Red's Choice Latest

“My Dearest Red, Hello my dear. I hope you have been well, I certainly have! I miss you and your mother terribly, it would be delightful to have you over sometime soon! Anyway my child, I am writing to give you some good news! I know you have been struggling with the bills for your mother’s treatment, so I took it upon myself to solve this conundrum. I know I lack the funds to help you in any meaningful way but I just can’t see my girls struggle on their own… Anyway! I have solved it! I am happy to announce that I found someone who will care for you and your mother! His name is Mr. Hunter. Mr. Hunter recently moved nearby, is around your age, is very easy on the eyes, and most importantly, is very well-off. He owns part of the forest around here. The trees found in this area are very special he said, fetch a high price in the market. Just think about it, if you become his wife, you’ll own the forest as well! He is truly heavensent, he could be the answer to our problem! I showed him your photo and talked about how amazing you are, and he seemed very excited at the prospect of meeting you. I promise you will be pleasantly surprised when you meet him! I have scheduled a meeting at my place next Wednesday at 2:00 PM. I know this seems like a crazy thing to do, but at least consider it my dear. We will be waiting! -Your only Granny who loves you very much” [[Uhhhhh.....]]

Walking to the kitchen, you hear the pouring of liquid. The scent of Earl Grey fills your senses and now you're craving a sip.. Stepping into the kitchen, however, you find an unlikely scenario: It is not Grandma who you find pouring some tea into her cup, but the same wolf-man you met while wandering the forest. "Hey there. I made us some tea. Care for a sip?" He stands next to a small table in the middle of the kitchen, his hand pointing to the chair across from him, inviting you to sit down. Two steaming hot cups of Earl Grey and a teapot sit on top of a red crocheted tablecloth that drapes over the table. The sight of the wolf-man next to the cups suddenly takes you back to your childhood, and you remember: Earl Grey was also your childhood friend's favorite tea. He said he liked it because it had the same name as him. Your eyes light up as you ask the man in front of you... [[Grey?]]

"The one and only" He smiles warmly. "Oh my god it's you! It's been so long!" You're very happy to meet him again after many years. "Wait, why are you here? I came to meet Grandma, is she around?" "No, she's on her daily walk. Won't be back for another hour or so...". He sits down and sips some of the tea, then continues: "The exact amount of time I need to talk to you". He looks at you and this time there's a serious look on his face. "Oh... You need to talk to //me//?" "Yes Red, you. I //really// need your help" He takes another sip, trying to seem calm. You sit down and take a sip of the tea as well "Ok Grey, tell me what's happening. I'll try to help in any way I can". He sighs "It's Mr. Hunter... I don't know if your grandmother told you this, but he's cutting down our sacred trees, Red. This is bad" His expression suddenly changes for the worse. "Mr. Hunter? Wait, did you know I was going to meet with him next week?" "Your grandmother wouldn't stop talking about it. A bit annoying, to be honest." He smirks. "So what is it exactly that you'd like me to do?" "You need to convince him to stop, Red. All he can think about is profit, but he doesn't know what he's doing! If he keeps disrupting the land, he's not only hurting us, but his own life will be in danger!" This is terrible. A man is exploiting the wolf-people's land, and not only that, but he's also going to die? This is a lot. "You must talk to him and make him see reason before it’s too late... I’m not asking you to do this for free, either. If you help us, we'll make sure to use the magical powers of the forest to benefit you somehow, I don't know. But please Red, we are desperate…” "Thanks for sharing this with me, Grey. I don't know if anything I do can make a difference, but I'll think about it." "That's all I can ask of you Red. Thank you for listening." He smiles again at you, this time a sad smile though. "Oh and another thing? Don't mention this to your Grandma. She'll definitely try to stop you." "Sure thing. For now I guess I'll go back home and think about... Everything." "Won't you finish your tea before you go at least?" "I guess I will." [[Back at your place]]

A few days pass and it's clear enough that the right thing to do here is to help Grey and his people. You're already overworking yourself to the bone and you've managed just fine... For now. Perhaps the magic of the forest can help your mother somehow? The day of the meeting is finally upon you. You board the bus to the forest, determined to defend the forest from the savage capitalism of Mr. Hunter. As you step down from the bus, you see that Grey is at the station waiting for you. Your heart skips a beat. He comes closer to you, hopefully noticing that you dressed very beautifully for this occasion. "Hey there. You look nice." He smiles, looking you straight in the eyes. "I need to look my best if I'm going to convince Mr. Hunter to stop cutting down those trees, right?" You smile at him, trying to convince yourself that you can do this. "Red... Thank you, thank you so much." He walks with you until you both reach the red cabin. "I'll wait outside. He probably doesn't want to see me." You nod in agreement. Leaving him behind, you walk up to the cabin's door and knock. [[Grandma opens the door]]

