Lucia Rivera|index lucia ex]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_lucia is true and $luciex is false>> <div class="choice">[[Lucia Rivera|index lucia not ex]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_lucien is true and $luciex is true>> <div class="choice">[[Lucien Rivera|index lucien ex]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_lucien is true and $luciex is false>> <div class="choice">[[Lucien Rivera|index lucien not ex]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_theo is true>> <div class="choice">[[Thedore Parker|index theodore]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_theodora is true>> <div class="choice">[[Thedora Parker|index theodora]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_charles is true>> <div class="choice">[[Charles Ortiz|index charles]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_charlotte is true>> <div class="choice">[[Charlotte Ortiz|index charlotte]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_harlowf is true>> <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Harlow Mitchell|index harlow f]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_harlowm is true>> <div class="choice">[[Harlow Mitchell|index harlow m]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_penny is true and $species is "siren">> <div class="choice">[[Penelope Eliades|index penny also siren]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_penny is true and $species is not "siren">> <div class="choice">[[Penelope Eliades|index penny not siren]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_amrita is true>> <div class="choice">[[Amrita Singh|index amrita]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_amrit is true>> <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Amrit Singh|index amrit]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_wraithf is true>> <div class="choice">[[The Wraith|index wraithf]]</div> <</if>> <<if $met_wraithm is true>> <div class="choice">[[The Wraith|index wraithm]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/species.png]] </div> <br> <div class="choice">[[Sirens|index Siren]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Nephilim|index Nephilim]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cambion|index Cambion]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Draca|index Draca]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Banshees|index Banshee]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Sorcerers|index Sorcerer]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Basilisks|index Basilisk]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Oracles|index Seer]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Wraiths|index Wraiths]]</div> <br><br> <</nobr>> [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

My name is Dakota Smith, and I'm an interactive fiction author with several current works in progress. Disenchanted, the one you're currently playing, is the second game I made. For more informations on the game, check out @disenchantedif on tumblr. To keep up to date with my projects check out my personal tumblr @dakotawritesif. My other projects include Fallen Lights, Reaper's Bay, and The Unseelie. [[Return to game.|$return]] [[Return to about page.|About]]

♡ = Flirt Option ✿ = Poly Flirt Option [[Return to game.|$return]] [[Return to about page.|About]]

This game will potentially cover topics such as; * Nightmares about Traumatic Events * Trauma * Past Emotional Abuse * NSFW Content (graphic or fade to black) * Murder * Alcohol Use [[Return to game.|$return]] [[Return to about page.|About]]

The template that provided the base structure of the game was created by //Nyehilism//. All art was done by Steph (@stephschoices on tumblr). [[Return to game.|$return]] [[Return to about page.|About]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/cameron.png]] </div> He's the Chosen One. He did what you couldn't at sixteen and you paid the price for it. ''Abilities:'' He's a sorceror that specializes in lightning magic and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/cameron.png]] </div> They're the Chosen One. They did what you couldn't at sixteen and you paid the price for it. ''Abilities:'' They're a sorceror that specializes in lightning magic and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucia.png]] </div> She's your ex-girlfriend who's now besties with Cameron Fletcher. There's...a lot to unpack there. ''Abilities:'' She's a nephilim and a master of seraphic magic, as well as being quite talented in healing and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucia.png]] </div> She's your ex-best friend who's now besties with Cameron Fletcher. There's...a lot to unpack there. ''Abilities:'' She's a nephilim and a master of seraphic magic, as well as being quite talented in healing and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucien.png]] </div> He's your ex-boyfriend who's now besties with Cameron Fletcher. There's...a lot to unpack there. ''Abilities:'' He's a nephilim and a master of seraphic magic, as well as being quite talented in healing and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucien.png]] </div> He's your ex-best friend who's now besties with Cameron Fletcher. There's...a lot to unpack there. ''Abilities:'' He's a nephilim and a master of seraphic magic, as well as being quite talented in healing and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/mtheo.png]] </div> Your other best friend and college roommate. He's a bit of a troublemaker, but he's never a jerk...to you, at least. ''Abilities:'' He's a master of infernal magic and quite good with the element of fire, as well. There's really not any subject he's bad at that you're aware of. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/ftheo.png]] </div> Your other best friend and college roommate. She's a bit of a troublemaker, but she's never a jerk...to you, at least. ''Abilities:'' She's a master of infernal magic and quite good with the element of fire, as well. There's really not any subject she's bad at that you're aware of. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/mcharlie.png]] </div> Viktor's roommate; you don't know much about him, but he seems nice enough. ''Abilities:'' He's a basilisk, meaning he has very sharp fangs, venom, and is deceptively strong. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/fcharlie.png]] Viktor's roommate; you don't know much about her, but she seems nice enough. ''Abilities:'' She's a basilisk, meaning she has very sharp fangs, venom, and is deceptively strong. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/harlow.png]] </div> An upperclassman. She seems unsettled by you, but you don't know much about them. ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/harlow.png]] </div> An upperclassman. He seems unsettled by you, but you don't know much about them. ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/penny.png]] </div> A fellow freshman of the university you attend, and the only other siren on campus. ''Abilities:'' As a siren, she has incredibly sharp teeth, sharp claws, and can breathe underwater. Also capable of using her siren song to lure people into a hypnotic state. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/penny.png]] </div> A fellow freshman of the university you attend, and the only siren on campus. ''Abilities:'' As a siren, she has incredibly sharp teeth, sharp claws, and can breathe underwater. Also capable of using her siren song to lure people into a hypnotic state. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/amrita.png]] </div> A fellow freshman and a nephilim. She seems carefree but has a rather nasty past involving a feud with her parents. ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/amrit.png]] </div> A fellow freshman and a nephilim. He seems carefree but has a rather nasty past involving a feud with his parents. ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/wraith.png]] </div> She doesn't even know who she is, how could you? ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/wraith.png]] </div> He doesn't even know who he is, how could you? ''Abilities:'' Unknown. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/vik.png]] </div> Your best friend since childhood. You've been sleeping in his parent's spare bedroom since you were sixteen, though the whole Orlov family insists it's yours now. ''Abilities:'' As a Draca, he's very talented with the element of fire. Though wingless, he's quick and light on his feet as well. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/cameron.png]] </div> She's the Chosen One. She did what you couldn't at sixteen and you paid the price for it. ''Abilities:'' She's a sorceror that specializes in lightning magic and alchemy. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A siren. One of the most diverse species to be certain. Some have only legs, some are tailed. Some have gills, while others have only scarred remains. No two pods of sirens share the same lineage, and even within a pod the characteristics vary greatly. One thing all sirens do have, however, is extremely sharp teeth and the ability to breath underwater. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A nephilim. Part angel, part human. Nephilim are masters at seraphic magic, and most of them even today still have feathered wings. Now, you might be thinking it and the answer is no, they don't have halos. Even still, nephilim are considered virtuous and good in all ways of life. It's far from the truth for most, especially seeing as many of the wealthiest nephilim families are involved in politics. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A cambion. Part demon, part human. Most cambions who come from a strong lineage are winged, some even fanged and clawed when they want to be. Cambions are the only beings capable of infernal magic, and while they're powerful they have quite the reputation. Some of your ancestors literally crawling out of hell will do that. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A draca. Part dragon, part human. Even some among the supernatural community find draca an odd case. With their horns and the occasional scale or two, it's hard to mistake these dragon hybrids as anything but supernatural. Those of stronger lineages typically have wings, powerful ones with a layer of scales that shield them like armor. Rumored as territorial and exceedingly deadly with draconic magic, most know not to mess with something a Draca considers its own. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A banshee. Unlike the myths their name comes from, they're not exclusively women. They scream to fortell death; they usually have accompanying visions of the victim that leave the banshee with a headache for hours to come and no exact time or date. They're a precognitive, though. All precognotives are considered special. They're prestegious, it's true, but the general public typically avoids Banshees like the plague despite all that. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A sorcerer. Visibly human, yet supernatural in every sense of the word. Sorcerers are not common, and their magical aptitude far outshines any other supernatural in terms of raw ability. Well, typically. They usually to specialize in some form of elemental magic, though some prefer alchemy above all else. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A basilisk. A reptilian hybrid, taking only a few characteristics from their deadly ancestors. Those with a strong lineage are rumored to have the ability to inflict headaches with a glance. Sudden death from a mere look has long since died out, however. With fangs that can produce a poisonous paralytic and skin cool to the touch, modern basilisks may look human but are far from it. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A seer. Similar to banshees, they can fortell the future, but their visions aren't limited to death. Their visions come along with headaches that last for hours, and only the most experienced seers can come up with dates and times. Well, typically. Classified as precognitive, they're considered special. Unlike banshees, they're generally well recieved. People do, however, tend to tread lightly around them for fear they'll see an unfavorable future. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

A wraith. A particularly aggressive haunting. Not much is known about the species, only that they are the souls of those who were unfortunate in life. They left behind many regrets and now in death they seek to right their wrongs. ...Or they seek revenge from those that wronged them. The person they attatch themselves to as an anchor doesn't necessairly have to be someone they knew in life. Not many surivive a haunting from a wraith as it saps large amounts of energy. [[Return to species.|Species]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <<set $wraithname to "Unknown">> <<set $wraith_ismale to true>> <<set $wraith_malefemale to "male">> <<set $wraith_manwoman to "man">> <<set $wraith_menwomen to "men">> <<set $wraith_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $wraith_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $wraith_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $wraith_fathermother to "father">> <<set $wraith_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $wraith_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $wraith_heshe to "he">> <<set $wraith_hisher to "his">> <<set $wraith_himher to "him">> <<set $wraith_capheshe to "He">> <<set $wraith_caphisher to "His">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "he's">> <</nobr>>As you draw closer, taking his hand, you see a curious gleam in his eyes. "Not yet." His voice is quiet, rasping from disuse, "You still have time." His hand meets yours and it feels as though ice is running through your veins. He grasps you tightly, his eyes widening just a bit. A sharp noise fills the air, knuckles rapping on wood. Jolting, you watch as the man before you dissolves in an instant, only smoke and the stinging scent of disinfectant left behind. [[You wake with a gasp.|wake up]]

<<nobr>> <<set $wraithname to "Unknown">> <<set $wraith_isfemalemale to true>> <<set $wraith_malefemale to "female">> <<set $wraith_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $wraith_menwomen to "women">> <<set $wraith_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $wraith_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $wraith_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $wraith_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $wraith_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $wraith_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $wraith_heshe to "she">> <<set $wraith_hisher to "her">> <<set $wraith_himher to "her">> <<set $wraith_capheshe to "She">> <<set $wraith_caphisher to "Her">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "she's">> <</nobr>>As you draw closer, taking her hand, you see a curious gleam in her eyes. "Not yet." Her voice is quiet, rasping from disuse, "You still have time." Her hand meets yours and it feels as though ice is running through your veins. She grasps you tightly, her eyes widening just a bit. A sharp noise fills the air, knuckles rapping on wood. Jolting, you watch as the woman before you dissolves in an instant, only smoke and the stinging scent of disinfectant left behind. [[You wake with a gasp.|wake up]]

<<nobr>> <<set $met_viktor to true>> <<set $metviktor to true>> <<script>> UI.alert("New index entry unlocked! <br><br> Viktor Orlov!"); <</script>> <</nobr>>The knocking persits even as your eyes blink open slowly. Viktor is calling for you through the door. What name does he use? <div class="choice">[[Choose from male names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Choose from female names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Choose from neutral names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your name...|choose own name]]</div>\

<div class="choice">[[Julian|after name][$name to "Julian"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Tristan|after name][$name to "Tristan"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Isaac|after name][$name to "Isaac"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Levi|after name][$name to "Levi"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Adrian|after name][$name to "Adrian"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lucas|after name][$name to "Lucas"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Gabriel|after name][$name to "Gabriel"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Arthur|after name][$name to "Arthur"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your name...|choose own name]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Actually, I was named something else...|choose new name]]</div>\

<div class="choice">[[Elena|after name][$name to "Elena"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Cora|after name][$name to "Cora"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lily|after name][$name to "Lily"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Isabelle|after name][$name to "Isabelle"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Valerie|after name][$name to "Valerie"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Alina|after name][$name to "Alina"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Julia|after name][$name to "Julia"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nina|after name][$name to "Nina"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your name...|choose own name]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Actually, I was named something else...|choose new name]]</div>\

<div class="choice">[[Quinn|after name][$name to "Quinn"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Robin|after name][$name to "Robin"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Jamie|after name][$name to "Jamie"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Alex|after name][$name to "Alex"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Jordan|after name][$name to "Jordan"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Erin|after name][$name to "Erin"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Taylor|after name][$name to "Taylor"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Jules|after name][$name to "Jules"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your name...|choose own name]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Actually, I was named something else...|choose new name]]</div>\

What name does he use? <<textbox "$name" "" "after name">> [[Actually, that doesn't sound right...|choose new name]] [[Continue...|after name]]

"C'mon, $name, wake up." He sighs loud enough for you to hear, "Mom says we're gonna be late for move in if we don't eat breakfast soon. Kat and Sof already have the car mostly packed." You sit up in bed, running a hand down your face and staring vacantly at the wall. Images of the nightmare flash across your vision, too vivid to not stick around. It's stuck in your head, crawling in your ear and rooting itself in your mind. Was it the nightmare itself that caused such an impact, or the figure of the $wraith_manwoman that saved you? You honestly don't have an answer, and the uncertainty lingers. Viktor's voice is softer this time, and you realize you've been quiet for too long, "Hey, you good in there?" <div class="choice">[["They helped pack?" You question, your voice unsteady, "They didn't need to do that."|kat and sofia][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I'm fine." You run a hand over your face, "I'm getting dressed now."|wake up and dress]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grunt, stretching as you get out of bed, "I'm up."|ugh wake up]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You yawn loudly as you stand, "I'm coming, I'm coming..."|yawn sleep]]</div>\

What name does he use? <div class="choice">[[Choose from male names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Choose from female names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Choose from neutral names.]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your name...|choose own name]]</div>\

He sighs, "Yeah, well, they're a bit anxious, I think. This is the first year we won't be at Oakwood with them. They're worried about us." He must be worried, too. <div class="choice">/* [[nickname]] */<<link "He never uses your actual name unless something is really serious. //(Choose a Nickname)//" "nickname">><</link>></div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can hear it in his voice, in the way he says your name.|no nickname]]</div>\

You hear him sigh outside the door, "Good, they'll be happy to see you. This'll be the first year we won't be at Oakwood with them and they're worried about us." He must be worried, too. <div class="choice">/* [[nickname]] */<<link "He never uses your actual name unless something is really serious. //(Choose a Nickname)//" "nickname">><</link>></div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can hear it in his voice, in the way he says your name.|no nickname]]</div>\

What is your nickname? <<textbox "$nickname" "" "after nickname">> [[Continue...|after nickname]]

<<nobr>> <<set $nickname to "$name">> <</nobr>>Katerina and Sofia are Viktor's twin sisters, younger than him by two years. They've notably grown rather attatched to you between you living here and your time together at Oakwood Boarding School for Magical Youths. That's all changing, now, though. They can't run to you and Vik whenever they need something during the school year anymore, since you'll be off at university. You can imagine they'd be anxious; they depend a lot on their brother at the end of the day. They'd kill someone for Vik, but heckle him whenever he makes a fool of himself. Unfortunately, you've grown to get the same treatment. They truly have given you the younger sibling treatment. They're still pretty loveable, though...whenever they're not being menaces, at least. You recall the time they put glitter bombs in your suitcases when you were all heading back to Oakwood. Thinking on that, maybe //menaces// is a bit of an understatement. With feigned ignorance, you say, "Why would they be worried? I'll have you know I'm perfectly well adjusted." You stand up from bed, ignoring the cracking of your joints. You don't actually say you're scared, too, because he already knows. The Orlov household has been, since the time you were sixteen, a safe haven. Sure, Vik's dad could be difficult at times, but his mom more than made up for it. Still, for all that Mikhail Orlov could have the emotional intelligence of a brick, he protected his family. Somehow, you ended up falling into that category. It was extremely lucky, actually, because it protected you from a lot of the political fallout that came from being Unchosen. As the headmaster of your old boarding school, he stamped out more than a few campaigns for your expulsion from the Council. Now you're on your own, off to university with only a bit of hope and a couple of friends for protection. "Just get dressed, okay, $nickname?" Viktor finally says into the silence, "Mom has pancakes ready." [[His footsteps fade away, and you're alone once more.|get dressed]]

Katerina and Sofia are Viktor's twin sisters, younger than him by two years. They've notably grown rather attatched to you between you living here and your time together at Oakwood Boarding School for Magical Youths. That's all changing, now, though. They can't run to you and Vik whenever they need something during the school year anymore, since you'll be off at university. You can imagine they'd be anxious; they depend a lot on their brother at the end of the day. They'd kill someone for Vik, but heckle him whenever he makes a fool of himself. Unfortunately, you've grown to get the same treatment. They truly have given you the younger sibling treatment. They're still pretty loveable, though...whenever they're not being menaces, at least. You recall the time they put glitter bombs in your suitcases when you were all heading back to Oakwood. Thinking on that, maybe //menaces// is a bit of an understatement. With feigned ignorance, you say, "Why would they be worried? I'll have you know I'm perfectly well adjusted." You stand up from bed, ignoring the cracking of your joints. You don't actually say you're scared, too, because he already knows. The Orlov household has been, since the time you were sixteen, a safe haven. Sure, Vik's dad could be difficult at times, but his mom more than made up for it. Still, for all that Mikhail Orlov could have the emotional intelligence of a brick, he protected his family. Somehow, you ended up falling into that category. It was extremely lucky, actually, because it protected you from a lot of the political fallout that came from being Unchosen. As the headmaster of your old boarding school, he stamped out more than a few campaigns for your expulsion from the Council. Now you're on your own, off to university with only a bit of hope and a couple of friends for protection. "Just get dressed, okay, $nickname?" Viktor finally says into the silence, "Mom has pancakes ready." [[His footsteps fade away, and you're alone once more.|get dressed]]

Stumbling into your small bathroom, you look up at the mirror above your sink. <div class="choice">[[A tired banshee stares back.|Banshee]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired siren stares back.|Siren]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired nephilim stares back.|Nephilim]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired cambion stares back.|Cambion]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired basilisk stares back.|Basilisk]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired draca stares back.|Draca]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired sorcerer stares back.|Sorcerer]]</div>\

A banshee. Unlike the myths their name comes from, they're not exclusively women. They scream to fortell death; they usually have accompanying visions of the victim that leave the banshee with a headache for hours to come and no exact time or date. They're a precognitive, though. All precognotives are considered special. They're prestegious, it's true, but the general public typically avoids Banshees like the plague despite all that. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "banshee"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A siren. One of the most diverse species to be certain. Some have only legs, some are tailed. Some have gills, while others have only scarred remains. No two pods of sirens share the same lineage, and even within a pod the characteristics vary greatly. One thing all sirens do have, however, is extremely sharp teeth and the ability to breath underwater. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "siren"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A nephilim. Part angel, part human. Nephilim are masters at seraphic magic, and most of them even today still have feathered wings. Now, you might be thinking it, but the answer is no, they don't have halos. Even still, nephilim are considered virtuous and good in all ways of life. It's far from the truth for most, especially seeing as many of the wealthiest nephilim families are involved in politics. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "nephilim"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A cambion. Part demon, part human. Most cambions who come from a strong lineage are winged, some even fanged and clawed when they want to be. Cambions are the only beings capable of infernal magic, and while they're powerful they have quite the reputation. Some of your ancestors literally crawling out of hell will do that. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "cambion"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A basilisk. A reptilian hybrid, taking only a few characteristics from their deadly ancestors. Those with a strong lineage are rumored to have the ability to inflict headaches with a glance. Sudden death from a mere look has long since died out, however. With fangs that can produce a poisonous paralytic and skin cool to the touch, modern basilisks may look human but are far from it. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "basilisk"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A draca. Part dragon, part human. Even some among the supernatural community find draca to be an odd case. With their horns and the occasional scale or two, it's hard to mistake these dragon hybrids as anything but supernatural. Those of stronger lineages typically have wings, powerful ones with a layer of scales that shield them like armor. Rumored as territorial and exceedingly deadly with draconic magic, most know not to mess with something a Draca considers its own. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "draca"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

A sorcerer. Visibly human, yet supernatural in every other sense of the word. Sorcerers are not common, and their magical aptitude far outshines any other supernatural in terms of raw ability. Well, typically. They usually specialize in some form of elemental magic, though some tout alchemy above all else. Does that sound right? <div class="choice">[[Yes.|after species identity][$species = "sorcerer"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No.|pick a species]]</div>\

<<nobr>> You try not to rid yourself of the lingering discontent as you wash your face. There are still goosebumps on your arms, and your legs feel weak, but you're standing. <br><br> Closing your eyes for a moment, you take a deep breath. In the nose, out the mouth. You just have to keep standing. <br><br> <<if $species is "sorcerer">> When you open your eyes again, they're murky as your sort through fact and fiction. The color remains unmistakeable... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Black|after eyes][$eye_c to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gold|after eyes][$eye_c to "gold"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Blue|after eyes][$eye_c to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gray|after eyes][$eye_c to "gray"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Brown|after eyes][$eye_c to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Violet|after eyes][$eye_c to "violet"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Green|after eyes][$eye_c to "green"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Hazel|after eyes][$eye_c to "hazel"]]</div> <<elseif $species is "draca">> <div class="choice">[[Your wings are tucked close to your back, nearly flat against your spine.|draca wing custom]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't have wings.|draca no wings]]</div> <<elseif $species is "nephilim">> <div class="choice">[[Your wings are tucked close to your back, nearly flat against your spine.|nephilim wing custom]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't have wings.|nephilim no wings]]</div> <<elseif $species is "cambion">> <div class="choice">[[Your wings are tucked close to your back, nearly flat against your spine.|cambion wing custom]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't have wings.|cambion no wings]]</div> <<elseif $species is "siren">> <div class="choice">[[You don't transform in water, your legs remain.|siren no tail]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can choose to transform in the water, having a tail like many other sirens.|siren tail custom]]</div> <<elseif $species is "banshee">> When you open your eyes again, they're murky as your sort through fact and fiction. The color remains unmistakeable... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Black|after eyes][$eye_c to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gold|after eyes][$eye_c to "gold"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Blue|after eyes][$eye_c to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gray|after eyes][$eye_c to "gray"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Brown|after eyes][$eye_c to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Violet|after eyes][$eye_c to "violet"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Green|after eyes][$eye_c to "green"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Hazel|after eyes][$eye_c to "hazel"]]</div> <<elseif $species is "basilisk">> When you open your eyes again, they're murky as your sort through fact and fiction. The color remains unmistakeable... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Black|after eyes][$eye_c to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gold|after eyes][$eye_c to "gold"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Blue|after eyes][$eye_c to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Gray|after eyes][$eye_c to "gray"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Brown|after eyes][$eye_c to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Violet|after eyes][$eye_c to "violet"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Green|after eyes][$eye_c to "green"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Hazel|after eyes][$eye_c to "hazel"]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<div class="choice">[[A tired banshee stares back.|Banshee]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired siren stares back.|Siren]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired nephilim stares back.|Nephilim]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired cambion stares back.|Cambion]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired basilisk stares back.|Basilisk]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired draca stares back.|Draca]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A tired sorcerer stares back.|Sorcerer]]</div>\

Ignoring the ache slowly building behind your eyes and spreading near your temples, you begin the process of taming your hair... <div class="choice">[[It falls down past your hips.|after hair][$hair_l to "long"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It reaches just past your chest.|after hair][$hair_l to "long"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's around shoulder length.|after hair][$hair_l to "shoulder length"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It reaches about chin length|after hair][$hair_l to "chin length"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's short, falling just past your ears.|after hair][$hair_l to "short"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[There is no taming your hair, it's buzzed.|after hair][$hair_l to "buzzed"]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $dracawings to true>> <</nobr>>Your wings... <div class="choice">[[Are covered in deep red scales that shine with a golden luster in the light.|after draca wings][$wing_c to "red"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are pitch black, with sleek scales that catch the light when you fly.|after draca wings][$wing_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are blue, the scales spotted with a small amount of glistening teal.|after draca wings][$wing_c to "blue"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are lined with row after row of deep green scales, reflecting a shimmering yellow in the right light.|after draca wings][$wing_c to "green"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are a deep purple that shimmer beneath the light.|after draca wings][$wing_c to "purple"]]</div>\

And as for horns... <div class="choice">[[You have long, elegant horns that curl upward.|after draca horns][$horns to "long upward"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The horns along the crown of your head are short, blunt, and don't stick out very far.|after draca horns][$horns to "short blunt"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your horns curl back around your ears, coming to make a half circle as they frame your head like a crown.|after draca horns][$horns to "curled back"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You have no horns.|draca no horns]]</div>\

Your wings... <div class="choice">[[Are covered in soft, tan feathers.|after wings][$wing_c to "tan"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are covered in pitch black feathers, quite unusual for a nephilim but it makes you impossible to see at night.|after wings][$wing_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A covered in pure white feathers, not the most uncommon among nephilim but certainly the most sought after color of feathers.|after wings][$wing_c to "white"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are covered in luminescent, navy blue feathers that look black in indirect lighting. Similar to a ravens, and unusual for nephilim.|after wings][$wing_c to "navy"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are covered in maroon feathers, the dark red shimmering when the light catches on your wings. They're highly unusual for a nephilim.|after wings][$wing_c to "maroon"]]</div>\

Your eyes are hazy as you look in the mirror, but the color remains unmistakeable... <div class="choice">[[Black|after eyes][$eye_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Gold|after eyes][$eye_c to "gold"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Blue|after eyes][$eye_c to "blue"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Gray|after eyes][$eye_c to "gray"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Brown|after eyes][$eye_c to "brown"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Violet|after eyes][$eye_c to "violet"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Green|after eyes][$eye_c to "green"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Hazel|after eyes][$eye_c to "hazel"]]</div>\

Your wings... <div class="choice">[[Are pure black, the velvety skin soft to the touch.|after cambi wings][$wing_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are black on the outside and red in the inner wing, the velvety skin soft to the touch.|after cambi wings][$wing_c to "black and red"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Are a dark, luminescent navy blue. Unusual, but still the same soft velvety feel as other cambion wings.|after cambi wings][$wing_c to "navy"]]</div>\

As for your tail... <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|after cambi tail][$cambitail to false]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's long, thin, and velvety save for a small tuft of hair at the very end.|after cambi tail][$cambitail to true]]</div>\

As for your gills... <div class="choice">[[Three small gills line each side of your throat, giving you the ability to breath under the water.|after gills][$gills to true]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Three small, scarred over gills line each side of your throat, unusable and only an echo of your siren ancestry.|after gills][$gills to false]]</div>\

Your tail is... <div class="choice">[[Covered in deep red scales that shine with a golden luster in the light.|after tail][$tail_c to "red"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Blue, the scales spotted with a small amount of shining teal.|after tail][$tail_c to "blue"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lined with row after row of deep green scales, reflecting a shimmering yellow in the right light.|after tail][$tail_c to "green"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A deep purple, the scales reflecting pink and magenta at certain angles.|after tail][$tail_c to "purple"]]</div>\

The color of your hair is... <div class="choice">[[Pale blond|after hair color][$hair_c to "pale blond"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Blond|after hair color][$hair_c to "blond"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Ginger|after hair color][$hair_c to "ginger"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Chestnut brown|after hair color][$hair_c to "chestnut brown"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dark brown|after hair color][$hair_c to "dark brown"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Black|after hair color][$hair_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dyed green|after hair color][$hair_c to "green"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dyed blue|after hair color][$hair_c to "blue"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dyed pink|after hair color][$hair_c to "pink"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dyed purple|after hair color][$hair_c to "purple"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Dyed red|after hair color][$hair_c to "red"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Bleached white|after hair color][$hair_c to "white"]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $dracahorns to true>> And your tail... <br><br> <<if $dracawings is true>> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and covered in scales the same color as your wings.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|draca no tail]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and covered in deep red scales that shine with a golden luster in the light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and pitch black, the sleek scales catching the light when you move.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and blue, the scales spotted with a small amount of glistening teal.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and lined with row after row of deep green scales, reflecting a shimmering yellow in the right light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is a deep purple that shimmers beneath the light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|draca no tail]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> And your tail... <br><br> <<if $dracawings is true>> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and covered in scales the same color as your wings.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|draca no tail]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and covered in deep red scales that shine with a golden luster in the light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and pitch black, the sleek scales catching the light when you move.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and blue, the scales spotted with a small amount of glistening teal.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is long and lined with row after row of deep green scales, reflecting a shimmering yellow in the right light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your tail is a deep purple that shimmers beneath the light.|after draca tail][$dracatail to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|draca no tail]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nephilimwings to true>> <</nobr>>Your eyes are hazy as you look in the mirror, but the color remains unmistakeable... <div class="choice">[[Black|after eyes][$eye_c to "black"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Gold|after eyes][$eye_c to "gold"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Blue|after eyes][$eye_c to "blue"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Gray|after eyes][$eye_c to "gray"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Brown|after eyes][$eye_c to "brown"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Violet|after eyes][$eye_c to "violet"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Green|after eyes][$eye_c to "green"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Hazel|after eyes][$eye_c to "hazel"]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $cambiwings to true>> <</nobr>>As for your tail... <div class="choice">[[You have no tail.|after cambi tail][$cambitail to false]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's long, thin, and velvety save for a small tuft of hair at the very end.|after cambi tail][$cambitail to true]]</div>\

And the texture of your hair is... <div class="choice">[[Coiled|after hair pattern][$hair_p to "coily"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Tightly curled|after hair pattern][$hair_p to "very curly"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Loosely curled|after hair pattern][$hair_p to "curly"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Wavy|after hair pattern][$hair_p to "wavy"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Straight|after hair pattern][$hair_p to "straight"]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<if $hair_p is "coily">> And style wise... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[It's in locs|after style][$hair_s to "locs"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It's in braids|after style][$hair_s to "braids"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It is not in a protective style|after style][$hair_s to "none"]]</div> <<elseif $hair_p is "very curly">> And style wise... <div class="choice">[[It's currently in locs|after style][$hair_s to "locs"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It's currently in braids|after style][$hair_s to "braids"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It is not in a protective style.|after style][$hair_s to "none"]]</div> <<else>> Once you finish up, you survey the rest of yourself in the mirror. Your skin, though it still holds an unhealthy pallor from your nightmare, is... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[A pale white|after skin][$skin_c to "pale"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[A light beige|after skin][$skin_c to "light"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[A medium tan|after skin][$skin_c to "tan"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[A golden brown|after skin][$skin_c to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[A dark copper|after skin][$skin_c to "dark"]]</div> <div class="choice">[[A deep black|after skin][$skin_c to "black"]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

Once you finish up, you survey the rest of yourself in the mirror. Your skin, though it still holds an unhealthy pallor from your nightmare, is... <div class="choice">[[A pale white|after skin][$skin_c to "pale"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A light beige|after skin][$skin_c to "light"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A medium tan|after skin][$skin_c to "tan"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A golden brown|after skin][$skin_c to "brown"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A dark copper|after skin][$skin_c to "dark"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A deep black|after skin][$skin_c to "black"]]</div>\

Despite the fact that you washed your face, you still look kind of dead. Maybe moisturizer will help? Probably not. You backtrack into your bedroom, grabbing some clothes before returning to the bathroom and hanging them on the door. You strip quickly, catch a glimpse of your body in the mirror... <div class="choice">[[You had never gotten surgery on your chest, so you have no scars.|no top surg]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're glad healing magic made the scars from your top surgery fade much quicker than normal. All that remains are light marks on the flat expanse of your chest. Viktor helped, too, by sharing tips from when he had his own done.|top surgery][$breastremoval to true]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[The scars from your top surgery are hidden beanth your breasts, but regardless they had faded quickly thanks to healing magic. Viktor's advice on how he managed his own had helped, though he had gotten the opposite procedure done.|top surgery][$breastaug to true]]</div>\

As for your pronouns... <div class="choice">[[She/Her|she/her]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[He/Him|he/him]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[They/Them|they/them]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Xe/Xem|xe/xem]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input custom pronouns...|select pronouns]]</div>\

<<set $topsurgery to true>>As for your pronouns... <div class="choice">[[She/Her|she/her]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[He/Him|he/him]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[They/Them|they/them]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Xe/Xem|xe/xem]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input custom pronouns...|select pronouns]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $pgen = 1>> As for your gender... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$female to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as male.|after gender][$ftm to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$ftnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$male to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as female.|after gender][$mtf to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$mtnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$nb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't care about gender or the binary in general.|after gender][$agender to true]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $pgen = 0>> As for your gender... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$female to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as male.|after gender][$ftm to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$ftnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$male to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as female.|after gender][$mtf to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$mtnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$nb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't care about gender or the binary in general.|after gender][$agender to true]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $pgen = 2>> As for your gender... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$female to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as male.|after gender][$ftm to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$ftnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$male to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as female.|after gender][$mtf to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$mtnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$nb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't care about gender or the binary in general.|after gender][$agender to true]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $pgen = 3>> As for your gender... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$female to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as male.|after gender][$ftm to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$ftnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$male to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as female.|after gender][$mtf to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$mtnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$nb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't care about gender or the binary in general.|after gender][$agender to true]]</div> <</nobr>>

Configure your pronouns in a lowercase format. Fill out all boxes before selecting continue. he, she, they... <<textbox "$they" "" "after pronouns">> him, her, them... <<textbox "$them" "" "after pronouns">> his, her, their... <<textbox "$their" "" "after pronouns">> himself, herself, themself... <<textbox "$themself" "" "after pronouns">> his, hers, theirs... <<textbox "$theirs" "" "after pronouns">> he's, she's, they're... <<textbox "$theyre" "" "after pronouns">> [[Continue...|after pronouns]]

<<nobr>> <<set $pgen = 4>> <<set $They to $they.toUpperFirst()>> <<set $Their to $their.toUpperFirst()>> <<set $Them to $them.toUpperFirst()>> <<set $Theyre to $theyre.toUpperFirst()>> As for your gender... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$female to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as male.|after gender][$ftm to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned female at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$ftnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth and identify as such.|after gender][$male to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as female.|after gender][$mtf to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You were assigned male at birth but identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$mtnb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You identify as nonbinary.|after gender][$nb to true]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You don't care about gender or the binary in general.|after gender][$agender to true]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $met_orlovs to true>> <<script>> UI.alert("New index entries unlocked! <br><br> Taisiya Orlova, Mikhail Orlov, Katerina Orlova, and Sofia Orlova!"); <</script>> <</nobr>>You open your bedroom door and can already hearing the chatter coming from the kitchen. Walking down the stairs, you look at the different height marks made on the wall near the bottom step. Vik, then Sofia and Kat. Later, your name joins them, far before you moved in. You feel your melancholy digging a hole in your chest. "$name!" Katerina spots you first, her grin lighting up her whole face as she holds out a plate towards you, "We saved you some pancakes!" "//I// saved ?them some pancakes." Viktor tries to grab the plate from her hands and fails. A blush flares to life against pale skin as he sits back down, avoiding your eyes. Katerina and Sofia favor their father with their dirty blonde hair, light brown eyes, and pale skin. They resemble their mother some around the eyes and nose, but Mikhail really shines through in his daughters. However, the one feature Viktor has inherited from their father that the twins lack is his horns. Curling up and back from his forehead, they sit nestled in loose curls. Aside from that, however, he's a supernatural mirror of his mother. With his strawberry blonde hair and rosy skin dotted with the occasional mole, he cuts a striking image. He has Taisiya's blue eyes, as well, though his pupil is slitted and outlined in gold. Katerina goes to stick her tongue out when something catches her eye, "Sof, I can literally see you taking my charger out of my bag." "You broke mine!" "You let me borrow it. How's that my problem?" She asks. "Everyone sit back down." Mr. Orlov sounds tired, pressing a hand to his temples, "Sofia, put your sister's charger back. Katerina, plate on the table before you drop it." Viktor's mother, Taisiya, smiles at you from across the table, "Come on, hun, it'll get cold." Unlike her husband, she has no accent, having been born in the states. Her voice is a rock, an anchor, and had talked you down from many nightmares in the past. Viktor had gotten that from her. [[The most unique thing about Taisiya Orlova, though, is that she's human.|human draca]]

Well, that's not quite true. There are far more humans than supernaturals out there. //This// human is just unique because she married into a long line of draca, dragon hybrids that are typically winged and horned and excellent with fire magic. Taisiya being their mother had cost her children wings, but no one in this household particularly gave a shit. Viktor, funnily enough, was still faster than most of your winged peers on foot. [[You sit in the open seat between Viktor and Kat, accepting the still warm plate of food.|bfast with orlov]]

It's amazing, but you hardly expect anything else when it comes to Taisiya's cooking. When everyone has finished and the plates are collected, Taisiya begins to try and usher her daughters out to the car. Viktor's dad catches your eye before you can follow them out. The man purses his lips, "A word, $name?" You and Viktor share a glance before he stands, "I'll go make sure our bags don't get caught in the crossfire. I think Kat has something planned involving confetti, so I might try and talk her out of that one." "Good luck with that, son." Mikhail rolls his eyes, "It's like negotiating with a wall with when it comes to your sisters." Vik is gone in a blink, sliding out the door and leaving you with his dad. You sit across from each other at the table, Mr. Orlov scanning the morning news. <div class="choice">[["You need something, old man?" You ask.|old man][$humor += 1]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Did you need something, Mr. Orlov?" You ask.|mr.orlov][$humor -= 1]]</div>\

He only quirks an eyebrowin slight humor, more than used to your antics at this point, "I want you to be careful once you get to school, alright?" You nod slightly, "I mean...yeah. I figured I'd have to." "I mean it, $name. The president of the university, Natalie Wright, she's someone I know well." "So, does that mean she's trustworthy?" You ask. "Not at all." He says, "Her family has a long history with the university. Unlike her mother, though, she's quite the opposite of ethical." <div class="choice">[["What could she possibly want with me?" You ask.|me tho?]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You laugh shortly, "I'm sure she's more worried about Cameron."|cameron]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["You think someone will try and get me expelled from college?" You ask, dreading the answer.|college expulsion]]</div>\

He sighs, the lines around his eyes prominent as his brows furrow in concern, "I want you to be careful once you get to school, alright?" You nod slightly, "I was thinking the same thing." He purses his lips, "The president of the university, Natalie Wright, she's someone I know well." "So, does that mean she's trustworthy?" You ask. "Not at all." He says, "Her family has a long history with the university. Unlike her mother, though, she's quite the opposite of ethical." <div class="choice">[["What could she possibly want with me?" You ask.|me tho?]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You laugh shortly, "I'm sure she's more worried about Cameron."|cameron]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["You think someone will try and get me expelled from college?" You ask, "Why?"|college expulsion]]</div>\

