Norse_Full

$pl["Are we going to Midgard?"] you shout, louder this time. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin manages to hear you. $odin["I told you,"] he says. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["No questions. Besides, I already said where we're going. Mímisbrunnr awaits."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is... (click-replace: "You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is...")+$dv[==$pl["You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You'll find out soon enough."] [[You feel Sleipnir's muscles tense.|Fly over Midgard]]

$pl["Better luck next time, All-father,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He stares at you. Then anger flashes hot across his face. He pulls out his dagger – but you already know what he's going to do. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He swings the dagger, and you step aside, easily dodging the blow. He swings again, and your dodge again. He lets out a [[roar of frustration|Mimir explains]].

$pl["Deal,"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Choose your questions carefully,"] says Odin. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==Then he adds in a low, threatening tone, $odin["No other human has interviewed me since the Hávamál. I would //hate// you to waste your chance."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You hesitate for a moment. Then you grit your teeth. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== If there's one thing you're good at, it's interviews. And you've known the first question that you wanted to ask ever since you walked up the Bifröst. You take a deep breath, then you speak the words. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $q1)[[[$question1|2.1/q35]]] (else-if: $q3)[[[$question3|2.3/q15]]] (else-if: $q5)[[[$question5|2.5/q13]]]

With shaking hands, you fill the tankard from the pool of water. It sloshes, cool, against your fingers. You straighten up, and look straight at Odin. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He looks confused. $odin["Bring it here–"] he starts to say. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Mímir lets out a strangled laugh. $mimir["The human has other ideas."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Before Odin can move – before anyone can stop you – you toss back your head and [[throw the water down your throat|You become wise]]. (set: $drink_water to true)

$pl["Fine, I can wait,"] you call to him. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["I can't hear you,"] he calls back, gesturing vaguely at his ear.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["(if: $odometer > -1)[Don't worry.] It will get a lot quieter later. In the meantime... keep your questions to yourself."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He leans again, and Sleipnir changes direction. Far below, you glimpse Himinbjörg – the gatehouse where Heimdall stands watch. Beyond it, you see the rainbow Bifröst, where it curves away from the edge of Asgard, down towards the realm of Midgard. You try again. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Are we going to Midgard?]] [[2. Can we visit Heimdall?]] [[3. How far is it?]]

$pl["Good game, Odin,"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[Odin glares at you. You notice that his hand has balled into a fist, and you think he's about to strike you. Instead, he says, $odin["Fine. You won that fair and square."]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[Odin grumbles something under his breath. He looks visibly annoyed – not at you, necessarily, but at himself. $odin["Fine,"] he says, after several seconds. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[$odin["You won fair and square."]]]{ }(else:)[Odin gazes down into the silvery pool of water. $odin["I suppose I should have expected that."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[He lets out a sigh, then looks at you. $odin["Well done, Midgardian. You beat me fair and square."]]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He draws a golden dagger from the depths of his cloak. He clenches his jaw, then slashes across his face.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== A second later, you hear a hollow plop. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== When you look into the pool of water, [[a floating eye looks back at you|Odin loses his eye]].

$pl["How about that interview?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin is silent for several seconds. Then he nods.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["How about this? You can ask me three questions between here and Mímisbrunnr. I will answer as truthfully as I can.(if: $odometer < -1 )[ This is far more than you deserve.](else-if: $odometer < 0)[This is more than you deserve.]"] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Deal.]] [[2. How about five?]] [[3. How about ten?]]

$pl["I totally believe that,"] you call to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But again, he doesn't seem to hear you. He gestures towards his ear. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Strange family,"] he continues.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Loki, Fenrir, Sleipnir... not to mention Jörmungandr, another one of the half-brothers."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You shudder at the sound of that final name. Jörmungandr – the monstrous World Serpent. Supposedly, he lies at the bottom of the ocean, chewing the end of his own tail. A wave breaks in the distance, and for a heartbeat you expect [[a scaly head to rear up from below|Fly over Yggdrasil]].

$pl["OK,"] you say. $pl["Let's do this."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The words are barely out your mouth before Odin flicks his wrist. You see a flash of metal, then half the world goes black. A second later, you hear a hollow plop. You look down into the pool of water. A floating eye looks back at you. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $odin["Painless,"] says Odin.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Magic dagger, see?"] He twirls the blade, then slips it back into his cloak. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[You look at him.|You lose your eye]]

$pl["Of course I will,] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $your_eye)[You step past him, then edge around the edge of the pool, holding one hand raised in front of you. When you reach the tankard, you kneel beside it, ignoring a wave of nausea. The surface of the tankard is covered in more of those ancient runes – not Elder Futhark, but the ones that you saw on Odin's throne in Valhalla. You pick it up, then glance with your one working eye back at Odin, who watches from the opposite side of the pool. [[You start to walk back towards him|Walk back towards Odin]].]{ }(else:)[You step past him, then walk around the edge of the pool. Your figure is reflected in the shimmering surface of the water. When you reach the tankard, you kneel beside it, and pick it up in one hand. The surface of the tankard is covered in more of those ancient runes – not Elder Futhark, but the ones that you saw on Odin's throne in Valhalla. You glance back at Odin, where he watches, one-eyed, from the opposite side of the pool. [[You start to walk back towards him|Walk back towards Odin]].]

$pl["Please, no!"] you cry out. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin drags you forward, right to the edge of the water. You see your terrified face reflected on the suface. Your terrified face – and two bulging eyes. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Wait,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Mímir suddenly. $mimir["Odin wants wisdom. Human wants eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He coughs, and you feel something wet against the side of your face. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Mímir makes new rules now. Mímir wants to play a //game//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Game?"] says Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["What kind of game?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You feel a momentary glimmer of hope.|Mimir sets rules]]

$pl["Sure thing!"] you say. Odin grins, then gestures for you to advance along the gloomy tunnel. You make your way forward – then you notice something. Up ahead is a pool of water. The surface of the pool glitters silver, as though reflecting light from the moon. But down here, the moon is nowhere to be seen. Instead, the water is the //source// of the light. Gleaming patches dapple the tunnel roof. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You notice something else: [[a hooded figure|Learn about Mimir]].

$pl["Thank you,"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < 0)[$odin["Don't thank me."]](else:)[$odin["There's no need to thank me,"]] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==says Odin. (if: $odometer < 0)[$odin["This was a deal. Nothing more. I answered your questions... and in return, you came to Mímisbrunnr."]](else:)[$odin["Think of this as a deal. I answered your questions... and in return, you came to Mímisbrunnr."]] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== Something about the way he says it makes the hairs stand up on your neck. You suddenly remember the unsettling smile that he gave you in Valhalla, right before Sleipnir had come and whisked the two of you away. You open your mouth to say something, but before you have the chance, he cuts across you. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Mímisbrunnr,"] he whispers.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["At last, we have arrived."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[You glance down|Reach the roots]].

(if:(visited:"2. Wait. That wasn't fair!")or(visited:"3. Try to run."))[All of a sudden, Odin draws a golden dagger from his cloak.](else:)[$pl["That's fair enough,"] you say reluctantly. Odin draws a golden dagger from his cloak.] He flicks his wrist. You see a flash of metal. Then half the world goes black. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[==A second later, you hear a hollow plop. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You look down into pool of water. A floating eye looks back at you. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Painless,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Odin. $odin["Magic dagger, see?"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He twirls the blade, then slips it back into his cloak. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You look at him.|You lose your eye]]

$pl["Well done, Odin,"] you say. He looks up at you, wet-cheeked. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$odin["There's so much good I can do with this. So many people I can help."](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He wipes his face, then stands up. $odin["Starting with you. It's time to take you home."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Thank you.|Back to Midgard 1]]

$pl["Who is that?"] you whisper. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Mímir,"] he says, and you swear you hear a note of fear in his voice. Still standing behind you, he calls to the hooded figure.(after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== $odin["It's good to see you again, uncle."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Mímir can always see you,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says the figure. $mimir["Mímir can see you all."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin shudders. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["I'm here to drink from Mímisbrunnr."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You look at the [[glimmering pool of water.|Learn about well]]

$mimir["//Mímir// love games,"] the hooded figure says, now hopping up and down on his feet. Odin actually loosens his grip on your shoulder. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[$odin["Fine,"] says Odin. $odin["Let's play this game. But know this, Midgardian: you're only delaying the inevitable."]]{ }(else:)[$odin["Fine,"] says Odin. $odin["This feels like a better way to do this. I never enjoy taking anyone's eye by force."]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Mímir ask question,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Mímir. $mimir["Whoever get right, keep eye. Whoever get wrong, lose eye. Are both ready for question?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"2. Games are boring. Just take my eye.") is false)[[[1. I'm ready.|Q1]] [[2. Actually, just take my eye.|2. Games are boring. Just take my eye.]]](else:)[[[I'm ready.|Q1]]]

You shake your head, then turn your back on the pool, and bring the rune-covered tankard to Odin. You see a new expression on his ancient face. Respect, maybe? It's hard for you to tell. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Thank you,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== he says. $odin["For a moment there, I thought you were going to drink from the well yourself."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You fill the tankard from the pool of water. It sloshes, cool, against your fingers. You straighten up and pass it to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Of course not. We had a deal.|Odin becomes wise]] [[2. I wouldn't want to cross you.|Odin becomes wise]] [[3. Omniscience is overrated.|Odin becomes wise]]

$pl["Can we visit Heimdall?"] you shout, louder this time. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin manages to hear you. $odin["I told you,"] he says. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["No questions. Besides, I already said where we're going. Mímisbrunnr awaits."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is... (click-replace: "You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is...")+$dv[==$pl["You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You'll find out soon enough."] [[You feel Sleipnir's muscles tense.|Fly over Midgard]]

$pl["Games are boring,"] you say. $pl["Just take my eye."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["But..."](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Mímir. $mimir["//Mímir// loves games."](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== The hooded figure droops his head. Even Odin looks mildly disappointed – but his disappointment quickly fades. He pulls back a hand, and draws a golden dagger from his cloak. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Will it hurt? (click-replace: "Will it hurt?")+$dv[==$pl["Will it hurt?"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== { (if: $odometer <-1)[$odin["Most definitely,"] says Odin.] (else-if: $odometer <-1)[$odin["Let's find out,"] says Odin.] (else:)[$odin["I'll make sure it doesn't,"] says Odin.] } (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: (visited: "1. Yes! Let's play this game of knowledge!") is false)[[[1. OK. Let's do this.|1. OK. Let's do this.]] [[2. Actually... how about that game?|1. Yes! Let's play this game of knowledge!]]](else:)[[[OK. Let's do this.|1. OK. Let's do this.]]]

$pl["Get it yourself,"] you say bluntly. (if: $odometer < -1)[Odin's expression darkens. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Let me remind you. I'm your ride out of here."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He points at the silver tankard again. $odin["Fetch it, or you aren't getting home."]]{ }(else:)[Odin looks slightly hurt by that. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["I understand why you're unhappy with me. But please can you fetch the tankard?"]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Fine. I'll fetch it.]]

$pl["How about five?"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Three or nothing,"] says Odin. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==Then he adds in a low, threatening tone, $odin["No other human has interviewed me since the Hávamál. I would //hate// you to waste your chance."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You hesitate for a moment. Then you grit your teeth. Three questions will have to do. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You've known the first question that you wanted to ask ever since you walked up the Bifröst. You take a deep breath, then you speak the words. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $q1)[[[$question1|2.1/q35]]] (else-if: $q3)[[[$question3|2.3/q15]]] (else-if: $q5)[[[$question5|2.5/q13]]]

$pl["How about one more question,"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["No,"] says Odin sharply.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Be grateful for what you have, Midgardian."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You open your mouth to argue, but before you have the chance, he cuts across you. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Mímisbrunnr,"] he whispers.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["At last, we have arrived."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[You glance down|Reach the roots]].