A few days pass and it's clear enough that you must at least try to pursue Mr. Hunter. He's your only hope of ever paying those hospital bills, and who knows? Perhaps you will truly come to like him during your time together. If he doesn't reject you, of course. You can only hope. The day of the meeting is finally upon you. You board the bus to the forest, determined to win Mr. Hunter's heart. As you step down from the bus, you see that Grey is at the station waiting for you. Your heart drops. Worst timing ever. He comes closer to you and speaks. "Hey there. You look nice." He smiles, looking you straight in the eyes. "Thanks, Grey..." You're visibly uncomfortable. "Red..." He noticed your expression, surely. "Grey...I'm sorry." No more words are needed. He knows what you mean. "I can’t believe you would do this. I trusted you!" He steps back and his pained expression is killing you. You're basically betraying you former friend and childhood crush... but you need to save your mother. Maybe you can convince him somehow that this is the right choice? [[Mention you're doing this to save your mom]] [[Tell him that after you marry Mr. Hunter, you'll use the profits to benefit his people]]

"My girl, you're here! And look at you! A sight for sore eyes." Your grandma is just as you remember her, always cheerful and lively. Living in the forest has kept her young, somehow. "Grandma! I'm so happy to see you!" You hug and smile, truly glad to see her again, even under such dire circumstances. "Come in my love, come in!" She ushers you towards the living room, where you notice a man is standing up from a big sofa. Must be Mr. Hunter. He adjusts his white suit as he stands, and you take a good look at the man. Your grandma wasn't lying when she said he was easy on the eyes. He's easily one of the most handsome men you've ever met in your life! Besides Grey, of course. His tan skin glowing, dark hair perfectly groomed. It's almost a shame that he probably won't want to marry you anymore after you try to convince him to give up on his source of income. "Miss Red. A pleasure." He bows and smiles at you. Damn his smile is beautiful too. Did you make the wrong choice? ... Naaah. "Mr. Hunter. The pleasure is all mine." "Come, come dear. Let's sit down and have a talk while we drink some tea!" Sitting down in the sofa you catch the scent of the tea that Grandma prepared. Earl Grey. Smelling it gives you even more determination, as the image of Grey's face suddenly pops into your mind. "Um, actually Grandma... I'm honored that you wanted to meet up with me, Mr. Hunter, but I'm afraid that I came here with the purpose of talking to you about a very important issue..." You summon all the courage you can, and brace yourself for potential rejection. "Is that so?" Mr. Hunter raises an eyebrow, showing a bit of interest. How are you going to convince him? [[Try to appeal to his good heart and generosity]] [[Mention the negative consequences of cutting down the trees]]

"My girl, you're here! And look at you! A sight for sore eyes." Your grandma is just as you remember her, always cheerful and lively. Living in the forest has kept her young, somehow. "Grandma! I'm so happy to see you!" You hug her and smile, truly glad to see her again, even under such complicated circumstances. "Come in my love, come in!" She ushers you towards the living room, where you notice a man is standing up from a big sofa. Must be Mr. Hunter. He adjusts his white suit as he stands, and you take a good look at the man. Grandma wasn't lying when she said he was easy on the eyes. He's easily one of the most handsome men you've ever met in your life! His tan skin is glowing, dark hair perfectly groomed. Maybe it was a good idea to try and pursue him, after all. "Miss Red. A pleasure." He bows and smiles at you. Damn his smile is beautiful too. "Mr. Hunter. The pleasure is all mine." "Come, come dear. Let's sit down and have a talk while we drink some tea!" Sitting down in the sofa you catch the scent of the tea that Grandma prepared. Earl Grey. Smelling it makes you feel even guiltier now, as the image of Grey's face suddenly pops into your mind. You brush it off as best you can, and look at Mr. Hunter. The rest of the evening is yours to try and win his heart. How will you ingratiate yourself to Mr. Hunter? [[Try to respond in ways that he would like]] [[Act flirty]] [[Just relax and whatever happens, happens]]

You spend the rest of the evening making pleasant conversation, laughing and truly enjoying each other's company. Talking to Mr. Hunter was truly a breath of fresh air, and you felt that you could forget all about your guilt, if only for a while. He likes you a lot, and he makes it obvious by the end of the meeting. After a few dates he pops the question! You get engaged and eventually marry! You are very compatible and you have no complaints about him. Even if he wasn't rich and going to pay for your mother's bills, you think you would have liked him anyway. With the funds from the forest project, he moves your mother to a different, better hospital, where she makes a miraculous recovery! You truly chose the right path: Your mom is alive, and it's all thanks to Mr. Hunter's generosity. You really grow to love him, and your time together shows you that he is a good man, loving and gentle. However, every now and then you feel guilty about the wolf-people, as you could do nothing to prevent the destruction of their sacred trees. But the curse that Grey implied would fall upon Mr. Hunter never comes to pass... Or so you thought. A few years into your marriage, Mr. Hunter is diagnosed with a grave and mysterious disease, much worse than your mother's. There is nothing you can do as you watch the man you love fall ill, and die. Soon after his death, you become ill with a similar disease. In your deathbed, you wonder if you could have done things any differently... THE END ............... Mr. Hunter's Bad Ending A [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