You're the Unchosen One. The failure. Supernaturals //around the world// knew how badly you'd screwed up just by existing. The president probably won't want anything to do with you. Cameron Fletcher. That's who she'll sink her claws into. The golden child, the Chosen One, the one who began fulfilling the prophecy in the wake of your incapability. Also, the bane of your existence. <div class="choice">[[He's the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|male cam]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[She's the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|female cam]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[They're the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|nb cam]]</div>\

It's not a stretch, you realize belatedly. Look at how the council treated you while you were still in boarding school. After all, you're the Unchosen One. The failure. Supernaturals //around the world// knew how badly you'd screwed up just by existing. The president probably won't want anything to do with you. Cameron Fletcher, you think suddenly. That's who the president will probably sink her claws into. The golden child, the Chosen One, the one who began fulfilling the prophecy in the wake of your incapability. Also, the bane of your existence. <div class="choice">[[He's the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|male cam]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[She's the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|female cam]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[They're the one who's actually supposed to defeat the Phantom...|nb cam]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_ismale to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "male">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "man">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "men">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "boy">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "son">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Son">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "father">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "brother">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "husband">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "he">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "his">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "him">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "he's">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "He">> <<set $met_cameronm to true>> <<set $metcameron to true>> <</nobr>>The Council had made a mistake in naming you the Chosen One at the beginning. Ultimately, Cameron is the one who did what you couldn't. Does it sting a little? <div class="choice">[[...No. Of course not.|in denial egypt][$accepting -= 1]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You honestly don't care.|no fucks given][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[At this point, the only thing you feel is numb.|a bit sad huh][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Yes. It does.|stings quite a lot][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_isfemale to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "female">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "woman">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "women">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "girl">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "daughter">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Daughter">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "mother">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "sister">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "wife">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "she">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "her">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "her">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "she's">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "She">> <<set $met_cameronf to true>> <<set $metcameron to true>> <</nobr>>The Council had made a mistake in naming you the Chosen One at the beginning. Ultimately, Cameron is the one who did what you couldn't. Does it sting a little? <div class="choice">[[...No. Of course not.|in denial egypt][$accepting -= 1]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You honestly don't care.|no fucks given][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[At this point, the only thing you feel is numb.|a bit sad huh][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Yes. It does.|stings quite a lot][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_isnonbinary to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "nonbinary">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "person">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "people">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "child">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "child">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Child">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "parent">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "sibling">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "spouse">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "they">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "their">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "them">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "they're">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "They">> <<set $met_cameronnb to true>> <<set $metcameron to true>> <</nobr>>The Council had made a mistake in naming you the Chosen One at the beginning. Ultimately, Cameron is the one who did what you couldn't. Does it sting a little? <div class="choice">[[...No. Of course not.|in denial egypt][$accepting -= 1]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You honestly don't care.|no fucks given][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[At this point, the only thing you feel is numb.|a bit sad huh][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Yes. It does.|stings quite a lot][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\

What's that they say about a river in Egypt? In truth, how could it not sting? You were labeled a failure for something out of your control, and your life became a shit show since. Is it your fault the Council and their Seer screwed up? No. Do you get all the flack for it? Absolutely. You're pulled from your thoughts when Mikhail sighs, "Just don't trust anyone too easily, okay? Some people are genuine but-" "Most people want something and you won't know 'till they stab you in the back to get it." You recite, finishing the thought for him, "I'm aware. You've said that once or twice before." He claps you softly on the shoulder when you stand, "Off you go, then. Stay safe, and watch out for my boy." You have the feeling he also told Viktor to watch out for you. [[The car is already packed when you make it outside.|time for school]]

You picked up the pieces of your shit show life before graduating from Oakwood. You're determined to put it all behind you, even if the world won't let you forget the failure that was out of your control to begin with. Is it your fault the Council and their Seer screwed up? No. Do you get all the flack for it? Absolutely. You're pulled from your thoughts when Mikhail sighs, "Just don't trust anyone too easily, okay? Some people are genuine but-" "Most people want something and you won't know 'till they stab you in the back to get it." You recite, finishing the thought for him, "I'm aware. You've said that once or twice before." He claps you softly on the shoulder when you stand, "Off you go, then. Stay safe, and watch out for my boy." You have the feeling he also told Viktor to watch out for you. [[The car is already packed when you make it outside.|time for school]]

You never had any control over the shit show your life became at sixteen. Ever since then, the world won't let you forget the failure you became known as despite the fact that you had nothing to do with it. Is it your fault the Council and their Seer screwed up? No. Do you get all the flack for it? Absolutely. You're pulled from your thoughts when Mikhail sighs, "Just don't trust anyone too easily, okay? Some people are genuine but-" "Most people want something and you won't know 'till they stab you in the back to get it." You recite, finishing the thought for him, "I'm aware. You've said that once or twice before." He claps you softly on the shoulder when you stand, "Off you go, then. Stay safe, and watch out for my boy." You have the feeling he also told Viktor to watch out for you. [[The car is already packed when you make it outside.|time for school]]

Of course it stings. From the age of sixteen you've been labeled a failure for something completely out of your control. Your life became a shit show because the world wouldn't let you forget it, despite the blame lying elsewhere. Is it your fault the Council and their Seer screwed up? No. Do you get all the flack for it? Absolutely. You're pulled from your thoughts when Mikhail sighs, "Just don't trust anyone too easily, okay? Some people are genuine but-" "Most people want something and you won't know 'till they stab you in the back to get it." You recite, finishing the thought for him, "I'm aware. You've said that once or twice before." He claps you softly on the shoulder when you stand, "Off you go, then. Stay safe, and watch out for my boy." You have the feeling he also told Viktor to watch out for you. [[The car is already packed when you make it outside.|time for school]]

"I texted Theo," Viktor says as soon as you slide into the backseat. You bite back a chuckle. You never know what, exactly, is going to come out of Theo's mouth. Or, in this case, be sent through Messenger. <div class="choice">[[Theodora Parker, the girl who's quite possibly your only other friend. She also happens to be your college roommate.|female theo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Thedore Parker, the boy who's quite possibly your only other friend. He also happens to be your college roommate.|male theo]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_theodora to true>> <<set $mettheo to true>> <<set $theoname to "Theodora">> <<set $theo_isfemale to true>> <<set $theo_malefemale to "female">> <<set $theo_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $theo_menwomen to "women">> <<set $theo_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $theo_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $theo_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $theo_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $theo_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $theo_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $theo_heshe to "she">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "She">> <<set $theo_hisher to "her">> <<set $theo_himher to "her">> <<set $theo_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "She">> <<set $theo_caphisher to "Her">> <<set $theo_mrms to "Ms.">> <</nobr>>"And what did she say?" You ask, already regretting it. Theo has always been...disorganized might be the word for it. Or chaotic. Yet, somehow, she still managed to beat golden $cameron_boygirlperson Cameron out for Valedictorian. You're almost positive that was done on pure spite alone, though. "She completely forgot move in." Viktor says, clearly not joking even if you wish he was, "So now she's scrambling to get everything together." [[That's really not surprising.|after theo]]

<<nobr>> <<set $met_theo to true>> <<set $mettheo to true>> <<set $theoname to "Theodore">> <<set $theo_ismale to true>> <<set $theo_malefemale to "male">> <<set $theo_manwoman to "man">> <<set $theo_menwomen to "men">> <<set $theo_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $theo_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $theo_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $theo_fathermother to "father">> <<set $theo_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $theo_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $theo_heshe to "he">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "He">> <<set $theo_hisher to "his">> <<set $theo_himher to "him">> <<set $theo_hesshes to "he's">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "He">> <<set $theo_caphisher to "His">> <<set $theo_mrms to "Mr.">> <</nobr>>"And what did he say?" You ask, already regretting it. Theo has always been...disorganized might be the word for it. Or chaotic. Yet, somehow, he still managed to beat golden $cameron_boygirlperson Cameron out for Valedictorian. You're almost positive that was done on pure spite alone, though. "He completely forgot move in." Viktor says, clearly not joking even if you wish he was, "So now he's scrambling to get everything together." [[That's really not surprising.|after theo]]

Katerina, sitting shotgun in the front next to their mom, mans the radio while Sofia is chattering away in the back seat. She's got one window seat while you have the other, with Viktor sitting squarely in the middle. Her ramblings are something you've grown used to by now. Vik glances over, giving you an indulgent smile. <div class="choice">[[You grin back, happy to be surrounded by people you trust before this big of a change.|trusting people][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You playfully roll your eyes back, knowing Sof can see you.|pouty sof][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You sigh, leaning your head back against the head rest. You idly wonder if the car could get any louder.|so fuckin loud][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're honestly just trying not to have a full blown panic attack.|panic attack][$stability -= 2]]</div>\

Viktor's whole face brightens when you return his smile, his slitted pupils dialating. <div class="choice">[[Yeah, your heart is definitely hammering in your chest right now. ♡|crush][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You lean back, content to listen to the pop music Kat has blasting through the car's speakers.|it's dojaaaaaa][$viktor_friend += 3]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Zoning out, you glance past him to see the scenery flying by out the window.|zoning out]]</div>\

Sofia pauses long enough to reach across her brother poke you lightly in the side. She then flawlessly picks up right where she left off. You're silently thankful she didn't inherit claws like Viktor did. Sadly, she has very bony fingers, so you're still left wincing. Your best friend seems to find the whole ordeal very funny, laughing in a way that brightens his whole face. <div class="choice">[[Yeah, your heart is definitely hammering in your chest right now. ♡|crush][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You stick your tongue out at him like the mature adult you are.|so mature][$viktor_friend += 3]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Zoning out, you glance past him to see the scenery flying by out the window.|zoning out]]</div>\

A hand brushes your shoulder, and you look up to see Viktor nudging you with concerned eyes. His sister doesn't notice anything, leaning up to show Kat a video on her phone. //Are you okay?// He mouths delibrately, not wanting to draw attention to your plummeting mood. He gestures with his hand again, offering it with his palm up. <div class="choice">[[You accept the hand, your fingers wrapping around his as your heart hammers in your chest. ♡|crushy hand hold][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You accept his hand gratefully, holding it loosely in your own. Physical touch helps ground you, and you're grateful he knows that.|friendly hand hold][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You shake your head slightly. You really don't want to be touched right now.|no touch]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You shake your head; you don't want to be touched right now, but the offer alone makes your chest ache. ♡|crushy no touch][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\

A hand brushes your shoulder, and you look up to see Viktor nudging you with concerned eyes. His sister doesn't notice anything, leaning up to show Kat a video on her phone. //Are you okay?// He mouths delibrately, not wanting to draw attention to your rapid breaths. He takes a deep breath in and holds it, his eyes urging you to do the same. Then he gestures with his hand again, offering it with his palm up. <div class="choice">[[You accept the hand, your fingers wrapping around his as your heart hammers in your chest. ♡|crushy hand hold][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You accept his hand gratefully, holding it loosely in your own. Physical touch helps ground you, and you're grateful he knows that.|friendly hand hold][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You shake your head slightly. You really don't want to be touched right now.|no touch]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You shake your head; you don't want to be touched right now, but the offer alone makes your chest ache. ♡|crushy no touch][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $viktorcrush to true>> <</nobr>>Ignoring the sudden warmth that seems to spread across your entire body, you opt to turn your focus on your phone. It's an attempted distraction, and ultimately in vain. Viktor still radiates warmth next to you, sitting so close his thigh nearly brushes your own. Thankfully the rest of the ride is short, and the next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot and Sof is nearly bursting at the opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

You watch, amused, as Kat tries to inch the music louder and louder until her mom turns it down yet again. Sof, meanwhile, is leaning over Viktor to show the both of you nearly every funny video she comes across. The next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot. Sof instantly goes from annoying you and Viktor with videos to nearly bursting with an opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

You kind of lose track of time, your eyes staring out your window without really looking at anything. The rest of the ride is short, and the next thing you know you're snapping back to reality as Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot. Sof, meanwhile, is nearly bursting with an opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

He follows suit, making a face at you that's made even more comical because of the razor sharp teeth that peek out from both his top and bottom lips. Chuckling, you sit back and lean your head against the headrest for the remainder of the ride. It's a short one, and the next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot and Sof is nearly bursting at the opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

<<nobr>> <<set $viktorcrush to true>> <</nobr>>His hand is warm in yours, his body temperature naturally higher than the average human. His grip is loose in yours despite how your fingers wrap around his, but you bask in the touch all the same. You fight down the heat of embarassment that suddenly threatens to engulf you. Now all you have to do is ignore Sof and Kat's sly smiles for the rest of the ride. It's a short one, thankfully, and the next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot and Sof is nearly bursting with an opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

His hand is warmer than the average human's, what with him being a draca. His body temperature is through the roof, but he makes a great space heater, as his mother says. The touch helps center you, pulling you back to reality as you push the queasy feeling down further. You stay like that for the remainder of the ride, though it is a short one. The next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot and Sof is nearly bursting with an opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

Viktor nods, understanding as he withdraws his hand. You can tell he's still concerned as you sit back, leaning against the headrest. You look out your window at the scenery flying by, trying to push the vaguely nauseous feeling in your stomach back down. Luckily, the rest of the ride is pretty short. The next thing you know Taisiya is pulling into a parking spot and Sof is nearly bursting with an opportunity to look around campus. [[Weston University of Magic and Alchemy is absolutely crawling with people for freshman move in.|move in]]

Sofia flings the car door open and nearly falls getting out. Kat escapes her seatbelt and jumps out of the car just as quickly, ignoring her mother's admonishments about being careful. "If we get them moved in fast, can we check out the Alchemy lab before we leave?" Kat pleads, her eyes wide and begging. "No, no! The greenhouse! Please, mom!" Sof points to the building standing by iteself, chock full of plants and surrouned by them on the outside as well. "Hmm." Taisiya taps her chin, "Maybe we can stop by both if you're good and help get these bags up quick. And //no glitter//. Or confetti. Yes, Katerina, I heard that conversation, too." "Yeah! We'll be good mom, swear!" Kat says eagerly, grabbing two pieces of luggage at once and rushing for the freshman dorm building. Sofia isn't much better, grabbing a lamp and a box and following right after her twin. "$name's room is 302 and Vik's is 304." She calls to them before turning to the two of you with a smile, "I'll go make sure they don't break anything. Stay here with your stuff, make sure no one steals anything." [[Then it's just you and Viktor, using the hatch of his mom's SUV as shade to block out the beating sun.|you gonna be good]]

"So," Viktor winces at the volume of his voice, a tell that he's nervous about something. "So?" You ask, "You about to ask if I'm ready for this 'new, life changing adventure' or something?" He groans, "I don't know why mom puts it like that, it's literally just college. No, I was gonna ask if you'll be okay seeing...you know, we're all freshman. Rivera is probably gonna pop up." Ah, yes. How could you forget about that for even a second? <div class="choice">[[Lucia Rivera|female luci]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lucien Rivera|male luci]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_lucia to true>> <<set $metluci to true>> <<set $luciname to "Lucia">> <<set $luci_isfemale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "female">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "women">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $luci_heshe to "she">> <<set $luci_hisher to "her">> <<set $luci_himher to "her">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "She">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "Her">> <</nobr>>She was... <div class="choice">[[Your ex-best friend.|ex bff]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your ex-girlfriend.|ex partner]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_lucien to true>> <<set $metluci to true>> <<set $luciname to "Lucien">> <<set $luci_ismale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "male">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "man">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "men">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "father">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $luci_heshe to "he">> <<set $luci_hisher to "his">> <<set $luci_himher to "him">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "he's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "He">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "His">> <</nobr>>He was... <div class="choice">[[Your ex-best friend.|ex bff]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your ex-boyfriend.|ex partner]]</div>\

Viktor shifts beside you, unsettled at the possibilities, "I know it's hard to see $luci_himher so just let me know if everything gets too much, okay?" You glance at him out of the corner of your eye, "You sound like your mom." "Well, she raised me, so that makes sense." He grinned, "At least I don't sound like dad. His version of comforting usually ends with crying, and not the good kind. To think the man works in a school with children is baffling." <div class="choice">[[You'll be fine. You're over it.|over it][$stability += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You'd genuinely rather eat dirt than have to see Rivera again.|please no rivera][$luci_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You kind of feel like a strong wind is going to knock you over.|oh god oh fuck][$stability -= 1]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $luciex to true>> <</nobr>>Viktor shifts beside you, unsettled at the possibilities, "I know it's hard to see $luci_himher since...well, I won't rehash it. Just let me know if everything gets too much, okay?" You glance at him out of the corner of your eye, "You sound like your mom." "Well, she raised me, so that makes sense." He grinned, "At least I don't sound like dad. His version of comforting usually ends with crying, and not the good kind. To think the man works in a school with children is baffling." <div class="choice">[[You'll be fine. You're over it.|over it][$stability += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You'd genuinely rather eat dirt than have to see Rivera again.|please no rivera][$luci_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You kind of feel like a strong wind is going to knock you over.|oh god oh fuck][$stability -= 1]]</div>\

So what if $luciname's family kicked you to the curb the second you weren't the Chosen One anymore? So what if $luciname dropped you quicker than you could even process all the changes happening in your life? You got over $luci_hisher betrayal a long time ago, and you try to ignore the entire family as a whole at this point. <div class="choice">[[Doesn't mean you don't hold a grudge, though.|grudges][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Continuing to fret about it and them in general took way too much energy. You just genuinely couldn't keep caring.|no fucks given rivera][$stability += 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> Not only did $luci_hisher family kick you out as soon as you couldn't benefit them anymore, but $luciname decided to drop you to become besties with the brand new Chosen One. <br><br> Sometimes, you wonder what would have happened if...but that's dangerous teritory. Nostalgia and bitter longing for something that never would have happened. <br><br> You were never important to $luci_himher. Your title was. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> $luciname got the glory of having bagged the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever there was between you was dead. <br><br> <<else>> $luciname got the glory of being best friends with the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever friendship you had was dead. <br><br> <</if>> [[It was a scar you weren't fond of picking at.|hi theo]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> The thought of seeing $luciname again genuinely made you sick to your stomach. <br><br> Not only did $luci_hisher family kick you out as soon as you couldn't benefit them anymore, but $luciname decided to drop you to become besties with the brand new Chosen One. <br><br> Sometimes, you wonder what would have happened if...but that's dangerous teritory. Nostalgia and bitter longing for something that never would have happened. <br><br> You were never important to $luci_himher. Your title was. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> $luciname got the glory of having bagged the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever there was between you was dead. <br><br> <<else>> $luciname got the glory of being best friends with the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever friendship you had was dead. <br><br> <</if>> [[It was a wound that remained raw and bloody over the years, and you aren't sure if it'll ever fully heal.|hi theo]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> The rancid icing on a shit cake was when $luciname decided to drop you to become besties with the brand new Chosen One. It had been a harsh wake up call, you have to admit, to realize $luci_heshe never really cared about you. <br><br> You were never important to $luciname. Your title was. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> $luciname got the glory of having bagged the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever there was between you was dead. <br><br> <<else>> $luciname got the glory of being best friends with the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever friendship you had was dead. <br><br> <</if>> [[It was a wound scabbed over and healed. You won't be caught dead picking at it now.|hi theo]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> The rancid icing on a shit cake was when $luciname decided to drop you to become besties with the brand new Chosen One. It had been a harsh wake up call, you have to admit, to realize $luci_heshe never really cared about you. <br><br> You were never important to $luciname. Your title was. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> $luciname got the glory of having bagged the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever there was between you was dead. <br><br> <<else>> $luciname got the glory of being best friends with the Chosen One, and when you no longer boosted $luci_hisher social status, whatever friendship you had was dead. <br><br> <</if>> [[You just wanted to move on. Let the past go, get rid of the skeletons lurking in your closet. Be done the Rivera family for good.|hi theo]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $species is "draca">> "Well, look who it is!" A loud voice comes from behind you, "My two favorite draca!" <br><br> <<elseif $species is "sorcerer">> "Well, look who it is!" A loud voice comes from behind you, "My favorite draca and sorcerer! Don't tell my mom I said that, by the way. She'll get mad she lost the top spot." <br><br> <<elseif $species is "cambion">> "Well, look who it is!" A loud voice comes from behind you, "My favorite draca and cambion! Don't tell my dad I said that, by the way. He'll get mad he lost the top spot." <br><br> <<else>> "Well, look who it is!" A loud voice comes from behind you, "My favorite draca and $species!" <br><br> <</if>> You can practically hear the grin in $theo_hisher tone. At least your roomate actually managed to get here; then again, Theo always has done $theo_hisher best work under pressure. <br><br> [[Viktor turns, "So you actually managed to get your shit together, then?"|sassy vik]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> Theodore Parker, looking the exact same as he did in boarding school only minus the uniform. His eyes are as startlingly blue as ever, and the freckles splashed over pale skin stand out in the sun. His black hair just brushes his ears, a strand falling in his eyes that he bats away. <br><br> <<if $species is "cambion">> He would look completely human, if not for the wings tucked closely against his back and the tail that flickers around his legs. Both are pure black and soft, as if covered in hard and velvety skin. A trademark among cambion such as yourselves. <<else>> He would look completely human, if not for the wings tucked closely against his back and the tail that flickers around his legs. Both are pure black and soft, as if covered in hard and velvety skin. A trademark among cambion like him. <</if>> <br><br> "I always manage," He gives a wide grin, "Sorry I don't have a //planner//, Vik, I'm not a nerd." <br><br> "Theo, you were literally the valedictorian." Viktor says. <br><br> "Your point?" He asks, raising an eyebrow, "Anyways, I'll see you guys up there! $nickname, I'm taking the bedroom on the right!" <br><br> [[You don't even get a chance to disagree. He's gone before you can.|move in done]] <<else>> Theodora Parker, looking the exact same as she did in boarding school only minus the uniform. Her eyes are as startlingly blue as ever, and the freckles splashed over pale skin stand out in the sun. Her is shoulder length and a bit choppy, suggesting she'd recently cut it herself just like always. A strand falls in her eyes that she bats away. <br><br> <<if $species is "cambion">> She would look completely human, if not for the wings tucked closely against her back and the tail that flickers around her legs. Both are pure black and soft, as if covered in hard and velvety skin. A trademark among Cambion such as yourselves. <<else>> She would look completely human, if not for the wings tucked closely against her back and the tail that flickers around her legs. Both are pure black and soft, as if covered in hard and velvety skin. A trademark among Cambion like her. <</if>> <br><br> "I always manage," She gives a wide grin, "Sorry I don't have a //planner//, Vik, I'm not a nerd." <br><br> "Theo, you were literally the valedictorian." Viktor says. <br><br> "Your point?" She asks, raising an eyebrow, "Anyways, I'll see you guys up there! $nickname, I'm taking the bedroom on the right!" <br><br> [[You don't even get a chance to disagree. She's gone before you can.|move in done]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

It takes quite a few more trips up and down the elevator, and eventually Vik's mom sits down by the car while you two help Sof and Kat with the heavier stuff. Everything is in your dorms, though. In boxes, yeah, but at least it's in the room. Standing in Viktor's new bedroom, you survey your work while you catch your breath. He'd chosen the room on the left side of the hallway, the one with a view of the courtyard out the window. Viktor wipes his forehead, hand coming back slightly damp from sweat, "That sucked. Having move in on the tail end of summer is //such// a shitty idea." "Now we get to go to orientation sweaty and exhausted." You say, "Aren't you excited?" He just groans. A tap on his door draws your attention, and you see a head poking around the corner. <div class="choice">[[A woman with dark curly hair, pulled into a low bun that rests against the base of her neck. Her skin is copper brown, and her eyes are so dark you almost miss the slitted pupil. When she smiles, her fangs rest against her full bottom lip.|female charlie]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A man with dark curly hair that's just long enough to almost fall in his eyes. His skin is copper brown and his eyes are so dark you almost miss the slitted pupil. When he smiles, his fangs rest against his full bottom lip.|male charlie]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_charlotte to true>> <<set $metcharlie to true>> <<set $charliename to "Charlotte">> <<set $charlie_isfemale to true>> <<set $charlie_malefemale to "female">> <<set $charlie_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $charlie_menwomen to "women">> <<set $charlie_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $charlie_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $charlie_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $charlie_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $charlie_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $charlie_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $charlie_heshe to "she">> <<set $charlie_hisher to "her">> <<set $charlie_himher to "her">> <<set $charlie_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $charlie_capheshe to "She">> <<set $charlie_caphisher to "Her">> <<set $charlie_himherself to "herself">> <</nobr>>Viktor smiles, "You must be Charlotte?" "Call me Charlie, Charlotte is a mouthful." She says, "You're Viktor?" "Yes!" He nods, "And this is my best friend, $name." Her eyes fall on you, looking you up and down, "Well, it's sure nice to meet you, $name." <div class="choice">[[Oh no, she's hot. Really hot. ♡|charlie is hot][$charlie_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[She seems nice enough, at least.|nice enough][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You force a smile. You really hate meeting strangers and all the small talk that comes with it.|small talk][$charlie_friend -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_charles to true>> <<set $metcharlie to true>> <<set $charliename to "Charles">> <<set $charlie_ismale to true>> <<set $charlie_malefemale to "male">> <<set $charlie_manwoman to "man">> <<set $charlie_menwomen to "men">> <<set $charlie_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $charlie_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $charlie_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $charlie_fathermother to "father">> <<set $charlie_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $charlie_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $charlie_heshe to "he">> <<set $charlie_hisher to "his">> <<set $charlie_himher to "him">> <<set $charlie_hesshes to "he's">> <<set $charlie_capheshe to "He">> <<set $charlie_caphisher to "His">> <<set $charlie_himherself to "himself">> <</nobr>>Viktor smiles, "You must be Charles?" "Call me Charlie." He says, "You're Viktor?" "Yes!" Vik nods, "And this is my best friend, $name." His eyes fall on you, looking you up and down, "Well, it's sure nice to meet you, $name." <div class="choice">[[Oh no, he's hot. Really hot. ♡|charlie is hot][$charlie_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[He seems nice enough, at least.|nice enough][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You force a smile. You really hate meeting strangers and all the small talk that comes with it.|small talk][$charlie_friend -= 2]]</div>\

You smile back at $charlie_himher, your eyes perhaps lingering too long, "Nice to meet you, too." $charliename doesn't seem to mind your gaze, though $charlie_heshe flushes a deep red high in $charlie_hisher cheeks. Viktor clears his throat, drawing the attention back to him, "Are you heading down to orientation? I figured we could grab $nickname's roommate and all go together." "That sounds great!" Charlie smiles then glances your way, "If it's okay with you?" <div class="choice">[[Definitely okay with you.|all go to orientation][$charlie_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You'd rather it be just you and Viktor, if you're honest. Sadly, that'd be rude, so you smile and nod.|just you and vik][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\

You smile back at $charlie_himher, "Nice to meet you, too." Viktor checks the time on his phone, "Are you heading down to orientation? I figured we could grab $nickname's roommate and all go together." "That sounds great!" Charlie smiles then glances your way, "If it's okay with you?" <div class="choice">[[Definitely okay with you.|all go to orientation][$charlie_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You'd rather it be just you and Viktor, if you're honest. Sadly, that'd be rude, so you smile and nod.|just you and vik][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You don't even want to go to orientation, let alone with someone you hardly know. Still, you sigh and agree.|ugh strangers.][$charlie_friend -= 5]]</div>\

Charlie shifts $charlie_hisher weight awkwardly for a moment. Viktor checks the time on his phone, "Are you heading down to orientation? I figured we could grab $nickname's roommate and all go together." "That sounds great!" Charlie smiles then glances your way hesitantly, "If it's okay with you?" <div class="choice">[[Definitely okay with you.|all go to orientation][$charlie_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You'd rather it be just you and Viktor, if you're honest. Sadly, that'd be rude, so you smile and nod.|just you and vik][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You don't even want to go to orientation, let alone with someone you hardly know. Still, you sigh and agree.|ugh strangers.][$charlie_friend -= 5]]</div>\

"Great, let's get Theo and get this over with." Viktor says, heading for the door. "What even is orientation? I was homeschooled so all of this is...pretty new." Charlie asks, falling into step beside you. "It's basically a meet and greet for the freshman that involves snacks and awkward conversation. They think it'll stop us from going to frat parties to meet people." You say, "It usually doesn't, mostly because people go to the frat parties for alcohol, //not// to meet people." Charlie lets out a quiet, startled laugh, "So you frequent frat parties?" "$nickname doesn't frequent //any// parties." Viktor jokes. "Not really a party person." You shrug. [[When you cross the hall and enter your own dorm, Theo is sprawled out on the couch.|really theo]]

There's a look in Viktor's eyes that tells you he knows what you're thinking. He gives you a sympathetic smile before turning back to $charliename. "Okay, then, let's get Theo and get this over with." He says, heading for the door. "What even is orientation? I was homeschooled so all of this is...pretty new." Charlie asks, falling into step beside you. "It's basically a meet and greet for the freshman that involves snacks and awkward conversation. They think it'll stop us from going to frat parties to meet people." You say, "It usually doesn't, mostly because people go to the frat parties for alcohol, //not// to meet people." Charlie lets out a quiet, startled laugh, "So you frequent frat parties?" "$nickname doesn't frequent //any// parties." Viktor jokes. "Not really a party person." You shrug. [[When you cross the hall and enter your own dorm, Theo is sprawled out on the couch.|really theo]]

There's a look in Viktor's eyes that tells you he knows what you're thinking. He gives you a sympathetic smile before turning back to $charliename. "Okay, then, let's get Theo and get this over with." He says, heading for the door. "What even is orientation? I was homeschooled so all of this is...pretty new." Charlie asks, falling into step beside you. "It's basically a meet and greet for the freshman that involves snacks and awkward conversation. They think it'll stop us from going to frat parties to meet people." You sigh, "It usually doesn't, mostly because people go to the frat parties for alcohol, //not// to meet people." Charlie lets out a quiet, startled laugh, "So you frequent frat parties?" "$nickname doesn't frequent //any// parties." Viktor jokes. "Not really a party person." You shrug. [[When you cross the hall and enter your own dorm, Theo is sprawled out on the couch.|really theo]]

Theo looks up when you enter, tilting $theo_hisher head curiously. "I don't know you." $theo_capheshe says, pointing at the newcomer of the group, "I'm $theoname Parker, you Vik's roomie?" "Yeah." Charlie nods, "$charliename, call me Charlie." "Well, Charlie, I'm sure we'll get along great." The charming smile drops into a sour expression as $theo_heshe looks at Viktor, "You're gonna make me go to orientation, aren't you?" "It's mandatory." Viktor points out, "You have to." "Bullshit." Theo rolls $theo_hisher eyes, "Like they'll kick me out for not going to //orientation//. They want our money too bad to kick us out for stupid shit like that." <div class="choice">[["Just get your ass up so we can get this over with." You sigh.|get ur ass up][$theo_friend +=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Would you just go?" You ask, "Please?"|please go theo][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You scowl, "Seriously, Theo?"|seriously][$theo_friend -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> $theoname lets out a loud laugh, startling Charlie who obviously though $theo_heshe would be mad. <br><br> "Of course, $name. Anything for you." $theo_capheshe stands, brushing off $theo_hisher jeans and throwing the jacket $theo_heshe had laying on the back of the couch over $theo_hisher shoulders, "You guys are ready, then?" <br><br> "How are you wearing a //jacket// right now?" Viktor asks, disbelieving, "It's at least eighty degrees out!" <br><br> <<if $species is "cambion">> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. Only $nickname and I get it, Vik, you don't understand. You're a walking bonfire." <br><br> <<else>> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. You just don't get it, Vik." <br><br> <</if>> <<if $species is "basilisk">> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk, same as $name. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <<else>> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <</if>> Theo grins, "You would think. I'm assuming we're all just homesick and miss the heat." <br><br> [[Viktor only shakes his head, heading for the stairs. The rest of you follow suit.|orientation time]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> $theoname gives you a small smile. <br><br> "Of course, $name. Anything for you." $theo_capheshe stands, brushing off $theo_hisher jeans and throwing the jacket $theo_heshe had laying on the back of the couch over $theo_hisher shoulders, "You guys are ready, then?" <br><br> "How are you wearing a //jacket// right now?" Viktor asks, disbelieving, "It's at least eighty degrees out!" <br><br> <<if $species is "cambion">> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. Only $nickname and I get it, Vik, you don't understand. You're a walking bonfire." <br><br> <<else>> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. You just don't get it, Vik." <br><br> <</if>> <<if $species is "basilisk">> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk, same as $name. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <<else>> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <</if>> Theo grins, "You would think. I'm assuming we're all just homesick and miss the heat." <br><br> [[Viktor only shakes his head, heading for the stairs. The rest of you follow suit.|orientation time]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> $theoname pouts, giving you a pleading look. You don't budge. <br><br> "Oh come on, $name. Don't be so stiff, I'll go if you really want me to." $theo_capheshe stands, brushing off $theo_hisher jeans and throwing the jacket $theo_heshe had laying on the back of the couch over $theo_hisher shoulders, "You guys are ready, then?" <br><br> "How are you wearing a //jacket// right now?" Viktor asks, disbelieving, "It's at least eighty degrees out!" <br><br> <<if $species is "cambion">> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. Only $nickname and I get it, Vik, you don't understand. You're a walking bonfire." <br><br> <<else>> "I'm always cold." Theo pouts, "It's a cambion thing. You just don't get it, Vik." <br><br> <</if>> <<if $species is "basilisk">> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk, same as $name. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <<else>> "Aren't you part demon?" Charlie asks, "I'm always cold, but I'm a basilisk. We're literally cold-blooded. Don't cambions use, like, hellfire and all that? Shouldn't you be warm?" <br><br> <</if>> Theo grins, "You would think. I'm assuming we're all just homesick and miss the heat." <br><br> [[Viktor only shakes his head, heading for the stairs. The rest of you follow suit.|orientation time]] <</nobr>>

The University Center is packed by the time you arrive. It's nearly three, and the sitting area by the cafe, a room with windows that nearly cover every inch of wall, has been stripped of it's usual tables. Instead it's lined with rows of chairs and a temporary stage has been set up by the front. Long bars lined with snacks and cans of pop are found by the entrance; the volunteers handing them out are also giving people stickers to write their names on. You stand in line behind Viktor and Theo, with Charlie right behind you. When you finally make it up the table, a tired looking upperclassman goes to pass you a wrapped cookie and freezes, their face paling. <div class="choice">[[His nametag says Harlow Mitchell, their pronouns listed under their name as he/they.|male harlow]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Her nametag says Harlow Mitchell, their pronouns listed under their name as she/they.|female harlow]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_harlowm to true>> <<set $metharlow to true>> <<set $harlowname to "Harlow">> <<set $harlow_ismale to true>> <<set $harlow_malefemalenb to "male">> <<set $harlow_manwomannb to "man">> <<set $harlow_menwomennb to "men">> <<set $harlow_boygirlperson to "boy">> <<set $harlow_sondaughterchild to "son">> <<set $harlow_capsondaughterchild to "Son">> <<set $harlow_fathermotherparent to "father">> <<set $harlow_brothersistersibling to "brother">> <<set $harlow_husbandwifespouse to "husband">> <<set $harlow_heshethey to "he">> <<set $harlow_hishertheir to "his">> <<set $harlow_himherthem to "him">> <<set $harlow_hesshestheyre to "he's">> <<set $harlow_capheshe to "He">> <<set $harlow_caphisher to "His">> <</nobr>>He has dark hair that's pulled back into a short ponytail and lightly tanned skin. Green eyes widen as they see you, accentuating the dark circles beneath. He shoves the cookie and a sticker in your direction before turning their full attention to Charlie behind you. You bite your cheek hard. Obviously your reputation precedes you. You glance down at the sticker, grabbing a sharpie from one of the cups at the end of the table. You write down your name and your surname... <div class="choice">[[Sanchez|aftersurname][$surname to "Sanchez"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Robinson|aftersurname][$surname to "Robinson"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nelson|aftersurname][$surname to "Nelson"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Ramos|aftersurname][$surname to "Ramos"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Patel|aftersurname][$surname to "Patel"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Sato|aftersurname][$surname to "Sato"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your own surname...|choose own surname]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_harlowf to true>> <<set $metharlow to true>> <<set $harlowname to "Harlow">> <<set $harlow_isfemale to true>> <<set $harlow_malefemalenb to "female">> <<set $harlow_manwomannb to "woman">> <<set $harlow_menwomennb to "women">> <<set $harlow_boygirlperson to "girl">> <<set $harlow_sondaughterchild to "daughter">> <<set $harlow_capsondaughterchild to "Daughter">> <<set $harlow_fathermotherparent to "mother">> <<set $harlow_brothersistersibling to "sister">> <<set $harlow_husbandwifespouse to "wife">> <<set $harlow_heshethey to "she">> <<set $harlow_hishertheir to "her">> <<set $harlow_himherthem to "her">> <<set $harlow_hesshestheyre to "she's">> <<set $harlow_capheshe to "She">> <<set $harlow_caphisher to "Her">> <</nobr>>She has dark hair that's pulled back into a short ponytail and lightly tanned skin. Green eyes widen as they see you, accentuating the dark circles beneath. She shoves the cookie and a sticker in your direction before turning their full attention to Charlie behind you. You bite your cheek hard. Obviously your reputation precedes you. You glance down at the sticker, grabbing a sharpie from one of the cups at the end of the table. You write down your name and your surname... <div class="choice">[[Sanchez|aftersurname][$surname to "Sanchez"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Robinson|aftersurname][$surname to "Robinson"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nelson|aftersurname][$surname to "Nelson"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Ramos|aftersurname][$surname to "Ramos"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Patel|aftersurname][$surname to "Patel"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Sato|aftersurname][$surname to "Sato"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Input your own surname...|choose own surname]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $greetings to true>> <<set $met_penny to true>> <</nobr>>Satisfied, you follow the rest of your group to the chair where Theo chooses a row in the very back. A woman who'd been standing next to the stage walks up the stairs and into the middle, heels clacking the whole way. She speaks into the microphone, her voice strong but not aggressive. "If all the students would please take a seat." She smiles, her lips a bright red, "Orientation is about to begin." Freshmen scrabble to find seats, breaking away from their socializing and snacking. You're sitting at the very end of the row, meaning a lot of people end up tripping over your feet trying to shimmy down the aisle. A girl catches herself on your shoulder as her heel presses sharply into your big toe. You bite back a hiss as she yelps, pulling away from you like she'd been burned. "Oh, apologies!" She says, he voice thick with an accent you can't quite place. Italian? Maybe Greek? Her black hair falls in curls that lay loose around her shoulders, her skin a deep umber brown and her eyes just as dark. Her skin is spotted with barely noticeable freckles, and her perfume smells of jasmine and gardenia. There are gills along her neck and, when she smiles, her teeth all come to a sharp point. A siren. "Is your toe alright?" She asks, and you can only nod. <<nobr>> <<if $species is "siren">> It's not exactly common for you to be speechless, but you've never met another siren before. They tend to be a rather reclusive species and stick to the waters around the Mediterranean. You're usually the only siren any of your peers have ever met. <br><br> You smile back, revealing your own teeth despite your accent revealing that you're painfully American. It's obvious from the look on her face that she realizes you've definitely never even seen the Mediterranean. <br><br> Still, you say, "It's fine. My toe, that is." <br><br> "I see." She says, "Nice to meet you. I'm Penelope Eliades. Do you have a pod? Did you ever?" <br><br> "No." You say. <br><br> "Hm." She says, her head tilting with calculating gaze, "I'll fix that." <br><br> [[She's gone on down the row before you can even give her your name.|after penelope]] <<else>> You don't make a habit to stare at people, but you've never met a siren before. They tend to be a rather reclusive species and stick to the waters around the Mediterranean. <br><br> "It's fine. My toe, that is." You say. <br><br> She laughs slightly, the sound musical, "I'm Penelope Eliades. It was nice to meet you." <br><br> [[She's gone on down the row before you can even give her your name.|after penelope]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