$pl["I think it's time to go home,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He stares at you. Then anger flashes hot across his face. He pulls out his dagger – but you already know what he's going to do. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He swings the dagger, and you step aside, easily dodging the blow. He swings again, and your dodge again. He lets out a [[roar of frustration|Mimir explains]].

$pl["I want to leave now,"] you whisper. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Odin steps between you and Sleipnir. His face is dark and stern. $odin["Not until you've met Mímir,"](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== he says, and you swear you hear a note of fear in his voice. He shakes his head, then calls to the figure.(after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== $odin["It's good to see you again, uncle."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Mímir can always see you,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says the figure. $mimir["Mímir can see you all."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin shudders. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["I'm here to drink from Mímisbrunnr."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You look at the [[glimmering pool of water.|Learn about well]]

$pl["I'd rather not–"] you start to say. Odin shoves you in the back, and you stumble down the gloomy tunnel. You dig in your heels – then you notice something. Up ahead is a pool of water. The surface of the pool glitters silver, as though reflecting light from the moon. But down here, the moon is nowhere to be seen. Instead, the water is the //source// of the light. Gleaming patches dapple the tunnel roof. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You notice something else: [[a hooded figure|Learn about Mimir]].

$pl["Now, I'd like to go home,"] you say. He looks up at you, wet-cheeked. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$odin["There's so much good I can do with this. So many people I can help."](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He wipes his face, then stands up. $odin["Starting with you. It's time to take you home."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Thank you.|Back to Midgard 1]]

$pl["On second thoughts, take my eye,"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[Odin glares at you. You notice that his hand has balled into a fist, and you think he's about to strike you. Instead, he says, $odin["One last cruel joke, I see."]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[Odin grumbles something under his breath. He looks visibly annoyed – not at you, necessarily, but at himself. $odin["No,"] he says, after several seconds. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[$odin["You won fair and square."]]]{ }(else:)[Odin gazes down into the silvery pool of water. $odin["That's good of you."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[He lets out a sigh, then looks at you. $odin["Thank you, Midgardian. But you beat me fair and square."]]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He draws a golden dagger from the depths of his cloak. He clenches his jaw, then slashes across his face.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== A second later, you hear a hollow plop. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== When you look into the pool of water, [[a floating eye looks back at you|Odin loses his eye]].

$pl["Tell me about Mímisbrunnr,"] you say to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin is silent for several seconds. Then he shakes his head.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["You'll find out soon enough. In the meantime, how about that interview? You can ask me three questions between here and Mímisbrunnr. I will answer as truthfully as I can.(if: $odometer < -1 )[ This is far more than you deserve.](else-if: $odometer < 0)[ This is more than you deserve.]"] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Deal.]] [[2. How about five?]] [[3. How about ten?]]

$pl["Wait. That wasn't fair!"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Odin snorts. $odin["Because I knew the answer?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: (visited: "Q3wrong"))[Because you guessed it!(click-replace: "Because you guessed it!")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Because–"] you start to say. But Odin cuts across you. $odin["You had no qualms about playing fair when you wormed your way into Asgard. (if: $heimdall_drunk)[Getting Heimdall drunk along the way.](else-if: $deadwarrior)[ Lying to Heimdall along the way.] Or does fairness only apply when it suits you?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== You don't know what to say to that. [[Your throat feels suddenly dry|1. That's fair enough.]].]{ }(else-if: (visited: "Q2wrong"))[Of course you knew. You created humans!(click-replace: "Of course you knew. You created humans!")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Of course you knew–"] you start to say. But Odin cuts across you. $odin["You had no qualms about playing fair when you wormed your way into Asgard. (if: $heimdall_drunk)[Getting Heimdall drunk along the way.](else-if: $deadwarrior)[ Lying to Heimdall along the way.] Or does fairness only apply when it suits you?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== You don't know what to say to that. [[Your throat feels suddenly dry|1. That's fair enough.]].]{ }(else:)[The question was about your family!(click-replace: "The question was about your family!")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["The question was–"] you start to say. But Odin cuts across you. $odin["You had no qualms about playing fair when you wormed your way into Asgard. (if: $heimdall_drunk)[Getting Heimdall drunk along the way.](else-if: $deadwarrior)[ Lying to Heimdall along the way.] Or does fairness only apply when it suits you?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== You don't know what to say to that. [[Your throat feels suddenly dry|1. That's fair enough.]].]

$pl["Will it get quieter later?"] you call to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["I can't hear you,"] he calls back, gesturing vaguely at his ear.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["(if: $odometer > -1)[Don't worry.] It will get a lot quieter later. In the meantime... keep your questions to yourself."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He leans again, and Sleipnir changes direction. Far below, you glimpse Himinbjörg – the gatehouse where Heimdall stands watch. Beyond it, you see the rainbow Bifröst, where it curves away from the edge of Asgard, down towards the realm of Midgard. You try again. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Are we going to Midgard?]] [[2. Can we visit Heimdall?]] [[3. How far is it?]]

$pl["Yep, fair enough,"] you tell him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin drags you forward, right to the edge of the water. You see your terrified face reflected on the suface. Your terrified face – and two bulging eyes. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Wait,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Mímir suddenly. $mimir["Odin wants wisdom. Human wants eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He coughs, and you feel something wet against the side of your face. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Mímir makes new rules now. Mímir wants to play a //game//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Game?"] says Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["What kind of game?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You feel a momentary glimmer of hope.|Mimir sets rules]]

$pl["you're lying to me,"] you call to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But again, he doesn't seem to hear you. He gestures towards his ear. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Strange family,"] he continues.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Loki, Fenrir, Sleipnir... not to mention Jörmungandr, another one of the half-brothers."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You shudder at the sound of that final name. Jörmungandr – the monstrous World Serpent. Supposedly, he lies at the bottom of the ocean, chewing the end of his own tail. A wave breaks in the distance, and for a heartbeat you expect [[a scaly head to rear up from below|Fly over Yggdrasil]].

Odin pauses, as though taking some time to think. When he finally speaks, his voice is low, but in the silence of the void, you still hear every word. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer1"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws a breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. $question3|3.3/q56]] [[2. $question5|3.5/q34]]

Odin pauses, as though taking some time to think. When he finally speaks, his voice is low, but in the silence of the void, you still hear every word. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer3"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws a breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. $question5|3.5/q12]] [[2. $question1|3.1/q56]]

Odin pauses, as though taking some time to think. When he finally speaks, his voice is low, but in the silence of the void, you still hear every word. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer5"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws a breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. $question1|3.1/q34]] [[2. $question3|3.3/q12]]

$pl["Er... hi?"] you whisper. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Mímir,"] Odin says, and you swear you hear a note of fear in his voice. Still standing behind you, he calls to the hooded figure.(after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== $odin["It's good to see you again, uncle."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Mímir can always see you,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says the figure. $mimir["Mímir can see you all."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin shudders. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["I'm here to drink from Mímisbrunnr."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You look at the [[glimmering pool of water.|Learn about well]]

$pl["How about ten?"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Three or nothing,"] says Odin.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Then he adds in a low, threatening tone, $odin["No other human has interviewed me since the Hávamál. I would //hate// you to waste your chance."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You hesitate for a moment. Then you grit your teeth. Three questions will have to do. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You've known the first question that you wanted to ask ever since you walked up the Bifröst. You take a deep breath, then you speak the words. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $q1)[[[$question1|2.1/q35]]] (else-if: $q3)[[[$question3|2.3/q15]]] (else-if: $q5)[[[$question5|2.5/q13]]]

$pl["How far is it?"] you shout, louder this time. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin manages to hear you. $odin["I told you,"] he says. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["No questions. Besides, I already said where we're going. Mímisbrunnr awaits."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is... (click-replace: "You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is...")+$dv[==$pl["You still haven't told me what Mímisbrunnr is,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You'll find out soon enough."] [[You feel Sleipnir's muscles tense.|Fly over Midgard]]

$pl["No, let's do it now,"] you call to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["I can't hear you,"] he calls back, gesturing vaguely at his ear.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["(if: $odometer > -1)[Don't worry.] It will get a lot quieter later. In the meantime... keep your questions to yourself."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He leans again, and Sleipnir changes direction. Far below, you glimpse Himinbjörg – the gatehouse where Heimdall stands watch. Beyond it, you see the rainbow Bifröst, where it curves away from the edge of Asgard, down towards the realm of Midgard. You try again. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Are we going to Midgard?]] [[2. Can we visit Heimdall?]] [[3. How far is it?]]

$pl["That's a strange family,"] you call to him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["It certainly is,"] he continues.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Loki, Fenrir, Sleipnir... not to mention Jörmungandr, another one of the half-brothers."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You shudder at the sound of that final name. Jörmungandr – the monstrous World Serpent. Supposedly, he lies at the bottom of the ocean, chewing the end of his own tail. A wave breaks in the distance, and for a heartbeat you expect [[a scaly head to rear up from below|Fly over Yggdrasil]].

You pull loose from Odin. Just a moment. Then he catches your arm and pulls you back. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["You worm your way into Asgard, (if: $heimdall_drunk)[getting Heimdall drunk along the way,](else-if: $deadwarrior)[ lying to Heimdall along the way,](if: $help_fenrir)[ you nearly set the most dangerous being in the cosmos free,] and now you try to wriggle out of a deal?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer <-1)[$odin["You really are the worst Midgardian I have ever met. And now I will take your eye."]]{ }(else-if: $odometer <0)[$odin["It's time for our unwelcome guest to get what's coming to them."]]{ }(else:)[$odin["I'd thought you were better than that."]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You try to break free of his mighty grasp, but deep down [[you know it's futile.|1. That's fair enough.]].

$pl["Why not one of your eyes?"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But Odin ignores you. He drags you forward, right to the edge of the water. You see your terrified face reflected on the suface. Your terrified face – and two bulging eyes. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Wait,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Mímir suddenly. $mimir["Odin wants wisdom. Human wants eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He coughs, and you feel something wet against the side of your face. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Mímir makes new rules now. Mímir wants to play a //game//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Game?"] says Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["What kind of game?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You feel a momentary glimmer of hope.|Mimir sets rules]]

$pl["Yggdrasil is breathtaking,"] you manage to say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin is silent for several seconds. Then he mutters under his breath.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Tourists."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==He shakes his head, before continuing.$odin["Now, how about that interview? You can ask me three questions between here and Mímisbrunnr. I will answer as truthfully as I can.(if: $odometer < -1 )[ This is far more than you deserve.](else-if: $odometer < 0)[ This is more than you deserve.]"] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Deal.]] [[2. How about five?]] [[3. How about ten?]]