"Red! How did it go?" He pops up from behind a nearby tree and approaches you quickly, his ears cast downward as if he's expecting bad news. "I think I convinced him! But we have to make sure no one else does anything similar in the future-" You suddenly feel Grey's arms around you. He hugs you tightly and you see his tail wag behing him. He's really happy. "I can't believe it! You really came through for us, Red!” “It was nothing, I couldn’t possibly ignore something like this.” You hug him back, truly happy that this story had a happy ending, at least for the wolf-people. For you it's probably back to being a corporate slave. But somehow you're fine with that. “I knew it, everyone said it was a long shot, but I knew that asking you was the best way! You could always talk your way out of any situation back when we were young." He laughs and lets you go. You miss the warmth of his arms immediately. "As I promised, I will make some arrangements so we can perform a ritual to bless you soon. You won't regret this.” “Wait, about that blessing... Could my mother receive it instead?” You look at him expentantly. "...Your mother?" "Yes, you see..." You take your time to explain your situation. He just looks at you and listens. He was always a good listener. When you're done explaining, he doesn't immediately speak, but instead goes quiet for a few minutes. Just when you're starting to get worried, he speaks. "Thanks, Red, for sharing this with me... I didn't know about your mother. Grandma didn't tell me anything!" "Probably didn't cross her mind to ask for your help" "Red, bring your mother. I'm sure we can cure her if we gather all the elders at the ritual site. We owe it to you and your family." He grabs your hands and looks at you straight in the eyes. Finally you find some hope in your dark world of endless bills and looming death. You cry. He holds you. Everything is ok. Everything will be ok. THE END .................... Grey's Good Ending A [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

Needless to say, the ride back home was agonizing. Here you are, stuck between the struggles of Grey's people, and your own struggles. You feel for their plight, but who's going to take care of your mom? Is there any magical blessing that can cure her? Her disease is rare and unknown... You don't really know if there's any possibility of curing her through magic, and you're not sure if you're willing to take that risk. By the time you arrive at your place, you are still in shock. You try to go to sleep, but you can't. The events of the day keep replaying in your mind, the memory of Grey's sad expression haunting you. But you can't bring yourself to make a choice, not just yet. The days pass and you start to feel a little better, the answer forming within your mind. You know what you have to do, even if it may end up hurting someone. [[You decide to help Grey]] [[You decide to take a shot at being Mr. Hunter's... fiancée?]]

You picked up a beautiful red envelope from your mailbox this morning. You immediately recognize the stationery: it's the one your grandma has been using for the last 30 years. She's always had a flare for the dramatic, and red was her favorite color (hence your name). You thought it was cute, as she always put a lot of effort in every single one of her letters. [[Open Grandma's letter]] [[Don't open it just yet]]

You have a lot of unfinished work, and surely whatever Grandma has to say can wait for a couple of days, right? You work, work, and work some more. The hospital bills for your mom's treatment have to be paid somehow, right? [[The days pass by...]]

The days go by without anything much happening. About a week has passed when suddenly, you hear someone knocking angrily at your door. "Red! I know you're in there! Answer the door right this moment!" The voice sounds like.. Grandma? Oh god, the letter. You totally forgot about it! Rushing to the door, you open it and find a very angry, very red-faced Grandma. "Red! Why on earth didn't you show up at my place? We were waiting for you, you know!?" "I'm sorry Gran! I was too busy with work! You know how things are right now with mom..." There's nothing else you can say, work really did take up all of your time lately. "I know my child, I know. That's why I sent you that letter. It could have solved all of our problems, but we lost that chance..." She seems sad now, disappointed. But she continues: "Anyway, don't worry. I know you've been working hard... We'll find another way, we have to. For your mom". She hugs you as if consoling you, but you suspect she's also trying to console herself. The letter must have been an invitation. And a very important one, at that. You instantly regret not opening that letter a week ago. But just as Grandma said, if you work together, you may find another way. .......... Grandma was ignored Ending :( [[Restart?|Start]]

Red's Choice By Ines Souquett [[Start]]

Oh Gran... Always so well-intentioned. You never expected her to come up with this kind of idea, but you guess these are desperate times. The truth is, your mother was diagnosed with a serious disease which would take months or even years of treatment, without any promise of getting better. You have been working your ass off to pay for the bills, but they have been piling up at a dangerous pace... So much so that you're not even sure you can survive on your current job's salary for much longer. You suppose that you can at least meet Mr. Hunter. Perhaps he is your type after all, or you will notice some spark between the two of you in the meeting! Or not. In any case, meeting him couldn't hurt, you guess. You think that before agreeing to this, you need more information, so you decide to meet her before the set date. Grabbing your favorite red hoodie that Grandma sewed for you a few years ago, you set off on a journey to Grandma's house. [[To Granma's place, I guess?]]

The journey to Grandma's cabin is just a bus ride. Grandma lives in a very secluded area surrounded by a thick forest. The only residents of this forest are your Grandma, the plants and animals, and the wolf-people: a tribe of magical users that look human, but with added physical features that makes them appear wolf-like: fluffy ears and tails, shiny, beautiful hair, and sharp claws and fangs. When you were young, you used to play with one of them, his name was Grey. However, once you moved from Grandma's place to the city you never saw him again. As you make the trip to the cabin, you wonder what became of his life... After all, he was your first crush. The bus takes about 4 hours to arrive at the forest entrance. You get off the bus and take a look around. The foliage is very dense, so no vehicle can traverse through it. Your only option is to walk from here. You notice the faint outline of a trail between the trees, and recognize it as the trail that leads to the general area where your Grandma's cabin is located. [[You follow the trail]]

You try to follow the trail as best as you can. Along the way, you can't help but admire the nature around you. It's been so long since you've visited, you almost forgot how beautiful it was. You keep walking for a couple of minutes, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the forest. After a while, you can't seem to find Grandma's cabin anywhere around. As a matter of fact, you can't even see the trail anymore. You must have gotten too distracted by the beauty of the forest! What to do now? You look around, a bit panicked. You try to pick the most likely direction that the cabin is in, but before you can start walking, you hear a masculine voice calling out to you. [[You turn around to find...]]