What's you surname? <<textbox "$surname" "" "aftersurname">> [[Continue...|aftersurname]]

A few minutes pass where you mostly end up people watching and listening to Theo's commentary. "They kinda look like a disco ball...holy shit." Theo trails off into a whisper, $theo_hisher eyes growing wide. "What?" $charliename looks concerned, "What is it?" Viktor starts to look around but Theo hisses, "Don't look." "Why?" His eyes trail over the crowd and widen, "Oh. That's why." You go to look where he is but his hand grips your arm, "Not a good idea." "Since when do I listen to you?" You joke, but the smile slides right off your face when you realize exactly what had them so concerned. Because when you glance over and see none other than $luciname Rivera, $luci_hisher eyes are locked right on you. Cameron Fletcher stands right next to $luci_himher, $cameron_hishertheir gaze guarded. "Students!" The woman on stage claps her hands together, "I'm President Natalie Wright, and I'd like to extend a warm welcome to you all. This year at Weston is sure to be one of the best! To ensure your success, we're going to go over our basic policies and procedures with you all tonight at orientation. Now, I'd like to introduce our faculty, starting with our deans." Theo groans quietly, "Fucking fantastic." [[Feeling two pairs of eyes burning into you, you find yourself agreeing.|shut up theo]]

Viktor, who's sat beside you, elbows Theo softly in the side. "Shut up." He hisses quietly, "Or at least whisper." Theo sighs, sitting back in $theo_hisher seat, "This is going to be so fucking boring." Other freshmen are talking throughout the crowd, whispering and joking and some not even attempting to be quiet. Even more are on their phones, or staring off into space. The current speaker, the Dean of Students, seems to be pushing through the lack of attention with a tight smile. A new voice joins in, "They usually are." Your eyes snap to the seat in front of you. <div class="choice">[[A nephilim with cream-colored wings and a quirked smile stares right back, mischief in his eyes.|male ami]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A nephilim with cream-colored wings and a quirked smile stares right back, mischief in her eyes.|female ami]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $metami to true>> <<set $met_amrit to true>> <<set $aminame to "Amrit">> <<set $ami_isfemale to false>> <<set $ami_ismale to true>> <<set $ami_malefemale to "male">> <<set $ami_manwoman to "man">> <<set $ami_menwomen to "men">> <<set $ami_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $ami_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $ami_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $ami_fathermother to "father">> <<set $ami_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $ami_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $ami_heshe to "he">> <<set $ami_hisher to "his">> <<set $ami_himher to "him">> <<set $ami_caphisher to "His">> <<set $ami_capheshe to "He">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "he's">> <</nobr>>You notice his nails are painted black as he leans his arm against the back of his chair, and a simple snake tattoo curls around his right wrist. His hair falls in loose, brown curls that aren't quite long enough to tie back. His skin is a medium, warm brown and his eyes, framed with smudged eyeliner, are nearly black. He holds a hand out, grin growing, "Amrit Singh. Friends call me Amri." <div class="choice">[[You try and ignore him, instead focusing on the deans speaking at the front of the room.|ew boring][$ami_friend -= 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You accept his hand, "Nice to meet you, Amri."|hand skake bestie][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You hope your face isn't red as you accept his hand, shaking it firmly. He is without a doubt attractive. ♡|hot amri][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You glance over at Viktor, trying to decipher his opinion of the nephilim before you.|yes vik question mark][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $met_amrita to true>> <<set $aminame to "Amrita">> <<set $ami_isfemale to true>> <<set $ami_ismale to false>> <<set $ami_malefemale to "female">> <<set $ami_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $ami_menwomen to "women">> <<set $ami_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $ami_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $ami_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $ami_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $ami_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $ami_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $ami_heshe to "she">> <<set $ami_hisher to "her">> <<set $ami_himher to "her">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $ami_capheshe to "She">> <<set $ami_caphisher to "Her">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "she's">> <</nobr>>You notice her nails are painted black as she leans her arm against the back of her chair, and a simple snake tattoo curls around her right wrist. Her hair falls in loose, brown curls over her shoulders and down her chest. Her skin is a medium, warm brown and her eyes, framed with smudged eyeliner, are nearly black. She holds a hand out, grin growing, "Amrita Singh. Friends call me Amri." <div class="choice">[[You try and ignore her, instead focusing on the deans speaking at the front of the room.|ew boring][$ami_friend -=5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You accept her hand, "Nice to meet you, Amri."|hand skake bestie][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You hope your face isn't red as you accept her hand, shaking it firmly. She is without a doubt attractive. ♡|hot amri][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You glance over at Viktor, trying to decipher his opinion of the nephilim before you.|yes vik question mark][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $ignoredami to true>> <</nobr>>$ami_capheshe drops $ami_hisher hand, $ami_hisher face falling. With a small shrug, $ami_heshe turns back around. You steadfastly ignore Theo's gusty sigh at the loss of a distraction and Charlie's quiet laugh at Theo's dramatics. [[After the last dean has spoken, President Wright comes to the center of the stage once more.|after deans talk]]

$ami_caphisher grip is firm and $ami_hisher hands are warm. $ami_capheshe releases your hand after a few short seconds, $ami_hisher eyes falling on Theo. "$theoname Parker." Amri raises an eyebrow, "Tell your parents thanks for me." Theo's face scrunches up in confusion, "Uh, why?" "They made my father's life hell." The nephilim drawls with a smirk, "Which is the least he deserves, but it's a start." Theo's eyes lit up in recognition before $theo_heshe scoffed, "Please, I think you did plenty of that yourself." Viktor jolts in his seat, "You're Arjun and Diya Singh's $ami_sondaughter. That's where I recognized the name." "Unfortunately correct." Amri grins. Charlie blinks in shock, "I heard about you all the way in California. Owler really dragged your dad through the mud." The names ring a bell. Several bells, actually. Arjun Singh is one of the most influential politicians in supernatural America, second to only the Rivera matriarch herself. $aminame, his $ami_sondaughter, was nearly the polar opposite of $ami_hisher father. $aminame was a hot topic in the news and magazines of the supernatural community for quite some time. $ami_capheshe attended a private school in upstate Vermont and had begun writing articles for local news outlets exposing $ami_hisher father during $ami_hisher junior year of high school. Owler, better known as the supernatural version of Twitter, had an absolute field day with slamming the man about the allegations. Now here $aminame is, in New York, probably still doing things $ami_hisher parents wouldn't approve of. "I must admit," $aminame continues, "I am pretty curious as to what the infamous Unchosen One is doing for their college career. What are you majoring in? Please say Media or Marketing. That'd be hilarious." <div class="choice">[[You shrink back at the mention of your moniker, heart dropping.|sad unchosen][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You fight back a scowl. That shitty name would never leave you, huh?|stupid ass name][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't hold back a snort. That would be pretty funny.|good joke amri][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your eyes narrow into a glare. Talk about throwing manners out the window.|yikes amri][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You've gotten this question so many times since graduation, you're honestly used to it by now.|used to it][$accepting += 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $amiishot to true>> <</nobr>>$ami_caphisher grip is firm and $ami_hisher hands are warm. $ami_capheshe releases your hand after a few short seconds, shooting you a wink before $ami_hisher eyes fall on Theo. "$theoname Parker." Amri raises an eyebrow, "Tell your parents thanks for me." Theo's face scrunches up in confusion, "Uh, why?" "They made my father's life hell." The nephilim drawls with a smirk, "Which is the least he deserves, but it's a start." Theo's eyes lit up in recognition before $theo_heshe scoffed, "Please, I think you did plenty of that yourself." Viktor jolts in his seat, "You're Arjun and Diya Singh's $ami_sondaughter. That's where I recognized the name." "Unfortunately correct." Amri grins. Charlie blinks in shock, "I heard about you all the way in California. Owler really dragged your dad through the mud." The names ring a bell. Several bells, actually. Arjun Singh is one of the most influential politicians in supernatural America, second to only the Rivera matriarch herself. $aminame, his $ami_sondaughter, was nearly the polar opposite of $ami_hisher father. $aminame was a hot topic in the news and magazines of the supernatural community for quite some time. $ami_capheshe attended a private school in upstate Vermont and had begun writing articles for local news outlets exposing $ami_hisher father during $ami_hisher junior year of high school. Owler, better known as the supernatural version of Twitter, had an absolute field day with slamming the man about the allegations. Now here $aminame is, in New York, probably still doing things $ami_hisher parents wouldn't approve of. "I must admit," $aminame continues, "I am pretty curious as to what the infamous Unchosen One is doing for their college career. What are you majoring in? Please say Media or Marketing. That'd be hilarious." <div class="choice">[[You shrink back at the mention of your moniker, heart dropping.|sad unchosen][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You fight back a scowl. That moniker would never fucking leave you, huh?|stupid ass name][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't hold back a snort. That would be pretty funny.|good joke amri][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your eyes narrow into a glare. Talk about throwing manners out the window.|yikes amri][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You've gotten this question so many times since graduation, you're honestly used to it by now.|used to it][$accepting += 2]]</div>\

Viktor seems to be sizing the new member of the conversation up, his eyes narrowed as he does. That's how Vik has always been following your fall from grace; always ready to defend first and ask questions later. $aminame stares at you for a few seconds, hand hanging in the air before they shrug and drop it. Their attention then turns to Theo. "$theoname Parker." Amri raises an eyebrow, "Tell your parents thanks for me." Theo's face scrunches up in confusion, "Uh, why?" "They made my father's life hell." The nephilim drawls with a smirk, "Which is the least he deserves, but it's a start." Theo's eyes lit up in recognition before $theo_heshe scoffed, "Please, I think you did plenty of that yourself." Viktor jolts in his seat, "You're Arjun and Diya Singh's $ami_sondaughter. That's where I recognized the name." "Unfortunately correct." Amri grins. Charlie blinks in shock, "I heard about you all the way in California. Owler really dragged your dad through the mud." The names ring a bell. Several bells, actually. Arjun Singh is one of the most influential politicians in supernatural America, second to only the Rivera matriarch herself. $aminame, his $ami_sondaughter, was nearly the polar opposite of $ami_hisher father. $aminame was a hot topic in the news and magazines of the supernatural community for quite some time. $ami_capheshe attended a private school in upstate Vermont and had begun writing articles for local news outlets exposing $ami_hisher father during $ami_hisher junior year of high school. Owler, better known as the supernatural version of Twitter, had an absolute field day with slamming the man about the allegations. Now here $aminame is, in New York, probably still doing things $ami_hisher parents wouldn't approve of. "I must admit," $aminame continues, "I am pretty curious as to what the infamous Unchosen One is doing for their college career. What are you majoring in? Please say Media or Marketing. That'd be hilarious." <div class="choice">[[You shrink back at the mention of your moniker, heart dropping.|sad unchosen][$stability -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You fight back a scowl. That moniker would never fucking leave you, huh?|stupid ass name][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't hold back a snort. That would be pretty funny.|good joke amri][$ami_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your eyes narrow into a glare. Talk about throwing manners out the window.|yikes amri][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You've gotten this question so many times since graduation, you're honestly used to it by now.|used to it][$accepting += 2]]</div>\

As the last speaker begins wrapping up, Theo leans over Viktor and Charlie to look at all of you, "Okay, what's the game plan?" "Game plan?" $charliename asks, "Uh, leave?" "No, no, no." Theo waves a hand around as if to dispel the notion, "We have to avoid those assholes." $theo_capheshe jerks a thumb unsubtly in $luciname and Cameron's direction, who are thankfully paying attention to the stage and not your group. "Shit." Viktor suddenly says, looking up from his phone, "Well, can the game plan be ducking out and hauling ass for the bookstore because I forgot to pick my textbooks up." You groan, "That would mean I did too." "Wow, who would think I'd see the day that I'm more organized than you two?" Theo laughs, "Is the bookstore even open this late?" "No." Charlie says, "It closed at three today so freshmen could attend move in and orientation." "Great. That's great." You say, "Tomorrow's the weekend and classes start on Monday." "When's your first class?" $charlie_capheshe asks, "Could you pick them up before?" "$nickname and I both have Theory of Alchemy at eight." Vik shakes his head, "There's no way, that's when they open. We'd be half an hour late by the time we made it across campus to our lecture hall." "Sick, I have Theory first thing too." $theoname smiles, "I could tell the professor why you're late?" You frown, "Somehow I have the feeling that won't help me." Theo looks confused before $theo_heshe realizes and $theo_hisher face falls into a scowl, "You already know this professor is gonna be a dick, then?" "No, but I just kind of assume at this point." You sigh, "Saves me the dissapointment." "That's totally fair." Theo concedes. [[It's quiet for a moment before Charlie speaks again.|book store en route]]

Viktor tenses at your side, sensing your unease, "And what would be funny about it?" $aminame is clearly caught off guard, $ami_hisher eyes bouncing between the two of you, "I just meant, with ?their reputation..." "It's not a joke." His eyes narrow, "You're rich, I thought that meant they taught you manners." Theo is watching the encounter closely, going from laidback to cold in seconds, a lazy grin curling $theo_hisher lips that promised hurt. "Nah, Vik." Theo leans forward, $theo_hisher eyes sharp as they watch Amri, "Rich people are the worst at that. He is right, though, Singh. Watch your mouth." Amri's eyes land on you as $ami_heshe pales, "I didn't mean it to come out like that. I was just trying to make light of it, but I didn't do a very good job. I'm sorry." <div class="choice">[["It's fine." You avoid looking at anyone, but you can feel their eyes on you.|iss cool][$stability += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Whatever." You roll your eyes, leaning back in your chair. You hate that it affects you so much.|whatevs][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Maybe don't comment on something you know nothing about next time." You lean back in your chair, finding the dean on stage suddenly very interesting.|ouch ami][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\

Viktor tenses at your side, sensing your annoyance, "And what would be funny about it?" $aminame is clearly caught off guard, $ami_hisher eyes bouncing between the two of you, "I just meant, with ?their reputation..." "It's not a joke." His eyes narrow, "You're rich, I thought that meant they taught you manners." Theo is watching the encounter closely, going from laidback to cold in seconds, a lazy grin curling $theo_hisher lips that promised hurt. "Nah, Vik." Theo leans forward, $theo_hisher eyes sharp as they watch Amri, "Rich people are the worst at that. He is right, though, Singh. Watch your mouth." Amri's eyes land on you as $ami_heshe pales, probably to apologize, but you cut them off with a wave of your hand, "Listen, it's whatever. I'd love to escape all that Unchosen shit, but we all know that'll never happen." $ami_capheshe grimaces slightly, $ami_hisher eyes dropping, "Still, it was insensitive. I won't mention it again." [[The conversation lulls not long after that, the atmosphere rather tense.|lull convo ch 1]]

<<nobr>> <<set $goodsportamri to true>> <</nobr>>Viktor tenses at your side, but seems to relax when you laugh. "Yeah, wouldn't that be something?" You roll your eyes, "I'd have to go to the un-supernatural world to find a job. Then again, I might need to do that anyway." "Nah, just give me a call." Theo leans across Viktor and Charlie to throw you a wink, "I can hook you up with my dad. Not like, //sex// hook up, but job hook up." You wrinkle your nose but still manage a smile, "Yes, thank you for the clarification, Theo." $aminame grins, "We're going to get along //great//." The conversation lulls not long after, with only $theoname making the occasional snide comment and $aminame hiding their laughter under coughs. That's when you notice Viktor glancing over at you. He whispers low enough that only you can hear, "You good?" <div class="choice">[["I'm good." You confirm.|i good broski][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You only shrug slightly, glancing away. You don't exactly feel like talking.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your face must say whatever he needs to know, because his brows dip into a concerned furrow.|concernie vik][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

Viktor tenses at your side, sensing your annoyance before you can even open your mouth, "And what would be funny about it?" $aminame is clearly caught off guard, $ami_hisher eyes bouncing between the two of you, "I just meant, with ?their reputation..." "It's not a joke." His eyes narrow, "You're rich, I thought that meant they taught you manners." Theo is watching the encounter closely, going from laidback to cold in seconds, a lazy grin curling $theo_hisher lips that promised hurt. "Nah, Vik." Theo leans forward, $theo_hisher eyes sharp as they watch Amri, "Rich people are the worst at that. He is right, though, Singh. Watch your mouth." Amri's eyes land on you as $ami_heshe pales, probably to apologize, but you cut them off with a wave of your hand, "Listen, it's whatever. I'd love to escape all that Unchosen shit, but we all know that'll never happen." $ami_capheshe grimaces slightly, $ami_hisher eyes dropping, "Still, it was insensitive. I won't mention it again." [[The conversation lulls not long after that.|lull convo ch 1]]

Viktor tenses at your side, already knowing how exhausted you get with the nonstop commentary of your status, "And what would be funny about it?" $aminame is clearly caught off guard, $ami_hisher eyes bouncing between the two of you, "I just meant, with ?their reputation..." "It's not a joke." His eyes narrow, "You're rich, I thought that meant they taught you manners." Theo is watching the encounter closely, going from laidback to cold in seconds, a lazy grin curling $theo_hisher lips that promised hurt. "Nah, Vik." Theo leans forward, $theo_hisher eyes sharp as they watch Amri, "Rich people are the worst at that. He is right, though, Singh. Watch your mouth." Amri's eyes land on you as $ami_heshe pales, probably to apologize, but you cut them off with a wave of your hand, "Listen, it's whatever. I promise I've heard every joke you could tell fifty other times." $ami_capheshe grimaces slightly, $ami_hisher eyes dropping, "Still, it was rude. I'm sorry about that." [[The conversation lulls not long after that.|lull convo ch 1]]

<<nobr>> "I work there." $charlie_capheshe says, "I have a key. We're allowed to go in and use the printer for free after hours if we need to, so I'm sure it wouldn't be a big deal if I just say that's why I was there and log your orders Monday morning. You paid online already, right?" <br><br> "Yeah," Viktor says, "Thank you, seriously, you're a life saver." <br><br> <<if $charlie_isfemale is true>> "No problem." $charliename laughs, "Take it as my thanks for not being an asshole. I was terrified of having the roommate from hell, especially with the rooms being co-ed." <br><br> <<else>> "No problem." $charliename laughs, "Take it as my thanks for not being an asshole. I was terrified of having the roommate from hell." <br><br> <</if>> <<if $species is "cambion">> "Oh, I got the roommate from hell!" Theo jerks a thumb in your direction, laughing, "Technically so did ?they, though." <br><br> <<else>> "Oh, $name got the roommate from hell!" Theo jerks a thumb in your direction, laughing. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[["Obviously, I didn't get as lucky as you did." You say to Charlie, grinning over at Theo.|asshole theo][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You think, privately, that you hadn't gotten as lucky as Charlie. You wish Vik had been your roommate.|wish vik roomie][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Theo wasn't an asshole either, luckily. A jerk sometimes, sure, but just to people who were actually assholes.|like theo][$theo_friend += 2]]</div> <</nobr>>

The conversation lulls not long after, with only $theoname making the occasional snide comment and $aminame hiding their laughter under coughs. You notice Viktor glancing over at you. He whispers low enough that only you can hear, "You good?" <div class="choice">[["I'm good." You confirm.|i good broski][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You only shrug slightly, glancing away. You don't exactly feel like talking.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your face must say whatever he needs to know, because his brows dip into a concerned furrow.|concernie vik][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

$aminame grimaces, turning back around in their seat with a nod. The conversation lulls not long after, with only $theoname making the occasional snide comment. You notice Viktor glancing over at you. He whispers low enough that only you can hear, "You good?" <div class="choice">[["I'm good." You confirm.|i good broski][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You only shrug slightly, glancing away. You don't exactly feel like talking.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your face must say whatever he needs to know, because his brows dip into a concerned furrow.|concernie vik][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

Soon, only $theoname making the occasional snide comment and $aminame hiding their laughter under coughs is the only talking that comes from your little corner of the crowd. You notice Viktor glancing over at you, his brows furrowed. He whispers low enough that only you can hear, "You good?" <div class="choice">[["I'm good." You confirm.|i good broski][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You only shrug slightly, glancing away. You don't exactly feel like talking.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Your face must say whatever he needs to know, because his brows dip into a concerned furrow.|concernie vik][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

He returns the gesture, his expression soft, "Good." His smile, the real thing, is one that gives him dimples on his cheeks and makes his eyes light up. He hates the dimples, has since he was a kid, but his mom has always said they were cute. <div class="choice">[[Privately, you also think they're pretty cute. You think he's cute as a whole, though, so that's not saying much. ♡|after deans talk][$viktor_love += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You teased him about them endlessly as children.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It makes him look happy, though, and he deserves to be happy.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

He doesn't say anything else and just lays his hand palm up on his leg, the offer there if you choose to take it. <div class="choice">[[He knows physical touch is grounding for you. You take it.|take the hand ch 1][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You appreciate it, but don't feel like touching anyone right now.|don't take the hand ch 1][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

Theo laughs and it's //incredibly// loud in the quiet room. Vik slaps $theo_himher on the arm in vain to get $theo_himher to shut up, but it doesn't work well as the draca is fighting back his own chuckles. The president takes the stage again as the lights turn back on and the spotlight dims, her smile the most genuine one of the staff that you've seen all night, "Now, I know that was boring, but all this pomp and circumstance is for a reason. It's your first year of college, and I have faith in every single one of you." She gestures to the opposite end of the building, where you know the hallway leads to the cafeteria. "The Dining Hall will be open late tonight, so go grab refreshments and some dinner on the house. Yes, that means free. Your meal plans won't be charged and you won't have to pay out of pocket otherwise. I believe there's a sushi bar tonight in addition to the regular menu, so I'd take advantage!" She laughs as muttering starts up in the crowd, and $theoname once again turns to look at rest of you. "Can we do that, like, after we get your books and stuff?" Theo asks. "You don't have to come with, you know." Viktor says, "We can get our books while you want to eat." "I don't want to be the loser eating alone." Theo gripes, "That just looks sad. C'mon, losers stick together this year." "You're including yourself in that, then?" $charliename raises an eyebrow. "Duh, everyone hates cambion." Theo snorts, "Just because I'm amazing doesn't mean everyone has come to that realization yet." <div class="choice">[["I'm down for free food." You grin, "But only if Theo carries my books for the night."|theo carries books][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I'm really tired." You say, "I think I'll just head back after. You guys free, though."|no sushi][$theo_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Well, I'm not passing up free food." You say, "I'm in."|totes freebie dinner][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\

The president takes the stage again as the lights turn back on and the spotlight dims, her smile the most genuine one of the staff that you've seen all night, "Now, I know that was boring, but all this pomp and circumstance is for a reason. It's your first year of college, and I have faith in every single one of you." She gestures to the opposite end of the building, where you know the hallway leads to the cafeteria. "The Dining Hall will be open late tonight, so go grab refreshments and some dinner on the house. Yes, that means free. Your meal plans won't be charged and you won't have to pay out of pocket otherwise. I believe there's a sushi bar tonight in addition to the regular menu, so I'd take advantage!" She laughs as muttering starts up in the crowd, and $theoname once again turns to look at rest of you. "Can we do that, like, after we get your books and stuff?" Theo asks. "You don't have to come with, you know." Viktor says, "We can get our books while you want to eat." "I don't want to be the loser eating alone." Theo gripes, "That just looks sad. C'mon, losers stick together this year." "You're including yourself in that, then?" $charliename raises an eyebrow. "Duh, everyone hates cambion." Theo snorts, "Just because I'm amazing doesn't mean everyone has come to that realization yet." <div class="choice">[["I'm down for free food." You grin, "But only if Theo carries my books for the night."|theo carries books][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I'm really tired." You say, "I think I'll just head back after. You guys free, though."|no sushi][$theo_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Well, I'm not passing up free food." You say, "I'm in."|totes freebie dinner][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\

He cups your hand loosely, his palms warm in a way that would be unusual for anyone other than a draca. He glances over again, eyebrow slightly raised. You squeeze his hand lightly in thanks, making him smile. His smile, the real thing, is one that gives him dimples on his cheeks and makes his eyes light up. He hates the dimples, has since he was a kid, but his mom has always said they were cute. <div class="choice">[[Privately, you also think they're pretty cute. You think he's cute as a whole, though, so that's not saying much. ♡|after deans talk][$viktor_love += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You teased him about it endlessly as children.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It makes him look happy, though, and he deserves to be happy.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

He glances over before retracting his hand, still giving you a comforting smile. His smile, despite it currently being tinged with worry, is one that gives him dimples on his cheeks and makes his eyes light up. He hates the dimples, has since he was a kid, but his mom has always said they were cute. <div class="choice">[[Privately, you also think they're pretty cute. You think he's cute as a whole, though, so that's not saying much. ♡|after deans talk][$viktor_love += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You teased him about it endlessly as children.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It makes him look happy, though, and he deserves to be happy.|after deans talk][$viktor_friend += 4]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $dindin to true>> <<set $theocarriesbooks to true>> <</nobr>>"Deal." Theo agrees immediately. You raise your eyebrows, "You're too easy." "That's what she said." Theo winks, making Viktor immediately groan, "What about you guys?" "Sure." Charlie glances over at you, "I, uh, I'm in." "Same." Viktor smirks slightly, "Can't be the only one going back to the dorms like a loser, huh?" "See, you're getting it!" Theo chuckles. "Now," President Wright continues up front, "You all have an amazing weekend and thank you for coming." Students are on their feet in seconds. It looks like $aminame has already disappeared into the mass of people, as well. The four of you share a look, coming to a mutual decision in seconds. Theo stands and begins leading the way to the exit, leaving you scrambling to keep up as Charlie and Viktor also shoulder their way through the crowd. That's when you hear it. "$name!" A very familiar voice calls out, "Hey, $name, wait up!" Speak of the devil, you guess. That's Cameron Fletcher. You freeze in your tracks, though not quite willingly. <div class="choice">[[You thought you were ready for this, but that's clearly not the case.|not ready mayday][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can do this. You can. Cameron is only a person, just like you and everyone else.|just doooo itttt][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nope. Absolutely not. Not today and not ever. Mayday, SOS, whatever, this is an emergency and you need an out.|SOS PLEASE SOMEONE HELP ME][$accepting -= 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $dindin to false>> <</nobr>>"Boring." Theo groans, "C'mon, Vik? Charlie? You in?" $charliename seems unsure, but Viktor just rolls his eyes, "I guess. I'm dropping my books off back at the dorm, though. I'm not carrying them all night." "Deal!" Theo grins, "Charlie?" "Uh, I think I'll go back with $name." $charlie_capheshe says, "It's been a really long day with move in and all." "Ugh, lame but I get it." Theo waves a hand, $theo_hisher smile telling you $theo_hesshes not all that upset. "Now," President Wright continues up front, "You all have an amazing weekend and thank you for coming." Students are on their feet in seconds. It looks like $aminame has already disappeared into the mass of people, as well. The four of you share a look, coming to a mutual decision in seconds. Theo stands and begins leading the way to the exit, leaving you scrambling to keep up as Charlie and Viktor also shoulder their way through the crowd. That's when you hear it. "$name!" A very familiar voice calls out, "Hey, $name, wait up!" Speak of the devil, you guess. That's Cameron Fletcher. You freeze in your tracks, though not quite willingly. <div class="choice">[[You thought you were ready for this, but that's clearly not the case.|not ready mayday][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can do this. You can. Cameron is only a person, just like you and everyone else.|just doooo itttt][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nope. Absolutely not. Not today and not ever. Mayday, SOS, whatever, this is an emergency and you need an out.|SOS PLEASE SOMEONE HELP ME][$accepting -= 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $dindin to true>> <</nobr>>"Yes!" Theo fist pumps slightly, "What about you guys?" "Sure." Charlie glances over at you, "I, uh, I'm in." "Same." Viktor smirks slightly, "Can't be the only one going back to the dorms like a loser, huh?" "See, you're getting it!" Theo chuckles. President Wright continues speaking up front, "Now, you all have an amazing weekend and thank you for coming." Students are on their feet in seconds. It looks like $aminame has already disappeared into the mass of people, as well. The four of you share a look, coming to a mutual decision in seconds. Theo stands and begins leading the way to the exit, leaving you scrambling to keep up as Charlie and Viktor also shoulder their way through the crowd. That's when you hear it. "$name!" A very familiar voice calls out, "Hey, $name, wait up!" Speak of the devil, you guess. That's Cameron Fletcher. You freeze in your tracks, though not quite willingly. <div class="choice">[[You thought you were ready for this, but that's clearly not the case.|not ready mayday][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can do this. You can. Cameron is only a person, just like you and everyone else.|just doooo itttt][$accepting += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Nope. Absolutely not. Not today and not ever. Mayday, SOS, whatever, this is an emergency and you need an out.|SOS PLEASE SOMEONE HELP ME][$accepting -= 5]]</div>\

Luckily, $theoname Parker has a vendetta and is on your side. $theo_capheshe darts behind you, and even though you don't turn around you hear the thump and following groan. "Oh, sorry, Fletcher." $theo_caphisher voice is cloyingly sweet, "My foot slipped. Uh, twice. Hardly even noticed you there!" From the wide eyed look on Charlie's face and Viktor's pursed lips as he tries not to laugh, you really wish you'd gotten to see whatever just happened. Theo returns to $theo_hisher spot at the front, saying as $theo_heshe passes, "Pick up the speed, guys. I just took out the Chosen One by $cameron_hishertheir kneecaps." [[You're out of the building in under a minute. It helps that most of the crowd is now quite wary of Theo's feet.|bookstore]]

<<nobr>> <<set $okayillbite to true>> <</nobr>>However, when $theoname Parker has a vendetta, next to nothing will stop $theo_himher. $theo_capheshe darts behind you, and even though you don't turn around you hear the thump and following groan. Holy shit. You really hope $theo_heshe didn't just... "Oh, sorry, Fletcher." $theo_caphisher voice is cloyingly sweet, "My foot slipped. Uh, twice. Hardly even noticed you there!" $theo_capheshe did. From the wide eyed look on Charlie's face and Viktor's pursed lips as he tries not to laugh, it must've been pretty brutal. Theo returns to $theo_hisher spot at the front, saying as $theo_heshe passes, "Pick up the speed, guys. I just took out the Chosen One by $cameron_hishertheir kneecaps." [[You're out of the building in under a minute. It helps that most of the crowd is now quite wary of Theo's feet.|bookstore]]

The walk to the bookstore doesn't take long, and Theo keeps peeking over $theo_hisher shoulder as if Campus Security is going to materialize in the rose bushes. <div class="choice">[["You didn't have to do that, you know?" You say, though it was much appreciated.|appreciate kneecap bustin][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["That was really unnecessary." You point out, "And illegal. Heard of assault?"|annoyed at kneecap bustin][$accepting -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You wish he hadn't done that. It only made you look worse.|yikes kneecap bustin][$theo_friend -= 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're currently laughing so hard you can barely breathe.|laughing kneecap bustin][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\

<<nobr>> "I really did." Theo rolls $theo_hisher eyes, "$cameron_heshethey deserved it. I mean, when have you ever wanted to talk to either of them?" <br><br> <<if $okayillbite is true>> Before today? Never. <br><br> <<else>> Well, never. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[Maybe...maybe never is a strong word, though. You missed Luci, it was true. Even after everything.|missed luci][$accepting += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Yeah, never was an appropriate word.|nevernever ok w it][$accepting -= 2]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "Yeah, well, $cameron_hishertheir voice was assaulting my ears." Theo rolls $theo_hisher eyes, "Besides, $cameron_heshethey deserved it. When have you ever wanted to talk to either of them?" <br><br> <<if $okayillbite is true>> Before today? Never. <br><br> <<else>> Well, never. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[Maybe...maybe never is a strong word, though. You missed Luci, it was true. Even after everything.|missed luci][$accepting += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Yeah, never was an appropriate word.|nevernever][$accepting -= 2]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "I can practically hear your fretting all the way over here." Theo rolls $theo_hisher eyes, "C'mon, you know $cameron_heshethey deserved it. I mean, when have you ever wanted to talk to either of them?" <br><br> <<if $okayillbite is true>> Before today? Never. <br><br> <<else>> Well, never. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[Maybe...maybe never is a strong word, though. You missed Luci, it was true. Even after everything.|missed luci][$accepting += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Yeah, never was an appropriate word.|nevernever ok w it][$accepting -= 2]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "Y'know, I'm glad someone around here appreciates me." Theo grins, "Vik, loose the mopey grimace. You know $cameron_heshethey deserved it. I mean, when have we ever wanted to talk to either of them?" <br><br> <<if $okayillbite is true>> Before today? Never. <br><br> <<else>> Well, never. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[Maybe...maybe never is a strong word, though. You missed Luci, it was true. Even after everything.|missed luci laughing][$accepting += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Yeah, never was an appropriate word.|nevernever laughing][$accepting -= 2]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $missedluci to true>> <</nobr>>$luciname apologizing was something that frequented your most deluded daydreams, it was true. You knew it would never happen like you knew the sun would rise in the morning. Still. You held onto you delusions because they were better than your nightmares. "We're here!" Charlie announces, interrupting your bickering, "Let me grab my key." $charlie_capheshe fiddles around with the keys on their keychain, which is an adorable cartoon snake wrapped up in a heart. Theo pokes around the door, nudging something with $theo_hisher foot. "Someone had an accident." $theo_heshe whistles, "Think they actually tried to pick the lock with that?" A thin, sharp piece of metal lays beside the trashcan, the tip covered in a rusty brown color. You sincerely hope some drunk didn't mutilate themselves trying to get the door open. Viktor glances down at it, "It's New York." And, really, that explains a lot. Charlie opens the door and ushers you all inside, "Sorry, still getting used to the keys. One for the front door, one for the backroom, one for the register, and they all look the same." [[The lights flicker as they come on.|body-ody-ody-ody]]

Either way, Theo was doing you a favor. There were only a few ways that conversation would've gone, and none of them were in your favor. "We're here!" Charlie announces, "Let me grab my key." $charlie_capheshe fiddles around with the keys on their keychain, which is an adorable cartoon snake wrapped up in a heart. Theo pokes around the door, nudging something with $theo_hisher foot. "Someone had an accident." $theo_heshe whistles, "Think they actually tried to pick the lock with that?" A thin, sharp piece of metal lays beside the trashcan, the tip covered in a rusty brown color. You sincerely hope some drunk didn't mutilate themselves trying to get the door open. Viktor glances down at it, "It's New York." And, really, that explains a lot. Charlie opens the door and ushers you all inside, "Sorry, still getting used to the keys. One for the front door, one for the backroom, one for the register, and they all look the same." [[The lights flicker as they come on.|body-ody-ody-ody]]

Either way, Theo probably thought $theo_heshe was doing you a favor. There were only a few ways that conversation would've gone, and none of them were in your favor. "We're here!" Charlie announces, "Let me grab my key." $charlie_capheshe fiddles around with the keys on their keychain, which is an adorable cartoon snake wrapped up in a heart. Theo pokes around the door, nudging something with $theo_hisher foot. "Someone had an accident." $theo_heshe whistles, "Think they actually tried to pick the lock with that?" A thin, sharp piece of metal lays beside the trashcan, the tip covered in a rusty brown color. You sincerely hope some drunk didn't mutilate themselves trying to get the door open. Viktor glances down at it, "It's New York." And, really, that explains a lot. Charlie opens the door and ushers you all inside, "Sorry, still getting used to the keys. One for the front door, one for the backroom, one for the register, and they all look the same." [[The lights flicker as they come on.|body-ody-ody-ody]]

"Careful, $nickname." Vik rolls his eyes, begrudgingly affectionate, "I'm sure they can hear your laughing all the way at the campus security office." Theo snorts, "Good. Maybe if //those// assholes laughed once in a while, it'd unlodge the stick from up their asses." Regardless of legality, Theo was doing you a favor. There were only a few ways that conversation would've gone, and none of them were in your favor. "We're here!" Charlie announces, "Let me grab my key." $charlie_capheshe fiddles around with the keys on their keychain, which is an adorable cartoon snake wrapped up in a heart. Theo pokes around the door, nudging something with $theo_hisher foot. "Someone had an accident." $theo_heshe whistles, "Think they actually tried to pick the lock with that?" A thin, sharp piece of metal lays beside the trashcan, the tip covered in a rusty brown color. You sincerely hope some drunk didn't mutilate themselves trying to get the door open. Viktor glances down at it, "It's New York." And, really, that explains a lot. Charlie opens the door and ushers you all inside, "Sorry, still getting used to the keys. One for the front door, one for the backroom, one for the register, and they all look the same." [[The lights flicker as they come on.|body-ody-ody-ody]]

<<nobr>> <<set $missedluci to true>> <</nobr>>$luciname apologizing was something that frequented your most deluded daydreams, it was true. You knew it would never happen like you knew the sun would rise in the morning. Still...Theo kicking Cameron? Hilarious. "Careful, $nickname." Vik rolls his eyes, begrudgingly affectionate, "I'm sure they can hear your laughing all the way at the campus security office." Theo snorts, "Good. Maybe if //those// assholes laughed once in a while, it'd unlodge the stick from up their asses." You snicker again as Vik gives him a dry look. "We're here!" Charlie announces, interrupting your bickering, "Let me grab my key." $charlie_capheshe fiddles around with the keys on their keychain, which is an adorable cartoon snake wrapped up in a heart. Theo pokes around the door, nudging something with $theo_hisher foot. "Someone had an accident." $theo_heshe whistles, "Think they actually tried to pick the lock with that?" A thin, sharp piece of metal lays beside the trashcan, the tip covered in a rusty brown color. You sincerely hope some drunk didn't mutilate themselves trying to get the door open. Viktor glances down at it, "It's New York." And, really, that explains a lot. Charlie opens the door and ushers you all inside, "Sorry, still getting used to the keys. One for the front door, one for the backroom, one for the register, and they all look the same." [[The lights flicker as they come on.|body-ody-ody-ody]]