This time, Odin replies without hesitating. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer1"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws another breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== It's your turn to hesitate. You need to make this final question count. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. $question3|4.3]] [[2. $question4|4.4]] (set: $q1 to true)

This time, Odin replies without hesitating. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer3"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws another breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== It's your turn to hesitate. You need to make this final question count. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. $question1|4.1]] [[2. $question2|4.2]] (set: $q3 to true)

This time, Odin replies without hesitating. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer3"](after: time + 8s)+$dv[== He draws another breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== It's your turn to hesitate. You need to make this final question count. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. $question5|4.5]] [[2. $question6|4.6]] (set: $q3 to true)

This time, Odin replies without hesitating. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer5"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He draws another breath. $odin["Next question?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== It's your turn to hesitate. You need to make this final question count. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. $question1|4.1]] [[2. $question2|4.2]] (set: $q5 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer1"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q1 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer2"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q2 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer3"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q3 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer4"] (after: time + 8s)+$dv[==He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q4 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer5"](after: time + 8s)+$dv[== He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q5 to true)

You wish you could see Odin's face. This must be the very first time you've interviewed someone from behind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["$answer6"](after: time + 8s)+$dv[== He shakes his head. $odin["That's all I have to say."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You're holding your breath. Now, you let it out in a deep, long sigh. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Thank you, Odin.]] [[2. How about one more question...?]] (set: $q6 to true)

$pl["Thank you,"] you say. Odin takes a deep breath. Then he turns, and whistles through his teeth. You hear a sudden clatter of hooves as Sleipnir hurtles down the tunnel. He skids to a halt, and Odin climbs onto its back. (after: time + 2.3s)+$dv[== $mimir["Fly safely,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==says Mímir. Then he adds softly, $mimir["Mímir knows you will."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You climb on to the horse's back.|Fly away]]

$pl["You won't have to wait long,"] you say. Odin takes a deep breath. Then he turns, and whistles through his teeth. You hear a sudden clatter of hooves as Sleipnir hurtles down the tunnel. He skids to a halt, and Odin climbs onto its back. (after: time + 2.3s)+$dv[== $mimir["Fly safely,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==says Mímir. Then he adds softly, $mimir["Mímir knows you will."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You climb on to the horse's back.|Fly away]]

You're back in the tunnel, gasping for breath, Odin and Mímir standing over you. Your entire body is shaking. Sweat pours down your brow. Odin opens his mouth to speak, but you already know what he'll say. //What did you do?// says a voice in your head. (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== $odin["What did you do?"] says Odin. His voice is choked and trembling. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["What the //Hel// did you //do//?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You push to your feet and smile at him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Better luck next time, All-father.]] [[2. I think it's time to go home.]]

Mímir doesn't seem to hear you. He starts rocking back and forth in his ragged cloak. You can't seen his face – it's lost to his shadowy hood. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin is talking again. $odin["Uncle,"] he says.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Let me drink from the well."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $mimir["Odin knows the price,"] Mímir breathes. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[$odin["I do,"] says Odin. He gives you another look, and this time you see a glint behind his eyes. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[$odin["This Midgardian will pay it for me."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[ [[You stare at Odin.|Odin furious 1]]]]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[$odin["I do,"] says Odin. He gives you another look. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[$odin["I hoped this Midgardian could pay it for me."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[ [[You stare at Odin.|Odin wary 1]]]]]{ }(else:)[$odin["I know the price,"] says Odin. He gives you another look, and this time you see a flash of guilt behind his eyes. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[$odin["I hoped this Midgardian could pay it for me."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[ [[You stare at Odin.|Odin neutral 1]]]]]

You're high in the air, on the back of Sleipnir – the magical, flying, eight-legged horse that you've only ever heard about in stories. Odin All-father is sitting in front of you. Your arms are wrapped around his chest. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $willingly_travel)[You still can't believe that Odin let you come with him. More importantly: that he said you could interview him on the way.](else:)[You still can't believe that Odin snatched you up and whisked you away without asking. But as long as you get an interview out of it... maybe you shouldn't complain.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Through his golden armor, Odin's body feels lean, tough, muscular. It astounds you that this powerful being is the same old man that you met in the forest earlier. He leans to one side, and Sleipnir changes course, [[soaring through a wisp of cloud|Fly over Asgard]].

(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[''Episode 4''] ](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[The Interview] ](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[==(redirect: 'EP4 Intro')

A final thought occurs to you. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== One day, people will tell stories about this. The journalist who got into Asgard. The journalist who travelled all the way to Mímisbrunnr, and lived to tell the tale. (after: time + 6s)+$dv[== You came for an interview. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You're leaving with so much more. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== Odin leans forward. Sleipnir kicks his powerful legs. Together, the three of you soar through the cosmic void. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[THE END|Save Game State 4]]

$pl["Fine, I'll fetch it,] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $your_eye)[You step past him, then edge around the edge of the pool, holding one hand raised in front of you. When you reach the tankard, you kneel beside it, ignoring a wave of nausea. The surface of the tankard is covered in more of those ancient runes – not Elder Futhark, but the ones that you saw on Odin's throne in Valhalla. You pick it up, then glance with your one working eye back at Odin, who watches from the opposite side of the pool. [[You start to walk back towards him|Walk back towards Odin]].]{ }(else:)[You step past him, then walk around the edge of the pool. Your figure is reflected in the shimmering surface of the water. When you reach the tankard, you kneel beside it, and pick it up in one hand. The surface of the tankard is covered in more of those ancient runes – not Elder Futhark, but the ones that you saw on Odin's throne in Valhalla. You glance back at Odin, where he watches, one-eyed, from the opposite side of the pool. [[You start to walk back towards him|Walk back towards Odin]].]

With that, Sleipnir takes to the air, carrying you out from the damp-smelling tunnel, then back up the trunk of Yggdrasil. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if: $your_eye)[You may have lost an eye, but at least you know that it won't be long until you're back in Midgard, tucked up in bed with a fire burning in the hearth.](else:)[You know it won't be long until you're back in Midgard, tucked up in your bed with a fire burning in the hearth.] If there's one thing you need, it's a long, well-deserved sleep. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== And tomorrow? You have an [[article to write|Final thoughts]].

$odin["About that interview,"] Odin calls over his shoulder.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[$odin["Don't bother speaking, there is no point."]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[$odin["We will wait until its not as loud."]]{ }(else:)[$odin["Can you wait a few minutes? It's all a bit too... loud."]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== It's the first thing he's said since flying you out from Valhalla. And you realize he's probably right. You can barely even hear him over the rush of air and Sleipnir's heavy breathing. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Fine, I can wait.]] [[2. Will it get quieter later?]] [[3. No. Let's do it now.]]

Sleipnir kicks his powerful legs, then dives along the Bifröst. When you walked along it, earlier that day, the rainbow road felt interminable. But on the back of Sleipnir, you reach the end in no more than a couple of seconds. Now, you're soaring over Midgard – the realm you call your home. You spot neat little villages, winding roads. Is that your house down there? You think you recognize the chimney. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Your thoughts are interrupted as [[Odin speaks again.|Fly over ocean]]

But Jörmungandr doesn't appear. And soon, you notice the ocean coming to an end. Up ahead, you see a wide horizon, and rising high beyond it... (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== Yggdrasil, the World Tree. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==Vast and glittering. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== It takes your breath away – you let out a tiny sigh. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Sleipnir carries you past the edge of the ocean, out into the shimmering cosmic void where Yggdrasil the World Tree grows. At the end of each branch is a different realm. Midgard, Asgard, Jotunheim, Vanaheim, Alfheim, Muspelheim, Nidavellir, Niflheim, Helheim... Sleipnir makes his way towards Yggdrasil's trunk. It's so large that you barely comprehend it. Even //looking// at the World Tree is enough to make you dizzy. [[You tighten your grip|Odin starts interview]].

$odin["Do you know why I named him Sleipnir?"] shouts Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["It means 'slippery one'. Because he's too fast – too slippery – to catch.(if: $willingly_travel is false)[ Unlike you.]"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You fly past mountains, over endless oceans. You smell sea-salt and hear the distant cries of gulls. For the first time, you notice that Odin's ravens are no longer flying alongside you. When did they leave? You have no idea. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $odin["His father is actually Loki,"] Odin adds, still yelling above the wind. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$odin["And his half-brother is Fenrir(if: $met_fenrir)[, who you met earlier]. Do you believe that?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I totally believe that.]] [[2. You're lying to me...]] [[3. That's a strange family.]]

Odin is watching you(if: $your_eye is false)[ with his one remaining eye]. (if: $odometer < -1)[$odin["I thoroughly dislike you,"] he says bluntly. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[$odin["But you can serve me one last purpose."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He points at the silver tankard. $odin["Get that for me. Then, I might take you home."]]]{ }(else:)[(if: $your_eye)[$odin["I'm sorry,"] he says, and he almost sounds as though he means it. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[$odin["But my eye is worth more than yours."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He gestures towards the silver tankard. $odin["Would you grab that for me? Then, I will take you home."]]]{ }(if: $your_eye is false)[$odin["I'm sorry,"] he says. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[$odin["But my depth perception... isn't what it used to be."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[He gestures towards the silver tankard. $odin["Would you fetch that for me? Then, I will take you home."]]]]] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== [[1. Of course I will.]] [[2. Get it yourself.]]

{ (set: $dv to (t8n:'dissolve')) (set: $pl to (text-color:#9D75CB)) (set: $heimdall to (text-color: #64E9EE)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*30)+$dv)) (set: $odin to (text-color:#23CE6B)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*20)+$dv)) (set: $valkyrie to (text-color:#9DB4C0)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*20)+$dv)) (set: $agnarr to (text-color:#F42272)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*40)+$dv)) (set: $mimir to (text-color:#F4D35E)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*40)+$dv)) (set: $fenrir to (text-color:#E15A97)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*10)+$dv)) (set: $be to (font: 'Helvetica')+(text-color: #B4C4AE)) }

The cave-like opening leads through to some kind of tunnel. It's warm and dark, it reeks of damp, and somewhere up ahead, you can hear a trickle of water. Sleipnir lands on a patch of earth, then bends his eight-legs to let you and Odin dismount. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Mímisbrunnr,"] Odin whispers again. Then he fixes you with a strange, unreadable stare.(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Lead the way, Midgardian."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Sure thing!]] [[2. I'd rather not...]]

$mimir["Welcome to Mímisbrunnr,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==says a whispery voice. $mimir["Mímir knew you two would come. Mímir knows everything. Everything. //Everything//–"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[==The words are cut off by a dry, rasping cough. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You glance at Odin, where he lingers a few steps behind you. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Who is that?]] [[2. I want to leave now.]] [[3. Err... hi?]]

$mimir["Odin wants a sip,"] says the hooded figure, this man that Odin called Mímir. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$mimir["Odin wants wisdom. Odin wants //sight//."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Suddenly, Mímir points at you, a waxy finger protruding from his ragged sleeve. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $mimir["They watch through your eyes!"] he says sharply. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$mimir["Screen-watcher watches. Screen-watcher //learns//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. What are you talking about?|Discover Odin's intent]] [[2. Yes. I'm here to learn.|Discover Odin's intent]] [[3. I think I've made a mistake.|Discover Odin's intent]]

Mímir steps forward in his ragged cloak. His face is still hidden beneath his shadowy cloak, but now, you know exactly what it looks like without even needing to see. Scrubby beard, sunken eyes, a thin, waxy nose. He puts a hand on Odin's shoulder. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Odin cannot beat the wise-one. Odin must take him home."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[The life seems to drain from Odin.|Reassure Odin]]

$mimir["Mímir plays a game,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Mímir again. $mimir["A game of knowledge. A game of //mind//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin is still holding onto you. $odin["I do enjoy games,"] he says carefully. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $mimir["If Odin wins,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Mímir, $mimir["then the human must lose an eye. But if human wins..."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He coughs again. $mimir["Then //Odin// must give up an eye."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Yes! Let's play this game of knowledge!]] [[2. Games are boring. Just take my eye.]]

Odin takes a deep breath. Then he tosses back his head, and throws the water down his throat. You see a flash of light, and hear a rush of sound like wind through a copse of trees. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Next thing you know, Odin is on his knees. His shoulders are shaking – at first, you think he's laughing. But no, the All-father is weeping. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["I know everything,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== he whispers. $odin["I know everything. //Everything//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Well done, Odin.]] [[2. Now, I'd like to go home.]]