...a wolf-man. He stands a couple of meters behind you. His arms are crossed and he is giving you a knowing look, like he knows you're lost. He's gorgeous: his shiny gray hair frames his blue eyes beautifully. "Are you lost, little girl?" Says the man in a playful tone, focusing his eyes on you. "Um, no?" You say, trying to keep it cool. "You look lost to me. There's literally nothing this side of the forest" He smirks playfully, but you don't sense any danger from him. "//You're// here" You're kind of proud that you thought of that comeback. "Touché. What are you looking for, little girl?" He comes closer to you, this time his body language a bit more relaxed and friendly. Maybe getting his help isn't such a bad idea. You really need to meet Grandma soon, and you don't want to waste any more time wandering the forest. Do you ask the wolf-man for directions? [[Can't hurt to ask, I guess]] [[I'd rather find the cabin by myself]]

"You wouldn't happen to know in which direction a red cabin is, would you?" The wolf-man points in a direction that's the completely opposite from where you were going earlier. "20 minute walk from here. You're welcome". You feel a little stupid, but grateful. "Uhh, yeah, thanks. Have a good day." You don't wait for him to reply and just turn around, walking briskly in the direction he pointed at. You find the cabin: red and beautiful but starting to show signs of wear. Staring at it makes the memories of your childhood rush through your mind: the happy days when mom was healthy, Grandma's apple pies, playing with your friend... You try to compose yourself before entering, can't greet Grandma while you're crying or she'll get worried. "Grandmaaaa! It's Red! I'm coming in!" You shout, to announce yourself mostly, since Grandma never locks the door for some reason. Last time you came in unannounced you almost gave her a heart attack. While you head to the sofa to leave your belongings at the living room, you catch the scent of freshly brewed Earl Grey, Grandma's favorite. She must be at the kitchen. [[You go to the kitchen to greet Grandma]]

You don't need to ask for directions, you grew up in this forest! "I'm okay, don't worry about me" You walk away from the stranger, and try to find your own way. "If you say so..." He doesn't follow you. You walk in the direction that you're sure the cabin is in... ... but you end up back at the bus station. You clearly don't remember the location of Gran's cabin anymore. You go back home, maybe you didn't really need to talk to her anyway? You show up for the meeting the next week and Mr. Hunter is pleasant enough, but despite your best efforts you don't seem to make an impression on him. You don't hear from him after that, and resign yourself to keep working your ass off to pay for your mother's bills, all by yourself. The fate of your mother is left to hard work, and hope... THE END ......... Lost in the forest Ending :( [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. "In my time here I got to know the beauty of this forest. I turned many fallen leaves into beds, or art, even fashion" You remember that one time you created a skirt out of leaves with your mom, tears threatening to leave your eyes. But you persevere. "Every tree a potential hiding place, or even a friend... This forest is so welcoming, so serene, so... //alive//." Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. "Needless to say, the forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, I know you're a good man at heart, so you must understand. These trees are very important to them... You must stop, I beg you." "Look, Miss Red, I didn't come here today to discuss how to run my business. Grandma, I'm sorry but I'm afraid I must take leave now. Have a good afternoon, ladies." Great. You scared him off. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her, to try to console her. "I... I don't know Grandma. I'll figure something out." "Oh, my child..." How to break it to Grey now, that you failed your mission? Stepping out of the cabin, you brace yourself. [[...Grey?]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. You clearly haven't given away your intentions yet. Good, as you really need him to listen. "The forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, my dear friend Grey has warned me that not only are you destroying important items to the wolf-people, but that you also might be in danger yourself." Your grandma gasps. Mr. Hunter is suddenly caught off guard, or so you think. "In danger? From the wolf-people? I don't understand." He tries to compose himself as he waits for your answer. "Not from them, no. This place //is// magical, so I think it stands to reason that violating it could bring some negative effects to you, the responsible..." You look at him, trying to notice any tells... You wait a bit aaand... there it is: his left eye twitched a little. "... You could even be already experiencing things that are have no logical explanation." Mr. Hunter's expression suddenly turns to surprise. You hit the bullseye. You notice beads of sweat rolling down his neck and forehead. He wipes them off with a handkerchief, and looks at you worriedly "Miss Red... Is this true? Am I being.. Cursed by the forest?" "Mr. Hunter, I have no reason to lie to you." "... I fear I might have been too skeptical of the magic in this place. I will heed your warning, Miss Red. Thank you so much." He stands up and bows to Grandma and you. "If my life is in such dire danger, I must remedy this situation now. If you would excuse me..." He makes his way to the entrance huriedly, and exits the cabin. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her. "It's going to be ok, Gran. I'll make it work, you have to trust me... He wasn't that handsome anyway." "Oh, my child..." You hug for a while, and you hope that you really made the right choice here. After she's calmed down, you step outside of the cabin. [[Grey? Are you still out here?]]