"I'll run back and grab your orders and be right back." Charlie says before disappearing in the back of the shop. "Do you think anyone actually buys this overpriced shit?" Theo picks up a composition notebook, flipping through it, "These are a dollar at Walmart." "If you're desperate enough." Viktor leans against the counter, "I hope the Theory textbook isn't huge-" He's cut off by a loud crash in the back, followed by a piercing scream. $charliename. [[You all take off running together, bursting through the storeroom doors that were left unlocked.|oop there it is]]

You're the first one through the door, only to fall backwards into Viktor as someone collides with you. It's Charlie, shaking and gasping, knees buckling as $charlie_heshe collapses to the ground. "What the fuck?" Theo asks, eyes wide, "Hey, Charlie, talk to us, pal. What the fuck was that?" "Harper." $charlie_capheshe croaks out, voice trembling, "Harper. Harper, she-" The backroom is full of boxes and ceiling high shelves. Rolling ladders are scattered throughout, and you can't see what might be behind the stock of school supplies and book orders. "Stay here." Viktor stands, "I'll go check it out." Theo is still trying to get Charlie breathing properly, and you... <div class="choice">[[You're content to stay exactly where you are. You've watched enough horror movies to know how this ends.|no way hose][$impulse -= 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're not letting Viktor go alone.|coming w u vik][$impulse += 5]]</div>\

He carefully steps around the stacks of boxes and you can't see him as he disappears behind one of the tall, packed shelves. You hear him suck in a sharp breath before he's rushing around the corner again, face pale. "That's Harper?" He asks, his voice is weak. He gets only a sob from Charlie in response. "Who is Harper?" Theo insists, "Orlov, what the fuck is going on?" "It's a body." Viktor says, leaning on the wall as if his strength has fled, "A girl." "Do we need to call an ambulance?" You ask, only to be met with total silence. "Is she-?" Theo asks haltingly, "You said a //body//..." [[A body. As in, dead and not living.|oh fucking fuck shit fuck]]

"You're not going alone." You say. He glances back at you, nodding once. You both step around the stacks of boxes and disappear behind one of the tall, packed shelves. You hear him suck in a sharp breath while your brain finally registers what you're looking at, the air stinking of rust and iron all the while. //No. Run.// The voice echoes in your head, familiar, as you see the broken girl laying on the floor. She's fallen against one of the rolling safety ladders; it's almost ironic. Her throat is cut open from end to end, blood covering her white button down and dripping onto the floor. It's still fresh, congealing thick and dark all around her. There's a nametag pinned to the left side of her shirt; it says Harper. //RUN.// "Holy shit." Viktor reaches for you, hand falling just shy of your arm before it drops back to his side, "Holy shit." His face is pale as you rush back around the corner, Theo's eyes wide and demanding upon your return. "Harper?" Viktor says, his voice weak. He gets only a sob from Charlie in response. "Who is Harper?" Theo insists, "Orlov, what the fuck is going on?" "It's a body." Viktor says, leaning on the wall as if his strength has fled, "A girl." "So we need a fuckin' ambulance or something?" $theo_capheshe asks, only to be met with total silence. "A body, Theo." You feel dizzy, "A..." "The cameras," You hear Charlie croak, "Check the-" "That them?" Theo gestures to the broken equipment on the ground, "Somehow I don't think the cameras are gonna help." //PLEASE. RUN.// The voices around you fade out to static. Your vision grays out at the edges, growing fuzzy. You don't feel yourself fall, but hands catch you anyway. [[The image of her, looking entirely like a puppet with her strings cut, follows you even as you flee.|her name is harper scene]]

You take in a trembling breath, your vision graying out on the edges. A body. A //dead// body. "The cameras," You hear Charlie croak, "Check the-" "That them?" Theo gestures to the broken equipment on the ground, "Somehow I don't think the cameras are gonna help." You don't feel yourself move, but suddenly you're walking forward. "$nickname? Hey, $name, what are you doing?" Viktor's voice comes from somewhere behind you. "Hey, $nickname, what the fuck-?" Theo's voice now. What are you doing? There's a body, you need to...you need to... //No. Run.// The voice echoes in your head, familiar, as your feet keep moving forward. You can't stop them; you can't do anything. //RUN.// As you turn the corner around a stack of boxes, you see the broken girl laying on the floor. She's fallen against one of the rolling safety ladders; it's almost ironic. Her throat is cut open from end to end, blood covering her white button down and dripping onto the floor. It's still fresh, congealing thick and dark all around her. There's a nametag pinned to the left side of her shirt; it says Harper. //PLEASE. RUN.// You jerk backward, the pounding in your head tearing you from your trance. The strench of rust and iron rushes in. Someone grabs you by the arm, the heat telling you it's Viktor, and you let yourself be dragged away from the scene. [[The image of her, looking entirely like a puppet with her strings cut, follows you even as you flee.|her name is harper scene]]

Charlie struggles to keep up as you flee, a hand clasped over $charlie_hisher mouth in what you think might be a desperate attempt to keep from vomiting. $charlie_capheshe stumbles and very nearly hits the ground, but Theo keeps $charlie_himher upright in a swift catch. You don't stop running until you reach the dorms. It's like a blur, the campus around you flying by and slipping away. <div class="choice">[[You feel like you're about to go down, swaying on your feet as Viktor finally forces his dorm room door open.|maybe pass out]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You definitely blacked out for a second. You can barely remember anything that happened after you saw that broken body laying there.|deffo black out]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You feel as if you've memorized every awful detail. You remember everything, from the second it all went to shit to now.|hypervigilant]]</div>\

A hand hovers just behind your back, not touching you but still there should you choose to accept the comfort. When you turn your head, concerned blue eyes stare back at you. "Maybe you should sit down." $theo_caphisher voice is low, "You're looking a bit pale." <div class="choice">[[Jerk away quickly. The thought of anyone touching you right now has your skin crawling.|no touch theo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lean back into the touch, allowing Theo to guide you to the couch.|theo sits you down][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't focus on Theo right now, your chest tightening as you try and search for Viktor.|where's bestie?][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $heardvomit to true>> <</nobr>>The door finally opens and Charlie pushes inside. A few short seconds later you hear retching from somewhere inside the dorm. A hand hovers just behind your back, not touching you but still there should you choose to accept the comfort. When you turn your head, concerned blue eyes stare back at you. "Maybe you should sit down." $theo_caphisher voice is low, "You're looking a bit pale." <div class="choice">[[Jerk away quickly. The thought of anyone touching you right now has your skin crawling.|no touch theo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lean back into the touch, allowing Theo to guide you to the couch.|theo sits you down][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't focus on Theo right now, your chest tightening as you try and search for Viktor.|where's bestie?][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Was that Charlie vomitting? You wouldn't be suprised after everything, but concern still stirs in your chest.|where's charlie?][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $notouchplease to true>> <</nobr>>$theo_capheshe watches you go with the saddest eyes you've ever seen on $theo_himher. $theo_capheshe hovers around you cautiously, $theo_hisher mouth pressed in a concerned line but taking care not to reach for you. "Please sit down." $theo_capheshe says, brows furrowed, "I'm worried, $nickname." <div class="choice">[[You're fine. You're totally fine.|denial is a river bub]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No, you're not fine.|admitting it]]</div>\

$theo_caphisher hand is cool through your clothes, a welcoming sensation seeing as your skin feels like it's on fire. $theo_capheshe takes a step forward, expecting you to follow, but your knees are jelly and you stumble to catch yourself on a countertop. "$name!" Theo grabs your shoulders, "Shit, are you okay? You're freaking me out here." <div class="choice">[[You're fine. You're totally fine.|denial is a river bub]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[No, you're not fine.|admitting it]]</div>\

"Viktor?" You croak out the word, your voice weak even to your own ears, taking a step forward only to stumble and catch youself on the countertop, "Where-?" You hear rapid footsteps coming around the corner and suddenly Viktor is there, right in front of you. <div class="choice">[[He knows you well enough to not try and touch you when you're like this, but his words are still soothing as he tries to guide you forward.|no touch viktor]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[His touch is gentle, one hand on your back as he guides you forward.|yes touch viktor]]</div>\

"Is Charlie okay?" You croak out the words, your voice weak even to your own ears, taking a step forward only to stumble and catch youself on the countertop, "Where's Vik-?" You hear rapid footsteps coming around the corner and suddenly Viktor is there, right in front of you. <div class="choice">[[He knows you well enough to not try and touch you when you're like this, but his words are still soothing as he tries to guide you forward.|no touch viktor]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[His touch is gentle, one hand on your back as he guides you forward.|yes touch viktor]]</div>\

Nothing Theo does reaches you at this point. Your ears are ringing, a high pitched noise that has you clenching your eyes shut tightly. You don't know what part of it all is causing this. The body? The blood? The voice in your head? You can't think, the word replaying over and over in your head. //Run.// //RUN.// [[Your heart is pounding in your chest as if you're still fleeing. When you open your eyes, Theo's hazy image is fading in front of you.|oh god oh fuck 2 theo]]

<<nobr>> <<set $notouchplease to true>> <</nobr>>It's pointless. Viktor's voice is soothing, gentle, but you can hardly hear it. Your ears are ringing, a high pitched noise that has you clenching your eyes shut tightly. You don't know what part of it all is causing this. The body? The blood? The voice in your head? You can't think, the word replaying over and over in your head. //Run.// //RUN.// [[Your heart is pounding in your chest as if you were still fleeing. When you open your eyes, Viktor's hazy image is fading in front of you.|oh god oh fuck 2 vik]]

It's pointless. Viktor's touch is warm and gentle, but you can hardly feel it; it's as if your body is going numb. Your ears are ringing, a high pitched noise that has you clenching your eyes shut tightly. You don't know what part of it all is causing this. The body? The blood? The voice in your head? You can't think, the word replaying over and over in your head. //Run.// //RUN.// [[Your heart is pounding in your chest as if you're still fleeing. When you open your eyes, Viktor's hazy image is fading in front of you.|oh god oh fuck 2 vik]]

<<nobr>> <<if $notouchplease is true>> When you reach full awareness, you've finally made it to the couch. Theo is gone now and Viktor is perched at your side with a bottle of water and a worried furrow in his brow. <br><br> <<else>> When you reach full awareness, you've finally made it to the couch. Theo is gone now and Viktor is perched at your side, his fingers drawing comforting circles into you back and worried furrow in his brow. <br><br> <</if>> "You good?" He asks when your eyes finally meet his, "No, that's a stupid question. I...what's going on, $name? Tell me so I can help you." <br><br> The thing is, you have no clue. <br><br> You feel so violently ill, so fundamentally wrong, it's as if your very being was upheaved and you have no clue how to correct it. What could you possibly tell him? How could you explain the mess inside your head? <br><br> <div class="choice">[[It was seeing the body. It reminded you of the night your parents burned.|parents burned excuse]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It was the blood. You've always hated blood.|blood excuse]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You thought of many excuses, but you kept coming back to the voice. What was that voice?|voice excuse]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $notouchplease is true>> When you reach full awareness, you've finally made it to the couch. Viktor is perched at your side with a bottle of water and a worried furrow in his brow. <br><br> <<else>> When you reach full awareness, you've finally made it to the couch. Viktor is perched at your side, his fingers drawing comforting circles into you back and worried furrow in his brow. <br><br> <</if>> "You good?" He asks when your eyes finally meet his, "No, that's a stupid question. I...what's going on, $name? Tell me so I can help you." <br><br> The thing is, you have no clue. <br><br> You feel so violently ill, so fundamentally wrong, it's as if your very being was upheaved and you have no clue how to correct it. What could you possibly tell him? How could you explain the mess inside your head? <br><br> <div class="choice">[[It was seeing the body. It reminded you of the night your parents burned.|parents burned excuse]]</div> <div class="choice">[[It was the blood. You've always hated blood.|blood excuse]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You thought of many excuses, but you kept coming back to the voice. What was that voice?|voice excuse]]</div> <</nobr>>

"The body-" You croak out, "My parents-" His face falls in understanding, "It's okay. You don't have to explain." It wasn't okay. It would never be okay. Their charred corpses are something that had haunted you for years. //That's not why you're like this.// You jolt, goosebumps prickling all over as your eyes dart around. Viktor watches you closely, eyes wide. "$name," He says slowly, "It's okay. We're safe for now." //For now. What about later?// Everytime the voice spoke, a new wave of nausea had you clenching your jaw. <div class="choice">[[Could the disembodied voice kindly fuck off for a moment?|leave wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're actually going crazy. Like, legitimately bonkers.|you're losing it]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You just really want to go to bed.|let me sleep]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $hemophobia to true>> <</nobr>>"The blood-" You croak out. His face softens in understanding, "You've never been good around blood." Hemophobia, Viktor's parents had called it when you were young. Even the sight of your own had you swaying on your feet as a child. //That's not why you're like this.// You jolt, goosebumps prickling all over as your eyes dart around. Viktor watches you closely, eyes wide. "$name," He says slowly, "It's okay. We're safe for now." //For now. What about later?// Everytime the voice spoke, a new wave of nausea had you clenching your jaw. <div class="choice">[[Could the disembodied voice kindly fuck off for a moment?|leave wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're actually going crazy. Like, legitimately bonkers.|you're losing it]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You just really want to go to bed.|let me sleep]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $mentionedvoice to true>> <</nobr>>"I heard-" You purse your lips, "I thought I heard a voice telling me to run." "Subconcious, maybe?" Viktor suggests softly, "Everything in me told me to run, too. It's not an unnatural response." //It wasn't your subconcious.// You jolt, goosebumps prickling all over as your eyes dart around. Viktor watches you closely, eyes wide. "I heard it." You whisper, "Again." "$name..." Viktor trails off, hesitant, "You're tired, yeah? Maybe some sleep will help. We're safe for now." //For now. What about later?// Everytime the voice spoke, a new wave of nausea had you clenching your jaw. <div class="choice">[[Could the disembodied voice kindly fuck off for a moment?|leave wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You're actually going crazy. Like, legitimately bonkers.|you're losing it]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You actually were really tired. Sleep sounded like a great plan.|let me sleep]]</div>\

//It doesn't work like that.// You want to scream. Shuffling further down the hallway has you both looking up, watching a pale faced Charlie sit down heavily in a chair closest to the window. Theo follows closely behind, face pinched and trashcan in hand. "We have to tell someone." Charlie whispers, $charlie_hisher voice trembling, "We can't just...we left her there." Viktor looks down at their hands, "We didn't have much of choice." "A choice?" Charlie asked, "Our choice was to stay or run. We ran and //left her there//." "It's not like we could help her at that point." Theo's voice is sharp, "What would you have us do? Stick around for the police? I'm sure that'd go over grand." "What-?" $charlie_capheshe blinks rapidly, $charlie_hisher hands clenching is $charlie_hisher lap, "We could've explained!" "Explained what?" Viktor asks, his voice quiet as if the question pained him, "That we happened across the body in the book store after hours and have no idea who did it and saw no one around at the time?" "It would be better than fleeing like criminals!" Charlie snapped, "We just incriminated ourselves!" [[Off to side, Theo scoffs and drops to the couch beside you.|explain vik]]

Looks like all that trauma is finally catching up with you. It was bound to happen sooner or later, right? Shuffling further down the hallway has you both looking up, watching a pale faced Charlie sit down heavily in a chair closest to the window. Theo follows closely behind, face pinched and trashcan in hand. "We have to tell someone." Charlie whispers, $charlie_hisher voice trembling, "We can't just...we left her there." Viktor looks down at their hands, "We didn't have much of choice." "A choice?" Charlie asked, "Our choice was to stay or run. We ran and //left her there//." "It's not like we could help her at that point." Theo's voice is sharp, "What would you have us do? Stick around for the police? I'm sure that'd go over grand." "What-?" $charlie_capheshe blinks rapidly, $charlie_hisher hands clenching is $charlie_hisher lap, "We could've explained!" "Explained what?" Viktor asks, his voice quiet as if the question pained him, "That we happened across the body in the book store after hours and have no idea who did it and saw no one around at the time?" "It would be better than fleeing like criminals!" Charlie snapped, "We just incriminated ourselves!" [[Off to side, Theo scoffs and drops to the couch beside you.|explain vik]]

Looks like your shitty day is catching up to you. Only instead of yawning, you're hallucinating voices. Lovely. Shuffling further down the hallway has you both looking up, watching a pale faced Charlie sit down heavily in a chair closest to the window. Theo follows closely behind, face pinched and trashcan in hand. "We have to tell someone." Charlie whispers, $charlie_hisher voice trembling, "We can't just...we left her there." Viktor looks down at their hands, "We didn't have much of choice." "A choice?" Charlie asked, "Our choice was to stay or run. We ran and //left her there//." "It's not like we could help her at that point." Theo's voice is sharp, "What would you have us do? Stick around for the police? I'm sure that'd go over grand." "What-?" $charlie_capheshe blinks rapidly, $charlie_hisher hands clenching is $charlie_hisher lap, "We could've explained!" "Explained what?" Viktor asks, his voice quiet as if the question pained him, "That we happened across the body in the book store after hours and have no idea who did it and saw no one around at the time?" "It would be better than fleeing like criminals!" Charlie snapped, "We just incriminated ourselves!" [[Off to side, Theo scoffs and drops to the couch beside you.|explain vik]]

<<nobr>> <<if $species is "cambion">> "And what's the alternative?" Viktor asked, "Telling someone? The authorities? Theo and $nickname are cambion, $charliename. Not to mention..." <br><br> You swallow thickly. Not to mention you're Unchosen. <br><br> <div class="choice">[["They're looking for the first excuse to toss me out of here, I'm sure." You rest your head back against the soft couch, "This would give them exactly what they need to get rid of me for good."|bye bye unchosen]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're exhausted. Let the others explain.|bye bye unchosen vik ver]]</div> <<else>> "And what's the alternative?" Viktor asked, "Telling someone? The authorities? Theo is a cambion, $charliename. Not to mention..." <br><br> You swallow thickly. Not to mention you're Unchosen. <br><br> <div class="choice">[["They're looking for the first excuse to toss me out of here, I'm sure." You rest your head against the soft couch, "This would give them exactly what they need to get rid of me for good."|bye bye unchosen]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're exhausted. Let the others explain.|bye bye unchosen vik ver]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

Theo chuckled grimly, "Don't worry, $nickname, they'd throw the book at me, too. What a way for the Council to put my parents in their place, huh?" Charlie wilts in $charlie_hisher seat, lips trembling, "I...I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking about that." [[The basilisk avoids your eyes, but you don't really care. You just want to sleep.|tired mc]]

"$name is, to the general public, Unchosen. They're probably looking for the first excuse to get rid of ?them." Viktor's eyes were dark, gold curling around the edges of his pupils like it always did when he gets angry, "And something like this?" "It's the perfect excuse to get rid of ?them for good." Theo finished, "Me too, of course. What a way for the Council to put my parents in their place, huh?" Charlie wilts in $charlie_hisher seat, lips trembling, "I...I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking about that." [[The basilisk avoids your eyes, but you don't really care. You just want to sleep.|tired mc]]

Theo glances at the clock with crossed arms, giving everyone a shaky grin, "Well, unfortunately, I don't believe sushi is in the cards for tonight." "I packed some boxed mac and cheese?" Charlie offers weakly. "Let's just...get some rest." Viktor pushes the heels of his palms into his eyes, "See the fallout in the morning. If no cops bust down our door at midnight, we'll go from there." Everyone sits in silence for a moment before Theo stands, nodding as $theo_heshe shoves $theo_hisher hands is $theo_hisher pockets, "Well, I'm off to bed then. If these are my last hours as a free $theo_manwoman, I'd prefer to spend them asleep." $theo_capheshe pauses, looking like $theo_hesshes waiting on you. <div class="choice">[[You hesitate, glancing at Viktor and Charlie, "Can I stay here tonight?"|stay with vik & charlie][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You stand, joining Theo as you make your way to the door, "We'll see you in the morning."|leave with theo][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Glancing between your two best friends and the poor basilisk who got dragged into your mess, you shrug, "Maybe Theo and I should just stay here tonight. Strength in numbers, right?"|theo & vik sleepover][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div>\

You don't think you can be alone after everything. The blood, the voice, it'll create a cocktail of nightmares you fear even imagining. "Of course." Viktor's voice is soft, his hand twitching as if he's barely restraining himself from reaching out. It's quiet for a moment before Charlie shifts in $charlie_hisher seat, glancing at Theo, "And you can stay, too." Viktor blinks then, looking at the cambion who stood alone by the door, "Charlie's right. You shouldn't be alone tonight." Theo's shoulders, which had been tensed as if $theo_heshe were bracing for a blow, realxed almost instantly. Then $theo_hisher gaze darts to you as if awaiting judgement. <div class="choice">[["They're right," You smile, "It can be a sleepover."|sleepover][$theo_friend += 3]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod your agreement. In truth, you don't care one way or the other.|don't care][$theo_friend -= 3]]</div>\

Viktor nods slightly, "I'll see you in the morning." He says it like a promise. Charlie offers you a shaky goodbye and then you're across the hall, Theo unlocking the door and forcing it open with a swift bump from $theo_hisher shoulder. "For how much we pay to live here, you think they'd fix the damn doors." $theo_capheshe mutters as $theo_heshe ushers you inside first. $theo_capheshe follows shortly after, locking and deadbolting the door behind $theo_himher. You both stand there, surrounded by unpacked boxes and the kind of dread that could eat you alive. When you glance over at Theo, $theo_hesshes staring into space with a lost look in $theo_hisher eyes. <div class="choice">[[You approach carefully, gently laying a hand Theo's shoulder, "You okay?"|theo okay?][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You move closer, trying to catch Theo's attention, "You okay?"|theo okay? no touch][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You wring your hands, "I'm gonna go on to bed. If you need me, just wake me. Okay?"|theo go to bed][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo's breakdown will have to wait. You don't plan on staying awake much longer.|theo hold it in][$theo_friend -= 5]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Of course." Viktor's voice is soft, his hand twitching as if he's barely restraining himself from reaching out, "You're both welcome." <br><br> Charlie nods hesitantly, gaze drifting between the three of you. <br><br> Theo's shoulders, which had been tensed as if he were bracing for a blow, realxed almost instantly. <br><br> "Then yeah, uh, I'd like that, too." He gives a small smile, obviously tense, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defended himself, though the laughing entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed accidentally!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can share the couch with Theo. ♡|couch with theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cram Viktor and Theo in the same bed again. ✿|poly bed with theo & vik]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Viktor will hate it, but you need your friends close. Ask Theo and Viktor to share a bed again.|friendly bed with theo & vik][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> "Of course." Viktor's voice is soft, his hand twitching as if he's barely restraining himself from reaching out, "You're both welcome." <br><br> Charlie nods hesitantly, gaze drifting between the three of you. <br><br> Theo's shoulders, which had been tensed as if she were bracing for a blow, realxed almost instantly. <br><br> "Then yeah, I'd, uh, I'd like that, too." She gives a small smile, obviously tense, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defended herself, though the laughing entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed accidentally!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can share the couch with Theo. ♡|couch with theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cram Viktor and Theo in the same bed again. ✿|poly bed with theo & vik]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Viktor will hate it, but you need your friends close. Ask Theo and Viktor to share a bed again.|friendly bed with theo & vik][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> Theo grins at your wording, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defends himself, though the laughing entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed //accidentally//!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can share the couch with Theo. ♡|couch with theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cram Viktor and Theo in the same bed again. ✿|poly bed with theo & vik]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Viktor will hate it, but you need your friends close. Ask Theo and Viktor to share a bed again.|friendly bed with theo & vik][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> Theo grins at your wording, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defends herself, though the laughing entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed //accidentally//!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$charlie_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can share the couch with Theo. ♡|couch with theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cram Viktor and Theo in the same bed again. ✿|poly bed with theo & vik]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Viktorhate it, but you need your friends close. Ask Theo and Viktor to share a bed again.|friendly bed with theo & vik][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Then yeah, I'd, uh, I'd like that." He nods, obviously tense, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defends himself, though the smile entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed accidentally!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> "Then yeah, I'd, uh, I'd like that." She nods, obviously tense, “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” <br><br> "No, absolutely not." Viktor's voice was firm, "You kicked me off the bed and fractured my tailbone." <br><br> "Accidentally!" Theo defends herself, though the smile entirely ruined the effect, "I kicked you off the bed accidentally!" <br><br> Viktor rolled his eyes, "Either way, I'm never getting crammed in a bed with you again. So, where is everyone sleeping?" <br><br> Charlie's eyes dart around the assembled group, clearly aware that $charlie_hesshes the odd one out in a group of close friends, "I mean, I'm okay with just sleeping in my room." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You can share a bed with Viktor. ♡|vik in bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You and Viktor could share the couch. ♡|vik on couch][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You can all camp out in the living room together, Charlie included.|living room camp out][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "If this..." He whispers, "My parents would get so much shit. They'd never socially recover." <br><br> The devastation is plain in his voice. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You just want him back to his normal, aggravating self. You move your hand from his shoulder and offer it carefully. He grips it without hesitation. ♡|theo love 1][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You squeeze his shoulder before dropping your hand back to your side, "You have us, no matter what happens. Something cheesy about losers sticking together, I believe?"|theo friend 1][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're not quite sure how to make it better, so you offer him a smile and hope the silence is companionable enough.|theo friend 2][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> "If this..." She whispers, "My parents would get so much shit. They'd never socially recover." <br><br> The devastation is plain in her voice. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You just want her back to her normal, aggravating self. You move your hand from her shoulder and offer it carefully. She grips it without hesitation. ♡|theo love 1][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You squeeze her shoulder before dropping your hand back to your side, "You have us, no matter what happens. Something cheesy about losers sticking together, I believe?"|theo friend 1][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're not quite sure how to make it better, so you offer him a smile and hope the silence is companionable enough.|theo friend 2][$theo_friend += 5]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "If this..." He whispers, "My parents would get so much shit. They'd never socially recover." <br><br> The devastation is plain in his voice. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You just want him back to his normal, aggravating self. You hesitantly offer your hand, hoping he doesn't notice it shaking. He grips it without hesitation. ♡|theo love 1][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You purse your lips, looking for the right words, "You have us, no matter what happens. Something about losers sticking together?"|theo friend 1][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're not quite sure how to make it better, so you offer him a smile and hope the silence is companionable enough.|theo friend 2][$theo_friend += 5]] <<else>> "If this..." She whispers, "My parents would get so much shit. They'd never socially recover." <br><br> The devastation is plain in her voice. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You just want her back to her normal, aggravating self. You hesitantly offer your hand, hoping she doesn't notice it shaking. She grips it without hesitation. ♡|theo love 1][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You purse your lips, looking for the right words, "You have us, no matter what happens. Something about losers sticking together?"|theo friend 1][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You're not quite sure how to make it better, so you offer her a smile and hope the silence is companionable enough.|theo friend 2][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nightmarealone to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> He nods once, and then twice. It's as if he's trying to steady himself but can't find the nerve. <br><br> "Yeah, we could both use the sleep." He gives you a smile, much smaller than any you've seen from him before, "Same goes for you, alright? If you need me, I'm only a door away." <br><br> You give him his space, retreating to your room as he stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. He won't find any, not tonight, but you hope he feels better in the morning. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <<else>> She nods once, and then twice. It's as if she's trying to steady herself but can't find the nerve. <br><br> "Yeah, we could both use the sleep." She gives you a smile, much smaller than any you've seen from her before, "Same goes for you, alright? If you need me, I'm only a door away." <br><br> You give her the space she needs, retreating to your room as she stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. She won't find any, not tonight, but you hope she feels better in the morning. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <</nobr>> <</if>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nightmarealone to true>> <<set $theocoldch1 to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Well, I'm gonna go to bed." You say, sighing, "I'll see you in the morning." <br><br> He nods once, and then twice. It's as if he's trying to steady himself but can't find the nerve. <br><br> "Yeah, we could both use the sleep." He gives you a smile, but it's so forced it's nearly comical, "See you." <br><br> You retreat to your room as he stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. He won't find any, not tonight, that much you're sure of. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <<else>> "Well, I'm gonna go to bed." You say, sighing, "I'll see you in the morning." <br><br> She nods once, and then twice. It's as if she's trying to steady herself but can't find the nerve. <br><br> "Yeah, we could both use the sleep." She gives you a smile, but it's so forced it's nearly comical, "See you." <br><br> You retreat to your room as she stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. She won't find any, not tonight, that much you're sure of. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $viknightmare to true>> "Can we share your bed?" You look at Viktor. <br><br> He's quiet for a moment, all startled and frozen, before his expression softens, "Yeah, uh, that works." <br><br> "So..." Theo interrupts, trailing off as $theo_heshe glances between the both of you, "Does that mean I'm relegated to couch?" <br><br> Viktor looks at $theo_himher, deadpan, "Yes." <br><br> "So cruel," The cambion dramatically collapses down onto said couch, "I suppose I'll say goodnight, then, as my so-called friends abandon me." <br><br> "Goodnight, Theo." You say with a chuckle. <br><br> "Don't break anything," Viktor says in lieu of pleasantries. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight as you both slide through Viktor's bedroom door. He closes it behind you, the hinges creaking. <br><br> You're both still in your day clothes, seeing as you don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't want to bother with changing. The blankets are soft, though, and you lay almost shoulder to shoulder. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying to get comfotable. You manage, though, half leaning against Viktor as you rest your head against the back pillows. <br><br> <<if $cambitail is true>> Your tail twitches with your nerves, and you shift so you don't accidentally hit him with it. That would be...unfortunate. <br><br> <</if>> <<else>> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and wings while you both try to get comfotable. You manage, though, half leaning against Viktor as you rest your head against the back pillows and tilt your wings away from Viktor. <br><br> <<if $cambitail is true>> Your tail twitches with your nerves, and you shift so you don't accidentally hit him with it. That would be...unfortunate. <br><br> <</if>> <</if>> “Can you-?” The words die in your throat, withering before they can escape. <br><br> “What?” Viktor whispered back, having heard them in the silence of the living room. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[“Can you…hold me?” Your face burns, avoiding eye contact. ♡|hold me vik bed][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[“Uh, nothing.” You clear your throat, "Goodnight, Vik."|morning w vik on bed no hold][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $viknightmare to true>> "Could we just share the couch?" You look at Viktor. <br><br> He's quiet for a moment, all startled and frozen, before his expression softens, "Yeah, uh, that'll work." <br><br> "So..." Theo interrupts, trailing off as $theo_heshe glances between the both of you, "Does that mean I can take your bed, Vik?" <br><br> "You're washing the sheets after." Viktor narrows his eyes at the cambion. <br><br> "Deal." Theo grins, taking off down the hallway. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight, leaving the two of alone in the living room. <br><br> You're both still in your day clothes, seeing as you don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't want to bother with changing. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying to get comfotable. You manage, though, half leaning against Viktor as you rest your head against the back cushions. <br><br> <<if $cambitail is true>> Your tail twitches with your nerves, and you shift so you don't accidentally hit him with it. That would be...unfortunate. <br><br> <</if>> <<else>> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and wings while you both try to get comfotable. You manage, though, half leaning against Viktor as you rest your head against the back cushions and tilt your wings away from him. <br><br> <<if $cambitail is true>> Your tail twitches with your nerves, and you shift so you don't accidentally hit him with it. That would be...unfortunate. <br><br> <</if>> <</if>> “Can you-?” The words die in your throat, withering before they can escape. <br><br> “What?” Viktor whispered back, having heard them in the silence of the living room. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[“Can you…hold me?” Your face burns, avoiding eye contact. ♡|hold me vik][$viktor_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[“Uh, nothing.” You clear your throat, "Goodnight, Vik."|morning w vik on couch no hold][$viktor_friend += 5]]</div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $theonightmare to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> You raise an eyebrow, looking over at Theo, "Split the couch with me?" <br><br> "I was almost afraid you wouldn't ask." He gives a silly little bow as he gestures toward the almost-too-small makeshift bed, "After you." <br><br> Viktor and Charlie disappear into their respective rooms with little more than a meek goodnight on Charlie's part and an affectionate eyeroll on Viktor's. <br><br> It's a brief tangle of limbs and feet ending up where they shouldn't be when you both finally settle. You're both still wearing your day clothes, which makes things a bit stiffer, but you manage. <br><br> Theo's long legs are half off one side of the couch, and you're using his balled up jacket as a pillow as you end up half leaning against his side. <br><br> He glances down at you from where you're scrunched up by his shoulder, waggling his eyebrows, "Comfy?" <br><br> You nudge him with your elbow. His laugh is far too loud until you pinch him and he seems to realize there are other people trying to sleep. <br><br> You're certain the both of you look entirely ridiculous, sprawled out on the couch like you don't have beds across the hallway. Still, as you hear his breathing even out and sleep drags you under as well, you have to admit you appreciate the company. <br><br> [[You sleep sounder than ever with him at your side that night, even if you might wake up with a stiff neck.|morning theo vikchar's couch romance pov]] <<else>> You raise an eyebrow, looking over at Theo, "Split the couch with me?" <br><br> "I was almost afraid you wouldn't ask." He gives a silly little bow as he gestures toward the almost-too-small makeshift bed, "After you." <br><br> Viktor and Charlie disappear into their respective rooms with little more than a meek goodnight on Charlie's part and an affectionate eyeroll on Viktor's. <br><br> It's a brief tangle of limbs and feet ending up where they shouldn't be when you both finally settle. You're both still wearing your day clothes, which makes things a bit stiffer, but you manage. <br><br> Theo's long legs are half off one side of the couch, and you're using her balled up jacket as a pillow as you end up half leaning against her side. <br><br> She glances down at you from where you're scrunched up by her shoulder, waggling her eyebrows, "Comfy?" <br><br> You nudge her with your elbow. Her laugh is far too loud until you pinch her and she seems to realize there are other people trying to sleep. <br><br> You're certain the both of you look entirely ridiculous, sprawled out on the couch like you don't have beds across the hallway. Still, as you hear her breathing even out and sleep drags you under as well, you have to admit you appreciate the company. <br><br> [[You sleep sounder than ever with her at your side that night, even if you might wake up with a stiff neck.|morning theo vikchar's couch romance pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $polynightmare to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Could we share?" You glance between Viktor and Theo with a pleading look. <br><br> "Didn't I just say-" Viktor begins, voice tired. <br><br> "Oh, c'mon, Vik." Theo slides up next to you, folding his hands in a mimicry of a cherub, "I'll even sleep on the other side. No fracturing bones, scout's honor." <br><br> "You were never in the scouts," The draca says blithely before sighing, "Fine. Sure, why not do this tonight?" <br><br> Theo throws $theo_hisher hands up in celebration, "That's what I like to hear! See, $nickname, we'll get him to pull the stick out of his ass yet!" <br><br> He gives the cambion a withering look as he turns, stalking off to his bedroom. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight as the three of you slide through Viktor's bedroom door. <br><br> You're all still in your day clothes, seeing as you and Theo don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't bother changing. The blankets are soft, though, as you scooch over and press against Theo's side to allow Viktor room to slide in. <br><br> It's a tight fit but you manage regardless. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a glare at Theo. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <<else>> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or a tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a warning look at the both of you. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <br><br> You can't help but laugh, muffling the sound in your blankets. <</if>> <br><br> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying to get comfotable. You eventually end up half leaning against Viktor as your legs end up tangling with Theo's. <br><br> [[Sleep pulls you under quickly, and you can't remember the last time you weren't plauged with nightmares.|poly wake up]] <<else>> "Could we share?" You glance between Viktor and Theo with a pleading look. <br><br> "Didn't I just say-" Viktor begins, voice tired. <br><br> "Oh, c'mon, Vik." Theo slides up next to you, folding her hands in a mimicry of a cherub, "I'll even sleep on the other side. No fracturing bones, scout's honor." <br><br> "You were never in the scouts," The draca says blithely before sighing, "Fine. Sure, why not do this tonight?" <br><br> Theo throws $theo_hisher hands up in celebration, "That's what I like to hear! See, $nickname, we'll get him to pull the stick out of his ass yet!" <br><br> He gives the cambion a withering look as he turns, stalking off to his bedroom. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight as the three of you slide through Viktor's bedroom door. <br><br> You're all still in your day clothes, seeing as you and Theo don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't bother changing. The blankets are soft, though, as you scooch over and press against Theo's side to allow Viktor room to slide in. <br><br> It's a tight fit but you manage regardless. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a glare at Theo. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <<else>> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or a tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a warning look at the both of you. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <br><br> You can't help but laugh, muffling the sound in your blankets. <</if>> <br><br> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying to get comfotable. You eventually end up half leaning against Viktor as your legs end up tangling with Theo's. <br><br> [[Sleep pulls you under quickly, and you can't remember the last time you weren't plauged with nightmares.|poly wake up]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $polyfriendnightmare to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Could we share?" You glance between Viktor and Theo with a pleading look. <br><br> "Didn't I just say-" Viktor begins, voice tired. <br><br> "Oh, c'mon, Vik." Theo slides up next to you, folding his hands in a mimicry of a cherub, "I'll even sleep on the other side. No fracturing bones, scout's honor." <br><br> "You were never in the scouts," The draca says blithely before sighing, "Fine. Sure, why not do this tonight?" <br><br> Theo throws $theo_hisher hands up in celebration, "That's what I like to hear! See, $nickname, we'll get him to pull the stick out of his ass yet!" <br><br> He gives the cambion a withering look as he turns, stalking off to his bedroom. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight as the three of you slide through Viktor's bedroom door. <br><br> You're all still in your day clothes, seeing as you and Theo don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't bother changing. The blankets are soft, though, and you all manage to fit with only minor grumbling and griping. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a glare at Theo. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <<else>> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or a tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a warning look at the both of you. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <br><br> You can't help but laugh, muffling the sound in your blankets. <</if>> <br><br> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying not to get hit with a stray wing or tail. You eventually end up squeezed between the both of them, and accidentally kick Viktor while trying to get comfortable. <br><br> He doesn't even sigh, so you don't think he cares too much. <br><br> [[Sleep pulls you under quickly, and you're comforted by having your friends so close.|nightmare]] <<else>> "Could we share?" You glance between Viktor and Theo with a pleading look. <br><br> "Didn't I just say-" Viktor begins, voice tired. <br><br> "Oh, c'mon, Vik." Theo slides up next to you, folding her hands in a mimicry of a cherub, "I'll even sleep on the other side. No fracturing bones, scout's honor." <br><br> "You were never in the scouts," The draca says blithely before sighing, "Fine. Sure, why not do this tonight?" <br><br> Theo throws $theo_hisher hands up in celebration, "That's what I like to hear! See, $nickname, we'll get him to pull the stick out of his ass yet!" <br><br> He gives the cambion a withering look as he turns, stalking off to his bedroom. <br><br> Charlie retreats to $charlie_hisher room with a quiet goodnight as the three of you slide through Viktor's bedroom door. <br><br> You're all still in your day clothes, seeing as you and Theo don't have your pajamas and Viktor doesn't bother changing. The blankets are soft, though, and you all manage to fit with only minor grumbling and griping. <br><br> <<if $wing_c is "">> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a glare at Theo. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <<else>> "I'm gonna end up with a wing or a tail in my face, aren't I?" Viktor mumbles into his pillow, shooting a warning look at the both of you. <br><br> "Nah, course not." Theo snickers, "Scout's-" <br><br> Viktor groans, "Shut the hell up." <br><br> You can't help but laugh, muffling the sound in your blankets. <</if>> <br><br> It's a bit awkward at first, a tangle of limbs and clothes and trying not to get hit with a stray wing or tail. You eventually end up squeezed between the both of them, and accidentally kick Viktor while trying to get comfortable. <br><br> He doesn't even sigh, so you don't think he cares too much. <br><br> [[Sleep pulls you under quickly, and you're comforted by having your friends so close.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $charlienightmare to true>> <<set $livingroomcampout to true>> <</nobr>>"Could we all just, I don't know, camp out in the living room?" You ask, "I'd feel safer, I guess." Charlie seems to brighten a little at the idea, "I think that'd be nice." Viktor sends Theo a pointed glance, "If your tail ends up in my face-" "But your face is such an easy target!" $theo_capheshe pouts in response. "No," Viktor grinds out, "It means your ass is way too close to my face." Theo grins, all teeth, "Oh, it would be a privlege for this ass to be anywhere //near//-" The cambion is promptly knocked into the couch, $theo_hisher laugh ricocheting in the quiet regardless. Blankets are dug up and pillows are thrown around. Viktor offers Charlie the couch, and the three of you spread yourself across the other chairs in the living room. You get the beanbag, luckily, which seems much more comfotable than what Viktor and Theo are stuck with. It's quiet a few moments after you all settle, Theo's breathing getting deeper as $theo_heshe falls asleep. You think Viktor might be dead to the world too, but he's always quiet so it's hard to tell. Something taps you on the arm, making you jump. You look up to see Charlie leaning over the edge of the couch to look down at you, a sheepish smile of $charlie_hisher face. "Sorry." $charlie_capheshe says, "Didn't mean to startle you. I just...wanted to apologize for earlier. I wasn't thinking about the whole cambion and Uchosen stuff, and you and Theo both could've been put in a bad spot-" <div class="choice">[[You cut off the rambling, placing your own hand atop the one on your shoulder, "It's okay. Really." ♡|charlie blush][$charlie_love += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Brushing the hand off, you give a weak smile, "I get it. It's fine."|a ok charlay][$charlie_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You shrug the hand off, "Just think a little harder next time."|NOT a ok charlay][$charlie_friend -= 5]]</div>\