For a heartbeat, Odin's words seem to hang on the air: //This Midgardian will pay it for me//. Then you feel a terrible rush of fear, like water down the back of your spine. What's the price? (click-replace: "What's the price?")+$dv[==$pl["What's the price?"] you say. At the same time, you try to step backwards from Mímir and the silvery pool of water. But Odin sharply grabs your shoulder with a hand so strong it could restrain a jötunn. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== A hand [[too strong to escape|Odin furious 2]].

$odin["The price,"] says Odin, (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["is your eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You hear the words, but it takes you a moment to comprehend them. Then you feel another rush of fear, and try to tear yourself away. Odin doesn't let you go. His grip is like a vice. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["This is what you deserve,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==he murmurs. $odin["You thought you could break into Asgard. You thought you could trick us all."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He blows out a breath; you feel it on the back of your neck. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Please. No!]] [[2. Yep. Fair enough.]] [[3. Why not one of your eyes?]]

You look back at Odin's face. One eye, one gaping socket. When he blinks, you hear a strange little squelch. For a second, you feel numb. What now? (click-replace: "What now?")+$dv[==$pl["What now?"] you say blankly. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Now,"] says Mímir. $mimir["Odin has a chance to //drink//."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He points to the other side of the pool, where a silver tankard is resting atop a rock. The tankard is covered by small, intricate designs. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[You realize that Odin is watching you.|Get the tankard]]

For a heartbeat, Odin's words seem to hang on the air: //I hoped this Midgardian could pay it for me//. Then you feel a terrible rush of fear, like water down the back of your spine. What's the price? (click-replace: "What's the price?")+$dv[==$pl["What's the price?"] you say. At the same time, you try to step backwards from Mímir and the silvery pool of water. But Odin gently rests a hand on your shoulder. A hand so strong it could restrain a jötunn. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== A hand [[too strong to escape|Odin neutral 2]].

$odin["The price,"] says Odin, (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["is an eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You hear the words, but it takes you a moment to comprehend them. Then you feel another rush of fear, and try to tear yourself away. Odin doesn't let you go. His grip is like a vice. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Don't make this harder than it needs to be,"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==he murmurs. $odin["When you came to Valhalla–"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==He blows out a breath; you feel it on the back of your neck. $odin["The chance to use someone else's eye was much too good to refuse."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Please. No!]] [[2. Yep. Fair enough.]] [[3. Why not one of your eyes?]]

$odin["We'll arrive soon,"] says Odin. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$odin["Mímisbrunnr lies at the roots."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He leans forward, and Sleipnir dives straight down, flying along the length of the World Tree's trunk. Earlier, the sound of rushing wind had filled your ears, but here, in the void, everything is silent and still. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== //Finally//, you think to yourself. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. How about that interview?]] [[2. Tell me about Mímisbrunnr]] [[3. Yggdrasil is breathtaking]]

For a heartbeat, Odin's words seem to hang on the air: //I hoped this Midgardian could pay it for me//. Then you feel a terrible rush of fear, like water down the back of your spine. What's the price? (click-replace: "What's the price?")+$dv[==$pl["What's the price?"] you say. At the same time, you try to step backwards from Mímir and the silvery pool of water. But Odin puts a hand on your shoulder. A hand so strong it could restrain a jötunn. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== A hand [[too strong to escape|Odin wary 2]].

$odin["The price,"] says Odin, (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["is an eye."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You hear the words, but it takes you a moment to comprehend them. Then you feel another rush of fear, and try to tear yourself away. Odin doesn't let you go. His grip is like a vice. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["I didn't want to do this,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==he murmurs. $odin["But when you came to Valhalla–"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==He blows out a breath; you feel it on the back of your neck. $odin["The chance to use someone else's eye was much too good to refuse."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Please. No!]] [[2. Yep. Fair enough.]] [[3. Why not one of your eyes?]]

(if: $odometer < -1)[ODIN IS FURIOUS AND DOES NOT TRUST YOU AT ALL]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[Odin is wary of you, as you told a few porky pies]{ }(else:)[Odin is neutral and has no reason to mistrust you]

$be[''Previously...'' * You are a journlist on a mission to interview Odin All-father. * You journeyed through Asgard and managed to enter Valhalla. * You finally found Odin, sitting upon his throne. * He threw you onto his magical horse: Mímisbrunnr awaits.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Continue|EP4 Titles]]

$mimir["Question one: At the start of the cosmos, who was born first?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin smirks. $odin["That's an easy one."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Wait. You swear Odin mentioned that during your interview... (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Ymir|Q2]] [[2. Auðumbla.|Q1wrong]] [[3. Yggdrasil.|Q1wrong]] [[4. I have no idea.|Q1wrong]]

You cry out your answer, just as Odin shouts something different: $odin["Ymir!"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Both of you look at Mímir, who gazes back from the shadowy depths of his hood. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Odin is correct,"] he finally says. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Ymir the jötunn was the first ever being – also, the great-grandfather of Odin."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== Mímir raises a wizened finger, and points it right at your face. $mimir["You lost to Odin All-father. Now, your eye must go."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. That's fair enough.]] [[2. Wait. That wasn't fair!]] [[3. Try to run.]]

$pl["Ymir!"] you and Odin both call out together. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Both correct!"] says Mímir. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[$mimir["Ymir the jötunn was the first ever being – also, the great-grandfather of Odin."](after: time + 3.2s)+$dv[== Mímir pauses. $mimir["Now, let's try another question: Name one of the world's first humans."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin grins. $odin["Even easier!"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin mentioned that too! Is Mímir choosing these questions on purpose? (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Anadra.|Q2wrong]] [[2. Endra.|Q2wrong]] [[3. Embla.|Q3]] [[4. I have no idea.|Q2wrong]]]

You cry out your answer, just as Odin shouts something different: $odin["Embla!"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Both of you look at Mímir, who gazes back from the shadowy depths of his hood. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Odin is correct,"] he finally says. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Ask and Embla were the world's first humans – Odin created them by breathing on a pair of logs."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== Mímir raises a wizened finger, and points it right at your face. $mimir["You lost to Odin All-father. Now, your eye must go."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. That's fair enough.]] [[2. Wait. That wasn't fair!]] [[3. Try to run.]]

$pl["Embla!"] you and Odin both call out together. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["Again, both correct!"] says Mímir. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$mimir["Ask and Embla were the world's first humans – Odin created them by breathing on a pair of logs."](after: time + 3.2s)+$dv[== Mímir pauses. $mimir["Another question: Who taught humans to read and write?"] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== Odin's smile falters. $odin["Wait. I don't know–"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Your eyes widen. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Thor.|Q3wrong]] [[2. Frigg.|Q3wrong]] [[3. Heimdall.|Win Quiz]] [[4. I have no idea.|Q3wrong]]

You cry out your answer, just as Odin shouts something different: $odin["Heimdall!"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Both of you look at Mímir, who gazes back from the shadowy depths of his hood. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $mimir["Odin is correct,"] he finally says. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$mimir["Many centuries ago, Heimdall went to Midgard, and gifted runes to humankind."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $odin["I didn't know that,"] says Odin.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Lucky guess, I suppose."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Mímir raises a wizened finger, and points it right at your face. $mimir["You lost to Odin All-father. Now, your eye must go."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. That's fair enough.]] [[2. Wait. That wasn't fair!]] [[3. Try to run.]]

You glance down, and see the roots of Yggdrasil. They stretch from the trunk in all directions, like colossal, cosmic snakes. Some of the roots are gnarled and ancient; others look fresh and new. Each one is larger than a mountain range. Larger, even, than a realm. A few of the roots have holes in: knotty, cave-like mouths. Sleipnir is heading for one of them. You duck your head as the eight-legged horse swoops down and [[carries you inside|Land in the cave]]

Odin stares at Mímir for a moment. He looks down at the dagger in his hand. Then his shoulders slump, and his arms fall loose by his sides. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["I could have done so much good,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==he whispers. $odin["I could have helped so many people. I could have helped the entire cosmos."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== That's when you realize something. You'll get another chance.(click-replace: "You'll get another chance.")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["You'll get another chance,"] you say. He looks at you(if: $your_eye is false)[ with his one, staring eye](after: time + 1s)+$dv[==. $odin["Are you sure?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $mimir["An all-knowing All-father,"] says Mímir. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$mimir["It's only a matter of time."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Well,"] says Odin. He looks relieved. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["I guess I'll just have to wait."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[You won't have to wait long.|Back to Midgard 2]]

{  (set: $q1 to false) (set: $q3 to false) (set: $q5 to false) (set: $lied_to_heimdall to false) (set: $deadwarrior to false) (set: $journo to false) (set: $heimdall_drunk to false) (set: $dismissed_heimdall to false) (set: $heimdall_deal to false)  (set: $met_fenrir to false) (set: $help_fenrir to false) (set: $raven_received to false) (set: $use_boat to false)  (set: $valkyrie_angry to false) (set: $snuck_into_valhalla to false) (set: $front_door to false) (set: $water_drop to false) (set: $mead_drop to false) (set: $willingly_travel to false)  (set: $your_eye to false) (set: $drink_water to false)  (set: $odometer to -2)  (set: $question1 to "Who was the first ever being?") (set: $question2 to "Do you remember the start of the cosmos?") (set: $question3 to "Where did humans first come from?") (set: $question4 to "What do the gods think of humans?") (set: $question5 to "Do you know how the cosmos will end?") (set: $question6 to "Is it true that the gods are immortal?")  (set: $answer1 to "My great-grandfather. Apparently, there was once a realm of ice and a realm of fire floating side by side. The ice started to melt, and the droplets gathered into the shape of a jötunn. His name was Ymir – that's my great-grandfather. When he slept, more beings were born from the sweat from his armpits.") (set: $answer2 to "I wasn't around back then. But my great-grandfather was. Apparently, the cosmos started as a realm of ice and a realm of fire. The ice started to melt, and the droplets gathered into the shape of a jötunn. His name was Ymir – that's my great-grandfather. When he slept, more beings were born from the sweat pouring out from his armpits.") (set: $answer3 to "I //created// them. It happened thousands of years ago, when I found two tree trunks lying side by side. They looked a bit like a man and a woman – so I decided to blow some life into them. I named them Ask and Embla. They went on to sire the rest of the human race.") (set: $answer4 to "It depends which god you talk to. Personally... I think of you like children. Maybe because I created you. I once found two tree trunks lying on a beach, and I decided to blow some life into them. Those were the first humans: Ask and Embla. They went on to sire the rest of the human race.") (set: $answer5 to "Ragnarök, you mean? Well. According to prophecy, an army of jötnar will march on Asgard. Loki will be with them, along with his sons, Fenrir and Jörmungandr. I'll be eaten by Fenrir. But luckily, Vidarr – that's one of my sons – will avenge me. After that, a new world will replace the old.") (set: $answer6 to "Not at all. Have you heard of Ragnarök? That's the prophesized end of the world. Supposedly, an army of jötnar will march on Asgard. Loki will be with them, along with his sons, Fenrir and Jörmungandr. I'll be eaten by Fenrir. That's the end of my life. But luckily, Vidarr – that's one of my sons – will avenge me.")   (set: $q2 to false) (set: $q4 to false)}

You're about to bring the tankard to Odin, when a sudden thought occurs to you. You're kneeling beside Mímisbrunnr – a well of infinite knowledge. In your hand is a magical tankard. What's stopping you from drinking from the pool yourself? You think of all the best-selling articles you could write. You wouldn't even need to interview people. You'd know everything already, everything a journalist could need. (if: $your_eye)[Besides, it was your eye that was sacrificed for this.] How would Odin react? Would he punish you? You try to decide what to do. [[1. Drink some water.]] [[2. Bring the tankard to Odin.]]