"... Your mother?" "Yes, you see..." You take your time to explain your situation. He just looks at you and listens. He was always a good listener. When you're done explaining, he doesn't immediately speak, but instead goes quiet for a few minutes. Just when you're starting to get worried, he speaks. "... Why didn't you tell me about your mother before, Red? Now I feel like an asshole for asking you to do this when I didn't even know about your problems... " "It's ok, we haven't really told anyone..." "Look, Red, I don't know if it will work, but I can try to convince the elders to save your mother. You don't need Mr. Hunter's money! You don't need to marry him if you don't want to..." He makes a compelling argument... or does he? Do you really believe that his people can save your mom? If you talk to Mr. Hunter about abandoning his project, he may despise you! So... Did Grey convince you, or not? [[He convinced you, you will help Grey]] [[Can't take any chances, stay on the original plan]]

"Marry Mr. Hunter? Are you seriously considering that dumb idea?" "Hey! It's worth a shot! Everyone can get what they want, don't you see it?" "No, I don't. Care to explain?" You'll really have to convince him now. What do you tell him? [[Say that you'll use the profits to move his people to a better place]] [[Promise that by becoming his wife, you'll have more chances to stop him]]

"... Ok Grey. But this forest magic better save my mom, or else...", "I know, Red. I promise I'll do my best to make it work... Thank you, thank you so much." He walks with you until you both reach the red cabin. "I'll wait outside. He probably doesn't want to see me." You nod in agreement. Leaving him behind, you walk up to the cabin's door and knock. [[Gran opens the door]]

"Sorry Grey, can't take any chances." "Are you serious? Do you really want to marry him so bad?" "My choices are mine to make, Grey. And I'm truly sorry but I’m not your friend anymore! We haven’t been friends for several years now!" You try to rationalize your actions in the best way that you can. He just looks at you, disgust and disappointment clear in his features "...Is that so? ...Then you shall suffer the same fate as him. Don't say I didn't warn you.” He runs off into the forest, and after a few seconds you lose sight of him. That was painful. You make the trip to the cabin all by yourself, feeling awful. Once you arrive, you compose yourself and knock on the door. [[Your Grandma opens the door]]

"Is profit all you can think about? ... You don't understand, Red... I thought you would, but you really don't... Bad things will happen to you both, don't say I didn't warn you.” He runs off into the forest, and after a few seconds you lose sight of him. That was painful. You make the trip to the cabin all by yourself, feeling awful. Once you arrive, you compose yourself and knock on the door. [[Your Grandma opens the door]]

"... What? You really want to marry him?" He says "For all I know, he could be a very agreeable person! But that's not the point here, Grey. If we get along, I'd be in a better position to demand things of him. As I am right now, I don't know if I can..." "...So you're serious..." "I am. My mother's life depends on this working." "... Your mother's life?" "Yes, you see..." You take your time to explain your situation. He just looks at you and listens. He was always a good listener. When you're done explaining, he doesn't immediately speak, but instead goes quiet for a few minutes. Just when you're starting to get worried, he speaks. "... Why didn't you tell me about your mother before, Red? Now I feel like an asshole for asking you to do this when I didn't even know about your problems... " "It's ok, we haven't really told anyone..." "... Are you sure that marrying him is your only option, though? What if I could offer a different solution to you?" [[Hear him out]] [[Go with the original plan, it'll be fine]]

"My girl, you're here! And look at you! A sight for sore eyes." Your grandma is just as you remember her, always cheerful and lively. Living in the forest has kept her young, somehow. "Grandma! I'm so happy to see you!" You hug and smile, truly glad to see her again, even under such dire circumstances. "Come in my love, come in!" She ushers you towards the living room, where you notice a man is standing up from a big sofa. Must be Mr. Hunter. He adjusts his white suit as he stands, and you take a good look at the man. Your grandma wasn't lying when she said he was easy on the eyes. He's easily one of the most handsome men you've ever met in your life! Besides Grey, of course. His tan skin glowing, dark hair perfectly groomed. It's almost a shame that he probably won't want to marry you anymore after you try to convince him to give up on his source of income. "Miss Red. A pleasure." He bows and smiles at you. Damn his smile is beautiful too. Did you make the wrong choice? ... Naaah. "Mr. Hunter. The pleasure is all mine." "Come, come dear. Let's sit down and have a talk while we drink some tea!" Sitting down in the sofa you catch the scent of the tea that Grandma prepared. Earl Grey. Smelling it gives you even more determination, as the image of Grey's face suddenly pops into your mind. "Um, actually Grandma... I'm glad to be here, and I'm honored that you wanted to meet up with me, Mr. Hunter, but I'm afraid that I came here with the purpose of talking to you about a very important issue..." You summon all the courage you can, and brace yourself for potential rejection. "Is that so?" Mr. Hunter raises an eyebrow, showing a bit of interest. How are you going to convince him? [[Try to appeal to his good heart]] [[Mention the deadly consequences of cutting down the trees]]