"Thanks, $name." $theo_capheshe says quietly. "No problem." Your say, shrugging slightly, "We are, after all, stuck together. At least for freshman year." $theo_caphisher chuckle is nearly desperate, "Yeah. I'm okay with it beyond that, though." You stand still for a moment, hands entwined in your dark living room. Finally, Theo moves away, nodding to $theo_hisher closed bedroom door down the hallway. “Alright then,” $theo_caphisher gaze searches your face carefully, yet you have no idea what exactly $theo_hesshes looking for, “We should probably both get some sleep, sunshine.” <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You speak as he begins to turn, “Could you stay with me? Tonight?”|sleepover w theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[["Alright. I'll see you in the morning." You say, watching Theo retreat to his room.|alone at last]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You speak as she begins to turn, “Could you stay with me? Tonight?”|sleepover w theo][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[["Alright. I'll see you in the morning." You say, watching Theo retreat to her room.|alone at last]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nightmarealone to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> He gives you a steadier smile than you've seen all evening, "Ditto all that, I guess. Speak for yourself on the loser part, though. I'm fucking fantastic." <br><br> You smile as he chuckles to himself, coming across as slightly breathless. The nerves aren't gone, that much is clear. <br><br> “We should both get some sleep, $nickname.” He says finally, glancing away, "Might as well be well rested for the shit storm tomorrow, eh?" <br><br> You give him the space he needs, retreating to your room while he stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. He won't find any, not tonight, but you hope he feels better in the morning. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <<else>> She gives you a steadier smile than you've seen all evening, "Ditto all that, I guess. Speak for yourself on the loser part, though. I'm fucking fantastic." <br><br> You smile as she chuckles to herself, coming across as slightly breathless. The nerves aren't gone, that much is clear. <br><br> “We should both get some sleep, $nickname.” She says finally, glancing away, "Might as well be well rested for the shit storm tomorrow, eh?" <br><br> You give her the space she needs, retreating to your room while she stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. She won't find any, not tonight, but you hope she feels better in the morning. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nightmarealone to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> Finally he takes a deep breath, sending you a steadier smile than you've seen all evening, "Well, $nickname, we could probably both do with some sleep right about now." <br><br> You give him the space he needs, retreating to your room while he stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. He won't find any, not tonight, but you hope he feels better in the morning. <br>< br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <<else>> Finally she takes a deep breath, sending you a steadier smile than you've seen all evening, "Well, $nickname, we could probably both do with some sleep right about now." <br><br> You give her the space she needs, retreating to your room while she stares out your dorm window as if searching for answers. She won't find any, not tonight, but you hope she feels better in the morning. <br><br> [[Sleep takes you quickly, pulling you under without mercy. It's a blessing that you don't dream that night; no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs. Just darkness and peace.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

He’s apparently speechless. He tenses beside you, and when you glance over you can see his face blushing in the low light. Sharp teeth bite into a soft bottom lip as he stares at you with his head turned, eyes hazy and pupils blown wide. “I, uh-“ His words come out in a stutter, his gaze darting around your face as if he can’t believe the words had come out of your mouth, “You //want// that?” Your gaze drops to your lap, where you twist your fingers together. <div class="choice">[[“You don’t, then?” You’re sure the dejection is showing plain on your face.|dejection bed]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You chuckle, trying not to show any dejection on your face, “Alright, hint taken.”|play it off bed]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeupwithvik to true>> <</nobr>>... Viktor is warmer than usual when he wakes. His senses file in slowly, that content feeling humming just beneath his skin. A weight is settled in his arms, curled against his chest, and $hair_l hair tickles the skin beneath his chin. He’s quickly pulled back into reality at the realization. $name is in his arms. At some point in the night, the two of you had become thoroughly entangled. He thinks he might burst into flames, but he just barely manages to stave them off. $name shifts slightly in his grip, ?their nose pressing against his jaw as ?they ?burrow closer in ?their sleep. He nearly groans. The slightest hint of light is peeking through the curtains. No police had come knocking during the night, so he could only assume he and his friends were safe for the time being. He lets $name keep sleeping. [[The cops aren't busting the door down yet, after all, and it is the weekend. A few more hours won't hurt.|nightmare]]

He’s apparently speechless. He sits up straighter, cheeks flushing a deep red that spreads all the way down his neck. Sharp teeth bite into a soft bottom lip as he stares at you, eyes hazy and pupils blown wide. “I, uh-“ His words come out in a stutter, his gaze darting around your face as if he can’t believe the words had come out of your mouth, “You //want// that?” Your gaze drops to your lap, where you twist your fingers together. <div class="choice">[[“You don’t, then?” You’re sure the dejection is showing plain on your face.|dejection]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You chuckle, trying not to show any dejection on your face, “Alright, hint taken.”|play it off]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeupwiththeo to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when he wakes up. When his eyes open, he nearly slams them back shut. He's almost entirely certain this is a dream and he does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against his skin. ?They ?paint the prettiest fucking picture he's ever seen. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, he figures a few more minutes won't hurt. Clearly Vik and Charlie aren't awake yet, and if the cops haven't busted the door down already, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least he got a few more seconds with you in his arms.|nightmare]] <<else>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when she wakes up. When her eyes open, she nearly slams them back shut. She's almost entirely certain this is a dream and she does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against her skin. ?They paint the prettiest fucking picture she's ever seen. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, she figures a few more minutes won't hurt. If the cops haven't busted the door down yet, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least she got a few more seconds with you in her arms.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeuppoly to true>> <</nobr>>... There's a weight on Viktor's shoulder and something gripping his arm when his eyes open. He grimaces at the sunlight that filters through his bedroom window, glancing down and nearly experiencing heart palpitations. Your head is nestled in the crook of his neck, and he sees Theo's arm is thrown over your stomach and $theo_heshe has one leg hiked around your hip. Essentially, $theo_hesshes hugging you like a koala. The cambion has reached across and grabbed Viktor's wrist as well, holding him in a gentle grasp as if trying to keep him in place. He lays very still; he doesn't want to disturb this moment by waking the two of you up. No cops have busted your door down yet, at the very least, so you all might be safe for the time being. [[His eyes drift shut again, cacooned by his closest friends, and he figures a few more minutes won't hurt anything. It is the weekend, after all.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> <<set $flirtwcharliesleepover to true>> <</nobr>>$charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a dark red as $charlie_heshe slips $charlie_hisher hand away. "Get some sleep," The basilisk give you a smile, the most genuine you've seen from $charlie_himher yet, "I'm here. You know, if you need me." [[You're pulled under not long after, sleep coming easily for once in your life.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> <<set $kindtocharlie to true>> <</nobr>>"I just wanted to let you know." The basilisk give you a smile, the most genuine you've seen from $charlie_himher yet, "I know you have Viktor and Theo, but I could be your friend, too. Um, if you want." $charlie_capheshe doesn't give you a chance to respond, flopping back down on the couch and pulling the covers back over $charlie_hisher shoulders. [[You're pulled under not long after, sleep coming easily for once in your life.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> <<set $meantocharlie to true>> <</nobr>>"I will," The basilisk seems to wither under your gaze, "I just wanted to say sorry. I know you have Viktor and Theo, but I could be your friend, too. Um, if you want." $charlie_capheshe doesn't give you a chance to respond, flopping back down on the couch and pulling the covers back over $charlie_hisher shoulders. [[You're pulled under not long after, sleep coming easily for once in your life.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> <<set $theonightmare to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> He freezes in place before facing you once more, an easy smile sliding into place, “You wanna stay up for a bit? I have a Netflix account if you wanna binge some TV. I guess classes don't start till Monday anyway. Just don't tattle to Vik, okay?” <br><br> <div class="choice">[[That...wasn't what you had meant. ♡|alone together in bed][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[["Actually, I meant my room." ♡|alone together in bed bold][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You roll your eyes, "No TV. I meant just passing out on the couch."|friends (?) together on the couch][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> She freezes in place before facing you once more, an easy smile sliding into place, “You wanna stay up for a bit? I have a Netflix account if you wanna binge some TV. I guess classes don't start till Monday anyway. Just don't tattle to Vik, okay?” <br><br> <div class="choice">[[That...wasn't what you had meant. ♡|alone together in bed][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[["Actually, I meant my room." ♡|alone together in bed bold][$theo_love += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You roll your eyes, "No TV. I meant just passing out on the couch."|friends (?) together on the couch][$theo_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $nightmarealone to true>> <</nobr>>When you're finally under the covers and manage to close your eyes, you can only hope your mind will be kind to you tonight. It's an unusual blessing, yet one you find nonetheless as sleep takes you quickly. [[There's no smell of smoke and no water filling your lungs that night. Just a vast darkness pulling you under.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> <<set $gamechapter to "Chapter Two: Facing Your Ghosts">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/chtwo.png]] </div> <<if $wraith_ismale is true>> <<set $met_wraithm to true>> <<else>> <<set $met_wraithf to true>> <</if>> <<set $metwraith to true>> <br> <</nobr>>It's dark when you open your eyes. This is not a nightmare; this is nothing. You hear rustling behind you and turn sharply, eyes widening when you see the same $wraith_manwoman that visited your dreams yesterday morning. The inky blackness of the void surround you both, and $wraith_heshe raises $wraith_hisher hands in a gesture of peace. "Do not fear me," $wraith_capheshe says, $wraith_hisher voice identical to the one you heard when you found Harper's body, "I haven't come to harm you." "Who are you?" Your eyes narrow, stepping away to put some distance between you and the spectre, "Why are you here?" $wraith_capheshe seems to grow sad, glancing away with a far off look in $wraith_hisher eyes, "I don't know." "You don't know who you are or why you're here?" You question, skepticism growing. You know what this is. This cold, this presence...you all learned about them in school. A wraith; an agressive haunting that uses the energy of their anchor to remain tethered to the land of the living. The question is...why you? And why does this particular wraith not seem to know //anything//? $wraith_caphisher eyes clear, focusing on you once more, "I know they're coming for you, like they came for me." Your heart rate kicks into overdrive, making your hands tremble and your skin go clammy. The scent of iron and rust lingers in the air; you'll never escape the blood. You'll never //escape//- "Who is they?" You ask, and you're proud when your voice shakes only slightly. $wraith_caphisher eyes are sad. You know the answer before $wraith_heshe says it. "I don't know." You want to ask questions, to beg, to //breathe//... [[But you can't. You can only choke on your words.|choke]]

Arms are clasping around you in the next second, pulling you into his chest as the sheets twist around you. "'Course I do," He whispers, "Now get some sleep, $nickname." [[It's entirely too close to be appropriate for friends. Still, curled against him and feeling the heat seeping from his skin into your own, you cannot find it in yourself to backtrack.|morning w vik on bed]]

Viktor jolts, his face paling quicker that you've ever seen, “No. No, whatever hint you took, please untake it.” You blink, but before you can respond properly he’s reeling you in. Sheets twist around you as arms clasp you close. You find yourself pressed against his chest, the warmth of his skin seeping into yours; it's a comfort, and you burrow ever closer. "I, uh." He swallows so loudly you can hear it with how close you are, "I want that. This. I want this, too." "Goodnight, Vik." You whisper, mourning that the darkness is covering what you're certain is a blush on cheeks. "Night, $nickname." [[It’s entirely too close to be appropriate for friends, yet you cannot find it in yourself to backtrack.|morning w vik on bed]]

Arms are clasping around you in the next second, pulling you into his chest. "'Course I do," He whispers, "Now get some sleep, $nickname." [[It's entirely too close to be appropriate for friends. Still, curled against him and feeling the heat seeping from his skin into your own, you cannot find it in yourself to backtrack.|morning w vik on couch]]

Viktor jolts, his face paling quicker that you've ever seen, “No. No, whatever hint you took, please untake it.” You blink, but before you can respond properly he’s reeling you in. Arms clasping tightly around you, you find yourself pressed against his chest. The warmth of his skin seeps into yours, a comfort, and you burrow ever closer. "I, uh." He swallows so loudly you can hear it with how close you are, "I want that. This. I want this, too." "Goodnight, Vik." You whisper, mourning that the darkness is covering what you're certain is a blush on cheeks. "Night, $nickname." [[It’s entirely too close to be appropriate for friends, yet you cannot find it in yourself to backtrack.|morning w vik on couch]]

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> He must see the look on your face because he tilts his head ever so slightly in confusion. Then his gaze darts between you and your bedroom door and his eyes widen in realization. <br><br> “Oh.” He mutters quietly, “I mean I’m okay with that, too. Want me to fight off the nightmares for you?” <br><br> His grin turns mischievous and you already regret your decision. <br><br> “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” He laughs, trailing after you as you move swiftly toward your room, “Good times.” <br><br> “You ended up accidentally kicking Viktor off the bed,” You remind him, “He fractured his tailbone.” <br><br> “Well, everything before that was good times.” His tail flickers behind him as you open the door. <br><br> [[When you both enter, he promptly sits himself of the edge of your bed, watching your every move like an overeager puppy.|theo in bed]] <<else>> She must see the look on your face because she tilts her head ever so slightly in confusion. Then her gaze darts between you and your bedroom door and her eyes widen in realization. <br><br> “Oh.” She mutters quietly, “I mean I’m okay with that, too. Want me to fight off the nightmares for you?” <br><br> Her grin turns mischievous and you already regret your decision. <br><br> “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” She laughs, trailing after you as you move swiftly toward your room, “Good times.” <br><br> “You ended up accidentally kicking Viktor off the bed,” You remind her, “He fractured his tailbone.” <br><br> “Well, everything before that was good times.” Her tail flickers behind her as you open the door. <br><br> [[When you both enter, she promptly sits herself of the edge of your bed, watching your every move like an overeager puppy.|theo in bed]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> His eyes widen in realization, "Oh. I mean I’m okay with that, too. Want me to fight off the nightmares for you?” <br><br> The wide grin proceeds to turn mischievous and you already find yourself regretting your decision. <br><br> “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” He laughs, trailing after you as you move swiftly toward your room, “Good times.” <br><br> “You ended up accidentally kicking Viktor off the bed,” You remind him, “He fractured his tailbone.” <br><br> “Well, everything before that was good times.” His tail flickers behind him as you open the door. <br><br> [[When you both enter, he promptly sits himself of the edge of your bed, watching your every move like an overeager puppy.|theo in bed]] <<else>> Her eyes widen in realization, "Oh. I mean I’m okay with that, too. Want me to fight off the nightmares for you?” <br><br> The wide grin proceeds to turn mischievous and you already regret your decision. <br><br> “It’ll be like that time when we were twelve and all tried to fit in Vik’s bed.” She laughs, trailing after you as you move swiftly toward your room, “Good times.” <br><br> “You ended up accidentally kicking Viktor off the bed,” You remind her, “He fractured his tailbone.” <br><br> “Well, everything before that was good times.” Her tail flickers behind her as you open the door. <br><br> [[When you both enter, she promptly sits herself of the edge of your bed, watching your every move like an overeager puppy.|theo in bed]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> It's a brief tangle of limbs and wings ending up where they shouldn't be when you both finally settle. Theo's long legs are half off one side of the couch, and you're using his balled up jacket as a pillow. <br><br> You're entirely certain the both of you look ridiculous, with half your living room still covered in unpacked boxes and you two sprawled out on the couch like you don't have perfectly good beds. Still, as you hear his breathing even out and sleep drags you under as well, you have to admit you appreciate the company. <br><br> [[You sleep sounder than ever with him at your side that night, even if you might wake up with a stiff neck.|morning theo couch pov]] <<else>> It's a brief tangle of limbs and feet ending up where they shouldn't be when you both finally settle. Theo's long legs are half off one side of the couch, and you're using her balled up jacket as a pillow. <br><br> You're entirely certain the both of you look ridiculous, with half your living room still covered in unpacked boxes and you two sprawled out on the couch like you don't have perfectly good beds. Still, as you hear her breathing even out and sleep drags you under as well, you have to admit you appreciate the company. <br><br> [[You sleep sounder than ever with her at your side that night, even if you might wake up with a stiff neck.|morning theo couch pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> The two of you decide to take turns in the shared bathroom out in the hall, changing into pajamas. Theo goes before you, returning in black silk that looks far more expensive than anything you own. <br><br> He practically throws himself onto the bed, grinning up at you, “Your turn, sunshine.” <br><br> You change quickly, entering the room once more to see him sprawled out on the pillows and taking up over half the blankets. <br><br> <div class="choice">[["Absolutely not." You groan, "Pick a side."|pick a side][$humor -= 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Just flop down on top of him. That'll show him not to hog the bed.|lay on top][$impulse += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You pinch your nose, sighing, "Seriously?"|seriously theo][$humor -= 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Raising a teasing eyebrow, you smile down at him, "Is this an invite?"|an invite][$charm += 5]]</div> <<else>> The two of you decide to take turns in the shared bathroom out in the hall, changing into pajamas. Theo goes before you, bursting back into the room in black silk that looks far more expensive than anything you own. <br><br> She practically throws herself onto the bed, grinning up at you, “Your turn, sunshine.” <br><br> You change quickly, entering the room once more to see her sprawled out on the pillows and taking up over half the blankets. <br><br> <div class="choice">[["Absolutely not." You groan, "Pick a side."|pick a side][$humor -= 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Just flop down on top of her. That'll show her not to hog the bed.|lay on top][$impulse += 5]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You pinch your nose, sighing, "Seriously?"|seriously theo][$humor -= 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Raising a teasing eyebrow, you smile down at her, "Is this an invite?"|an invite][$charm += 5]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeupwiththeo to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when he wakes up. When his eyes open, he nearly slams them back shut. He's almost entirely certain this is a dream and he does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against his skin. ?They ?paint the prettiest fucking picture he's ever seen. He's almost certain this wasn't what $nickname intended when ?they asked him to share the couch, but he won't question a good thing when he's got it. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, he figures a few more minutes won't hurt. If the cops haven't busted the door down yet, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least he got a few more seconds with you in his arms.|nightmare]] <<else>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when she wakes up. When her eyes open, she nearly slams them back shut. She's almost entirely certain this is a dream and she does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against her skin. ?They paint the prettiest fucking picture she's ever seen. She's almost certain this wasn't what $nickname intended when ?they asked her to share the couch, but she won't question a good thing when she's got it. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, she figures a few more minutes won't hurt. If the cops haven't busted the door down yet, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least she got a few more seconds with you in her arms.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "So you're saying you //don't// wanna cuddle?" He raises his hands in surrender at your blank stare, "Sorry, sorry. Here, this better?" <br><br> He scooches over just enough to make room for you, and the blankets are soft when you climb beneath them. When you reach over and flip off the lights, you're nearly certain you see his cheeks are flushed pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps he'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with him at your side.|morning theo pov]] <<else>> "So you're saying you //don't// wanna cuddle?" She raises her hands in surrender at your blank stare, "Sorry, sorry. Here, this better?" <br><br> She scooches over just enough to make room for you, and the blankets are soft when you climb beneath them. When you reach over and flip off the lights, you're nearly certain you see her cheeks are flushed pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps she'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with her at your side.|morning theo pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> You flop down on the bed, unrepentant as your head smacks Theo's stomach. He makes a noise as the breath is punched out of him, quickly followed by cackling laughter. You can feel his whole body shaking as he scooches over, leaving you to right yourself. <br><br> "Point made," He concedes with a smile, too-sharp front teeth that aren't //quite// fangs peeking out behind his lips, "Here, this better?" <br><br> The blankets are soft, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. You catch him eyeing you as you lean over to turn off the lights and you can almost swear his cheeks are tinted pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps he'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with him at your side.|morning theo pov]] <<else>> You flop down on the bed, unrepentant as your head smacks Theo's stomach. She makes a noise as the breath is punched out of her, quickly followed by cackling laughter. You can feel her whole body shaking as she scooches over, leaving you to right yourself. <br><br> "Point made," She concedes with a smile, too-sharp front teeth that aren't //quite// fangs peeking out behind her lips, "Here, this better?" <br><br> The blankets are soft, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. You catch her eyeing you as you lean over to turn off the lights and you can almost swear her cheeks are tinted pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps she'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with her at your side.|morning theo pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Kidding, kidding," He laughs, scooching over just enough to make room for you, "Here, that better?" <br><br> The blankets are soft, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. You catch him eyeing you as you lean over to turn off the lights and you can almost swear his cheeks are tinted pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps he'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with him at your side.|morning theo pov]] <<else>> "Kidding, kidding," She laughs, scooching over just enough to make room for you, "Here, that better?" <br><br> The blankets are soft, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. You catch her eyeing you as you lean over to turn off the lights and you can almost swear her cheeks are tinted pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps she'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with her at your side.|morning theo pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> "Oh, it's //whatever// you want it to be." He raises his eyebrows, eyeing you shamelessly for a moment before he scooches over, creating enough space for you. <br><br> The blankets are soft, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. When you reach over and flip off the lights, you're nearly certain you see his cheeks are flushed pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps he'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with him at your side.|morning theo pov]] <<else>> "Oh, it's //whatever// you want it to be." She raises her eyebrows, eyeing you shamelessly for a moment before she scooches over, creating enough space for you. <br><br> <br><br> The blankets are warm, and your shoulders just barely brush as you each get situated. When you reach over and flip off the lights, you're nearly certain you see her cheeks are flushed pink. <br><br> "Goodnight, sunshine." <br><br> "Night, Theo." <br><br> [[Perhaps she'd been joking about fending off your nightmares, but you sleep sounder than ever with her at your side.|morning theo pov]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeupwiththeo to true>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when he wakes up. When his eyes open, he nearly slams them back shut. He's almost entirely certain this is a dream and he does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against his skin. ?They ?paint the prettiest fucking picture he's ever seen. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, he figures a few more minutes won't hurt. If the cops haven't busted the door down yet, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least he got a few more seconds with you in his arms.|nightmare]] <<else>> ... <br><br> There's a weight in Theo's arms that isn't normally there when she wakes up. When her eyes open, she nearly slams them back shut. She's almost entirely certain this is a dream and she does //not// want to fuck it up. <br><br> $name lays there, all long eyelashes and soft breaths against her skin. ?They paint the prettiest fucking picture she's ever seen. <br><br> Settling back down, determined not to wake you, she figures a few more minutes won't hurt. If the cops haven't busted the door down yet, you all might just be in the clear. <br><br> [[And if the cops do bust the door down? Well, at least she got a few more seconds with you in her arms.|nightmare]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $wakeupwithvik to true>> <</nobr>>... Viktor is warmer than usual when he wakes. His senses file in slowly, that content feeling humming just beneath his skin. A weight is settled in his arms, curled against his chest, and $hair_l hair tickles the skin beneath his chin. He’s quickly pulled back into reality at the realization. $name is in his arms. ?They had wanted him to hold ?them. ?They spent the entire night pressed against his chest, never moving in discontent. He thinks he might burst into flames, but he just barely manages to stave them off. $name shifts slightly in his grip, ?their nose pressing against his jaw as ?they ?burrow closer in ?their sleep. He nearly groans. The slightest hint of light is peeking through the curtains. No police had come knocking during the night, so he could only assume he and his friends were safe for the time being. He lets $name keep sleeping. [[The cops aren't busting the door down yet, after all, and it is the weekend. A few more hours won't hurt.|nightmare]]

<<nobr>> When $wraith_heshe tries to touch you, $wraith_hisher hand passes through you. A wisp of a breeze, the incorporeality of a ghost; it's clear $wraith_heshe cannot help you. <br><br> Your breathing comes in gasps, and you clutch at your throat. The $wraith_manwoman before you tries to speak, but it falls on deaf ears. Everything is muffled and you can hear your blood pumping and heart beating. It's so loud, so loud- <br><br> "Please!" The ghost before you finally screams, $wraith_hisher shriek wailing. <br><br> It shatters the frail wall of your lucidity, sending you spiraling. You fall, but you never hit the ground. <br><br> You're falling, you're- <br><br> You need to wake up. You need to //wake up//. <br><br> <<if $theonightmare is true>> [[You give in.|give in theo vers]] <<elseif $charlienightmare is true>> [[You give in.|give in charlie vers]] <<elseif $viknightmare is true>> [[You give in.|give in vik vers]] <<elseif $polyfriendnightmare is true>> [[You give in.|give in poly friend vers]] <<elseif $polynightmare is true>> [[You give in.|give in poly vers]] <<else>> [[You give in.|give in alone vers]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Hands are grasping your shoulders, strong and steady, shaking you. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Theo's face hovers close to yours, blue eyes wide and terrified. You heave for air, choking on tears, and $theo_heshe takes you in $theo_hisher arms to cradle you close. "It's okay," $theo_capheshe, "Breathe for me, sunshine, come on." When you're no longer trembling and you merely sit, cushioned and limp in $theo_hisher arms, $theo_heshe finally pulls away. You stare down at your lap, remembering the choking, the smell of blood- "Was it a nightmare?" Theo asks quietly. <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a wraith.|theo truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|theo lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth. You have a wraith.|theo truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|theo lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $charliewokeyou to true>> <<if $meantocharlie is false>> Hands are grasping your shoulders, cool and gentle, shaking you. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Charlie's face is close to yours, terrified as $charlie_heshe watches you heave air. $charlie_caphisher hands flutter around you anxiously, eyes wide as $charlie_heshe tries to figure out how to help. <br><br> "You're fine," $charlie_capheshe whispers, "You're fine. You're, uh, you're in my dorm. Viktor's, too, obviously. We all slept in the living room, remember?" <br><br> You take a shaky breath, but you feel like you can't get the air to enter your lungs. It brings back the memory of choking and the smell of blood- <br><br> "Oh God," Charlie whispers, "You're hyperventilating. Can...Can I touch you?" <br><br> You squeeze your eyes shut against the wave of terror you feel as you remember the fall in your dream. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You nod.|charlie touch]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You shake your head.|charlie no touch]]</div> <<else>> You hear a voice whispering you name over and over. For a moment you think it's the wraith, your new ghostly companion, but then you recognize the voice. <br><br> You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Charlie's face is close to yours, terrified as $charlie_heshe watches you heave air. $charlie_caphisher hands flutter around you with anxiety and hesitance, eyes wide as $charlie_heshe tries to figure out how to help. <br><br> "You're fine," $charlie_capheshe whispers, "You're fine. You're, uh, you're in my dorm. Viktor's, too, obviously. We all slept in the living room, remember?" <br><br> You take a shaky breath, but you feel like you can't get the air to enter your lungs. It brings back the memory of choking and the smell of blood- <br><br> "Oh God," Charlie whispers, "You're hyperventilating. I know...I know you're mad still but I don't, uh, I don't know what else to do besides talking. Can...Can I touch you?" <br><br> You squeeze your eyes shut against the wave of terror you feel as you remember the fall in your dream. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You nod.|charlie mean touch]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You shake your head.|charlie mean no touch]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

Hands are grasping your shoulders, warm and desperate, shaking you. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Viktor's face is close to yours, terrified as he watches you heave for air. You're choking on tears when he wraps his arms around you, tugging you closer. "You're okay," He says, voice unsteady despite the fact that he's obviously angling to comfort you, "I need you to breathe, $name. Come on, now, you're doing so good." You finally stop trembling, encased in Vik's arms, laying limp against his chest. Your eyes hurt so you close them, but that brings back the memory of choking and the smell of blood- "Was it a nightmare?" Viktor asks quietly. <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a wraith.|vik truth]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|vik lie]]</div>\

Hands are grasping your shoulders, warm and desperate, shaking you. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Viktor's face is close to yours, terrified as he watches you heave for air. Theo is there as well, blue eyes wide and worried as $theo_heshe sits up at your side. You're choking on tears when Theo wraps $theo_hisher arms around you, tugging you closer for one of $theo_hisher bone crushing hugs. Vik closes in on your other side, and soon you're caught between a three-way hug. "You're okay," Viktor says, voice unsteady despite the fact that he's obviously angling to comfort you, "You need to breathe, $name. Come on, you're doing good." You finally stop trembling, encased in Theo's arms. You finally pull back but your eyes hurt so you close them, and that brings back the memory of choking and the smell of blood- "Was it a nightmare?" Theo asks quietly. <div class="choice">[[Tell them the truth. You have a Wraith.|poly friend truth]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|poly friend lie]]</div>\

Hands are grasping your shoulders, warm and desperate, shaking you. On your back, you feel a strong and steady touch as comforting circles are traced into the fabric of your shirt. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. Viktor's face is close to yours, terrified as he watches you heave for air. Theo is there as well, blue eyes wide and worried as $theo_heshe sits up at your side. You're choking on tears when Theo wraps $theo_hisher arms around you, tugging you closer. Vik closes in on your other side, and soon you're caught between a three-way hug. "You're okay," Viktor says, voice unsteady despite the fact that he's obviously angling to comfort you, "We need you to breathe, $name. Come on, now, you're doing so good." You finally stop trembling, encased in their arms, laying limp against Theo's chest. Your eyes hurt so you close them, but that brings back the memory of choking and the smell of blood- "Was it a nightmare?" Theo asks quietly. <div class="choice">[[Tell them the truth. You have a wraith.|poly truth]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|poly lie]]</div>\

You jerk upward in your bed, sweating and shaking. You could have sworn your eyes were open, yet they snap awake once more. You tremble quietly, heaving air and staring despondently ahead. You remember the choking, the smell of blood- A knock on your door startles you, and Theo's voice filters through not long after. "You good in there, $name?" $theo_heshe asks. <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'm okay." You say, trying to ignore the way your voice shakes.|shaky voice]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["It was just a nightmare," You lie, trying to laugh it off, "I'm okay now."|lie nightmare]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You remain quiet for a moment, your voice so low you're surprised he can here you, "No."|alone truth]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $telltheo to true>> <</nobr>>You tell $theo_himher about the ghost, about the panic, about the //warning//. $theo_caphisher face is bordeline dumbfounded as you finish, still perched in front of you with $theo_hisher arms hanging at $theo_hisher side. $theo_capheshe had barely moved an inch as you explained, and now the quiet lingers between the both of you. "So you have a wraith, then." Theo's voice is quiet, "$name, that's not good." "Obviously," You say, weary with the day before it's even begun. "I mean it. They sap energy, making it almost impossible to practice magic." $theo_capheshe shakes $theo_hisher head, "We gotta get rid of it." "That's only with prolonged exposure. Besides, what about these mysterious people $wraith_heshe said are coming after me?" You question, "What are we supposed to do about them?" "They're the ramblings of the dead," Theo says, untroubled, "You said it yourself, it had no idea what it was actually talking about." You remain quiet, considering. "We should tell the others," Theo prompts quietly, "They might have some ideas." <div class="choice">[["No," You say immediately, "I don't want anyone else knowing I've got a ghost in my head."|no one else theo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod, "Yeah...I figure it'll be hard to keep secret, anyway."|tell the others theo]]</div>\

"Yeah," You whisper, the lie rolling off your tongue easily, "It was bound to happen, I guess." $theo_capheshe purses $theo_hisher lips slightly, brushing a hand against your arm as $theo_heshe goes to stand up. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, offering a hand, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You take her hand, following her into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

"Alright, I won't argue about it," Theo sighs slightly, "But it's gonna get weird if anyone else catches you talking to yourself." $theo_capheshe gives you one last check over, brushing a hand against your arm as $theo_heshe goes to stand up. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, offering a hand, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You take her hand, following her into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $tellall to true>> <</nobr>>"Not wrong," Theo laughs slightly, "I bet it'd get weird if anyone caught you talking to yourself." $theo_capheshe gives you one last smile, brushing a hand against your arm as $theo_heshe goes to stand up. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, offering a hand, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You take her hand, following her into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Eventually Vik and Charlie end up around the small, square table as well. Everyone seems to be dragging, and it gets to the point where Theo just brews an entire pot of coffee and sets it in the middle of the table. "I don't drink coffee," Charlie says quietly, "It's gross." "Barbarian," Viktor mutters, grabbing the largest mug he can find and filling it to the brim. Theo raises an eyebrow, grabbing a Monster energy drink from the fridge, "What about this?" Charlie considers it, "What flavor?" "Pipeline Punch." Theo answers. "I'll take it." Charlie catches the can with ease when the cambion throws it, eagerly cracking it open. Apparently, the sleep was shitty for all of you. <div class="choice">[["Got another one?" You ask Theo pleadingly.|monster theo bfast]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grab a mug and pour a cup of coffee.|coffee theo bfast]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You refrain from both, not wanting to be jittery all day.|sans caffeine theo bfast]]</div>\

"If you're sure," Theo's voice sounds doubtful, but $theo_heshe doesn't press the issue, "Everyone's up, Vik is making breakfast apparently. Just come out whenever you're ready." You hear $theo_himher walking away, and you run a tired hand down your face. [[Your legs are unsteady as you dress and head out to join everyone in the kitchen, but you manage.|alone bfast]]

"Alright," Theo's voice sounds doubtful, but $theo_heshe doesn't press the issue, "Everyone's up, Vik is making breakfast apparently. Just come out whenever you're ready." You hear $theo_himher walking away, and you run a tired hand down your face. [[Your legs are unsteady as you dress and head out to join everyone in the kitchen, but you manage.|alone bfast]]

It's quiet for a beat. Then Theo says, "Can I come in?" $theo_capheshe doesn't wait for an answer, turning the knob of your unlocked door and peeking $theo_hisher head in. Blue eyes widen in slight worry when they see you sitting there, tangled up in your sheets like you'd had a fight in your bed. "What's going on?" $theo_capheshe asks as $theo_heshe steps inside the room and approaches where you sit, "I, uh, thought I heard crying. Was it a nightmare?" $theo_caphisher expression scrunches in concern as $theo_heshe sits on the edge of your bed. <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth.|theo alone truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|theo alone lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth.|theo alone truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|theo alone lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $tellvik to true>> <</nobr>>You tell him about the ghost, about the panic, about the //warning//. He tenses more as you continue to speak, and his jaw is clenched by the end of it. The quiet lingers as he processes the information, his slitted pupils dilating with his frustration. "That sounds like a wraith," He says, pursing his lups, "$name, that's not good. //Really// not good." "Wow, I never could've guessed that." You sigh, weary with the day before it's even begun. "I mean it. They sap energy, it can shorten your lifespan if left unattended." His nostrils flare, his stubborness rearing it's head, "We have to get rid of it." "That's only with prolonged exposure, Vik. Besides, what about these mysterious people $wraith_heshe said are coming after me?" You question, "What are we supposed to do about them?" "Literal ramblings of the dead," Viktor says, "It obviously had no idea what it was actually talking about." You remain quiet, considering. "We should tell the others," Viktor prompts quietly, "Theo, mainly. Don't tell $theo_himher I said it, but $theo_heshe might have some idea of what to do." <div class="choice">[["No," You say immediately, "I don't want anyone else knowing I've got a ghost in my head."|no one else vik]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod, "Yeah...I figure it'll be hard to keep secret, anyway."|tell the others vik]]</div>\

"Yeah," You whisper, the lie rolling off your tongue easily, "It was bound to happen, I guess." He scans your face for a moment, scrunching his nose in doubt. He then moves to stand, offering you a hand. "C'mon. We'll get breakfast started and wake Theo and Charlie up in a minute." [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|vik bfast]]