You cry out your answer, just as Odin shouts something different: (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["Thor!"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Both of you look at Mímir, who gazes back from the shadowy depths of his hood. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $mimir["Thor is incorrect,"](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== he says. $mimir["Many centuries ago, Heimdall went to Midgard, and gifted runes to humankind."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[==He raises a long, wizened finger, and points it at Odin's face. $mimir["You lost, Odin All-father. Now, your eye must go."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Good game, Odin.]] [[2. On second thoughts, take my eye.]]

The world goes black. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You know nothing. //Nothing//. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== A flash of light. A rush of sound. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== Now, you know everything. [[//Everything//|You see everything]].

{(set: $your_eye to true) }You look at him with your one remaining eye. You blink, and hear a strange little squelch. You expect to feel a creeping horror. Instead, you feel oddly numb. What now? (click-replace: "What now?")+$dv[==$pl["What now?"] you say blankly. $mimir["Now,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Mímir. $mimir["Odin has a chance to //drink//."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He points to the other side of the pool, where a silver tankard is resting atop a rock. The tankard looks flat and lifeless – [[your depth perception is gone|Get the tankard]]. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==

You see the start of the universe. You see the end of time. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Winds whip through the cosmic tree. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Someone watches you – someone gazing through a screen. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== A flash of light. [[A rush of sound|Conclusion 2]].

$be[''Episode 4: The Interview'' Your choices] |A>[''Who lost an eye?''] (click: ?A)+$dv[==$be[(if: $your_eye)[You (and 67% of players) ended up losing an eye.]{ }(else:)[You (and 17% of players) saw Odin lose an eye.]] |B>[''Who drank from Mímisbrunnr?''] (click: ?B)+$dv[==$be[(if: $drink_water)[You (and 71% of players) drank from Mímisbrunnr.](else:)[You (and 29% of players) let Odin drink from Mímisbrunnr.]] |D>[''What did the Norse really believe?''] (click: ?D)+$dv[==$be[ * The cosmos began with Ymir, a being formed from melting ice. * The first humans were Ask and Embla, who Odin created from a pair of logs. * The cosmos will end with Ragnarök, where Odin will be devoured by Fenrir. * Odin once went to Mímisbrunnr, and traded his eye for a sip from the well of knowledge.] [[END|Credits]]

You manage to reach the vat of water, and grab hold of the edge with both hands. The vat must be twenty meters across, and completely full to the brim. Red-faced warriors lower mugs to the water, then splash it across their cheeks. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The vat is fed by a trail of water pouring down from somewhere above you. You tilt your head, and see a hole in the distant ceiling. Through the hole... you blink. Is that a snow-white stag? The water seems to be pouring from the tips of its antlers. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You wonder if the nearby vat of mead is fed by a stag as well. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Take a look at the vat of mead|Take a look at the vat of mead]] [[2. Ignore the vats, and keep going]]

$pl["Can I come?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["I don't think so–"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==he begins, then that raven squawks again, and the other one clicks its beak. Odin glances between them – then a strange expression passes across his face. He looks back at you with the shadow of a smile playing on his lips.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Of course you can come, Midgardian. You can interview me along the way."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Great. Let's do this!]] [[2. Actually... I'll wait.]] [[3. What even is Mímisbrunnr?]]

$pl["Great. Let's do this!"] you tell him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The giant door at the front of Valhalla bursts open. You hear a rush of air, and see a blur streak into the hall, shooting over the heads of the feasting warriors. You take a quick step backward, but Odin puts a hand on your shoulder. His grip is so firm that it feels as though his hand his made of stone. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The streak of white comes skidding to a halt beside you. It's Sleipnir, you realize – Odin's flying horse. Eight muscular legs, a set of rune-covered teeth, and a [[long, glorious mane|Sleipnir prepares to leave]]. (set: $willingly_travel to true)

$pl["I don't want to talk to you,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $agnarr["When I died,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== he says, as though he didn't quite hear you, $agnarr["I expected to end up in Helheim. That's where journalists normally end up. But wow was I wrong! //Apparently//, because I was eaten by trolls, it qualifies as dying in battle."] (after: time + 7s)+$dv[==He raises his tankard, spilling mead across his arm. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$agnarr["Cheers to trolls! Cheers to journalism!"] (after: time + 2.4s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm leaving now.|Goodbye]] [[2. Goodbye.|Goodbye]]

$pl["I have no idea what you're talking about,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You see a flare of anger behind the Valkyrie's eyes. $valkyrie["You cannot deceive me, //human//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==Then she slams the hatch shut with a low, hollow clang. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Wait! (click-replace: "Wait!")+$dv[==$pl["Wait!"] you cry out. But the hatch doesn't open up again. You're left standing there, dumbstruck, outside Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[front](else:)[back] door. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Try knocking again.]] [[2. Search for another way in.]] (set:$valkyrie_angry to true)

$pl["I want to speak to Odin,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The Valkyrie narrows her eyes. (if: $journo)[$valkyrie["You're that journalist, aren't you? (if: $heimdall_drunk)[The one who got Heimdall drunk?"](else-if: $heimdall_deal)[The one who sweet-talked their way past Heimdall?"]]](else:)[$valkyrie["You're the one who lied to Heimdall, aren't you? I thought you'd make your way here eventually."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==She pauses for a moment, then adds sarcastically, $valkyrie["Welcome to Valhalla, //dead warrior//."]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. I have no idea what you're talking about.]] [[2. I'm sorry. That was the only way through.]] [[3. Look, I just need to get in, ok?]]

You lean forward and knock on the door. The metal surface makes a booming sound – it seems louder than it should be, as though the sound is enhanced by magic. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== For a moment, nothing happens. (if: $front_door)[Then a hatch slides open near the bottom of the door, roughly level with your face.](else:)[Then a hatch slides open at the center of the door, roughly level with your face.] Through the hatch, another face stares back at you: a woman with sharp eyes, a steel helmet, and faintly glowing skin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You hear the rising roar of the hall behind her, but you can't see past her face. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $valkyrie["What do you want?"] the woman says in a deep, sing-song [[voice|What do you want?]].

Odin nods. $odin["You will ask me three questions. No more and no less. Then you'll be escorted back to Midgard."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== On his shoulder, one of the ravens squawks. Odin looks at it, then seems to remember something. $odin["Three questions,"] he repeats. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["But they will have to wait until later. First, I have somewhere to be. Mímisbrunnr – in the roots of Yggdrasil."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Can I come?]] [[2. I'm happy to wait.]] [[3. Why do you need to go to Mímisbrunnr?]]

You clamp both hands to the ladder, make sure that your feet are secure as well, then take a moment to gather your strength. You resist the urge to look down again. You must be fifty meters from the ground right now, and even the thought of such dizzying heights is enough to make your head spin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But at least your muscles aren't aching anymore. The rest has done you good. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Continue climbing.|2. Keep climbing.]]

You take a deep breath. Then you hop through the hole at the feet of the goat, and drop into the hall below. The fall is long enough for you to stop, and think, and start to regret your decision. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Air rushes past. Your ears pop. Your clothing billows around you. Then you hit the mead with a deafening splash, and everything goes silent and dark. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You're dead. You must be. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== But wait. //No//. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You're drifting through deep, dark water. Streams of bubbles rise around you. You hear a distant echo – the [[hall of Valhalla|You climb out from the vat]], somewhere far above.{ (set: $mead_drop to true) }

You take a deep breath. Then you hop through the hole at the feet of the stag, and drop into the hall below. The fall is long enough for you to stop, and think, and start to regret your decision. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Air rushes past. Your ears pop. Your clothing billows around you. Then you hit the water with a deafening splash, and everything goes silent and dark. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You're dead. You must be. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== But wait. //No//. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You're drifting through deep, dark water. Streams of bubbles rise around you. You hear a distant echo – the [[hall of Valhalla|You climb out from the vat]], somewhere far above.{ (set: $water_drop to true) }

You knock on the door again, but nothing happens. You must have burned your bridges with that Valkyrie. Maybe you should just be grateful that she didn't decide to kill you. (if: $raven_received)[ Belatedly, you remember the carved-bone raven that the strange old man had given to you. Maybe you should have shown it to her? But it's too late for that. The damage is already done. ] [[Search for another way in.|2. Search for another way in.]]

You knock on the door again, but nothing happens. You feel as though a great opportunity has slipped between your fingers. (if: $raven_received)[You look down at the carved-bone raven. Why didn't you show her when you had the chance?](else-if: (visited: "2. I'm sorry. That was the only way through."))[What did she mean by 'token'? You have absolutely no idea.] But there's no point dwelling on that now. [[Search for another way in.|2. Search for another way in.]]

$pl["What are you doing here?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He chuckles at that, as though you've treated to him to a particularly amusing joke. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$agnarr["It's hard to believe, isn't it? Just a couple of rag-tag journalists. Yet here we are, in the Hall of Heroes."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[==He chuckles again, then pats you (if:(visited:"You see Valhalla (interior)"))[wetly](else:)[weakly] on the back. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I don't want to talk to you.]] [[2. How did you even get in?]]

$pl["What did he say?"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $heimdall_drunk)[$odin["It was mostly incoherent babbling. But it sounds as though you got him //drunk//."]](else-if: $heimdall_deal)[$odin["He was reluctant at first. But he eventually said that the two of you struck a deal."]](else:)[$odin["You told him you were dead. Which is evidently false."]](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== Odin scowls – a vicious flash across his face. $odin["He was always the most foolish of my offspring. He will be punished."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== How? (click-replace: "How?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["How?"] you say. $odin["No mead for two moons."](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The ravens descend from the rafters again. They land on Odin's shoulders.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Now,"] he says. $odin["You want to ask me some questions."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Would that be okay?]] [[2. Yes please!]]

$pl["Would that be okay?"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[He scowls again. $odin["First, let me make this clear: I don't like you, and nor do I trust you.(if: $help_fenrir)[ You literally tried to rescue the most dangerous being in existence.]"](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== His hand flashes to the hilt of his sword. $odin["Having said that–"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He stops. $odin["It's been far too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[He scowls again. $odin["First, let me make this clear: I do not condone your behavior today. I neither like you, nor especially trust you."](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== He shakes his head. $odin["Having said that, I know it's been far too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]{ }(else:)[$odin["First, let me make this clear: you should not have come to Asgard. But now that you're here..."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He stops, then bows his head. $odin["I will answer your questions. Some of them, at least. It's been too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]

(if: (visited: '3. Look, I just need to get in, ok?'))[You pull the raven out of your pocket and hold it up to ther hatch so the Valkyrie can see it. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==She stops for a moment,(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== staring at the carved-bone raven in your hand,(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== then slams the hatch shut with a low, hollow clang.](else:)[$pl["You mean, like this one?"] you say, brandishing the carved-bone raven. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The Valkyrie stares at it. Then looks back at you, sharply.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $pl["Yes. Exactly like that one."] She slams the hatch shut with a low, hollow clang. ]{ } (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== Wait! (click-replace: "Wait!")+$dv[==$pl["Wait!"] you say. But before the word is fully out your mouth, the door swings open with a groan. Noise spills out from hall beyond: drunken cheers and the pounding of thousands of feet. The Valkyrie reappears, dressed in steel armor. With a wave of her hand, she invites you to [[follow her inside|You walk into Valhalla]]. (set: $use_door to true)

$pl["Actually... I'll wait,"] you start to say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But before you can get all the words out, the giant door at the front of Valhalla bursts open. You hear a rush of air, and see a blur streak into the hall, shooting over the heads of the feasting warriors. You take a quick step backward, but Odin puts a hand on your shoulder. His grip is so firm that it feels as though his hand his made of stone. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The streak of white comes skidding to a halt beside you. It's Sleipnir, you realize – Odin's flying horse. Eight muscular legs, a set of rune-covered teeth, and a [[long, glorious mane|Sleipnir prepares to leave]].