You try to guess what kind of person Mr. Hunter is. Your knowledge of him is limited, but you assume he likes... Money? Business? He definitely doesn't like trees. Or wolf-people. You try to adapt your conversation to him, agreeing with him most of the time. You bring up topics that he think would enjoy. He's harder to read than you thought, but he seems responsive to your tactics. When the meeting ends and he leaves the cabin, he seems... fine? You really can't tell but you hope for the best. Grandma, however, seems to be angry at you. "My dear Red, you won't get far in life by being a people-pleaser and a yes-woman! You have to show character!" Oh no. You overdid it, didn't you? Yes, you did. You never hear from Mr. Hunter again. Without his aid, and having alienated Grey, you truly have no one left to help you with your situation. You overwork yourself to death. THE END ......................... Yes-woman Ending A :( [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

You try your best to show your flirtatious side, to make it very clear that you're interested in him. You laugh at his jokes (perhaps a little too much), make physical contact here and there, and try to be very attentive at all times. Mr. Hunter didn't seem to mind your advances, so you kept at it. He seems fine when he leaves the cabin for the night, yet your Grandma seems angry. "I know you're a very charming person, my girl, but what was that?!" Oh no. You overdid it, didn't you? Yes you did. You never hear from Mr. Hunter again. Without his aid, and having alienated Grey, you truly have no one left to help you with your situation. You overwork yourself to death. THE END ............. You came on too strong Ending A :( [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. "In my time here I got to know the beauty of this forest. I turned many fallen leaves into beds, or art, even fashion" You remember that one time you created a skirt out of leaves with your mom, tears threatening to leave your eyes. But you persevere. "Every tree a potential hiding place, or even a friend... This forest is so welcoming, so serene, so... //alive//." Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. "Needless to say, the forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, I know you're a good man at heart, so you must understand. These trees are very important to them... You must stop, I beg you." "Look, Miss Red, I didn't come here today to discuss how to run my business. Grandma, I'm sorry but I'm afraid I must take leave. Have a good afternoon, ladies." Great. You scared him off. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. You can guess why. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her, to try to console her. "I... I don't know Grandma. I'll figure something out." "Oh, my child..." How to break it to Grey now, that you failed your mission? Stepping out of the cabin, you brace yourself. [[Grey...?]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. You clearly haven't given away your intentions yet. Good, as you really need him to listen. "The forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, my dear friend Grey has warned me that not only are you destroying important items to the wolf-people, but that you also might be in danger yourself." Your grandma gasps. Mr. Hunter is suddenly caught off guard, or so you think. "In danger? From the wolf-people? I don't understand." He tries to compose himself as he waits for your answer. "Not from them, no. This place //is// magical, so I think it stands to reason that violating it could bring some negative effects to you, the responsible..." You look at him, trying to notice any tells... You wait a bit aaand... there it is: his left eye twitched a little. "... You could even be already experiencing things that are have no logical explanation." Mr. Hunter's expression suddenly turns to surprise. You hit the bullseye. You notice beads of sweat rolling down his neck and forehead. He wipes them off with a handkerchief, and looks at you worriedly "Miss Red... Is this true? Am I being.. Cursed by the forest?" "Mr. Hunter, I have no reason to lie to you." "... I fear I might have been too skeptical of the magic in this place. I will heed your warning, Miss Red. Thank you so much." He stands up and bows to Grandma and you. "If my life is in such dire danger, I must remedy this situation now. If you would excuse me..." He makes his way to the entrance huriedly, and exits the cabin. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her. "It's going to be ok, Gran. I'll make it work, you have to trust me... He wasn't that handsome anyway." "Oh, my child..." You hug for a while, and you hope that you really made the right choice here. After she's calmed down, you step outside of the cabin. [[Grey? Are you still here?]]

"Red! How did it go?" He pops up from behind a nearby tree and approaches you quickly, his ears cast downward as if he's expecting bad news. "... I'm so sorry Grey... I really tried my best..." You're about to cry when he hugs you. "It's ok, it's ok Red... It was a long shot from the start, it's not your fault. We'll find another way." "You don't understand!" You say between sobs "I was counting on the magic of the forest to help my mother..." "...Your mother?" "Yes, you see..." You take your time to explain your situation. He just looks at you and listens. He was always a good listener. When you're done explaining, he doesn't immediately speak, but instead goes quiet for a few minutes. Just when you're starting to get worried, he speaks. "Thanks, Red, for sharing this with me... I didn't know about your mother. Grandma didn't tell me anything!" "Probably didn't cross her mind to ask for your help" "Without the trees we can't perform the magic ritual... But I'll help you Red, in any way I can. I'm so sorry..." The future is uncertain, but at least you have a friend to help you out in these difficult times. THE END ............................... Grey's Bad Ending A [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

"My girl, you're here! And look at you! A sight for sore eyes." Your grandma is just as you remember her, always cheerful and lively. Living in the forest has kept her young, somehow. "Grandma! I'm so happy to see you!" You hug her and smile, truly glad to see her again, even under such complicated circumstances. "Come in my love, come in!" She ushers you towards the living room, where you notice a man is standing up from a big sofa. Must be Mr. Hunter. He adjusts his white suit as he stands, and you take a good look at the man. Grandma wasn't lying when she said he was easy on the eyes. He's easily one of the most handsome men you've ever met in your life! His tan skin is glowing, dark hair perfectly groomed. Maybe it was a good idea to try and pursue him, after all. "Miss Red. A pleasure." He bows and smiles at you. Damn his smile is beautiful too. "Mr. Hunter. The pleasure is all mine." "Come, come dear. Let's sit down and have a talk while we drink some tea!" Sitting down in the sofa you catch the scent of the tea that Grandma prepared. Earl Grey. Smelling it makes the image of Grey's face pop into your mind. You have the rest of the evening to ingratiate yourself to Mr. Hunter. What do you do?? [[Try to say things he would like]] [[Act flirty and cute]] [[Just relax and go with the flow]]