$charliename is careful as $charlie_heshe settles down beside you on the beanbag you'd slept on. It's large enough for two, luckily, and $charlie_heshe takes your hands in $charlie_hisher own. $charlie_capheshe takes a deep breath, encouraging you to do the same. "My little brother gets panic attacks," $charlie_capheshe says idly as your get your breathing under control, "So I always watched my moms when they helped calm him down." It's quiet for a beat, then two, then Charlie asks, "Was it a nightmare?" <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth. You have a wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

$charliename is careful not to touch you as $charlie_heshe settles down to kneel beside you. You're still encased in the large beanbag chair you'd fallen asleep in, so you have to look up at $charlie_himher. $charlie_capheshe takes a deep breath, encouraging you to do the same. "My little brother gets panic attacks," $charlie_capheshe says idly as your get your breathing under control, "So I always watched my moms when they helped calm him down." It's quiet for a beat, then two, then Charlie asks, "Was it a nightmare?" <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

$charliename is careful as $charlie_heshe settles down beside you on the beanbag you'd slept on. It's large enough for two, luckily, and $charlie_heshe takes your hands in $charlie_hisher own. $charlie_capheshe takes a deep breath, encouraging you to do the same. "My little brother gets panic attacks," $charlie_capheshe says idly, avoiding your gaze as your get your breathing under control, "So I always watched my moms when they helped calm him down." It's quiet for a beat, then two, then Charlie asks, "Was it a nightmare?" <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

$charliename is careful not to touch you as $charlie_heshe settles down to kneel beside you. You're still encased in the large beanbag chair you'd fallen asleep in, so you have to look up at $charlie_himher. $charlie_capheshe takes a deep breath, encouraging you to do the same. "My little brother gets panic attacks," $charlie_capheshe says idly, avoiding your gaze as your get your breathing under control, "So I always watched my moms when they helped calm him down." It's quiet for a beat, then two, then Charlie asks, "Was it a nightmare?" <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Tell him the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Tell her the truth. You have a Wraith.|charlie truth]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Lie and say it was just a nightmare.|charlie lie]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $telltheovik to true>> <</nobr>>You tell him about the ghost, about the panic, about the //warning//. They tense more and more as you continue to speak, and Viktor's jaw is clenched by the end of it. The quiet lingers as they process the information, Viktor's slitted pupils dilating with his frustration and Theo's tail twitching with $theo_hisher concern. "So you have a wraith, then." Theo's voice is quiet, "$name, that's not good." "Obviously," You say, weary with the day before it's even begun. "Theo's right, $nickname." Viktor purses his lips, glancing between the two of you, "They sap energy, it can shorten your lifespan if left unattended." His nostrils flare, his stubborness rearing it's head, "We have to get rid of it." "That's only with prolonged exposure, Vik. Besides, what about these mysterious people $wraith_heshe said are coming after me?" You question, "What are we supposed to do about them?" "Literal ramblings of the dead," Viktor says, "It obviously had no idea what it was actually talking about." You remain quiet, considering. "Do you want to tell Charlie?" Theo prompts quietly. <div class="choice">[["No," You say immediately, "I don't want anyone else knowing I've got a ghost in my head."|no one else theovik]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod, "Yeah...I figure it'll be hard to keep secret, anyway."|tell the others theovik]]</div>\

"Yeah," You whisper, the lie rolling off your tongue easily, "It was bound to happen, I guess." $theo_capheshe purses $theo_hisher lips slightly, and Viktor's eyes flick over your face in doubt. Theo brushes a hand against your arm as $theo_heshe goes to stand up, Vik following suit. "C'mon, guys." The cambion says, grabbing you both and dragging you toward the door, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Charlie up later." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[With no other option, you both follow him into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <<else>> [[With no other option, you both follow her into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Viktor is at the stove when you make it to the kitchen, scrambling eggs with perhaps more aggression than needed. Theo has a coffee cup sat next to $theo_himher, and next to that is the entire pot. It's half-empty, which tells you $theo_heshe is already over caffeinated. Charlie, meanwhile, sits quietly beside Theo. $charlie_capheshe looks tired while $charlie_heshe nurses a Monster energy drink, and the puffiness and dark circles beneath $charlie_hisher eyes aren't helping. Apparently, the sleep was shitty for all of you. "Well, guys." $theo_capheshe grins, the expression carefree in a way that's entirely forced as $theo_heshe addresses your little group, "We're not all in jail right now. That's good!" "Theo," Viktor sighs an admonishment, glancing at Charlie before giving you a small smile, "Does anyone want some eggs?" "Probably not." Theo butts in again, "You've been absolutely cremating them over there." "Shut up," Viktor sighs, "Please." "Fine...but only because you said please," $theo_capheshe gives the draca a cheeky grin, "And I actually will take some eggs, despite the hostile cooking." Charlie glances up, shaking $charlie_hisher head slightly, "Uh, no. Thank you, though." <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take the eggs][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You smile, watching Theo snicker.|egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat vik][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat vik]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $telltheo to true>> <</nobr>>You tell $theo_himher about the ghost, about the panic, about the //warning//. $theo_caphisher face is bordeline dumbfounded as you finish, still perched on the edge of your bed. $theo_capheshe had barely moved an inch as you explained, and now the quiet lingers between the both of you. "So you have a Wraith," Theo's voice is quiet, "$name, that's not good." "Obviously," You say, weary with the day before it's even begun. "I mean it. They sap energy, making it almost impossible to practice magic." $theo_capheshe shakes $theo_hisher head, "We have to get rid of it." "And these mysterious people $wraith_heshe said are coming after me?" You question, "What are we supposed to do about them?" "They're the ramblings of the dead," Theo says, untroubled, "You said it yourself, it had no idea what it was actually talking about." You remain quiet, considering. "We should tell the others," Theo prompts quietly, "They might have some ideas." <div class="choice">[["No," You say immediately, "I don't want anyone else knowing I've got a ghost in my head."|no one else theo alone]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod, "Yeah...I figure it'll be hard to keep secret, anyway."|tell the others theo alone]]</div>\

"Yeah," You whisper, the lie rolling off your tongue easily, "It was bound to happen, I guess." $theo_capheshe purses $theo_hisher lips slightly before $theo_heshe goes to stand up. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

"I think," Vik begins, his face tightening with anxiety, "We should maybe talk about it later. Reconsider your options then." He scans your face for another moment, biting his cheek. He then moves to stand reluctantly, offering you a hand. "C'mon. We'll get breakfast started for now and then wake Theo and Charlie up in a minute." [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|vik bfast]]

<<nobr>> <<set $tellall to true>> <</nobr>>"Good," Vik relaxes slightly, shoulders slumping, "That's good." He scans your face for another moment, seemingly satisfied with whatever he finds. He then moves to stand, offering you a hand. "C'mon. We'll get breakfast started and wake Theo and Charlie up in a minute." [[You take his hand, following him into the kitchen.|vik bfast]]

Viktor, of course, ends up at the stove, scrambling eggs with perhaps more aggression than needed. Theo and Charlie wander in eventually, both staggering and still tired. It eventually gets to the point where Theo just brews an entire pot of coffee and sets it in the middle of the table. "I don't drink coffee," Charlie says quietly, "It's gross." "Barbarian," Viktor mutters, taking a break from the eggs to grab the largest mug he can find and fill to the brim. Theo raises an eyebrow, grabbing a Monster energy drink from the fridge, "What about this?" Charlie considers it, "What flavor?" "Pipeline Punch." Theo answers. "I'll take it." Charlie catches the can with ease when the cambion throws it, eagerly cracking it open. Apparently, the sleep was shitty for all of you. "Well, guys." $theo_capheshe grins, the expression carefree in a way that's entirely forced as $theo_heshe addresses your little group, "We're not all in jail right now. That's good!" "Theo," Viktor sighs an admonishment, glancing at Charlie before giving you a small smile, "Does anyone want some eggs?" "Probably not." Theo butts in again, "You've been absolutely cremating them over there." "Shut up," Viktor sighs, "Please." "Fine...but only because you said please," $theo_capheshe gives the draca a cheeky grin, "And I actually will take some eggs, despite the hostile cooking." Charlie glances up, shaking $charlie_hisher head slightly, "Uh, no. Thank you, though." <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take the eggs][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You smile, watching Theo snicker.|egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat vik][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat vik]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $tellcharlie to true>> <</nobr>>You tell $charlie_himher about the ghost, about the panic, about the //warning//. $charlie_capheshe seems more weirded out than anything, looking around carefully. "Can it hear us?" $charliename asks quietly, "Like, right now?" "I don't know." You shrug a bit, "Honestly, $wraith_heshe seems kinda spotty with what $wraith_heshe pays attention to." "Huh." The blink is part incredulous and part surpised, "I guess the dead //do// have bigger worries. Still, you know it sounds like a wraith, right?" "Yeah." You sigh, "I know." "They get kinda...problematic, after a while." Charlie says, wincing in sympathy, "You should probably tell your friends." <div class="choice">[["No," You say immediately, "I don't want anyone else knowing I've got a ghost in my head. Vik and Theo will freak out."|no one else charlie]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You nod, "Yeah...I figure it'll be hard to keep secret, anyway."|tell the others charlie]]</div>\

"Yeah," You whisper, the lie rolling off your tongue easily, "It was bound to happen, I guess." You watch $charlie_hisher brows furrow for a moment, as if doubting your words. Still, $charlie_heshe gives you a small smile. "Yeah." Charlie's scoff is caught somewhere bitter amusement and sympathy, "My dreams weren't all that great either, if I'm honest." Then $charlie_heshe stands, offering you a hand. "C'mon. We'll get breakfast started and wake Theo and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Charlie grimaces, "I won't claim to know better when it comes to your friends, but I think they'd want to know even if it made them worry." The silence lingers for a moment. Finally, $charlie_heshe stands with a small sigh. "We can maybe get breakfast started for now and then wake Theo and Viktor up in a minute." Charlie suggests, "If you want to, that is. I'd say the noise will wake them before we can, anyways." <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen.|charlie bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen.|charlie bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Charlie slumps in relief, "Oh, thank God. I really didn't want to have to keep that a secret." Chuckling slight, $charlie_heshe goes to stand. "We can maybe get breakfast started for now and then wake Theo and Viktor up in a minute." Charlie suggests, "If you want to, that is. I'd say the noise will wake them before we can, anyways." <<nobr>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen.|charlie bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen.|charlie bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

"I think," Vik begins, his face tightening with anxiety, "We should maybe talk about it later. Reconsider your options then." Theo's eyes bounce between the two of you, obviously not wanting an argument. Viktor scans your face for a moment longer before turning away, biting his tongue. Finally, Theo gives you both a hesitant grin before grabbing you both and dragging you toward the door. "C'mon, guys, enough of this morose shit." The cambion says, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Charlie up later." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[With no other option, you both follow him into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <<else>> [[With no other option, you both follow her into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $tellall to true>> <</nobr>>"Good," Vik relaxes slightly, shoulders slumping, "That's good." "And you're not wrong," Theo shrugs, "It'd probably get really weird if someone saw you talking to yourself without knowing." Viktor scans your face for another moment, seemingly satisfied with whatever he finds. Theo gives you both one last grin before grabbing you both and dragging you toward the door. "C'mon, guys." The cambion says, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Charlie up later." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[With no other option, you both follow him into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <<else>> [[With no other option, you both follow her into the kitchen.|poly bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Viktor, of course, ends up at the stove, scrambling eggs with perhaps more aggression than needed. Charlie wanders in eventually, staggering and still tired. It eventually gets to the point where Theo just brews an entire pot of coffee and sets it in the middle of the table. "I don't drink coffee," Charlie says quietly, "It's gross." "Barbarian," Viktor mutters, taking a break from the eggs to grab the largest mug he can find and fill to the brim. Theo raises an eyebrow, grabbing a Monster energy drink from the fridge, "What about this?" Charlie considers it, "What flavor?" "Pipeline Punch." Theo answers. "I'll take it." Charlie catches the can with ease when the cambion throws it, eagerly cracking it open. Apparently, the sleep was shitty for all of you. "Well, guys." $theo_capheshe grins, the expression carefree in a way that's entirely forced as $theo_heshe addresses your little group, "We're not all in jail right now. That's good!" "Theo," Viktor sighs an admonishment, glancing at Charlie before giving you a small smile, "Does anyone want some eggs?" "Probably not." Theo butts in again, "You've been absolutely cremating them over there." "Shut up," Viktor sighs, "Please." "Fine...but only because you said please," $theo_capheshe gives the draca a cheeky grin, "And I actually will take some eggs, despite the hostile cooking." Charlie glances up, shaking $charlie_hisher head slightly, "Uh, no. Thank you, though." <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take the eggs][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You smile, watching Theo snicker.|egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat vik][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat vik]]</div>\

<<nobr>> Viktor nods, silently sliding you a plate with scrambled eggs. They look perfectly fluffy. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwithvik is true>> Before he moves away, he squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and he gives you a soft smile before pulling back. <br><br> You miss the warmth of him almost immediately. <br><br> <</if>> He then slides some towards Theo, who promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, taking a seat, "You're gross." <br><br> You notice Viktor hadn't made any breakfast for himself. Charlie also doesn't eat, though you think privately that Monster on an empty stomach can't be a good idea when $charlie_heshe already looks ill. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when you and Theo are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Viktor rolls his eyes, but slides you a plate with scrambled eggs regardless. They look perfectly fluffy. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwithvik is true>> Before he moves away, he squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and he gives you a soft smile before pulling back. <br><br> You miss the warmth of him almost immediately. <br><br> <</if>> He then slides some towards Theo, who promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, taking a seat, "You're gross." <br><br> You notice Viktor hadn't made any breakfast for himself. Charlie also doesn't eat, though you think privately that Monster on an empty stomach can't be a good idea when $charlie_heshe already looks ill. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when you and Theo are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Viktor nods, moving past you to slide Theo a plate of scrambled eggs. They look perfectly fluffy, but the thought of food still turns your stomach. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwithvik is true>> As he passes by, he squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and he gives you a soft smile before pulling back. <br><br> You miss the warmth of him almost immediately. <br><br> <</if>> Theo, meanwhile, promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, taking a seat, "You're gross." <br><br> You notice Viktor hadn't made any breakfast for himself. Charlie also doesn't eat, though you think privately that Monster on an empty stomach can't be a good idea when $charlie_heshe already looks ill. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when Theo is nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Viktor nods, moving past you to slide Theo a plate of scrambled eggs. They look perfectly fluffy. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwithvik is true>> As he passes by, he squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and he gives you a soft smile before pulling back. <br><br> You miss the warmth of him almost immediately. <br><br> <</if>> Theo, meanwhile, promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, taking a seat, "You're gross." <br><br> You notice Viktor hadn't made any breakfast for himself. Charlie also doesn't eat, though you think privately that Monster on an empty stomach can't be a good idea when $charlie_heshe already looks ill. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when Theo is nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

"Alright, I won't argue about it," Theo sighs slightly, "But it's gonna get weird if anyone else catches you talking to yourself." $theo_capheshe gives you one last check over before standing. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $tellall to true>> <</nobr>>"Not wrong," Theo laughs slightly, "I bet it'd get weird if anyone caught you talking to yourself." $theo_capheshe gives you one last smile before $theo_heshe goes to stand up. "C'mon." $theo_capheshe says, "We'll get breakfast started and wake Vik and Charlie up in a minute." <<nobr>> <<if $theo_ismale is true>> [[You follow him into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <<else>> [[You follow her into the kitchen wordlessly, still in a bit of a haze.|theo bfast]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

Another Monster sails across the air, and the morning moves on. Theo ends up making scrambled eggs, which come out looking rather dry, but no one comments. Viktor takes a plate without question, while Charlie declines. The basilisk already looks a little ill, and you privately think an energy drink on an empty stomach won't help. "Want some?" The cambion offers. <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take theo's eggs][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You joke, watching Theo grin in repsonse.|theo egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat]]</div>\

Theo ends up making scrambled eggs while you fix your coffee, though the eggs come out looking rather dry. No one comments and Viktor takes a plate without question, while Charlie declines. The basilisk already looks a little ill, and you privately think an energy drink on an empty stomach won't help. "Want some?" The cambion offers. <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take theo's eggs][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You joke, watching Theo grin in repsonse.|theo egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat]]</div>\

Theo ends up making scrambled eggs, though they come out looking rather dry. No one comments and Viktor takes a plate without question, while Charlie declines. The basilisk already looks a little ill, and you privately think an energy drink on an empty stomach won't help. "Want some?" The cambion offers. <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take theo's eggs][$theo_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You joke, watching Theo grin in repsonse.|theo egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat]]</div>\

<<nobr>> Theo slides you a plate. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwiththeo is true>> Before $theo_heshe moves away, $theo_heshe squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and $theo_heshe gives you a quick grin before pulling back. <br><br> You find yourself missing the touch. <br><br> <</if>> $theo_capheshe then gives some to Viktor before making his own plate. Once $theo_heshe's done, $theo_heshe promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes, "You're gross." <br><br> For a short span of time, only silver clinking against ceramic fills the air. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when you all are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Theo slides you a plate with a wink. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwiththeo is true>> Before $theo_heshe moves away, $theo_heshe squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and $theo_heshe gives you a quick grin before pulling back. <br><br> You find yourself missing the touch. <br><br> <</if>> $theo_capheshe then gives some to Viktor before making his own plate. Once $theo_heshe's done, $theo_heshe promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, "You're gross." <br><br> For a short span of time, only silver clinking against ceramic fills the air. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when you all are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Theo moved past you to slide Viktor a plate. They don't look awful, but even the thought of food turns your stomach. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwiththeo is true>> Before $theo_heshe moves away completely, $theo_heshe squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and $theo_heshe gives you a quick grin before pulling back. <br><br> You find yourself missing the touch. <br><br> <</if>> $theo_capheshe then makes his own plate before $theo_heshe promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, "You're gross." <br><br> For a short span of time, only silver clinking against ceramic fills the air. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when he and Theo are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> Theo moved past you to slide Viktor a plate. <br><br> <<if $wakeupwiththeo is true>> Before $theo_heshe moves away completely, $theo_heshe squeezes your shoulder lightly. You glance up, and $theo_heshe gives you a quick grin before pulling back. <br><br> You find yourself missing the touch. <br><br> <</if>> $theo_capheshe then makes his own plate before $theo_heshe promptly stands to rummage through the cupboards and grab the hot sauce. $theo_capheshe douses $theo_hisher eggs in the stuff, ignoring the judging look $theo_heshe gets from Viktor. <br><br> "I don't wanna hear it," The cambion says preemptively, pointing $theo_hisher fork at Viktor, "You used to dip fries in ranch." <br><br> "That's normal." Viktor defends. <br><br> Theo scrunches $theo_hisher nose, "That's gross." <br><br> The draca rolls his eyes then, "You're gross." <br><br> For a short span of time, only silver clinking against ceramic fills the air. <br><br> "So, we need a game plan." Viktor finally speaks again when he and Theo are nearly finished eating, "Some...some idea of how we'll manage moving forward." <br><br> [[That catches even Charlie's attention, and all eyes turn to Viktor as he wrings his hands.|game plan]] <</nobr>>

"What game plan?" Theo's brows furrow, "We haven't been arrested as of now. We can just...leave it alone." "We saw a body." Charlie looks up, $charlie_hisher eyes wide, "Harper was...she was obviously murdered. Yeah, there's gonna be an investigation, but in the meantime there's still a killer out there." Theo blinks, glancing around at you all, "Okay, but what can we do? Hunt the murderer? This isn't Nancy Drew; if we get involved in an investigation, we probably //will// go to jail. Like, actually. It's impressive enough we're not in the slammer already, can we maybe not press our luck?" Charlie wilts in $charlie_hisher seat, and Theo winces as if $theo_heshe regrets the bluntness of $theo_hisher words. “You know, I think it’s even more impressive you haven’t been arrested, Theo." Viktor snarks back, both to break the tension and save Charlie the trouble of further conversaton, "Aside from the whole body thing, there was the literal assault that happened yesterday.” Theo’s entire face brightens at the mention of it, “Hey, from my point of view, Fletcher’s kneecaps were begging for it.” "But it draws attention to us." Viktor says, "Busted cameras or not, we were still there. We'll just lay low for a bit. We can have a buddy system, too." "A buddy system?" You ask, brows furrowing, "Like, travel in pairs?" "Yeah, or all as a group." Viktor glances over at the quiet basilisk, "I mean, Charlie is right. There //is// still a murderer out there, and what if they were still in the area and saw us flee?" Theo pales a bit at the thought, and you can tell $theo_heshe hadn't considered that. "So, anyone have anything pressing this weekend?" Viktor asks, glancing around. "I told my manager I'd work the bookstore booth at Weekend of Welcome tonight and tomorrow." Charlie says quietly, "Harper was, uh, the other volunteer." $charlie_capheshe stumbles over the words slightly, pursing $charlie_hisher lips together. You wonder if they'd become fast friends, $charlie_himher and Harper, or if it was just the shock of finding $charlie_hisher co-worker dead. "Well, if no one else has any other plans, we'll go, too. We can help at the booth or just hang around and keep an eye out." Viktor says, glancing at you and Theo, "Sound good?" Theo nods, "Yeah. Are we selling something? I'm very charming, you know. I could sell fire to Hell." <div class="choice">[[You don't want to go, you hate crowds with a passion after all, but you don't have much of a choice.|no choice][$dontwannawow to true]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[It's important you all stick together right now, whether or not you have fun.|stick together][$maybewow to true]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You don't mind attending Weekend of Welcome; you might even have some fun or, at the very least, win a t-shirt.|yay wow][$hellawow to true]]</div>\

<<nobr>> You and crowds haven't really mixed well since back in boarding school, when all the Unchosen nonsense had just begun, but you might just have to stick it out this time. <br><br> <<if $tellall is true and $telltheo is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Theo straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Viktor and Charlie, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They take it about as well as Theo did. Viktor is immediately worried for your lifespan, while Charlie just seems a bit weirded out if nothing else.|beans spilled vik & charl no choice]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $tellvik is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Viktor straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Theo and Charlie, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They take it about as well as Viktor did. Theo is immediately worried about the wraith sapping your energy, while Charlie just seems a bit weirded out if nothing else.|beans spilled theo & charl no choice]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $telltheovik is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Viktor and Theo both straighten, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans to Charlie. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at basilisk in question, "I...do have to tell you something." <br><br> [[Honestly, Charlie takes the news better than you anticipated, despite seeming a bit weirded out.|beans spilled charl no choice]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $tellcharlie is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Charlie straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Theo and Viktor, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They don't take it nearly as well as Charlie did. Theo is immediately worried about the wraith sapping your energy, while Viktor seems more focused on the ramifications it could have on your lifespan.|beans spilled theo & vik no choice]] <<else>> Viktor glances over at you, brows furrowed, and he leans closer to you as Theo and Charlie to get dressed, "We can always find a corner near Charlie's booth and just steal all the free snacks." <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You give him an appreciative look, "I'd like that."|off to wow happy vik][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You grimace, "And where will we find a corner to hide from half the college?"|off to wow sad vik][$emotional += 2]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $tellall is true and $telltheo is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Theo straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Viktor and Charlie, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They take it about as well as Theo did. Viktor is immediately worried for your lifespan, while Charlie just seems a bit weirded out if nothing else.|beans spilled vik & charl stick together]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $tellvik is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Viktor straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Theo and Charlie, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They take it about as well as Viktor did. Theo is immediately worried about the wraith sapping your energy, while Charlie just seems a bit weirded out if nothing else.|beans spilled theo & charl stick together]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $tellcharlie is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Charlie straightens, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at Theo and Viktor, "I have something to tell you guys, as well." <br><br> [[They don't take it nearly as well as Charlie did. Theo is immediately worried about the wraith sapping your energy, while Viktor seems more focused on the ramifications it could have on your lifespan.|beans spilled theo & vik stick together]] <<elseif $tellall is true and $telltheovik is true>> You clear your throat, glancing around. Viktor and Theo both straighten, realizing you're about to spill the wraith beans to Charlie. <br><br> You purse your lips, glancing at basilisk in question, "I...do have to tell you something." <br><br> [[Honestly, Charlie takes the news better than you anticipated, despite seeming a bit weirded out.|beans spilled charl stick together]] <<else>> <<if $meantocharlie is true>> Charlie winces, glancing over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $kindtocharlie is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, $charlie_hisher lips quirked into a small smile, "Thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I really do appreciate it, $name. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_heshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, one that says $charlie_heshe's a bit bemused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $flirtwcharliesleepover is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day before averting $charlie_hisher eyes just as quickly, "Thanks, $name." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I appreciate it, really. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_heshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie give you a look, one caught between emabrassment and amusement, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going...uh, and them, too." <br><br> $charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a deep red, starkly visible on $charlie_hisher brown skin. <<else>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_heshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <</if>> $charlie_capheshe leaves you a little confused as you watch $charlie_himher go. <br><br> [[Better get ready for this. It seems you can't avoid two things in life; shitty media coverage and shitty college functions.|WOW]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." "I already explained that," Theo sighs, lips pursed. $theo_capheshe did and yet...you're not sure. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? "Okay, later then." Viktor sighs, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Viktor glances over at you, brows furrowed, and he leans closer to you as Theo and Charlie to get dressed, "This is...a lot...and that's //still// an understatement. If you want, we can always find a corner near Charlie's booth and just steal all the free snacks." <div class="choice">[[You give him an appreciative look, "I'd like that."|off to wow happy vik][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grimace, "And where will we find a corner to hide from half the college?"|off to wow sad vik][$emotional += 2]]</div>\

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor sees the look on Theo's face, "I probably already said whatever you're about to, anyways." "It's just...it's gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" You're just...not sure. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Viktor glances over at you, brows furrowed, and he leans closer to you as Theo and Charlie to get dressed, "I know this is a lot...and that's //still// an understatement. If you want, we can always find a corner near Charlie's booth and just steal all the free snacks." <div class="choice">[[You give him an appreciative look, "I'd like that."|off to wow happy vik][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grimace, "And where will we find a corner to hide from half the college?"|off to wow sad vik][$emotional += 2]]</div>\

"So...yeah." Theo sighs, "Fun stuff." "We have different definitions of fun," Charlie sighs, brows pinched. "It's just...it does gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right, $nickname?" You're just...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Viktor glances over at you, brows furrowed, and he leans closer to you as Theo and Charlie to get dressed, "This is...a lot...and that's //still// an understatement. If you want, we can always find a corner near Charlie's booth and just steal all the free snacks." <div class="choice">[[You give him an appreciative look, "I'd like that."|off to wow happy vik][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grimace, "And where will we find a corner to hide from half the college?"|off to wow sad vik][$emotional += 2]]</div>\

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." "It's gotta go soon." Theo finishes, $theo_hisher lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" You're...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Viktor glances over at you, brows furrowed, and he leans closer to you as Theo and Charlie to get dressed, "This is...a lot...and that's //still// an understatement. If you want, we can always find a corner near Charlie's booth and just steal all the free snacks." <div class="choice">[[You give him an appreciative look, "I'd like that."|off to wow happy vik][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You grimace, "And where will we find a corner to hide from half the college?"|off to wow sad vik][$emotional += 2]]</div>\

He gives you a small smile before going to get dressed. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

He wilts slightly at your words, "Well, I wouldn't say half the college. Maybe a fourth?" He chuckles, but it comes across as rather weak. Glancing away, he sighs deeply, "I know it sucks. //All// of this does. We just have to get through it, and I'm here if you need me. Okay?" Meeting your eyes, he gives you what he's probably hoping is a supportive look before going to change. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

<<nobr>> "We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." <br><br> "I already explained that," Theo sighs, lips pursed. <br><br> $theo_capheshe did and yet...you're not sure. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. <br><br> Does that count for something? <br><br> "Okay, later then." Viktor sighs, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." <br><br> <<if $meantocharlie is true>> Charlie winces, glancing over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Um...all that aside, In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $kindtocharlie is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, $charlie_hisher lips quirked into a small smile, "Wraith business aside...Thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I really do appreciate it, $name. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, one that says $charlie_heshe's a bit bemused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $flirtwcharliesleepover is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day before averting $charlie_hisher eyes just as quickly, "All that wraith business aside...Thanks, $name." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I appreciate it, really. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie give you a look, one caught between emabrassment and amusement, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going...uh, and them, too." <br><br> $charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a deep red, starkly visible on $charlie_hisher brown skin. <<else>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Wraith business aside...I just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <</if>> $charlie_capheshe leaves you a little confused as you watch $charlie_himher go. <br><br> [[Better get ready for this. It seems you can't avoid two things in life; shitty media coverage and shitty college functions.|WOW]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor sees the look on Theo's face, "I probably already said whatever you're about to, anyways." <br><br> "It's just...it's gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" <br><br> You're just...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. <br><br> Does that count for something? <br><br> Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. <br><br> "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." <br><br> <<if $meantocharlie is true>> Charlie winces, glancing over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Um...all that aside, In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $kindtocharlie is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, $charlie_hisher lips quirked into a small smile, "Wraith business aside...Thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I really do appreciate it, $name. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, one that says $charlie_heshe's a bit bemused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <br><br> <<elseif $flirtwcharliesleepover is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day before averting $charlie_hisher eyes just as quickly, "All that wraith business aside...Thanks, $name." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I appreciate it, really. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie give you a look, one caught between emabrassment and amusement, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going...uh, and them, too." <br><br> $charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a deep red, starkly visible on $charlie_hisher brown skin. <<else>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Wraith business aside...I just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <</if>> $charlie_capheshe leaves you a little confused as you watch $charlie_himher go. <br><br> [[Better get ready for this. It seems you can't avoid two things in life; shitty media coverage and shitty college functions.|WOW]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." <br><br> "It's gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" <br><br> You're...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. <br><br> Does that count for something? <br><br> Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. <br><br> "Later." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." <br><br> <<if $meantocharlie is true>> Charlie winces, glancing over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Um...all that aside, In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $kindtocharlie is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, $charlie_hisher lips quirked into a small smile, "Wraith business aside...Thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I really do appreciate it, $name. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, one that says $charlie_heshe's a bit bemused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $flirtwcharliesleepover is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day before averting $charlie_hisher eyes just as quickly, "All that wraith business aside...Thanks, $name." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I appreciate it, really. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie give you a look, one caught between emabrassment and amusement, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going...uh, and them, too." <br><br> $charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a deep red, starkly visible on $charlie_hisher brown skin. <<else>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Wraith business aside...I just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <</if>> $charlie_capheshe leaves you a little confused as you watch $charlie_himher go. <br><br> [[Better get ready for this. It seems you can't avoid two things in life; shitty media coverage and shitty college functions.|WOW]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "So...yeah." Theo sighs, "Fun stuff." <br><br> "We have different definitions of fun," Charlie sighs, brows pinched. <br><br> "It's just...it does gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right, $nickname?" <br><br> You're just...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. <br><br> Does that count for something? <br><br> Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. <br><br> "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." <br><br> <<if $meantocharlie is true>> Charlie winces, glancing over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Um...all that aside, In just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $kindtocharlie is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, $charlie_hisher lips quirked into a small smile, "Wraith business aside...Thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I really do appreciate it, $name. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, one that says $charlie_heshe's a bit bemused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <<elseif $flirtwcharliesleepover is true>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day before averting $charlie_hisher eyes just as quickly, "All that wraith business aside...Thanks, $name." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I appreciate it, really. I guess I'm just scared to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie give you a look, one caught between emabrassment and amusement, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going...uh, and them, too." <br><br> $charlie_caphisher cheeks flush a deep red, starkly visible on $charlie_hisher brown skin. <<else>> Charlie glances over at you as Viktor and Theo go to get dressed for the day, "Wraith business aside...I just wanted to say thank you." <br><br> You pause, raising an eyebrow, "For what?" <br><br> "Agreeing to go." $charlie_capheshe hesitates, "I know we haven't really...hit it off, or anything, but I don't want to be alone." <br><br> $charlie_capheshe says it quietly, like an admission of guilt, and your brows furrow. <br><br> "You would've had Theo and Vik," You point out. <br><br> Charlie gives you a look, something sad but still a little amused, "They wouldn't leave you. I get it, of course; you all have been friends forever. I just...I'm glad you're going, and they're going, too." <</if>> $charlie_capheshe leaves you a little confused as you watch $charlie_himher go. <br><br> [[Better get ready for this. It seems you can't avoid two things in life; shitty media coverage and shitty college functions.|WOW]] <</nobr>>

You're all bracing for the inevitable when you leave the building. Charlie is supposed to drop by the bookstore and meet up with $charlie_hisher manager before the event actually starts to help get things ready for the booth. Harper was the other volunteer, $charlie_heshe had informed you all with pursed lips and a tight jaw. When you step outside, it's eerily quiet. No police cars aside from the usual Campus Security, and only a few students are up and about. You all glance at each other, wide eyed. Going back to the bookstore feels wrong. With each step you take, it feels as if death awaits. Viktor slides closer to you, his eyes trained ahead as if bracing for someone to rush at you all. Nothing happens. There's no one outside the store, no investigators, no police, yet the lights are on inside. Charlie freezes outside the bookstore, mouth agape, "What...What's happening?" "I'm not sure," Viktor says, eyes scanning the area, "Why is there no one here?" "Trying to keep it all quiet, maybe?" Theo suggests, though $theo_hisher face is tight with confusion, "They probably don't want that much panic this close to classes starting." Then a figure approaches, an older nephilim woman swinging the door open with her hip. She has boxes piled high in her arms, and she smiles when she spots Charlie. "$charliename!" She says, stacking her pile on one of the rolling carts by the door, "Come on in! Are these your friends?" "Yeah. I mean, yes, Mrs. Schmidt." Charlie blinks, face pale. "They can come in too, don't worry." She laughs, "Any helping hands are welcome." You hesitate to follow the others and her eyes land on you, sharply intelligent yet kind at the same time. "I meant //any// helping hands, ?Mx $surname." She clarifies gently. [[You lurch forward, following after the others.|helping schmidt]]

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." "I already explained that," Theo sighs, lips pursed. $theo_capheshe did and yet...you're not sure. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? "Okay, later then." Viktor sighs, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Theo glances over at you, "Well...energy sucking leech aside, are you thinking the same thing I am?" You raise a brow, "And what's that?" "Free t-shirts," $theo_capheshe says, giving you a small smile, "And other useless junk we'll collect anyways." $theo_capheshe bumps your shoulders together playfully as $theo_heshe saunters off back to $theo_hisher room to get dressed. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor sees the look on Theo's face, "I probably already said whatever you're about to, anyways." "It's just...it's gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" You're just...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Theo glances over at you, "Well...energy sucking leech aside, are you thinking the same thing I am?" You raise a brow, "And what's that?" "Free t-shirts," $theo_capheshe says, giving you a small smile, "And other useless junk we'll collect anyways." $theo_capheshe bumps your shoulders together playfully as $theo_heshe saunters off back to $theo_hisher room to get dressed. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

"We can...we'll discuss it later." Viktor pinches the bridge of his nose, "If it //is// a wraith..." "It's gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right?" You're...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Theo glances over at you, "Well...energy sucking leech aside, are you thinking the same thing I am?" You raise a brow, "And what's that?" "Free t-shirts," $theo_capheshe says, giving you a small smile, "And other useless junk we'll collect anyways." $theo_capheshe bumps your shoulders together playfully as $theo_heshe saunters off back to $theo_hisher room to get dressed. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

"So...yeah." Theo sighs, "Fun stuff." "We have different definitions of fun," Charlie sighs, brows pinched. "It's just...it does gotta go soon." Theo says, lips pursed, "I mean, you do agree...right, $nickname?" You're just...not sure, yet. The way $wraith_heshe spoke...wraith or not, $wraith_heshe protected you in both dreams, tried to warn you. Does that count for something? Theo must see the indecision on your face and $theo_heshe sighs deeply in response. "Later, please." Viktor insists, "We just have to get Weekend of Welcome over first." Theo glances over at you, "Well...energy sucking leech aside, are you thinking the same thing I am?" You raise a brow, "And what's that?" "Free t-shirts," $theo_capheshe says, giving you a small smile, "And other useless junk we'll collect anyways." $theo_capheshe bumps your shoulders together playfully as $theo_heshe saunters off back to $theo_hisher room to get dressed. You do the same. [[Things change fast, especially when you get put in the center of a murder. At least you can always depend on your college to waste your tuition payments on fun, lame events like Weekend of Welcome.|WOW]]

Charlie doesn't even have the chance to get a pan out before the noise makes Theo stir. The cambion then wakes Viktor with a quick pat on the cheek, making the draca sputter in annoyance. Viktor, of course, ends up at the stove after shooing Charlie away. He's scrambling the eggs with perhaps more aggression than needed, you note idly. Everyone is still staggering and tired; it eventually gets to the point where Theo just brews an entire pot of coffee and sets it in the middle of the table. "I don't drink coffee," Charlie says quietly, "It's gross." "Barbarian," Viktor mutters, taking a break from the eggs to grab the largest mug he can find and fill to the brim. Theo raises an eyebrow, grabbing a Monster energy drink from the fridge, "What about this?" Charlie considers it, "What flavor?" "Pipeline Punch." Theo answers. "I'll take it." Charlie catches the can with ease when the cambion throws it, eagerly cracking it open. Apparently, the sleep was shitty for all of you. "Well, guys." $theo_capheshe grins, the expression carefree in a way that's entirely forced as $theo_heshe addresses your little group, "We're not all in jail right now. That's good!" "Theo," Viktor sighs an admonishment, glancing at Charlie before giving you a small smile, "Does anyone want some eggs?" "Probably not." Theo butts in again, "You've been absolutely cremating them over there." "Shut up," Viktor sighs, "Please." "Fine...but only because you said please," $theo_capheshe gives the draca a cheeky grin, "And I actually will take some eggs, despite the hostile cooking." Charlie glances up, shaking $charlie_hisher head slightly, "Uh, no. Thank you, though." <div class="choice">[["Yeah, I'll take some eggs." You say.|take the eggs][$viktor_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I guess I can't pass up egg ashes," You smile, watching Theo snicker.|egg ashes][$theo_friend += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You cringe, "I don't think I'm up for eating right now."|can't eat vik][$charlie_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Thanks, but no." You say, "I'm not really hungry right now."|won't eat vik]]</div>\