$pl["Actually... forget it,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin stares at you. $odin["Would you rather I asked Agnarr?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[No!|1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[No!!|1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[No!!!|1. Seriously? Thank you!]]

You manage to reach the vat of mead, and grab hold of the edge with both hands. The vat must be twenty meters across, and completely full to the brim. Red-faced warriors lower mugs to the surface, then throw it down their throats. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The vat is fed by a trail of mead pouring down from somewhere above you. You tilt your head, and see a hole in the distant ceiling. Through the hole... you blink. Is that a honey-colored goat? The mead seems to be pouring from its udder. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You wonder if the nearby vat of water is fed by a goat as well. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Take a look at the vat of water|Take a look at the vat of water]] [[2. Ignore the vats, and keep going]]

$pl["Get away from me,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== He chuckles at that, as though you've treated to him to a particularly amusing joke. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$agnarr["It's hard to believe, isn't it? Just a couple of rag-tag journalists. Yet here we are, in the Hall of Heroes."](after: time + 4s)+$dv[== He chuckles again, then pats you (if:(visited:"You see Valhalla (interior)"))[wetly](else:)[weakly] on the back. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I don't want to talk to you.]] [[2. How did you even get in?]]

$pl["How did you even get in?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $agnarr["When I died,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== he says, $agnarr["I expected to end up in Helheim. That's where journalists normally end up. But wow was I wrong! //Apparently//, because I was eaten by trolls, it qualifies as dying in battle."] (after: time + 7s)+$dv[==He raises his tankard, spilling mead across his arm. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$agnarr["Cheers to trolls! Cheers to journalism!"] (after: time + 2.4s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm leaving now.|Goodbye]] [[2. Goodbye.|Goodbye]]

$pl["I have no idea what you're talking about,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $valkyrie["No. I didn't think you did."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==Without warning, the Valkyrie slams the hatch shut with a low, hollow clang. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Wait! (click-replace: "Wait!")+$dv[==$pl["Wait!"] you cry out. But the hatch doesn't open up again. You're left standing there, dumbstruck, outside Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[front](else:)[back] door. [[1. Try knocking again.|1. Try knocking again. (2)]] [[2. Search for another way in.]]

$pl["I'm a fallen warrior,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The Valkyrie narrows her eyes. (if: $journo)[$valkyrie["I think I'd recognize a fallen warrior. No. You're a journalist, aren't you? (if: $heimdall_drunk)[The one who got Heimdall drunk?"](else-if: $heimdall_deal)[The one who sweet-talked their way past Heimdall?"]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. I have no idea what you're talking about.]] [[2. I'm sorry. That was the only way through.]] [[3. Look, I just need to get in, ok?]]](else-if: $deadwarrior)[$valkyrie["Heimdall might have fallen for that one. But it's my //job// to recognize dead warriors."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==She pauses for a moment, then adds dismissively, $valkyrie["You're a journalist. I can see it in your eyes."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. I have no idea what you're talking about.]] [[2. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have lied.|2. I'm sorry. That was the only way through.]] [[3. Look, I just need to get in, ok?]]]

$pl["I'm happy to wait,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["That sounds best–"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==he begins, then that raven squawks again, and the other one clicks its beak. Odin glances between them – then a strange expression passes across his face. He looks back at you with the shadow of a smile playing on his lips. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$odin["Why not come with me, Midgardian? You can interview me along the way."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Great. Let's do this!]] [[2. Actually... I'll wait.]] [[3. What even is Mímisbrunnr?]]

$pl["I'm sorry about that,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Maybe you are. Maybe you aren't. It doesn't change what has already passed."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Odin scowls – a vicious flash across his face. $odin["He was always the most foolish of my offspring. He will be punished."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== How? (click-replace: "How?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["How?"] you say. $odin["No mead for two moons."](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The ravens descend from the rafters again. They land on Odin's shoulders.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Now,"] he says. $odin["You wanted to ask me some questions."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Would that be okay?]] [[2. Yes please!]]

The Valkyrie's gaze seems to soften, just a little. $valkyrie["That's good of you to say. But I can't let you in, unfortunately. Valhalla is reserved for warriors killed in battle."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You can't make an exception? (click-replace: "You can't make an exception?")+$dv[==$pl["You can't make an exception?"] you ask her. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== She frowns. $valkyrie["Do you have the token?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $raven_received)[Suddenly, you remember the carved-bone raven that the strange old man gave you earlier. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. You mean, like this one?]] [[2. I have no idea what you're talking about.]]](else:)[(after: time + 1s)+$dv[==[[I have no idea what you're talking about.|2. I have no idea what you're talking about.]]]

You have a job to do: interview Odin. And you won't get anywhere if you end up distracted by a couple of magical vats. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: (visited: "1. Approach the vat of water"))[But as you walk away, you do steal a quick glance up. You see another hole above the other vat, and what looks like a a honey-colored goat. A stream of mead is pouring down from a plump set of udders.](else:)[But as you walk away, you do steal a quick glance up. You see another hole above the other vat, and what looks like a majestic, snow-white stag. A stream of water is pouring down from the creature's antlers.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Stay focused, you tell yourself, looking back down. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Someone shouts your name.|You meet Agnarr]]

You push yourself upwards, hand over hand, clenching your jaw as you go. You're ten meters from the rooftop... you're five meters... four... (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"1. Take a rest."))[Taking a rest was a good idea. If you hadn't recovered that sliver of strength, you don't know if you could have made it.](else:)[You resist the urge to look down. You must be fifty meters from the ground now, and even the thought of such a dizzying height is enough to make your head spin.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You're three meters from the rooftop. Two meters. One meter... (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== At last, the ladder comes to an end, and you [[haul yourself over the top|You see the tree]].

You keep the carved-bone raven tucked safely out of sight. The Valkyrie stares for a moment longer, then she shuts the hatch with a low, hollow clang. You're left standing there, alone, outside Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[front](else:)[back] door. [[1. Try knocking again.|1. Try knocking again. (2)]] [[2. Search for another way in.]]

You turn away from the giant door, and start walking around the base of Valhalla instead. As you go, you run your hand across the jointed armor of the wall. Some of the sections are warm to the touch. Others are so cold that they send a shock through your arm. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== It takes a good ten minutes to reach the back of the building. There's a patch of dry earth here – probably some kind of sparring area – and a pair of silver-barked trees. In the distance, you see a line of snow-capped mountains, and a couple more giant halls. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You also find a door at the back of the building. Not five hundred doors, like you'd been hoping for, but one is better than nothing. This one actually looks human-sized, with a handle at a height you can reach. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Knock on the door.]] [[2. Try the handle.]] [[3. Go back to the giant door.]] (set: $front_door to false)

You back up from Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[giant front](else:)[small back] door, and run your eyes across the walls on either side of it. The armored surface looks impenetrable – even Jörmungandr, the giant serpent, would probably struggle to break in. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Then something catches your attention. To one side of the door, there's a column of grooves carved out in the surface of the metal. They look like handholds, maybe even a ladder. You tilt your head, and see that the grooves run all the way to the roof. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You don't know what you'll find up there. But with the door closed off, this towering ladder is probably your only option. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Climb the ladder.]]

You reach for the handle. It's made of bright-looking silver, and intricately carved to resemble the wing of a bird. You pull down on the handle – but nothing happens. The door appears to be locked. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Knock on the door.]] [[2. Go back to the giant door|3. Go back to the giant door.]]

$pl["Yes please!"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $odometer < -1)[He scowls again. $odin["First, let me make this clear: I don't like you, and nor do I trust you.(if: $help_fenrir)[ You literally tried to rescue the most dangerous being in existence.]"](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== His hand flashes to the hilt of his sword. $odin["Having said that–"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He stops. $odin["It's been far too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]{ }(else-if: $odometer < 0)[He scowls again. $odin["First, let me make this clear: I do not condone your behavior today. I neither like you, nor especially trust you."](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== He shakes his head. $odin["Having said that, I know it's been far too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]{ }(else:)[$odin["First, let me make this clear: you should not have come to Asgard. But now that you're here..."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He stops, then bows his head. $odin["I will answer your questions. Some of them, at least. It's been too long since the people of Midgard heard the All-father's words."] (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Seriously? Thank you!]] [[2. Actually... forget it.]] [[3. Maybe you want to ask me a question?]]]

You eye up the door at the back of the building, then you decide to make your way back to the first door instead. It takes you another ten minutes to get there, and by the time you do, there's sweat on the back of your neck. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== It's been a long day. And you haven't even got to Odin yet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Knock on the door|1. Knock on the door.]] (set: $front_door to true)

$pl["Look, I just need to get in, ok?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $valkyrie["I'm impressed you've made it this far, //human//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==The word sounds scornful in her mouth. $valkyrie["But I can't let you in. Only dead heros, and guests of Odin."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==With this the Valkyrie starts to close the hatch. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $raven_received)[Suddenly, you remember the carved-bone raven in your pocket. Aren't ravens a symbol of Odin? Maybe it's worth a try. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Show her the carved-bone raven|1. You mean, like this one?]] [[2. Keep the raven to yourself]]](else:)[(after: time + 1s)+$dv[==Wait! (click-replace: "Wait!")+$dv[==$pl["Wait!"] you cry out. But the hatch shuts with a hollow-clang and does not open up again. You're left standing there, dumbstruck, outside Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[front](else:)[back] door. [[1. Try knocking again.]] [[2. Search for another way in.]]]

$pl["Maybe you want to ask //me// a question?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin doesn't look amused. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["There is nothing about you that I don't already know, or don't care enough to find out."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==His gaze is so intense that you actually start to feel heavy, tired, weak. (if:(visited:"1. Take a rest."))[You're grateful that you rested when climbing the ladder. Otherwise, you'd probably collapse.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Just as your legs are about to give way, [[Odin speaks again|1. Seriously? Thank you!]].

$pl["My friends are in there, can I come in?"] you say. The Valkyrie sighs. $valkyrie["Do you think I've never heard that one before? Everyone's friends are in here. Next, you'll tell me you left your cloak inside."] She sighs again. $valkyrie["For the last time, what do you want?"] [[1. I want to speak to Odin.]] [[2. I'm a fallen warrior. Can I come in?]] [[3. So about my cloak...]]

$pl["So about my cloak..."] you say. But before you can finish, the Valkyrie slams the hatch so hard that the slam rings in your ears. You're left standing there, dumbstruck, outside Valhalla's (if: $front_door)[front](else:)[back] door. [[1. Try knocking again.|1. Try knocking again. (2)]] [[2. Search for another way in.]]{ (set:$valkyrie_angry to true) }

$pl["3. What even is–"] you start to ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== But before you can get all words out, the giant door at the front of Valhalla bursts open. You hear a rush of air, and see a blur streak into the hall, shooting over the heads of the feasting warriors. You take a quick step backward, but Odin puts a hand on your shoulder. His grip is so firm that it feels as though his hand his made of stone. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The streak of white comes skidding to a halt beside you. It's Sleipnir, you realize – Odin's flying horse. Eight muscular legs, a set of rune-covered teeth, and [[a long, glorious mane|Sleipnir prepares to leave]].