You try your best to show your flirtatious side, to make it very clear that you're interested in him. You laugh at his jokes (perhaps a little too much), make physical contact here and there, and try to be very attentive at all times. Mr. Hunter didn't seem to mind your advances, so you kept at it. He seems fine when he leaves the cabin for the night, yet your Grandma seems angry. "I know you're a very charming person, my girl, but what was that?!" Oh no. You overdid it, didn't you? Yes, you did. You never hear from Mr. Hunter again. Without his aid, and with all the magical trees gone, you truly have no way of saving your mother. Grey offers to help in whichever way he can, but you end up taking more shifts at work to make up for the time lost. You overwork yourself to death. THE END ............. You came on too strong Ending B :( [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

You try to guess what kind of person Mr. Hunter is. Your knowledge of him is limited, but you assume he likes... Money? Business? He definitely doesn't like trees. Or wolf-people. You try to adapt your conversation to him, agreeing with him most of the time. You bring up topics that he think would enjoy. He's harder to read than you thought, but he seems responsive to your tactics. When the meeting ends and he leaves the cabin, he seems... fine? You really can't tell but you hope for the best. Grandma, however, seems to be angry at you. "My dear Red, you won't get far in life by being a people-pleaser and a yes-woman! You have to show character!" Oh no. You overdid it, didn't you? Yes, you did. You never hear from Mr. Hunter again. Without his aid, and with all the magical trees gone, you truly have no way of saving your mother. Grey offers to help in whichever way he can, but you end up taking more shifts at work to make up for the time lost. You overwork yourself to death.. THE END ...................... Yes-woman Ending B :( [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

You spend the rest of the evening making pleasant conversation, laughing and truly enjoying each other's company. Talking to Mr. Hunter was truly a breath of fresh air, and you felt that you could forget all about your guilt, if only for a while. He likes you a lot, and he makes it obvious by the end of the meeting. After a few dates he pops the question! You get engaged and eventually marry! You are very compatible and you have no complaints about him. Even if he wasn't rich and going to pay for your mother's bills, you think you would have liked him anyway. With the funds from the forest project, he moves your mother to a different, better hospital, where she makes a miraculous recovery! You truly chose the right path: Your mom is alive, and it's all thanks to Mr. Hunter's generosity. You really grow to love him, and your time together shows you that he is a good man, loving and gentle. Now, about the promise you made to Grey... Did you keep it? [[Yes, I convinced Mr. Hunter to stop cutting the trees early into our relationship]] [[No, I couldn't run the risk of having no funds to save my mother]]

Initially, he didn't like your suggestion, but eventually you talked him into it. You knew he was a good man, so he understood where you were coming from. You also loved him so much, that you couldn't run the risk of anything bad happening to him, like Grey said. He helps with your mother's bills and it takes a long time, but eventually she's healthy again. Healthy enough to take care of her grandchildren! You made peace with the wolf-people, and started a non-profit organization to protect the forest. You live out the rest of your lives in peace and blissful happiness. THE END ...................... Mr. Hunter Good Ending [[Restart from beginning?|Start]]

With the funds from the forest project, Mr. Hunter moves your mother to a different, better hospital, where she makes a miraculous recovery! You truly chose the right path: Your mom is alive, and it's all thanks to Mr. Hunter's generosity. You really grow to love him, and your time together shows you that he is a good man, loving and gentle. However, every now and then you feel guilty about the wolf-people, as you could do nothing to prevent the destruction of their sacred trees. But the curse that Grey implied would fall upon Mr. Hunter never comes to pass... Or so you thought. A few years into your marriage, Mr. Hunter is diagnosed with a grave and mysterious disease, much worse than your mother's. There is nothing you can do as you watch the man you love fall ill, and die. Soon after his death, you become ill with a similar disease. Before you die, you wonder if you could have done things any differently... THE END ............... Mr. Hunter's Bad Ending B [[Restart?|Start]]

"A different solution?" "To be completely honest I don't know if it will work, but I can try to convince the elders to save your mother. You don't need Mr. Hunter's money! You don't need to marry him if you don't want to..." He makes a compelling argument... or does he? Do you really believe that his people can save your mom? If you talk to Mr. Hunter about abandoning his project, he may despise you! So... Did Grey convince you, or not? [[He convinced you]] [[He didn't]]

"This is the best way, for everyone. You have to trust me." "Ok Red, your choice... But you have to keep your promise. Stop the cutting of the trees, or else you will both suffer grave consequences." "I will, Grey. I will." You could swear he's about to cry, but before he can, he runs off and disappears into the forest. You go to the cabin by yourself. [[Grandma opens the door for you]]

"... Ok Grey. But this forest magic better save my mom, or else...", "I know, Red, I promise I'll do my best to make it work... Thank you, thank you so much." He walks with you until you both reach the red cabin. "I'll wait outside. He probably doesn't want to see me." You nod in agreement. Leaving him behind, you walk up to the cabin's door and knock. [[Gran opens the door for you]]