The woman leads you all toward the storeroom doors. Charlie looks pale enough to faint, but Theo keeps $charlie_himher walking with a sharp tug on $charlie_hisher arm. The area is pristine. The broken cameras from the night before are gone, replaced with brand new ones hanging from the ceiling by the doors. There is no blood, no smell of rust and death, yet the phantom lingers. When you turn the corner to help Mrs. Schmidt grab a school banner, you see the safety ladders have been pushed against the back wall. There is no broken body, no signs of any murder. Maybe Theo was right. Maybe they just wanted to keep thing under wraps. "Oh, and, dear?" Mrs. Schmidt addresses Charlie as you all begin walking outside once again, "Have you heard from Harper? She's hardly ever late. I sent her a text, but haven't gotten any response." You all freeze. Keeping things under wraps...to //this// extent? "I, uh...No." Charlie swallows, "Sorry, ma'am." "Not your fault." She chides, "She's probably slept in on accident or isn't feeling well. She's a good kid, I'm sure she'll show up soon or contact me when she can. I suppose it's lucky you brought your friends along, after all, hmm?" Nodding quickly, Charlie turns $charlie_hisher gaze toward the rest of you when she turns to place the last of the items on the carts. //What the fuck//, $charlie_heshe mouths, face striken. Viktor shrugs slightly, helpless. [[That's as far as you get before Mrs. Schmidt is instructing you all to take the carts to the University Center.|oh wowza]]

The stage from last night is still up, now holding tables of t-shirts and bags of college-themed gear in addition to the podium. Several students and professors mill about, doing various tasks as everyone prepares for the event about to start. Mrs. Schmidt begins to hang the banner over their alloted booth with Viktor and Charlie's help, when suddenly she hisses under her breath. "Oh, shoot." She sighs, "?Mx $surname, would you be a dear and go aquire some double-sided tape? There should be some in the boxes by the front of the stage." "I'll go too," Theo offers immediately. "Now, now, $theo_mrms Parker, I need you to get those pamphlets out and start folding, if you don't care." She says, nodding towards another cart. Theo's face falls, $theo_hisher eyes sliding toward Mrs. Schmidt in thinly-veiled annoyance, "Are we getting paid?" She chuckles, "Of course not! Since when are volunteers paid?" Theo complies after a sharp look from Viktor. The stage is clear shot from your booth, and you doubt anyone would try anything to actually, physically hurt you in public. So you go, rummaging through the boxes. You can hear Theo griping from here, making you smile as you finally grab the tape. You stand- [[And a strong hand grabs you by the mouth and arm, muffling your shout.|hi harlow]]

Your captor drags you behind the stage and pushes you up against the back of it with haste. No one notices, no one screams, and your friends too occupied with their tasks to see your plight. Will you be dead before they do catch sight of you? Dead like Harper, bleeding out, blood and //ghosts// and- You're pulled from your panic when your assailant moves their free hand from your arm to your shoulder. They shake you slightly, gentle but urgent, and your eyes refocus. Dark hair, green eyes. The upperclassman you met last night. You wrack your brain for their name...Harlow...right? Harlow... $harlow_caphisher grip tightens once again, and you notice their face is pale. Ashen, actually, $harlow_heshethey almost looks ill. Finally, $harlow_heshethey speaks, their voice shaking, "I've watched you die in my nightmares every night for the past two months." [[And, honestly, you were expecting pretty much anything else.|hi luci]]

<<nobr>> You think you make some kind of noise; a gasp, a laugh, a cry of anguish to commiserate your wretched existence. Either way, Harlow's hand muffles the noise, leaving you functionally mute for the time being. <br><br> "Each time it's different," They hiss quietly, "This has never //happened// before." <br><br> <<if $species is not "banshee">> Oh, joy. You broke the banshee. <br><br> <<else>> Oh, joy. You broke your fellow banshee. <br><br> <</if>> $harlow_capheshe takes a shaking breath, pursing $harlow_hishertheir lips as they watch you closely. <br><br> "This is a warning." Harlow says slowly, clearly, as if begging you to understand, "I don't know who-" <br><br> Shuffling has the both of you freezing as someone walks around the back of the stage with a box on their hip. Then you realize who, exactly, is the person holding said box. <br><br> $luciname Rivera. <br><br> All three of you freeze, and you can see $luciname’s eyes widen at the scene, wings fluttering as $luci_heshe takes a half step forward. Harlow moves away so fast you might think you burned them. <br><br> “What’s going on?” $luciname's words are quiet, $luci_hisher eyes locked on Harlow. <br><br> You realize, suddenly, that you’d almost forgotten what $luci_hisher voice sounded like. <br><br> Harlow blinks owlishly at the nephilim before $harlow_hishertheir eyes dart to you as if expecting you to scream or flee. You do neither, ignoring $luciname for the time being as your thoughts become consumed with all you'd seen yesterday. <br><br> "It's not natural, then?" You ask lowly, pinning $harlow_himherthem in place with your eyes alone. <br><br> They don't even wince at the question before answering, "No." <br><br> So you're going to get murdered. Oh, fuck. //Fuck.// <br><br> You see Harper's body once again, lingering like an omen as you remember Vik's warning about the killer lingering around. Harlow takes a few quick steps back as you suck in a sharp breath, then they're gone back around the corner of the stage. <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> [[Now you're alone with Lucien. Wonderful.|luci questions]] <<else>> [[Now you're alone with Lucia. Wonderful.|luci questions]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $missedluci is true>> A dull, aching pain resonates through your chest from your heart. You knew you missed $luciname but this...you never expected this. To have $luci_himher standing right infront of you, only feet away, so close and yet impossibly far. <br><br> <</if>> $luciname watches Harlow leave with an expression so dumbstruck it nearly makes you laugh. Then $luci_heshe turns to you and you don't feel quite like laughing anymore. <br><br> <div class="choice">[["Before you ask, it's none of your fucking business." You snap waspishly, preemptively cutting off any questions.|waspish w luci]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You try and hide the shaking of your hands, but your voice is still trembling when you speak, "Hi."|hello luc]]</div> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You immediately push past him, eager to flee the situation.|push past luc]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You immediately push past her, eager to flee the situation.|push past luc]]</div> <</if>> <<if $luciex is true>> <div class="choice">[[You freeze, faced with far too many memories of better times to react in the moment.|too many memories ex]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You freeze in front of your old friend, memories weighing you down as you struggle to react.|to many memories friend]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> $luci_capheshe pales drastically, jaw tightening. $luci_caphisher mouth moves wordlessly for a moment, and then another, words not forthcoming. $luci_capheshe grips the box to $luci_hisher chest before spinning around to go back in the directon $luci_heshe came from. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your ex go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]] <<else>> [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your former friend go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> $luci_capheshe seems stunned you spoke to $luci_himher, mouth twitching as $luci_heshe tries to form the right words. <br><br> "Natural?" $luciname settles on repeating the word you'd said earlier, voice stricken. <br><br> You can't find it in yourself to speak, realizing its for the best if $luci_heshe knows as little as possible. <br><br> "Natural?" $luci_capheshe repeats the word with more urgency, volume growing as if it might spur you to speak, "That was...They're a //banshee//." <br><br> It's abundantly clear that $luciname is capable of putting two and two together. Perhaps you would applaud if you weren't currently having an out of body experience. <br><br> $luci_capheshe moves $luci_hisher mouth wordlessly before gripping the box to $luci_hisher chest. Jaw tight, $luci_heshe spins around to go back in the directon $luci_heshe came from. <br><br> <<if $luciex is true>> [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your ex go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]] <<else>> [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your former friend go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You push past $luci_himher quickly, hearing $luci_hisher sputtering words and never once turning around. <br><br> Why should you? After all the leaving $luci_heshe did, maybe it's finally time for you to be the one walking. <br><br> You push through the slowly gathering crowd and quickly find a bench along the sidelines of all the mess. You sit heavily, shoulders slouching as you try to calm your racing heart. <br><br> [[You're going to die. Like, actually.|breakdown x1]] <</nobr>>

"Natural?" $luciname repeats the word, voice stricken. You can't find it in yourself to speak, your tongue far too heavy with unspoken words to force any of them out. "Natural?" $luci_capheshe repeats the word with more urgency, volume growing as if it might spur you to speak, "That was...They're a //banshee//." It's abundantly clear that $luciname is capable of putting two and two together. Perhaps you would applaud with some varying level of sarcasm if you weren't currently having an out of body experience. $luci_capheshe moves $luci_hisher mouth wordlessly before moving to grip the box to $luci_hisher chest. Jaw tight, $luci_heshe spins around to go back in the directon $luci_heshe came from. [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your ex go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]]

"Natural?" $luciname repeats the word, voice stricken. You can't find it in yourself to speak, your tongue far too heavy with unspoken words to force any of them out. "Natural?" $luci_capheshe repeats the word with more urgency, volume growing as if it might spur you to speak, "That was...They're a //banshee//." It's abundantly clear that $luciname is capable of putting two and two together. Perhaps you would applaud with some varying level of sarcasm if you weren't currently having an out of body experience. $luci_capheshe moves $luci_hisher mouth wordlessly before moving to grip the box to $luci_hisher chest. Jaw tight, $luci_heshe spins around to go back in the directon $luci_heshe came from. [[You stagger backwards to lean against the stage, watching your former friend go. It's not like this is the first time.|breakdown x2]]

<<nobr>> <<if $luciex is true and $luci_ismale is true>> You're going to die and your ex-boyfriend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <<elseif $luciex is true and $luci_ismale is false>> You're going to die and your ex-girlfriend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <<else>> You're going to die and your former best friend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <</if>> <br><br> You close your eyes tightly, sinking your head back to barely rest against the hard metal of the stage. You could drive yourself crazy with the who, what, and when; that's what people usually do after a banshee wails for them. <br><br> And now theres you, with multiple wails, still breathing against all odds. <br><br> Still, the fear lingers. The thought that you might become the next Harper, the next broken body in some murderer's warpath. <br><br> [[You ruminate in your head until someone blocks the light from above, forcing your mind elsewhere.|hi amri]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $luciex is true and $luci_ismale is true>> You're going to die and your ex-boyfriend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <<elseif $luciex is true and $luci_ismale is false>> You're going to die and your ex-girlfriend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <<else>> You're going to die and your former best friend //knows//. What a cosmic joke. <</if>> <br><br> You close your eyes tightly, sinking back onto the bench. No one notices you; you've mastered the skill of staying out of the public eye so well it seems to come naturally to you at this point. <br><br> Your thoughts are racing; you could drive yourself crazy with the who, what, and when; that's what people usually do after a banshee wails for them. <br><br> And now theres you, with multiple wails, still breathing after months against all odds. <br><br> Still, the fear lingers. The thought that you might become the next Harper, the next broken body in some murderer's warpath. <br><br> [[You ruminate in your head until someone blocks the light from above, forcing your mind elsewhere.|hi amri bench]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "Hello, there." <br><br> <<if $ignoredami is true>> None other than $aminame Singh, the nephilim from orientation, stands with $ami_hisher head cocked slightly in confusion. <br><br> You bite back a groan. <br><br> The nephilim grins at your reaction, chuckling slightly, "You know, the look on your face is similar to my father's whenever he see me. It's uncanny, really." <br><br> [[Well, that was most certainly an insult.|rude to amri]] <<elseif $goodsportamri is true>> None other than $aminame Singh stands there with a small grin, waving a hand in front of you as if to get your attention. <br><br> "Oh," You blink, sitting up slightly, "You." <br><br> "Me," $ami_capheshe agrees, "Where are your friends at?" <br><br> You gesture to the other side of the room where Mrs. Schmidt has them working away at setting up the booth. <br><br> "Ah," Amri says in realization, "You're getting out of the hard part, then?" <br><br> "No," You say automatically, "I-" <br><br> Cutting yourself off, you take a shaky breath. Reality is slowly settling in; you're going to die. You don't even need to worry about the wraith in your head; apparently, a murderer will be taking you out far before your ghostly companion saps you of all your energy. <br><br> <<if $ami_ismale>> [[You hardly notice when Amrit kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri good sport]] <<else>> [[You hardly notice when Amrita kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri good sport]] <</if>> <<else>> None other than $aminame Singh stands there with a small grin, waving a hand in front of you as if to get your attention. <br><br> "Oh," You blink, sitting up slightly, "You." <br><br> "Me," $ami_capheshe agrees, wincing slightly, "Before I say anything else, I do want to apologize again for the poorly timed joke. Sometimes I have a bad case of foot in mouth." <br><br> You aren't sure how to respond, head still spinning as the nephilim draws closer. <br><br> "Uh," $aminame looks uncertain, "Where are your friends at?" <br><br> You gesture to the other side of the room where Mrs. Schmidt has them working away at setting up the booth. <br><br> "Oh," Amri chuckles slightly, the noise a bit awkward, "You're getting out of the hard part, then?" <br><br> "No," You say automatically, "I-" <br><br> Cutting yourself off, you take a shaky breath. Reality is slowly settling in; you're going to die. You don't even need to worry about the wraith in your head; apparently, a murderer will be taking you out far before your ghostly companion saps you of all your energy. <br><br> <<if $ami_ismale>> [[You hardly notice when Amrit kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri bad joke]] <<else>> [[You hardly notice when Amrita kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri bad joke]] <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $sittingonbench to true>> "Hello, there." <br><br> <<if $ignoredami is true>> None other than $aminame Singh, the nephilim from orientation, stands with $ami_hisher head cocked slightly in confusion. <br><br> You bite back a groan. <br><br> The nephilim grins at your reaction, chuckling slightly, "You know, the look on your face is similar to my father's whenever he see me. It's uncanny, really." <br><br> [[Well, that was most certainly an insult.|rude to amri]] <<elseif $goodsportamri is true>> None other than $aminame Singh stands there with a small grin, waving a hand in front of you as if to get your attention. <br><br> "Oh," You blink, sitting up slightly, "You." <br><br> "Me," $ami_capheshe agrees, "Where are your friends at?" <br><br> You gesture to the other side of the room where Mrs. Schmidt has them working away at setting up the booth. <br><br> "Ah," Amri says in realization, "You're getting out of the hard part, then?" <br><br> "No," You say automatically, "I-" <br><br> Cutting yourself off, you take a shaky breath. Reality is slowly settling in; you're going to die. You don't even need to worry about the wraith in your head; apparently, a murderer will be taking you out far before your ghostly companion saps you of all your energy. <br><br> <<if $ami_ismale>> [[You hardly notice when Amrit kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri good sport]] <<else>> [[You hardly notice when Amrita kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri good sport]] <</if>> <<else>> None other than $aminame Singh stands there with a small grin, waving a hand in front of you as if to get your attention. <br><br> "Oh," You blink, sitting up slightly, "You." <br><br> "Me," $ami_capheshe agrees, wincing slightly, "Before I say anything else, I do want to apologize again for the poorly timed joke. Sometimes I have a bad case of foot in mouth." <br><br> You aren't sure how to respond, head still spinning as the nephilim draws closer. <br><br> "Uh," $aminame looks uncertain, "Where are your friends at?" <br><br> You gesture to the other side of the room where Mrs. Schmidt has them working away at setting up the booth. <br><br> "Oh," Amri chuckles slightly, the noise a bit awkward, "You're getting out of the hard part, then?" <br><br> "No," You say automatically, "I-" <br><br> Cutting yourself off, you take a shaky breath. Reality is slowly settling in; you're going to die. You don't even need to worry about the wraith in your head; apparently, a murderer will be taking you out far before your ghostly companion saps you of all your energy. <br><br> <<if $ami_ismale>> [[You hardly notice when Amrit kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri bad joke]] <<else>> [[You hardly notice when Amrita kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri bad joke]] <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You sigh, "Then why are you still here?" <br><br> Amri crosses $ami_hisher arms and laughs, "And now you sound like my mother. Truly, it's amazing!" <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You give in, a reluctant chuckle escaping.|annoyed chuckle]]</div> <<if $ami_ismale>> <div class="choice">[[All you offer him is a dry stare.|blank stare]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[All you offer her is a dry stare.|blank stare]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

//I think $ami_hesshes trying to talk to you.// The words are echoing and loud enough in your head to push through the fog. You snap your attention back to $aminame, seeing the way their face has drawn together in concern while you were lost in your throughts. "Do you need to go to the clinic?" $ami_capheshe asks, $ami_hisher voice barely a whisper, "I can take you if your friends won't." "No." You shake your head quickly, "I don't need a doctor. I just...need some sleep." The excuse is weak and you can see the disbelief clear in $ami_hisher eyes. "Right. Some sleep." Amri looks you up and down one more time, "You sure about the clinic?" <div class="choice">[["Yeah," You attempt a smile, "I'm sure about the clinic."|i'm sure]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't fight back the huff of annoyance.|annoyed huff]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I'm sure," You say, "I definitely don't want or need a doctor."|one hundo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Unless you're the one playing doctor, I'm pretty sure." ♡|doctor flirt]]</div>\

//I think $ami_hesshes trying to talk to you.// The words are echoing and loud enough in your head to push through the fog. You snap your attention back to $aminame, seeing the way their face has drawn together in concern while you were lost in your throughts. "Do you need to go to the clinic?" $ami_capheshe asks, $ami_hisher voice barely a whisper, "I can take you if your friends won't." "No." You shake your head quickly, "I don't need a doctor. I just...need some sleep." The excuse is weak and you can see the disbelief clear in $ami_hisher eyes. "Right. Some sleep." Amri looks you up and down one more time, "I'm really not trying to pry, but are you sure about the clinic?" <div class="choice">[["Yeah," You attempt a smile, "I'm sure about the clinic."|i'm sure]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You can't fight back the huff of annoyance.|annoyed huff]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["I'm sure," You say, "I definitely don't want or need a doctor."|one hundo]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[["Unless you're the one playing doctor, I'm pretty sure." ♡|doctor flirt]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $gotamisnumber to true>> <</nobr>>"Alright," $ami_capheshe says, hesitant, "I should go soon. News stuff. But, uh, here." $ami_capheshe pulls a little notepad and pencil from $ami_hisher pocket. You blink in question, quietly wondering why the hell $ami_heshe had that ready so fast. "I'm head of the school news publication." $ami_capheshe defends $ami_hisher choices against your unspoken question, "I have to be ready at all times." "You're a freshman." You point out, "How are you already head of the news?" "I'm part time with Spellcaster Daily." $ami_capheshe explains as $ami_heshe scribbles something down on the note, "Professor Lovit contacted me when I was admitted." Putting the notepad and pencil back in $ami_hisher pocket, $ami_heshe shoves the paper toward you. When you take it, you see a number scrawled out in messy writing. "It's mine. If you ever need me or you have a good story, hit my line." $ami_capheshe says before $ami_hesshes off with a wink. You don't get the chance to respond, watching $ami_himher disappear into the ever-growing crowd. [[Then you're alone. Kind of.|voice in my head]]

<<nobr>> <<set $gotamisnumber to true>> <</nobr>>"Alright, alright." $ami_capheshe says, hesitant, "I should go soon, anyways. I have news stuff to do. But, uh, here." $ami_capheshe pulls a little notepad and pencil from $ami_hisher pocket. You blink in question, quietly wondering why the hell $ami_heshe had that ready so fast. "I'm head of the school news publication." $ami_capheshe defends $ami_hisher choices against your unspoken question, "I have to be ready at all times." "You're a freshman." You point out, "How are you already head of the news?" "I'm part time with Spellcaster Daily." $ami_capheshe explains as $ami_heshe scribbles something down on the note, "Professor Lovit contacted me when I was admitted." Putting the notepad and pencil back in $ami_hisher pocket, $ami_heshe shoves the paper toward you. When you take it, you see a number scrawled out in messy writing. "It's mine. If you ever need me or you have a good story, hit my line." $ami_capheshe says before $ami_hesshes off with a wink. You don't get the chance to respond, watching $ami_himher disappear into the ever-growing crowd. [[Then you're alone. Kind of.|voice in my head]]

<<nobr>> <<set $gotamisnumber to true>> <</nobr>>"If you're sure." $ami_capheshe says, hesitant, "I have to go soon. News stuff. But, uh, here." $ami_capheshe pulls a little notepad and pencil from $ami_hisher pocket. You blink in question, quietly wondering why the hell $ami_heshe had that ready so fast. "I'm head of the school news publication." $ami_capheshe defends $ami_hisher choices against your unspoken question, "I have to be ready at all times." "You're a freshman." You point out, "How are you already head of the news?" "I'm part time with Spellcaster Daily." $ami_capheshe explains as $ami_heshe scribbles something down on the note, "Professor Lovit contacted me when I was admitted." Putting the notepad and pencil back in $ami_hisher pocket, $ami_heshe shoves the paper toward you. When you take it, you see a number scrawled out in messy writing. "It's mine. If you ever need me or you have a good story, hit my line." $ami_capheshe says before $ami_hesshes off with a wink. You don't get the chance to respond, watching $ami_himher disappear into the ever-growing crowd. [[Then you're alone. Kind of.|voice in my head]]

"Aha!" $aminame grins, "So you do have a sense of humor!" You raise an eyebrow, "Barely." The nephilim's entire face brightens, "Regardless, where are your friends at? You all didn't seem like the the school event type." You wordlessly gesture to the other side of the room where Mrs. Schmidt has them working away at setting up the booth. "Ah," Amri says in realization, "You're getting out of the hard part, then?" "No," You say automatically, "I-" Cutting yourself off, you take a shaky breath. Reality is slowly settling in; you're going to die. You don't even need to worry about the wraith in your head; apparently, a murderer will be taking you out far before your ghostly companion saps you of all your energy. <<nobr>> <<if $ami_ismale>> [[You hardly notice when Amrit kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri annoyed]] <<else>> [[You hardly notice when Amrita kneels in front of you, looking concerned.|worried amri annoyed]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $amistillcold to true>> <</nobr>>"Tough crowd, clearly." Amri shrugs, "I'll leave you alone, then." Finally got the hint, did $ami_heshe? $ami_capheshe gives you a borderline mocking salute before leaving. You think, briefly, that $ami_hisher smile is a bit sad as $ami_heshe turns to go. //What now?// The voice makes you freeze. You blow out a slow, calming breath and force your heart to stop racing. At this rate, your blood pressure is taking you out far before some murderer. "Don't do that," You hiss, trying to be subtle about talking to your unwelcome guest in public. //What? It was a relevent question. You know they're after you, too, now. That...the banshee, they confirmed it.// $wraith_caphisher voice wavers; whether it's from hesitance or fear, you have no idea. $wraith_capheshe isn't wrong, though. Too bad they have literally know idea who the mysterious killers actually are. //I already apologized for that.// "Did you?" You mutter as you stand. //Yes,// $wraith_capheshe pauses, //I think.// [[This is going to be a long haunting.|back to the booth]]

You stand, still a bit shaky on your legs from the adrenaline. You hands are still trembling, so you shove them in your pockets as you move along the border of the room. You have absolutely zero desire to head into the thick of the people now swaming the room, so you'll stick with the longer trip. You dodge a few passersby and continue on your way when- A hand. On your arm. Grasping you, pulling you aside- The blood, the neck torn open and gushing. Fuck, the blood. This isn't the first time you've seen so much. Wait. Yes, it is. You've never seen that kind of gore before. Have you? The hand is still there, still pulling, and you don't want to die. //I don't want to die.// God, you don't want to die- <div class="choice">[[Lash out, try to fight.|fight]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Pull away, try to flee.|flee]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $amireconciled to true>> <</nobr>>//I think $ami_hesshes trying to talk to you.// The words are echoing and loud enough in your head to push through the fog. You snap your attention back to $aminame, seeing the way their face has drawn together in concern while you were lost in your throughts. "Do you need to go to the clinic?" $ami_capheshe asks, $ami_hisher voice barely a whisper, "I can take you if your friends won't." "No." You shake your head quickly, "I don't need a doctor. I just...need some sleep." The excuse is weak and you can see the disbelief clear in $ami_hisher eyes. "Right. Some sleep." Amri looks you up and down one more time, "You sure about the clinic?" You shoot $ami_himher a warning look. $ami_capheshe holds up $ami_hisher hands in surrender, giving you one last smile as $ami_heshe takes a step back. "I guess I'll leave you alone before I press my luck," $ami_capheshe says, "I'll see you around." [[Then you're alone. Kind of.|voice in my head]]

//What now?// The voice makes you freeze. You blow out a slow, calming breath and force your heart to stop racing. At this rate, your blood pressure is taking you out far before some murderer. "Don't do that in public," You hiss, trying to be subtle about talking to your unwelcome guest. //What? It was a relevent question. You know they're after you, too, now. That...the banshee, they confirmed it.// $wraith_caphisher voice wavers; whether it's from hesitance or fear, you have no idea. $wraith_capheshe isn't wrong, though. Too bad they have literally know idea who the mysterious killers actually are. //I already apologized for that.// "Did you?" You mutter as you stand. //Yes,// $wraith_capheshe pauses, //I think.// [[This is going to be a long haunting.|back to the booth]]

<<nobr>> <<set $gotamisnumber to true>> <</nobr>>$ami_capheshe blinks, eyes widening. You could swear their pupils flash white for the briefest second, but before you can decipher it Amri is fishing through their pockets. They pull out a small note pad and pencil of all things. You brows furrow in question, quietly wondering why the hell $ami_heshe had that ready so fast. "I'm head of the school news publication." $ami_capheshe defends $ami_hisher choices against your unspoken question, "I have to be ready at all times." "You're a freshman." You point out, "How are you already head of the news?" "I'm part time with Spellcaster Daily." $ami_capheshe explains as $ami_heshe scribbles something down on the note, "Professor Lovit contacted me when I was admitted." Putting the notepad and pencil back in $ami_hisher pocket, $ami_heshe shoves the paper toward you. When you take it, you see a number scrawled out in messy writing. "It's mine. If you ever need me or you have a good story, hit my line." $ami_capheshe says with a wink. "So that doctor thing isn't off the table?" You prompt, a smile tilting your lips, "You never declined." "Uh," All the bravado is gone, the nephilim floundering for a second before heading off with more speed behind their movements than you've seen prior, "Sorry, really have to go!" You don't get the chance to respond, watching $ami_himher disappear into the ever-growing crowd. You can //swear// you see smoke in their, but you don't have a single clue where it came from. [[Then you're alone. Kind of.|voice in my head]]

You jerk away, desperate, your panic merging with that of the wraith's and making your blood run cold. You stumble when the grip loosens and you hear a smack of flesh hitting brick as your assailant smacks against the wall from the sudden movement. "Fuck!" The person yelps, making you pause. You turn slowly. You know that voice. [[It's Cameron Fletcher, because clearly the world hates you.|hi cam]]

<<nobr>> <<set $elbowedcam to true>> <</nobr>>You throw your elbow back, desperate, your panic merging with that of the wraith's and making your blood run cold. You hit something solid, and the crack is nearly sickening. You jerk away as your assailant gasps in pain, ready to run. "Fuck!" The person yelps, making you pause. You turn slowly. You know that voice. [[It's Cameron Fletcher, because clearly the world hates you.|hi cam]]

<<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They curse colorfully, blood gushing over their fingers. Their nose is...most certainly broken. <br><br> They look up at you, doleful, as their fingers glow white with healing magic. The bleeding stems slowly, the only evidence left being the red smeared around the lower part of their face and all over their hands. <br><br> The sight makes you sick. You can almost smell the metallic tang in the air, feel the life draining from your body- <br><br> "Hey," Cameron waves a hand in front of your face, eyes wide, "It's fine. I'm fine. Ca;m down." <br><br> Your distant gaze is pulled toward them again. That's when you finally notice the state of their nose; they healed it just a bit crooked. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Point it out kindly.|cam's nose is crooked nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Point it out mockingly.|cam's nose is crooked mock em]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Leave it alone.|ignore the nose]]</div> <<elseif $cameron_ismale is true>> He curses colorfully, blood gushing over his fingers. His nose is...most certainly broken. <br><br> He looks up at you, doleful, as his fingers glow white with healing magic. The bleeding stems slowly, the only evidence left being the red smeared around the lower part of his face and all over his hands. <br><br> The sight makes you sick. You can almost smell the metallic tang in the air, feel the life draining from your body- <br><br> "Hey," Cameron waves a hand in front of your face, eyes wide, "It's fine. I'm fine. Calm down." <br><br> Your distant gaze is pulled toward him again. That's when you finally notice the state of his nose; he healed it just a bit crooked. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Point it out kindly.|cam's nose is crooked nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Point it out mockingly.|cam's nose is crooked mock em]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Leave it alone.|ignore the nose]]</div> <<else>> She curses colorfully, blood gushing over her fingers. Her nose is...most certainly broken. <br><br> She looks up at you, doleful, as her fingers glow white with healing magic. The bleeding stems slowly, the only evidence left being the red smeared around the lower part of her face and all over his hands. <br><br> The sight makes you sick. You can almost smell the metallic tang in the air, feel the life draining from your body- <br><br> "Hey," Cameron waves a hand in front of your face, eyes wide, "It's fine. I'm fine. Calm down." <br><br> Your distant gaze is pulled toward her again. That's when you finally notice the state of her nose; she healed it just a bit crooked. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Point it out kindly.|cam's nose is crooked nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Point it out mockingly.|cam's nose is crooked mock em]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Leave it alone.|ignore the nose]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You wince as you gesture at their face, "I think you, uh...messed it up a little bit." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They blink, touching their nose gingerly, "Yeah...I did." <br><br> They glance at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" They ask slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shield, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<elseif $cameron_ismale is true>> They blink, touching their nose gingerly, "Yeah...I did." <br><br> He glances at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" He asks slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shield, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<else>> She blinks, touching her nose gingerly, "Yeah...I did." <br><br> She glances at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" She asks slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shielf, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They glance at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" They ask slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shield, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<elseif $cameron_ismale is true>> He glances at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" He asks slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shield, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<else>> She glances at you, part scared and part hesitant. You still feel shaky, the residual fear thrumming through you like the beating of drum. <br><br> "Are you okay?" She asks slowly, brown eyes darting across your face. <br><br> How many times are you going to be asked that today? <br><br> //Probably more,// the voice in your head says unprompted. <br><br> Fighting the desire to react outwardly, you wrap your arms around yourself, as if erecting a shielf, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron shrugs slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, deciding to let her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You can't stop the slight snicker from escaping as you gesture at their face, "I think you, uh...messed it up a little bit." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> Their face falls, the concern giving way to exhaustion, "Yeah, you're fine." <br><br> They touch their nose gingerly, wincing at the residual tenderness. <br><br> "Need to break it again to heal it right?" You ask, "I'll volunteer." <br><br> Their hands instinctiuvely go to cover their face like you might take it upon yourself to do just that, "No! No, I don't need to do that." <br><br> Your eyes narrow then, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron peeks out above their hands, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting them talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<elseif $cameron_ismale is true>> His face falls, the concern giving way to exhaustion, "Yeah, you're fine." <br><br> He touches his nose gingerly, wincing at the residual tenderness. <br><br> "Need to break it again to heal it right?" You ask, "I'll volunteer." <br><br> His hands instinctiuvely go to cover his face like you might take it upon yourself to do just that, "No! No, I don't need to do that." <br><br> Your eyes narrow then, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron peeks out above his hands, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting him talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <<else>> Her face falls, the concern giving way to exhaustion, "Yeah, you're fine." <br><br> She touches her nose gingerly, wincing at the residual tenderness. <br><br> "Need to break it again to heal it right?" You ask, "I'll volunteer." <br><br> Her hands instinctiuvely go to cover her face like you might take it upon yourself to do just that, "No! No, I don't need to do that." <br><br> Your eyes narrow then, "Why did you grab me?" <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." Cameron peeks out above her hands, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucien...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You falter. Lucia...was puking?|luci was puking?]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, ready to leave, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You cross your arms, tense, letting her talk.|let cam talk]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> "$luciname..." Your voice catches on the familiar name, "$luciname was puking? In a potted plant?" <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They nod quickly, "Yeah. $luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask quietly, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." They shake their head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, they're sorry for. You have the feeling they wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> He nods quickly, "Yeah. $luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't usually see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask quietly, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." He shakes his head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, he's sorry for. You have the feeling he wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <<else>> She nods quickly, "Yeah. $luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't usually see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask quietly, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." She shakes her head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, she's sorry for. You have the feeling she wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

You hear $cameron_himherthem sputtering behind you, but you ignore it in favor of fleeing back towards your friends. [[This is too much, and you're not exactly sure how you're supposed to process it all.|processing]]

<<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They glance away, biting at their bottom lip nervously, "$luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask sharply, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." They shake their head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, they're sorry for. You have the feeling they wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> He glances away, biting at his bottom lip nervously, "$luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask sharply, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." He shakes his head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, he's sorry for. You have the feeling he wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <<else>> She glances away, biting at her bottom lip nervously, "$luci_capheshe didn't say much...well, couldn't say much. I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask sharply, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." She shakes her head quickly, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I...I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don't ask what, exactly, she's sorry for. You have the feeling she wouldn't even know. <br><br> [[You head back toward the table once Cameron has scurried off, unsure of how to process all of this.|processing]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

You make it back to Mrs. Schmidt's table physically unscathed, but mentally reeling. Viktor catches sight of you first, his eyes widening as you approach. It's obvious he can tell something is off, but he abandons approaching when you shake you head. He gets what you're saying. Not here and not now. "?Mx $surname?" Mrs. Schmidt asks as she approaches you with a tinkling laugh, "Did you get lost-?" She reaches out for your shoulder. Panic flashes through you. //Not your own//, maybe your own, who does it belong to-? You jerk away. She halts, her hand hanging midair, and your friends are all staring too. You swallow hard, you breath coming fast as you try to slow your heart once more. There's something wrong with you. Something horribly wrong. "It's alright, dear." The professor says gently, "We ended up not needing the tape anyways." You nod tightly, moving toward the back of the booth. Viktor, Theo, and Charlie migrate to your side almost instantly and Mrs. Schmidt doesn't even try to stop them. She moves to the outside of the booth, greeting students, and the chatter of the surrounding crowd is more than enough to cover your whispers. "What the hell happened to you?" $theoname asks, blue eyes wide and dark, "Did-?" "A banshee." You say shortly. It's quiet after that. Viktor sucks in a sharp breath, and you see his eyes flash golden. "No," Charlie whispers, looking at the others with a desperate look as if they could refute what you'd just said, "That's not...that doesn't mean..." "It doesn't mean //shit//," Viktor swears with such ferocity it makes Theo jerk in shock, "Nothing is happening to you. Do you hear me?" He shifts so you're looking at him, his face set and determined. You nod slightly, wishing you could be half as hopeful as he is stubborn. "I mean it." Viktor says, so low you can barely him, "Where you go, I'm going." For a second, a foolish and blissful second, you think he means to follow you for your protection. Then you realize, no, that's not at all what he's talking about. There's no reality that exists where Viktor would live without you at his side. Partners in crime since youth and until death. From Theo's wince, it's clear $theo_heshe gets what Viktor is saying as well. "Lets not jump straight that," $charliename pleads, "Can't we just...try and fix it?" "Fix a banshee wail?" You ask doubtfully. "Snakey is right," Theo says, "Let's not jump straight to forcing Mrs. Orlova to plan a double funeral." Viktor wavers at the mention of his mother and your eyes slip closed at the thought of her devastated face. You recall when you were younger and Viktor once fell and cracked his head open. You remember how she'd screamed- Terror. You don't want to imagine that scream turning into pain. [[Time flies when you're having an internal panic attack.|WOW over]]

Mrs. Schmidt senses the change in atmosphere and doesn't force you all to pack up the booth. She shoos you all away with a tight, worried smile and makes Charlie promise to be safe. $charlie_capheshe does, but you can tell the words are stiff. She can, too. You make it before the majority of the crowd, the sidewalks nearly empty in the afternoon light. Your dorm isn't far- But the cold is crawling. The later summer air is still warm, but you feel ice covering every inch of you. You look down the path, tears flushing your eyes unbidden, and the blood- "$name?" Viktor asks, face tense as he looks in the same direction. There's no one there. "I felt..." You trail off, looking into the distance. It's just another dorm building. Nothing strange. Nothing warranting //this//. <div class="choice">[[Investigate the feeling.|hi haley]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Keep going.|bye haley]]</div>\

Theo curses as you set off down the path, your skin crawling with each step you take. When you turn the corner, you see no masked murderer or ghoul ready to devour you. Instead, a girl sits on a bench outside in pajamas shorts covered in little cartoon cats. "Oh!" She startles slightly as you approach, but offers a confused smile as she tucks a strand of blonde hair behind her ear, "You're..." You brace yourself for it. The Unchosen One. You're the Unchosen One. You can see the words on the very tip of her tongue. "You're $name, right?" She asks, her face twisting in sympathy, "I think you're in my Intro to Alchemy class. My lab group, to be specific. I saw you in the email our professor sent out." You feel like she's slapped you. Not many...not many have that kind of reaction. Usually, if people aren't assholes, they at least oogle you for awhile as if you'd been born with three heads. Yet here this girl is, chatting about your professor's emails. Shit, you hadn't even //bothered// checking your email yet. You manage a slight nod, pretending to have some clue about what she's referencing. "Yeah," You say, "Lab groups." Her smile turns amused, "I'm Haley Spencer, it's nice to meet you! You all as well." She laughs slightly, turning to wave at your friends. "Pre-semester freshman jitters," She flutters her hands in the air like she's shaking them off, "I thought some air might help." "Fresh air is always good." Charlie pipes up, "My moms take walks to clear their heads a lot. They love the beaches back home." "My papa said the same thing when I called!" She says, "He said I was overreacting and to just sit outside and look at the stars." The longer you look at her, the more intense the swelling pain behind your eyes becomes. You press a hand to your forehead briefly, trying to soothe it away. "Well, it's nice meeting you." Theo says, glancing at you in concern, "We're gonna head back." "Oh, alright!" She says, looking worried when you open your eyes again, "I guess I'll see you Monday, have a nice evening!" Viktor says something as you all depart, but you don't listen. You press your hand against your neck, feeling for a pulse. [[It's still there.|confrontation]]

<<nobr>> <<set $nohaley to true>> <</nobr>>You turn sharply away from the path ahead, heading resolutely in the direction of your dorm. Investigating after all that's happened is a fool's errand; you're not that eager to die. Still, as you walk away, a horrible pressure builds up behind you eyes. You swallow hard, keeping pace with the others depsite your shortness of breath. You press a hand to your neck, feeling for a pulse. [[It's still there.|confrontation]]

That night, you lay in bed. The ceiling is different than the ones you're seen before; the Riveras had tile, while the Orlovs have a spekled roof. This is a swirling pattern. You trace it with your eyes until they eventually shut. You had no nightmares the night before, but now- [[Now you're falling.|nightmare pt 2]]

You open your eyes in another bed. Your surrounding are hazy with smoke, the heat so thick in the air that you could choke on it. Someone strokes your face, mummering words of comfot as you feel your very flesh bubble off your bones. This sounds like you mother, doesn't it? //Can you remember the sound of her voice?// Her face is shrouded in a haze of darkness, but you see long locks withering away in flames. Horns curl from her head, small and coming to a sharp point. Did you mother have horns? You can't remember. Do you know her face? Did you ever know her face? You hear screaming from down the hall, a man's voice. Is he your father? "Where are you-?" The man calls a name. It's as if he speaks in a language you don't know, the name a mess of jumbled up vowels and consonants that have no rhyme or reason. You don't know. //You don't know.// The woman moves away as another form rushes into the room. He joins her in the fire, kissing her firmly before he turns to you. The first responders had said the fire started in your room. A night light, they claimed after the fact. The man kneels at your side, his face also obscured. A whimper escapes your lips as his own brush your forehead, kissing the boiling skin that resides there. You cannot scream. You can only burn. "We love you so much." The woman wraps her arms around you as the fire engulfs you both, pulling you close to her burnt and withered chest. The man drapes himself around you both, as if he might protect you from the blaze, and you think he might be crying. His tears do nothing to soothe the heat. You wonder, briefly, if they'll find your bones curled together and covered in ash. [[You blink. You're in another bed.|labby]]

The headache pounds in the base of your neck as you pull your clothes on. Monday has arrived, whether you're ready or not. You stare at yourself in the mirror, remembering the veiled faces of your dream. The fire, the knife. You shake yourself, brushing your hand over your arms. The skin there is whole; not boiled, not cut. You're quiet as you eat, and you feel a strange sense of perturbation as you follow your friends down the stairs, your footsteps echoing. The rhythm is the ticking of a clock; it's counting down. Counting down to what? [[There's yelling in the common area when you enter.|where's haley?]]