$pl["Whatever he said, it's a lie,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin scowls – a vicious flash across his face. $odin["Heimdall is many things - he was always the most foolish of my offspring - but he is not a liar. Unlike //you//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== One of the wolves at Odin's feet begins to growl. The ravens descend from the rafters again and land on Odin's shoulders. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["Now,"] he says. $odin["He told me that you wanted to ask me some questions."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Would that be okay?]] [[2. Yes please!]] { (set: $odometer to $odometer -1) }

$pl["Why do you need to go to Mímisbrunnr?"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You aspire to know too much..."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==he begins, with rising anger in his voice. Then that raven squawks again, and the other one clicks its beak. Odin glances between them – then a strange expression passes across his face. He looks back at you with the shadow of a smile playing on his lips.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Why not come with me, Midgardian? You can interview me along the way."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[1. Great. Let's do this!]] [[2. Actually... I'll wait.]] [[3. What even is Mímisbrunnr?]]

You start to climb the ladder. The metal handholds are hard to grip, and you feel the strain in your fingers. You pause for a moment, then glance over your shoulder. The ground is already meters beneath your feet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You grit your teeth, then force yourself upwards. You need that interview. You need it more than anything. It's the only way to prove to the world that you're the very best journalist in Midgard. A better jounrnalist, even, than Agnarr was. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You're almost at the roof now. But your fingers are burning, your muscles are aching, and you're starting to wonder if you'll make it. Maybe you need to rest for a moment – recover your energy, then continue. Or maybe it's best to push onwards. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Take a rest.]] [[2. Keep climbing.]]

You're still standing in front of the armored hall of Valhalla. Inside, you hear roars of laughter, sloshing tankards, and the clanging of hammers and the swords. The hall itself is so wide and vast that it blocks out the overhead sun. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Of all the places in Asgard, this one is surely the most famous. The hall of heroes. The hall of the slain. You never expected to set eyes on it. When a journalist dies, they're more likely to spend their afterlife in Helheim instead. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== That's where Agnarr would be, presumably. That's where you'll end up too, in the end. But for now, you're here. [[The home of Odin|EP3 Intro 2]].

The colossal door at the front of the hall looms over you. It looks large enough for a jötnunn, large enough for a troll, and that makes you feel smaller than you've ever felt before. You can't even reach the handle – it's five meters above the floor. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You could try knocking. Maybe one of the warriors inside would hear you above the noise. Or maybe you could search for another entrance around the back. Didn't you once hear that Valhalla had more than five hundred doors? That way, fallen warriors could get in without ever having to queue. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Knock on the door.]] [[2. Look for another way in.]] (set: $front_door to true)

(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[''Episode 3''] ](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[Hall of Heroes] ](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[==(redirect: 'EP3 Intro 1')

(if:(visited:"Examine stag (exterior)"))[You move away from hole at the feet of the stag, and make your way over to the goat instead. It blinks at you, once, as you approach it. But it doesn't run away. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Up close, you realize that streams of mead are running from the goat's plump udders. They gather in streams, then pour down the hole at its feet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Through the hole, you see that crowded hall again, but this time you also spot a vat of golden mead. That's where the liquid from the udders is gathering, and it looks even deeper than the vat of crystalline water. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Try jumping down into the mead.]] [[2. Go back, and jump into the water.|1. Try jumping down into the water.]]](else:)[You make your way over to the honey-colored goat, walking carefully across the shield-like tiles that line Valhalla's roof. Up close, you realize that streams of mead are running from the goat's plump udders. They gather in streams, then pour down the hole at its feet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You reach the hole and peer over the edge. Far below, you see a crowded, fire-lit hall. Thousands of warriors jostle for position around food-laden tables, or lower their tankards to a vat of golden mead. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The vat is directly below you. That's where the streams from the udders are gathering. The vat looks deep. If you dropped from here, it would probably catch your fall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Try jumping down into the mead.]] [[2. Examine the hole at the feet of the stag.|Examine stag (exterior)]]]

(if:(visited:"Examine goat (exterior)"))[You move away from hole at the feet of the goat, and make your way over to the stag instead. It blinks at you, once, as you approach it. But it doesn't run away. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Up close, you realize that streams of water are running from the stag's antlers. They flow down its body, then tumble through the hole at its feet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Through the hole, you see that crowded hall again, but this time you also spot a vat of crystalline water. That's where the water from the antlers is gathering, and it looks even deeper than the vat of golden mead. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Try jumping down into the water.]] [[2. Go back, and jump into the mead.|1. Try jumping down into the mead.]]](else:)[You make your way over to the snow-white stag, walking carefully across the shield-like tiles that line Valhalla's roof. Up close, you realize that streams of water are running from the stag's antlers. They flow down its body, then tumble through the hole at its feet. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You reach the hole and peer over the edge. Far below, you see a crowded, fire-lit hall. Thousands of warriors jostle for position around food-laden tables, or lower their tankards to a vat of crystalline water. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The vat is directly below you. That's where the water from the antlers is gathering. The vat looks deep. If you dropped from here, it would probably catch your fall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Try jumping down into the water.]] [[2. Examine the hole at the feet of the goat.|Examine goat (exterior)]]]

You spin away before Agnarr can reply, (if:(visited: "You see the stag and the goat"))[allowing yourself to be lost again to the raging currents of the crowd.](else:)[throwing yourself into the raging currents of the crowd. You find yourself buffeted by burly shoulders. You're splashed by ale and mead. Voices roar from every side.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You stagger past a spit roast the size of a building, where a giant boar is rotating above a bonfire. Warriors are peeling strips of meat from the steaming carcass, shoveling it into their wide, hungry mouths. You stare for a moment, before the currents of the crowd drag you onwards. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You bump into something. [[A huge, metal throne|You spot Odin]].

The old man is no longer dressed in a ragged mottled cloak. Instead, he's dressed in a golden suit of armor, with a winged helmet to match. In one hand, he holds a beautifully crafted tankard. With the other, he strokes the head of one of the ravens. (after: time + 2.3s)+$dv[== $odin["Recognize me yet?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==the old man says in a deep, powerful voice. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Odin? (click-replace: "Odin?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Odin?"] you say. (if: $odometer < -1)[He pushes to his feet, and the ravens take off, flapping towards the rafters. The wolves stand up too, growling and [[baring their teeth|Odin is furious]].](else-if: $odometer < 0)[He pushes to his feet, and the ravens take off, flapping towards the rafters. The wolves stand up too, and [[eye you warily|Odin is wary]].](else:)[He pushes to his feet, and the ravens take off, flapping towards the rafters. The wolves stand up too, their lips pulled back into something that [[looks like a smile|Odin is neutral]].]

(if: $snuck_into_valhalla)[$odin["Next time,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Odin, $odin["Use the door.(if: $raven_received)[ That's why I gave you the raven.]"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==His expression darkens. $odin["I can taste your dirt in my (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead]]$odin[."]](else:)[$odin["My Valkyries told me you were here,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Odin. $odin["My ravens sensed it also."]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== One of the wolves snaps its jaws at you. Odin puts a hand on its head. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You've had quite the day,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==he continues. It's hard to read his tone, but you're sure you sense some bitterness there. $odin["I spoke to Heimdall."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. What did he say?]] [[2. I'm sorry about that.]] [[3. Whatever he said, it's a lie.]]

(if: $snuck_into_valhalla)[$odin["Next time,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Odin, $odin["Can you use the door?(if: $raven_received)[ That's why I gave you the raven.]"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==His expression darkens. $odin["I can taste your dirt in my (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead."]]](else:)[$odin["My Valkyries told me you were here,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Odin. $odin["My ravens sensed it also."]] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== One of the wolves growls softly at you. Odin puts a hand on its head. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You've had quite the day,"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==he continues, in a tone that you can't quite read. $odin["I spoke to Heimdall."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. What did he say?]] [[2. I'm sorry about that.]] [[3. Whatever he said, it's a lie.]]

(if: $snuck_into_valhalla)[$odin["Next time,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==says Odin, $odin["Use the door.(if: $raven_received)[ That's why I gave you the raven.]"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==His expression darkens. $odin["I can taste your dirt in my (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead]]$odin[."]](else:)[$odin["My Valkyries told me you were here,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== says Odin. $odin["My ravens sensed it also."]] (after: time + 3.4s)+$dv[== One of the wolves growls softly at you. Odin puts a hand on its head. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You've had quite the day,"](after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== he continues. It's hard to read his tone, but he almost sounds wary. $odin["I spoke to Heimdall."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. What did he say?]] [[2. I'm sorry about that.]] [[3. Whatever he said, it's a lie.]]

(if: $odometer < -1)[ODIN IS FURIOUS AND DOES NOT TRUST YOU AT ALL] (else-if: $odometer < 0)[Odin is wary of you, as you told a few porky pies] (else:)[Odin is neutral and has no reason to mistrust you]

{   $lied_to_heimdall[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)]  $deadwarrior[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)]  $heimdall_drunk[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)]  $dismissed_heimdall[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)]  $met_fenrir[(set: $odometer to $odometer + 1)]  $help_fenrir[(set: $odometer to $odometer -100)]  $valkyrie_angry[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)]  $snuck_into_valhalla[(set: $odometer to $odometer -1)] (redirect: 'I just wanted to interview you') }

$be[''Previously...'' * You are a journalist on a mission to Interview Odin All-father. * You made it past Heimdall, through Asgard and met a strange old man in a cloak. * (if: $met_fenrir)[You encountered Fenrir, the giant wolf.](else:)[You ignored Fenrir's cries for help.] * You found yourself standing right outside Valhalla, home of Odin.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Continue|EP3 Title Screen]]

Odin picks you up as easily as a child, and flings you onto Sleipnir's back. There's no saddle; you feel the creature's raw strength, lean and muscular beneath your legs. Odin leaps up too, and you find yourself tucked up close behind him, hugging your arms around his back. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["To Mímisbrunnr,"] Odin cries, slapping Sleipnir's flank. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== The eight-legged horse ascends into the air, then shoots through the door into the sunlight. Odin's ravens wheel alongside you, filling the air with their caws. [[End episode 3|Your choices (Ep3)]]

Straining your eyes, you see another hole in the ceiling above the other vat. This time, instead of a snow-white stag, you see a honey-colored goat. A stream of mead is pouring down from a plump set of udders. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Someone shouts your name.|You meet Agnarr]]

Straining your eyes, you see another hole in the ceiling above the other vat. This time, instead of a honey-colored goat, you see a majestic, snow-white stag. A stream of water is pouring down from the creature's antlers. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Someone shouts your name.|You meet Agnarr]]

You realize you're looking at a Valkyrie: one of Odin's Choosers of the Slain. You've never seen one before, but you've heard about them. Apparently, they sometimes come down to Midgard to watch over battles and wars. When warriors die, the Valkyries decide whether or not to invite them to Valhalla. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $valkyrie["What do you want?"] the Valkyrie repeats. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I want to speak to Odin.]] [[2. I'm a fallen warrior. Can I come in?]] [[3. My friends are in there, can I come in?]]

You kick your legs, and manage to ascend through the (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead]. A moment later, your head breaks the surface, and you gulp a mouthful of air. The (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead] runs down your face as you make your way over to the side of the vat and pull yourself over the edge. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You land, wetly, on a pile of rugs and animal skins. You stand up, wetly, sloshing (if: $water_drop)[water](else:)[mead] from your hair and clothes. You look around, wetly. [[Then your jaw drops open|You see Valhalla (interior)]].{ (set: $snuck_into_valhalla to true)}

You wheel around, expecting to see that old man again, or maybe even Heimdall. You don't remember telling them your name – but at this point, nothing would surprise you. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Nothing, except for this. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Standing in front of you is a person you recognize. A person you'd hoped to never set eyes on again. His face looks pasty in the firelight. His beard is thin and patchy. He's dressed in an oversized set of armor. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== It's your rival. Your nemesis. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $agnarr["It's so good to see you!"] says Agnarr. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Wasn't he eaten by trolls? (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. What are you doing here?]] [[2. Get away from me.]]