"I'm sorry Grey, but I can't take any chances. This is the best way, for everyone. You have to trust me." "Ok Red, your choice... But you have to keep your promise. Stop the cutting of the trees, or else you will both suffer grave consequences." "I will, Grey. I will." You could swear he's about to cry, but before he can, he runs off and disappears into the forest. You go to the cabin by yourself. [[Grandma opens the door for you]]

"My girl, you're here! And look at you! A sight for sore eyes." Your grandma is just as you remember her, always cheerful and lively. Living in the forest has kept her young, somehow. "Grandma! I'm so happy to see you!" You hug and smile, truly glad to see her again, even under such dire circumstances. "Come in my love, come in!" She ushers you towards the living room, where you notice a man is standing up from a big sofa. Must be Mr. Hunter. He adjusts his white suit as he stands, and you take a good look at the man. Your grandma wasn't lying when she said he was easy on the eyes. He's easily one of the most handsome men you've ever met in your life! Besides Grey, of course. His tan skin glowing, dark hair perfectly groomed. It's almost a shame that he probably won't want to marry you anymore after you try to convince him to give up on his source of income. "Miss Red. A pleasure." He bows and smiles at you. Damn his smile is beautiful too. Did you make the wrong choice? ... Naaah. "Mr. Hunter. The pleasure is all mine." "Come, come dear. Let's sit down and have a talk while we drink some tea!" Sitting down in the sofa you catch the scent of the tea that Grandma prepared. Earl Grey. Smelling it gives you even more determination, as the image of Grey's face suddenly pops into your mind. "Um, actually Grandma... I'm glad to be here, and I'm honored that you wanted to meet up with me, Mr. Hunter, but I'm afraid that I came here with the purpose of talking to you about a very important issue..." You summon all the courage you can, and brace yourself for potential rejection. "Is that so?" Mr. Hunter raises an eyebrow, showing a bit of interest. How are you going to convince him? [[Try to appeal to his... good heart?]] [[Mention the consequences of cutting down the trees]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. "In my time here I got to know the beauty of this forest. I turned many fallen leaves into beds, or art, even fashion" You remember that one time you created a skirt out of leaves with your mom, tears threatening to leave your eyes. But you persevere. "Every tree a potential hiding place, or even a friend... This forest is so welcoming, so serene, so... //alive//." Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. "Needless to say, the forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, I know you're a good man at heart, so you must understand. These trees are very important to them... You must stop, I beg you." "Look, Miss Red, I didn't come here today to discuss how to run my business. Grandma, I'm sorry but I'm afraid I must take leave. Have a good afternoon, ladies." Great. You scared him off. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. You can guess why. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her, to try to console her. "I... I don't know Grandma. I'll figure something out." "Oh, my child..." How to break it to Grey now, that you failed your mission? Stepping out of the cabin, you brace yourself. [[Grey, are you there...?]]

"Yes, you see... I used to live here, a long time ago. My mother loves this forest, as much as my grandma here does..." You pause and squeeze your grandma's hand lovingly, smiling at her. She's visibly confused right now, but she lets you speak. Mr. Hunter is still engaged, his full attention on you. You clearly haven't given away your intentions yet. Good, as you really need him to listen. "The forest is a special place to me and to my family. But we are not the only ones who call this place our home." "Ah, I see where this is going." His expression shifts a bit. Still paying attention, but perhaps a bit skeptical now. "Yes, I think you already know what I'm going to say. This place is truly special, and I think you know that, Mr. Hunter. But I have to ask you to cease cutting the sacred trees." "Red! What are you saying?" Your grandma is in shock, and starting to get angry. And red in the face. This woman is really one and the same with the color, you think. "Grandma, let me finish. Mr. Hunter, my dear friend Grey has warned me that not only are you destroying important items to the wolf-people, but that you also might be in danger yourself." Your grandma gasps. Mr. Hunter is suddenly caught off guard, or so you think. "In danger? From the wolf-people? I don't understand." He tries to compose himself as he waits for your answer. "Not from them, no. This place //is// magical, so I think it stands to reason that violating it could bring some negative effects to you, the responsible..." You look at him, trying to notice any tells... You wait a bit aaand... there it is: his left eye twitched a little. "... You could even be already experiencing things that are have no logical explanation." Mr. Hunter's expression suddenly turns to surprise. You hit the bullseye. You notice beads of sweat rolling down his neck and forehead. He wipes them off with a handkerchief, and looks at you worriedly "Miss Red... Is this true? Am I being.. Cursed by the forest?" "Mr. Hunter, I have no reason to lie to you." "... I fear I might have been too skeptical of the magic in this place. I will heed your warning, Miss Red. Thank you so much." He stands up and bows to Grandma and you. "If my life is in such dire danger, I must remedy this situation now. If you would excuse me..." He makes his way to the entrance huriedly, and exits the cabin. "Oh Red! What have you done?!" Your grandmother is distraught. "How could you do this? How are we going to pay for your mother's treatment now?" She sobs and you hug her. "It's going to be ok, Gran. I'll make it work, you have to trust me... He wasn't that handsome anyway." "Oh, my child..." You hug for a while, and you hope that you really made the right choice here. After she's calmed down, you step outside of the cabin. [[Grey? Are you there?]]