No, not a bed. This is cold, hard metal beneath you. Your voice is hoarse now, pleading, the words spilling out with no control as you beg. The knife cuts into you; it's just above your belly button, a deep incision. You feel it digging into your flesh, the cold metal turning slick with your blood. You can't scream, the pain paralyzing. Your head rolls to the side at the feeling of your flesh rending. You’re tearing in two, being torn in two, coming apart at your very seams- You see blood dripping onto the ground from the table next to you. Through your bleary vision, you look up and see them laying there with their chest torn open. Their heart is in someone’s hand, still beating. Their dull eyes stare up, lost, nearly gone. They…can’t be gone. They…//who are they?// The heart is replaced. The skin sewn messily, the shock panels slammed so hard into their chest that you hear the sickening crack of ribs. It distracts you from your own body, your own reality. You’re drawn back as they gasp back to life next to you, the knife cutting a rough hole into the cavity of your abdomen. “Liver?” A voice says. You still don’t scream. The sedation did it’s job well enough on that front, though you still feel every cut and jab. The image flickers, superimposed with visions fire as you feel your life slipping, slipping, slipping- [[You're dying.|dying]]

"Because she's just fucking gone!" A girl shouts, "Don't tell me to calm down!" "Please," The other one pleads, "The police said to give it seventy-two hours, just take a breath-" "She wouldn't disappear." The girl snaps, "Her dads said she didn't come home, so where the fuck is she? She could be dead by the time the police get off their asses and do something!" "You're causing a scene." Her friend hisses, "Please-" "Maybe a scene means they'll find her!" She snarls, storming for the door. The calmer girl flees after her, pleas already spilling out, and your eyes trail over to the corkboard where Harper's picture lies. A girl. Honey blonde hair, a sweet smile. A paper rests beneath the photo. //MISSING: Haley Spencer, Banshee, 19 y/o, last seen Saturday evening on campus. Please call//- "Oh, fuck." Theo whispers behind you. "Is she...is she like Harper?" Charlie says, $charlie_hisher voice shaking. [[Someone else is missing...hopefully not like Harper.|end]]

Thank you for playing the public demo of Disenchanted! If you enjoyed the game, I'd really appreciate you leaving a comment or ranking the game as it helps me out a ton. If you have any bigs to report, contact me on my tumblr (linked below). [[Here you'll find my tumblr|https://disenchantedif.tumblr.com/]] where you can learn more about the game itself, keep up to date with development, and discover the different characters. [[This is my Patreon|https://www.patreon.com/dakotasmithif]] where I post exclusive themed stories featuring the characters, as well as Romance Option POVs and Spicy Side Stories! [[And, of course, my tip jar!|https://ko-fi.com/dakotasmithif]] Much appreciation, Dakota ♡

You spend what's left of your Saturday afternoon slowly unpacking the boxes in your dorm. No one openly mentions the wail any further, or you possible rapidly impending demise, but the suffocating possibility lingers beneath the surface of every word spoken. There's also the fact that you couldn't even take trash down to the dumpster by yourself; $charliename was tripping over $charlie_hisher own feet to follow, chattering nervously the whole time you walked. Viktor keeps their dorm room door propped open, and Theo does the same with yours. If anyone screams, all of you will hear it. If you scream. You wonder if you'd have the voice for it, should the time come. Would you die quietly? A shudder runs down you as you set another empty box off to the side. Your room is slowly filling up, your entire life decorating every shelf and surface. You take the off another, smaller box. Removing the newspaper used to cushion the contents, you see the little knickknack Viktor had made for you when he'd begun taking interest in ceramics... <div class="choice">[[A colorful moon trinket tray with golden accents.|after knicknack][$trinket to "moon"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A jar shaped and glazed like a mushroom.|after knicknack][$trinket to "mushroom"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A little octopus pot that you've yet to find a plant for.|after knicknack][$trinket to "octopus"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[A mug with flowers carved into the side, glazed all different colors.|after knicknack][$trinket to "mug"]]</div>\

<<nobr>> Owler and Spellgram are the two most popular social media sites in the supernatural community, developed by combining magic to hide them from regular human eyes and technology to link supernatural communities together around the world. <br><br> Welcome back, @$username! <<if $socialsprivate is true>> Your social media is currently private. <br><br> <<else>> You social media is currently ''//public//''. <br><br> <</if>> <<if $luciblocked is true and $camblocked is true>> You have ''//two//'' accounts blocked. <br><br> <<elseif $luciblocked is true and $camblocked is false>> You have ''//one//'' account blocked. <br><br> <<elseif $luciblocked is false and $camblocked is true>> You have ''//one//'' account blocked. <br><br> <<else>> You have ''//no//'' accounts blocked. <br><br> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[View who you follow.|Following]]</div> <<if $socialsprivate is true>> <div class="choice">[[View who's requested to follow you.|Following Requests]]</div>\ <</if>> <br> [[Return to game.|$return]] <</nobr>>

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/mikhail.png]] </div> Viktor's father, who is also a draca. He's the head of your old boarding school and influential socially despite not actively playing a role in supernatural politics. ''Abilities:'' Highly skilled in fire magic and one of the fastes flyers you've ever seen. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/taisiya.png]] </div> Viktor's mother, who just so happens to be human. She's a mental health counselor and a very talented cook. ''Abilities:'' Taisiya is skilled in de-escalation and verbal communication. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/kat.png]] </div> One of Viktor's little sisters and the older Orlova twin. ''Abilities:'' Like her older brother, she's very talented with fire magic. Quick witted and sharp, she's at the top of her class. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<div class="centered-image"> [img[images/sof.png]] </div> One of Viktor's little sisters and the younger Orlova twin. ''Abilities:'' While her specialty isn't magic, she's astoundingly skilled with alchemy. Despite not caring much for academics, she's exceedingly smart. [[Return to people.|People]] [[Return to index.|Index]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <div class="choice">[[Viktor Orlov (@vikorlov)|vik social]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Theo Parker (@t.parker)|theo social]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Taisiya Orlova (@siyalova)|taisiya social]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Sofia Orlova (@or.love)|sofia social]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Katerina Orlova (@kit_kat)|katerina social]]</div> <<if $followedcharlie is true>> <<if $charlie_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Charles Ortiz (@ortizes)|charlie social]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Charlotte Ortiz (@ortizes)|charlie social]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $followedamriback is true>> <<if $ami_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Amrit Singh (@officialamrit)|amri social]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Amrita Singh (@officialamrita)|amri social]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <br> [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] <br> [[Return to game.|$return]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<if $amrirequest is false>> No requests. <<elseif $amrirequest is true and $ami_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Amrit Singh (@officialamrit)|amrit request]]</div>\ <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Amrita Singh (@officialamrita)|amrita request]]</div>\ <</if>> <br><br> [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] <br> [[Return to game.|$return]] <</nobr>>

Amrit Singh (@officialamrit) has requested to follow you on Owler and Spellgram. <div class="choice">[[Accept|accept amri][$ami_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Decline|decline amri][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\

Amrita Singh (@officialamrita) has requested to follow you on Owler and Spellgram. <div class="choice">[[Accept|accept amri][$ami_friend += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Decline|decline amri][$ami_friend -= 2]]</div>\

//This user is currently offline.// [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

<<nobr>> <<set $declinedamri to true>> You have declined $aminame Singh's request. <br><br> [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] <br> [[Return to game.|$return]] <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> <<set $acceptedamri to true>> $aminame Singh can now see, comment, and like your posts as well as private message you. <br><br> [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] <br> [[Return to game.|$return]] <</nobr>>

//This user is currently offline.// [[Return to social medias.|Owler and Spellgram]] [[Return to game.|$return]]

You look at the little $trinket in your hands, remembering how excited Viktor had been when he gave it to you. He's improved so much since then, made you far better looking things; he's a prodigy when it comes to ceramics. This was the first, though, and the very beginning. You... <div class="choice">[[Put it pride of place on top of your dresser.|after trinket][$dressertrinket to true]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Put it inside a drawer.|after trinket]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<if $dressertrinket is true>> You position it perfectly and smile at the sight, feeling nostalgic. It's a relic from a time long passed, a time when none of you knew the word Unchosen or feared for your very lives. <br><br> <<else>> You open the top drawer and put it inside with some other objects you couldn't find the perfect place for. It's a relic of the past, a reminder of a time when you were free. Now... <br><br> Well, now you're just waiting for the other shoe to drop. <br><br> <</if>> You barely get any sleep that night. When you finally end up passed out in bed, you open your eyes... <br><br> [[And the void greets you once again.|hi wraith]] <</nobr>>

When you wake up, it's almost unanimously decided that groceries are a necessity. This is doubly true when Viktor runs out of eggs and Theo ends up eating dry steel cut oats straight from the package. "At least add water," Viktor looks pained, "Cinnamon, sugar, //anything//." "Takes too long," Theo shrugs, throwing back another handful and chewing. "It takes three minutes in the microwave." Viktor insists. "Did you bring a micromave?" Theo responds. Viktor purses his lips, "The stove then. There's a perfectly functional one right there." "No way am I spending half an hour on oats." Theo rolls $theo_hisher eyes, "Besides, this reminds me of, like, a granola bar." "What kind of granola bars are you eating?" Charlie looks just short of terrified. "We're going to the store." Viktor insists as he grabs his car keys, "We are getting groceries and, apparently, microwaves." Viktor confiscates the oats, setting them on the coffee table. $theo_capheshe pouts slightly, watching him with sad eyes "Aw," $theo_capheshe crosses $theo_hisher arms, "Bummer. There goes breakfast." "Could we stop at McDonald's?" Charlie asks as Theo grabs $theo_hisher coat, "I love their pancakes." Viktor's head snaps in Charlie's direction, expression completely serious, "You are not getting syrup in my car." "I'll be careful!" The basilisk defends $charlie_himherself, standing up and immediately bumping the table with $charlie_hisher knee, sending the oats scattering to the floor. Viktor takes a deep breath. "Okay, so...no syrup in the car." Charlie laughs sheepishly, "Got it." You and Theo both have to look away from the scene to hide your amusement. You manage better than your roommate, however; Theo's face is flushed with the effort to keep from laughing. "Let's go," Viktor puts emphasis on each word, "Apparently we //also// have to buy a vacuum." He herds you all out to his car, sliding into the driver's seat. <div class="choice">[["Shotgun!" You say, diving for the passenger's seat.|shotgun][$impulse += 2]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You let Theo take the passenger's seat.|theo passenger][$impulse -= 2]]</div>\

"Aw, no!" Theo gripes as you beat $theo_himher by mere seconds, "C'mon, $nickname!" "In the back, Theo." Viktor sighs, "My car, my rules. $nickname rides shotgun." The cambion grumbles but slides into the back next to Charlie nonetheless. You take your seat next to Viktor, fiddling with the radio as he pulls out of the student parking lot. [[The closest grocery store is about fifteen minutes away.|grocery]]

"Yeah!" Theo cheers, "I'm shotgun, Vik!" The draca groans as Theo slides into the front seat with a shit eating grin. You join Charlie in the back as Theo fiddles with radio while Viktor pulls out of the student parking lot. [[The closest grocery store is about fifteen minutes away.|grocery]]

You're all glamoured, as is typical for supernaturals entering human spaces, but it's still an odd feeling. Viktor grabs the pantry staples you all will need as you browse the aisles, Theo diappearing down one while Charlie remains close at your side. The remaining three of you are browsing cereal when you feel a brush against your mind; the wraith is there, $wraith_hisher consciousness brushing against your own. //Chocolate...I know that taste...I think I do, at least...// That's the only commentary $wraith_heshe offers, a mere whisper of an uncertain thought before $wraith_hisher presence backing off in the span of seconds. You're not even sure $wraith_heshe intended for you to hear $wraith_himher, if you're perfectly honest. As you pass the deli section, you see a familiar figure near the fresh fish and sushi. "Penelope?" You ask, seeing the woman's curly head bent over and sniffing at the suhsi. She perks up, turning to you in an instant. She flashes a toothy smile, her pointed teeth on proud display. "Oh! I remember you!" She blinks, "Is your toe okay?" "It's fine. Were you, uh...sniffing the sushi?" You ask hesitantly. "Yes!" She nods, "It's just not fresh enough. I might need to see if there are any pet stores near here..." "Pet stores?" You blink, slightly baffled. "For fish!" She clarfies, "They taste funny when they sit out like this." "You might try a resteraunt," Charlie suggests from behind you, looking vaugely ill, "Instead of, you know, eating goldfish..." "Goldfish are much too small," She corrects $charlie_himher, "But I'll see what I can find. It's nice to see you both, I'm sure we'll run into each other around campus!" She's gone then, off toward the frozen section. You wonder, briefly, how she'd feel about fishsticks. "God, she's worse than Theo." Charlie mutters, "And that's saying something." [[It really is.|next grocery]]

Theo rejoins all of you right as Viktor is about to pull out his phone to hunt $theo_himher down. In $theo_hisher hands is... "Leather polish?" Viktor asks dryly. "For my wings!" The cambion says, wiggling them slightly as if the rest of you couldn't see them. "Announce that louder, maybe." You suggest, sighing, "I don't think the grandma buying toilet paper heard you." "Check out," Viktor hisses sharply at $theo_himher, "Now, before you blow it" You get a few odd glances as you pile enough food to feed a small army along with several appliances up on the conveyor belt. Theo brushes Viktor aside when he goes to pay, pulling out a sleek little black card from $theo_hisher wallett. "It's on me," Theo grins. Viktor corrects him dryly, "More like it's on your mom." "I do love spending mommy's money," $theo_capheshe laughs, swiping the card with no remorse, "Besides, I do have permission for necessities." You and Charlie glance toward your items at the same time, the both of you questioing what Theo's mother might consider necessities. Knowing her, and you //do// know Valentina Costanzo-Parker, she'd agree that everything present //is// a necessity. [[Packing the car up doesn't take half as long as you expected, and you're heading back to Weston by noon.|after groceries]]

Right as Viktor flips his turn signal on to pull into campus, the sky opens up. The rain comes fast and heavy, and shows no signs of stopping as you park. "Weather app says it could last for a few hours." Charlie winces. "Then lets just load up our arms with bags and go." Theo shrugs, "It's not like we'll melt." "Alright, hand some up here. We'll leave the bigger stuff in the car for now." Viktor reaches back to grab a few canvas bags full of produce, "Ready to get drenched?" [[You all open the doors at the same time, making a run for it.|running in the rain]]

Your shoes nearly slide on the slick pavement as your feet pound against the ground, the cold rain pelting you the minute you duck out of safety. As you flee the storm, you draw closer to... <div class="choice">[[Viktor ♡|vik rain][$viktor_love += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo ♡|theo rain][$theo_love += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Charlie ♡|charlie rain][$charlie_love += 5]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You all run together, making a mad dash for the dorms.|together rain]]</div>\

Viktor finds you just as quickly as you find him in the madness. He's fast, way faster than you, but he still slows his pace to run at your side. You nearly fall on the slick asphalt, but he grabs you by the arm to keep you upright. You bump into each other as you push through the doors, drenched and dripping water. Viktor is still warm at your side, though, and gives you a soft smile as his cheeks flush. [[Charlie and Theo are close behind, and you all trudge up the stairs with your groceries...and leather polish.|back to dorms]]

Theo is nearly cackling as you drift closer. $theo_capheshe doesn't hesitate, grabbing you by the hand and tugging you along. Your shoulders bump and you bags rustle as you run together, the rain drenching you both as you go. Pushing through the doors, shivering and dripping water water on the carpet, you spot the pleased glow of Theo's eyes and the flush high on $theo_hisher cheeks. [[Viktor and Charlie are close behind, and you all trudge up the stairs with your groceries...and leather polish.|back to dorms]]

$chaliename laughs as you draw closer, trying in vain to pull the tote bag full of groceries off $charlie_hisher shoulder and throw $charlie_hisher jacket above the both of you. It barely helps, the rain soaking it through quickly, and $charlie_heshe abandons the idea just as fast. Your shoulders brush together as you make it into the common area, drenched and shaking with the cold. Charlie is grinning, though, glancing over at you with flushed cheeks. [[Viktor and Theo are close behind, and you all trudge up the stairs with your groceries...and leather polish.|back to dorms]]

You run together, nearly tripping over each other in your haste. Theo is nearly cackling, and you see Viktor and Charlie both grinning depsite the fact that you're all getting absolutely soaked. The four of you tumble through the doors and into the common area, shivering and dripping water water on the carpet. Giggles and laughs are still being passed around as you all situate bags and flyaway jackets [[Careful not the slip and fall, you all trudge up the stairs with your groceries...and leather polish.|back to dorms]]

After drying off so you're only moderately soggy, Viktor divvies up the groceries into two piles and sends you and Theo off to your room with a reminder to wake up early for class tomorrow. You still never got your textbooks, which is nearly comical to think about after all the shit that's happened over the past few days. Class hasn't even started yet and you're already in shit deeper than the sewers...lovely. Theo, who's still cold from the rain, ducks into the bathroom for a hot shower as soon as everything is put away. You stand in the kitchen, alone, looking at the pile of oats that still sit on the floor in your living room. That's a problem for tomorrow. You're about to head to bed early, with hopefully another dreamless sleep waiting to greet you, when you hear the shuffling outside. Your hair stands on end as you slowly approach the door. Who's outside this late, especially in that kind of weather? Did Vik forget something downstairs, or is it a stanger? A stranger...with deadly intentions, maybe. The fact that every face you pass on campus could be your killer is a strange concept, and it's one that twists your stomach as you turn the knob. [[White wings cover a slumped, wet form.|hi luci x 2]]

<<nobr>> None other than $luciname Rivera is leaning against the wall, hair falling wet and limp around $luci_hisher face. You think, for a second, about turning around and going back inside. <br><br> It'd be easier to leave $luci_himher out here alone, wouldn't it? Then you wouldn't have to face the past, face //$luci_himher//... <br><br> <div class="choice">[[Go back inside.|back inside]]</div> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Check on Lucien.|check luci]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Check on Lucia.|check luci]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>

Your bed is warm and inviting, and you slide under the covers once you're changed into pajamas. Briefly, you wonder why $luciname was out there, but you push the thoughts aside. It's none of your business. $luci_capheshe is none of your business. You sit up in bed for a moment as you shift through the stuff on your nightstand to find your phone charger. You move your class schedule aside... Your major rests in the top left corner. What is it? <div class="choice">[[Alchemy|after major][$major to "alchemy"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Medicine and Healing|after major][$major to "medicine"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Psychology|after major][$major to "psych"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Marketing and Media|after major][$major to "marketing"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Computer Science|after major][$major to "comp sci"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Engineering|after major][$major to "engineering"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[History|after major][$major to "history"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Art|after major][$major to "art"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Law|after major][$major to "law"]]</div>\

You drift further out, leaving the door cracked open behind you. As you draw closer, you can see $luci_hisher wings are matted from the rain, and you can tell $luci_hisher shoulders are shaking. "$luciname?" You whisper, quiet, hesitant to say or do anything else. $luci_capheshe jerks up $luci_hisher name, brown eyes wide and frightening. When $luci_heshe sees you standing there, watching, $luci_heshe scrambles to stand up from the ground. You can smell the alcohol from where you stand only a few feet away. "What are-?" The slurred words tumble from $luci_hisher mouth as $luci_heshe stumbles a bit, leaning against the wall to stay upright. It's a standoff. $luci_caphisher face gives you no hint of what lies beneath. Only $luci_hisher bloodshot eyes speak of whatever turmoil $luci_heshe feels, something $luci_heshe couldn't manage to hide behind the barricade before you noticed. The nephilim before you putting on a strong front, that much is clear. How convincing it is remains another matter entirely. $luci_caphisher flimsy attemp at stoicism lasts up until you speak. "$luciname," You say, and already $luci_hisher lip trembles. $luci_capheshe must notice it, too, because $luci_heshe bites down on the soft skin hard in an attempt to stem the reaction. $luci_capheshe doesn't even wince as blood wells up beneath $luci_hisher teeth, staining them red. Your eyes follow the thin trail as it drips down $luci_hisher chin, staining $luci_hisher brown skin scarlet. [[You take an unsteady step forward, making them take a trembling one back.|scared luci]]

<<nobr>> The look in $luci_hisher eyes is confusing to you. $luci_capheshe looks as if $luci_hesshes terrified of you, which makes no sense at all. If anything, you should be scared of $luci_himher. One bad word from a Rivera and you'll be tipping over the precarious edge your life already balances on. <br><br> Then a sob nearly folds $luci_himher in half and you forget about ledges and abandonment and are just left to wonder what the hell has happened here. <br><br> $luciname doesn't cry. It's been a simple fact for as long as you've known $luci_himher. $luci_caphisher parents used to say it was a weakness, and so $luciname made it a point to never shed tears where anyone could see $luci_himher. <br><br> The only exception was the night you'd been declared Unchosen. $luci_capheshe had cried with you, for you. $luci_capheshe had sworn it would all be okay in the morning. <br><br> Then the next afternoon rolled around and $luci_heshe was done with you. Out of the blue you were dropped like an old toy, $luciname telling as much stiffly and void of all emotion. After kind promises, after tears, after years and years of history... <br><br> Now, here $luci_heshe is again, //crying//. Maybe it's the alcohol? <br><br> Maybe it's the guilt? <br><br> You crush that last thought under heel, too broken to have hope. <br><br> "Are you-?" You question, only to get cut off. <br><br> "Fine," $luci_capheshe heaves through the tears, "I'm fine. I'm-" <br><br> The words are hazy, just like $luci_hisher eyes. You glance away, finding it painful to look at $luci_himher. <br><br> "I'll-" $luciname breathes out before pausing, "I'm...I'm just..." <br><br> $luci_caphisher face twists in sync with your heart. <br><br> <<if $luci_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[Walk him back.|walk][$luci_friend += 5]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[Walk her back.|walk][$luci_friend += 5]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice">[[You step back. You can't do this.|don't walk]]</div> <</nobr>>

Once your back inside your own room, still lingering in confusion, you change clothes for the evening and and sit in bed. You shift through the stuff on your nightstand to find your phone charger. You move your class schedule aside... Your major rests in the top left corner. What is it? <div class="choice">[[Alchemy|after major][$major to "alchemy"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Medicine and Healing|after major][$major to "medicine"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Psychology|after major][$major to "psych"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Marketing and Media|after major][$major to "marketing"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Computer Science|after major][$major to "comp sci"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Engineering|after major][$major to "engineering"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[History|after major][$major to "history"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Art|after major][$major to "art"]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Law|after major][$major to "law"]]</div>\

Is this what death feels like? You're in the void again. You're burnt, you're soaked in blood. You're ash and torn flesh, blisters and discarded organs; you are not whole. //You will never be whole.// What part of you died in the fire? What part of you died in that lab? Your eyes drift up, and you find the darkness staring back. <div class="choice">[[His footsteps make no sound as he approaches.|hello m mor]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Her footsteps make no sound as she approaches.|hello f mor]]</div>\

His wings are larger than any you've ever seen before, covered in feathers of the same inky color that surrounds you. His pale skin is covered in tattoos, runes older than time, and his hands and fingers fade into black as if they were dipped in the void. Claws scrape against your rotting skin as he pulls your face up to look at him. His eyes, if you can even call them that, are two pools of black gazing down at you. "You don't belong here, little crow." The voice is deep and gentle, but the darkness shakes around you at the sound of it. [[You still aren't screaming when you wake up.|wake up pt 2]]

Her wings are larger than any you've ever seen before, covered in feathers of the same inky color that surrounds you. Her pale skin is covered in tattoos, runes older than time, and her hands and fingers fade into black as if they were dipped in the void. Claws scrape against your rotting skin as she pulls your face up to look at her. Her eyes, if you can even call them that, are two pools of black gazing down at you. "You don't belong here, little crow." The voice is deep and gentle, but the darkness shakes around you at the sound of it. [[You still aren't screaming when you wake up.|wake up pt 2]]

Viktor and Charlie follow you and Theo into your dorm, tension thick in the air. The door has barely shut when Viktor turns to you. "A banshee?" He whsipers, "Like a full on wail?" You swallow, "Multiple." Charlie's eyes widen, darting between the three of you as $charlie_heshe whispers, "I didn't even know that was possible." "It shouldn't be," Theo's brows furrow, baffled, "After one wail, the victim typically dies within the next few days. The longest recorded instance of a victim living post-wail is three weeks." "How long?" Viktor turns to you sharply, "Did the banshee specify?" "And how to we know this isn't some mean joke?" Charlie pipes up, worrying $charlie_hisher lip between fanged teeth, "People are cruel." "And especially cruel to you, $name." Theo latches onto the idea immediately, "Could it have just been some asshole making a joke?" "No." You shake your head, "No, it wasn't a joke." The look in Harlow's eyes, the desperation, the way they had blanched when they first saw you that night at orientation...You wish it was all some elaborate, cruel joke, but you know it's not. [[Someone is coming for you. The clock is ticking.|tick tock]]

"We met them at orientation. $harlow_capheshe was the one handing out the cookies. Harlow..." You trail off, "$harlow_capheshe said it's been two months of seeing me die. Each time..." Your voice faulters. Doom licks at your heels. "They said it's different each time." Viktor sucks in a sharp breath, pacing across your living room. Charlie sits in a heap on the couch, watching him carefully, as Theo leans on one of the chairs. "That makes zero sense." The cambion points out, "When has that //ever// happened." "You said Harlow?" Viktor spins back around suddenly, eyes wide, "Harlow Mitchell?" You blink, "Yeah?" "Mitchell, $nickname." Viktor says slowly, "Their last name is Mitchell." You and Theo make the realization at the same time. "Oh fuck," Your roomate spits the words out, "Of course this has never happened before, because it's not real and $harlow_hesshestheyre just as incompetent as $harlow_hishertheir mother." Harlow Mitchell, the only child of Council Seer Evelyn Mitchell...also known as the woman who royally fucked up your prophecy. She read it wrong, ultimately leading to you becoming Unchosen. You let out a long breath. <div class="choice">[[You still need to take this seriously. Crazy or not, Harlow is a banshee and has been seeing you die.|take it serious]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo's right, Harlow is just as bad at seeing the future as their mother and you shouldn't worry about it.|ignore the banshee]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $believeharlow to true>> <</nobr>>"Still," You say, "Crazy or not, $harlow_hesshestheyre a banshee and has been seeing me //die//. I'd like to take it as seriously as possible." "Right, right." Theo agrees, tail still shifting in agitation, "I'm just saying it's not a coincidence that they're both a bit off." "Two months," Vik mutters, "We just...have to deal with things as they come." Theo glances over at the draca, "Deal with? I think you mean solve potential murder with murder." Viktor's jaw tightens, "If I have to." "Didn't you just admonish me for kicking Fletcher's knees in?" Theo crosses $theo_hisher arms, "Now we've jumped straight from you dying with $name, to committing a murder or two." "Could we just...be careful?" Charlie pleads, "No murder? At least...unless it's strictly necessary. To, you know, to save one of our lives." You go to open your mouth, to respond, when the headache hits you in a wave. //Are you okay?// The voice in your head whispers, trying not to startle you, //I know it hurts.// You clench your jaw, falling back onto the couch and massaging your temples. When you open your eyes, you see... <div class="choice">[[Viktor ♡|vik headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo ♡|theo headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Charlie ♡|charlie headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo and Vik both ✿|theovik headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[All of your friends are there, actually.|friend headache]]</div>\

Viktor purses his lips, "I see the look on your face, $name. We still need to take this seriously. Talented at wailing or //not//, Harlow is still a Banshee." He cuts a sharp look at Theo, who shifts on $theo_hisher feet. "Right, right." Theo agrees, tail still shifting in agitation, "I'm just saying it's not a coincidence that they're both a bit off." You nod toward the cambion in agreement, "Turns out being shit at reading the future //can// run in the family." "Please, just pretend to care." Vik mutters, looking tired, "For my sake." The both of you quiet, glancing at each other. "We just...have to deal with things as they come." Vik wrings his hands together, "For now." Theo glances over at the draca, "Deal with? I think you mean solve potential murder with murder." Viktor's jaw tightens, "If I have to." "Didn't you just admonish me for kicking Fletcher's knees in?" Theo crosses $theo_hisher arms, "Now we've jumped straight from you dying with $name, to committing a murder or two." "Could we just...be careful?" Charlie pleads, "No murder? At least...unless it's strictly necessary. To, you know, to save one of our lives." You go to open your mouth, to respond, when the headache hits you in a wave. //Are you okay?// The voice in your head whispers, trying not to startle you, //I know it hurts.// You clench your jaw, falling back onto the couch and massaging your temples. When you open your eyes, you see... <div class="choice">[[Viktor ♡|vik headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo ♡|theo headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Charlie ♡|charlie headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[Theo and Vik both ✿|theovik headache]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[All of your friends are there, actually.|friend headache]]</div>\

Viktor reaches out, a barest brush against your shoulder, eyes shining with worry. His warm skin is a comfot, even through a layer of fabric. "We'll leave it alone for now," He says softly, "But we're here if you need us. I'm here." You nod, grimacing when it makes the pounding behind your eyes even worse. Viktor is one constant you'll never doubt, one truth you know will always remain. [[Dinner is quiet, all of your lingering worries left unspoken.|that night]]

Theo places a cool hand on your leg, $theo_hisher eyes darkening in worry. "I'm here," $theo_capheshe says softly, "If you want me." You slide your hand over $theo_hisher own and nod, grimacing when it makes the pounding behind your eyes even worse. $theoname...$theo_hesshes always come running when you call. It's no different now. [[Dinner is quiet, all of your lingering worries left unspoken.|that night]]

Charlie's hands flutter in a panic, $charlie_hisher eyes wide and worries. "Hey, just breathe." $charlie_capheshe says weakly, "I know it hurts. I'm sorry." Cool fingers brush against your brow, feeling the clammy skin there. $charliename frowns slightly. "I'm here for you, just so you know." $charlie_capheshe says, grimacing, "I know that doesn't mean much and we haven't known each other long, but-" You give them a feeble smile, cutting off their rambling. Grimacing when even the slight motion makes the pounding behind your eyes even worse $charliename notices and quiets, just hovering beside you in the moment. [[Dinner is quiet, all of your lingering worries left unspoken.|that night]]

They all hover around you nervously. Viktor reaches out, a barest brush against your shoulder, eyes shining with worry. "We'll leave it alone for now," He says, glancing at Theo and Charlie, "Right?" Theo nods, face drawn tight, placing a hand on your leg, "Yeah...but we're here. You know that, right?" Charlie fidgets, $charlie_hisher fingers digging into the fabric of $charlie_hisher shirt, "Yeah. If you need something, just ask, okay?" You nod, grimacing when it makes the pounding behind your eyes even worse. [[Dinner is quiet, all of your lingering worries left unspoken.|that night]]

They both hover around you nervously. Viktor reaches out, a barest brush against your shoulder, eyes shining with worry. "We'll leave it alone for now," He says, glancing at Theo, "Right?" Theo nods, face drawn tight, placing a hand on your leg, "Yeah...but we're here. You know that, right?" You nod, grimacing when it makes the pounding behind your eyes even worse. [[Dinner is quiet, all of your lingering worries left unspoken.|that night]]

Your wraith waits for you, lingering in the darkness. You can see $wraith_himher clearer now; instead of just a formless shape of death, you see $wraith_hisher face for the first time. Unobscured, unhidden. $wraith_capheshe looks at you, head tilted to the side, brown eyes curious. Thick and dark hair barely brushes $wraith_hisher chin as $wraith_heshe regards you carefully. "I am sorry for the trouble," $wraith_capheshe says, averting $wraith_hisher eyes for a moment, "I didn't mean to hurt you earlier." "I don't think it was you. The headache is just from...everything, all at once." You say, measured. <div class="choice">[[You feel bad for the wraith, trapped in this limbo without any memory. Alone and scared...you can relate to that.|sorry wraith]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You harden yourself. You don't want anything to do with this ghostly leech on your energy outside of figuring out how to get rid of the bond.|be rid of wriath]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You don't know what you want, exactly. Everything is so tangled up.|so tangled]]</div>\

$wraith_capheshe softens, some of the tension draining from $wraith_hisher frame as if $wraith_heshe could sense what you felt. "I am sorry," $wraith_capheshe says regardless, lips twitching, "I know I can't help much. Or do much. I thought warning you would help, but..." <div class="choice">[[You place your hand on a translucent arm, wanting to provide some comfort. It passes right through, leaving you to shudder at the sensaton. ♡|comfort wriath]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You offer a sympathetic look. You know the wraith didn't mean to cause harm.|no harm]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You stay quiet, still reeling from all that happened.|still reeling]]</div>\

<<nobr>> <<set $coldwraith to true>> <</nobr>>$wraith_capheshe flinches, like $wraith_heshe can tell what you were thinking. "I'll be quiet, then." $wraith_capheshe says, staring down at $wraith_hisher slightly translucent hands, "I'm sorry." [[When you wake up, you feel the absence like a gaping wound in your head. Looks like the wraith took leaving you alone seriously.|next morn]]

<<nobr>> <<set $distantwraith to true>> <</nobr>>$wraith_capheshe frowns, like $wraith_heshe can tell what you were thinking. "I know." $wraith_capheshe says, staring down at $wraith_hisher slightly translucent hands, "I'm sorry. I never meant to make things more complicated." It's quiet for a moment, and when you look up next, $wraith_hesshes gone. [[When you wake up, you feel the presence in the back of your head. Distant, mororse, but still there.|next morn]]

$wraith_capheshe jolts at the feeling, turning wide eyes on you. It's quiet for a moment, your hand hovering midair and $wraith_himher, frozen still. "It's okay," You say softly. $wraith_caphisher face crumbles. $wraith_capheshe teeters back a few ghostly steps, their image flickering in distress. Then $wraith_hesshes gone. [[When you wake up, you feel the presence in the back of your head. Warm and shifting, troubled but still there.|next morn]]

"Thank you," $wraith_capheshe whispers, face crumpling. $wraith_capheshe teeters back a few ghostly steps, their image flickering. Then $wraith_hesshes gone. [[When you wake up, you feel the presence in the back of your head. Warm and shifting, troubled but still there.|next morn]]

"I am sorry," $wraith_capheshe whispers, face crumpling, "I never meant to complicate things." $wraith_capheshe teeters back a few ghostly steps, their image flickering. You go to say something, anything- But $wraith_hesshes gone. [[When you wake up, you feel the presence in the back of your head. Warm and shifting, troubled but still there.|next morn]]

You reach a hand out to $luci_himher, "Please. You shouldn't be out alone like this." Especially with what you know. Who knows who will be targeted next, and... The thought of $luciname dead is something you refuse to entertain for long. $luci_capheshe trembles, $luci_hisher eyes darting from you hand to your face. $luci_capheshe shakes $luci_hisher head slowly. "Why?" $luci_capheshe croaks out, "//Why//?" Your watch $luci_himher, damp and crying, and the sadness making your chest ache, "Because I want to. Will you let me?" "I..." $luciname trails off, shoulders shaking, "I'd let you do whatever you want." Now you stop in your tracks, hand falling back down to your side. Questions form and die all on the same breath, and you end up saying nothing. Will $luci_heshe remember this? Do you even want $luci_himher to? You offer your hand again. This time, $luci_heshe accepts it. $luci_capheshe is trembling, an all over kind of body shake that's even ruffling $luci_hisher feathers. "It's..." You falter, the words shriveling to nothing. It's not okay. It's not been okay for a long time, and you can't bring yourself to lie. "It's over." $luciname mumbles, finishing your statement in an unexpected way. "What?" You stumble over the word, "What's over?" "Everything." $luci_capheshe whispers. You want to know. You want to know so badly, but you can't bring yourself to pry. Not when $luci_hisher eyes are drooping and $luci_heshe can barely stumble along beside you. "What room?" You ask instead. $luci_capheshe doesn't respond verbally just pointing at a door. The little metal plate beside it reads 319. You try the doorhandle, and it's thankfully unlocked. You lead a wobbling nephilim in, depositing them on the couch. $luciname is out like a light the minute $luci_heshe hits the cushions. How much did they drink, you wonder as you survey the dorm. It looks exactly like yours and Theo's, although it's a bit more barren. It definitely doesn't have a pile of dry oats still dumped on the floor. <div class="choice">[[It's time to leave.|nightnight]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You hesitate, looking at the awkward way the wings are bent...that'll hurt come morning.|fix the wings]]</div>\

You watch $luci_himher shuffle away like a frightened animal, nearly stumbling as $luci_heshe makes $luci_hisher way down the hall in a surprising rush. You watch $luci_himher open a door that's unlocked. You can only hope it's actually $luci_hisher room, or else that will be a very awkward conversation for whoever lives there. [[Returning to your own dorm, you try to forget about it all.|nightnight]]

You shift the white feathers carefully, unbending the very end of $luci_hisher wing that was folded upward from the way $luci_heshe had collapsed onto the couch. $luci_capheshe shifts as you do, damp brown curls spilling to the side. $luci_capheshe mummers something under $luci_hisher breath, eyes still closed but fluttering. "$name..." It's spoken like a sigh, like something fraught with regret, like $luci_hesshes begging for penance. You jerk backward, heart racing. With $luci_hisher wings now fixed, you rush for the door. [[Your hands are trembling when you leave, and you try to ignore the real reason behind it all.|nightnight]]