The interior of Valhalla feels less like a hall, and more like a giant cavern. The ceiling is so high that it's lost in shadow, while the walls are so far apart from each other that you can barely make them out. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Between those walls stand hundreds upon hundreds of feasting tables, each and every one of them creaking beneath a mountain of steaming food. Throngs of warriors jostle for position, each of them adorned in golden armor, their beards tied into intricate bunches and plaits. Every hand clasps a tankard of mead or ale, and a weapon hangs at every belt. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Beside some of the tables, fires roar and crackle. Beside others, flags flutter on poles. The entire place is an assault to the senses. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Someone|You meet Agnarr]] shouts your name.

You're buffeted by burly shoulders. You're splashed by ale and mead. Voices roar from every side, and you cover your ears with your hands. You know that you need to find Odin, but right now you're just trying to avoid getting crushed. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You stagger past a small, sunken pit where a pair of warriors are fighting. One is a man with a hand ax; the other is a woman with a club. They grin at each other, ale running down their chins, before coming together like rutting stags. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Up ahead, you see a pair of giant, earthen vats. One of them seems to be full of mead, while the other is full of water. They're like a pair of islands in the sea of people, and you stagger towards them, if only to catch your breath. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Approach the vat of water]] [[2. Approach the vat of mead]]

You sprawl on the roof of Valhalla. Your heart is pounding, and your head is still spinning. Never before have you gone to such lengths just to get yourself an interview. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Eventually, you gather the strength to look up. You see a wide, flat surface made of tiles that look like battered shields. And right at the center– (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== A pine tree. Gnarled roots spread out from the trunk, while shaggy needles hang from the branches like curtains of green-black fur. Grazing from the tree – one on each side – is a honey-colored goat, and a majestic, snow-white stag. You can't help but [[look at the beautiful creatures|You see two holes]].

The goat and the stag both look back at you. You half-expect them to startle, but instead, they just return to their grazing. Something stirs in your brain: a half-remembered story about a tree named Laerad, a goat named Heidrun, and a snow-white stag called Eikþyrnir. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== There's a hole in the roof at the feet of the goat, and another hole at the feet of the stag. Two entrances into Valhalla? You hear a rumbling noise coming up from below: the familiar roar of the warriors housed within. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Examine the hole at the feet of the goat.|Examine goat (exterior)]] [[2. Examine the hole at the feet of the stag.|Examine stag (exterior)]]

The throne is jet-black, and covered by glowing runes. These ones aren't in Elder Futhark – they're written in a language you've never seen in your life. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== At the foot of the throne, a pair of wolves are sprawled on a rug, tearing the meat from a pile of foul-smelling bones. On the arms of the throne, a pair of ravens are perched and alert, staring down at you with dark, beady eyes. And sitting upon the throne itself, with a plaited beard and silver hair... (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== The old man from earlier. You [[let out an audible gasp|Odometer calculation]]

The interior of Valhalla feels less like a hall, and more like a giant cavern. The ceiling is so high that it's lost in shadow, while the walls are so far apart from each other that you can barely make them out. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Between those walls stand hundreds upon hundreds of wooden tables, each and every one of them creaking beneath a mountain of steaming food. Throngs of warriors jostle for position, each of them adorned in golden armor, their beards tied into intricate bunches and plaits. Every hand clasps a tankard of mead or ale, and a weapon hangs at every belt. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Beside some of the tables, fires roar and crackle. Beside others, flags flutter on poles. The entire place is an assault to the senses. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The valkyrie gives you a push in the back, and you [[stumble into the crowd|You see the stag and the goat]].

$be[''Episode 3: Hall of Heroes'' Your choices] |A>[''How did you get into Valhalla?''] (click: ?A)+$dv[==$be[(if: $mead_drop or $water_drop)[You (and 67% of players) dropped in through a hole in the roof.]{ }(else:)[You (and 14% of players) convinced the Valkyrie to let you in.]] |B>[''Did you bump into Agnarr?''] (click: ?B)+$dv[==$be[You (and 87% of players) bumped into Agnar.] |C>[''How does Odin feel about you?''] (click: ?C)+$dv[==$be[(if: $odometer < 0)[You (and 68% of players) have irritated Odin so far.](else:)[You (and 32% of players) have impressed Odin so far.]] |D>[''What did the Norse really believe?''] (click: ?D)+$dv[==$be[ * Valhalla was a giant, armored hall where warriors spent their afterlife. * The Valkyries chose which fallen warriors got to go there. * The hall got its mead from Heidrun the goat, and its water from Eikþyrnir the stag. * Odin feasted there – when he wasn't busy disguising himself as a wandering old man.] [[Start Episode 4|Previously (ep4)]]

You clear your throat, then you call through the golden bars. $pl["Heimdall? I need your help."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:$heimdall_drunk)[But Heimdall doesn't seem to hear you. He doesn't even stir. You pick up a stone, and throw it between the bars. It clunks off the top of Heimdall's helmet, but he still doesn't react. As far as you can tell, that only leaves you with one option. [[Leave him to sleep, and try to find Odin on your own.|2. Follow the path, and see where it takes you.]]](else:)[But Heimdall doesn't appear. You're sure that he heard you – his ears are the best in all nine realms. But maybe he's otherwise distracted. You try calling again, louder this time, but he remains nowhere to be seen. As far as you can tell, that only leaves you with one option. You'll have to [[leave him be, and try to find Odin on your own.|2. Follow the path, and see where it takes you.]]]

You turn away from the path, and make your way back to the golden gate instead. Through the bars, you see the glittering Bifröst, and beyond it, far away, the cloud-covered surface of Midgard. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:$heimdall_drunk)[Heimdall is still slumped against the wall of the gatehouse, snoring in a puddle of mead. $heimdall["No,"] he mumbles in his sleep. $heimdall["Stay away from me, Fenrir. I don't have any meat."] [[1. Call through the bars, and try to wake him.]] [[2. Leave him to sleep, and try to find Odin on your own.|2. Follow the path, and see where it takes you.]]](else:)[But Heimdall is nowhere to be seen. It's as though he's vanished into the air itself – or maybe he's just retreated inside the gatehouse. [[1. Call through the bars, and try to get his attention.|1. Call through the bars, and try to wake him.]] [[2. Leave him be, and try to find Odin on your own.|2. Follow the path, and see where it takes you.]]]

(if:(visited:"1. Go back and ask Heimdall for directions."))[You return to the meadow, and enter the path between the trees.](else:)[You leave the meadow, and slip between the trees.] There's a layer of fallen leaves on the ground, soft beneath your feet. They're glowing too, just like the leaves on the trees themselves. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== A twig snaps somewhere nearby. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You stop in your tracks. (if:(visited:"1. Call through the bars, and try to wake him."))[Did Heimdall hear you after all?](else:)[Did Heimdall follow you?] Or is there someone else here? You feel an unsettling prickle on the back of your neck – then a [[voice calls|Meet the old man]] out behind you.

$pl["Thank you,"] you say. But again, he hardly seems to hear you. $odin["Valhalla, Valhalla,"] he wheezes to himself, before turning and stumbling away. He disappears behind one of the trees, and a moment later, it feels as though he'd never been there at all. A breeze rustles through the gleaming grove. You shudder slightly, then you turn away, and [[continue along the path|Reach the lake]].

When you reach the entrance to the narrow path, you notice that the leaves of the fire-colored trees are glowing. This must be Glasir, you think to yourself – also known as the 'gleaming grove'. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== For the first time, you wonder how you're actually going to track down Odin All-father. Asgard is huge, with dozens of palaces, and there's no way to know which one of those palaces is his. You pause for a moment, trying to decide what to do. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Go back and ask Heimdall for directions.]] [[2. Follow the path, and see where it takes you.]]

The hall is at the top of a mound. With its armored walls, it looks almost like a helmet perched stop a skull. You start to climb the mound, leaving the mirror-like lake behind you. The sound of laughter and clanging metal grow louder with every step. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== The door at the front of the armored structure really does look huge. //It isn't easy to get in//. That's what the old man told you. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== But after making it this far, you refuse to give up now. Odin is close – you can feel it. (if:$raven_received)[You tighten your hand around the carved-bone raven. Its beak is sharp against your palm.](else:)[And if you made it past Heimdall, and the golden gate, surely you can make it past the doors of Valhalla too.] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[End episode 2|Your Choices (Ep2)]]

The hooded old man doesn't appear to hear you. He taps his staff on the ground, then lets out a low, wheezing chuckle. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $odin["Do you have any ale?"] he asks you. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. No, I don't.|I don't have any ale]] [[2. Ask Heimdall.|I don't have any ale]]

The old man speaks again. $odin["Do you know who that was?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== His voice is so firm and powerful now that it's barely recognizable from the wheezing rasp that you heard him using earlier. He glares at you with coal-black eyes, clearly waiting for a response. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I have no idea!|Who's the wolf?]] [[2. More importantly, who are you?|Who are you?]]

$odin["Do you know who that wolf really is?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== His voice is so firm and powerful now that it's barely recognizable from the wheezing rasp that you heard him using earlier. He stares at you with coal-black eyes, clearly waiting for a response. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I have no idea.|Who's the wolf?]] [[2. More importantly, who are you?|Who are you?]]

The old man speaks again. $odin["You heard a whisper. Didn't you?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== His voice is so firm and powerful now that it's barely recognizable from the wheezing chuckle that you heard him using earlier. He surveys you with those dark, serious eyes, clearly waiting for a response. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I did. Who was it?|Who's the wolf?]] [[2. More importantly, who are you?|Who are you?]]

You're still standing in that small, sweet-smelling meadow, transfixed by the reds and yellows of the trees, not to mention the twisting palace spires and the soaring mountains beyond. You're vaguely aware of the golden gate swinging shut behind you, but you don't even bother to look back. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== For the first time, you notice a shaded path through the flame-colored trees. It leads to a mirror-like body of water – probably some kind of lake. You pause for a moment, then you [[make your way towards it|Approach the path]].

(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[''Episode 2''] ](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[Realm of Gods] ](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[==(redirect: 'EP2 Intro 1')

As far as you can tell, it's taking you straight in the direction of Valhalla. The armored hall still gleams in the sun on the opposite side of the lake. But before you can reach it, you come across something that you didn't notice earlier. Right at the center of the mirror-like lake is a small, heather-covered island.(click:'island')+$dv[ //Such an interesting looking place, there must be something there.//] Soon the boat will travel past,(click:'travel past')+$dv[// (best not to be distracted, Valhalla is your destination afterall)//] so you must decide quickly. [[1. Investigate the island|Investigate]] [[2. Float past|Ignore]]

(if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[You stand there for a moment, trying to understand what just happened. Then you hear another whimper from Fenrir – and decide to hurry back across the bridge. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== When you reach the shore, you start following it again in the direction of Valhalla, just as you were doing before. Step by step, you find yourself drawing closer. You start to hear sounds from the armored hall – roars of laughter, raucus conversation, and the [[unmistakeable clang of weapons|Continue to Valhalla]].](else:)[You stand there for a moment longer, trying to understand what just happened. Then you hear another whimper from Fenrir – and decide to climb back into the boat. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You command it to continue in the direction of Valhalla, just as it was doing before. Eventually, you reach the side of the lake, and tell the boat to moor. As you hop from the boat, you hear sounds from the armored hall in front of you – roars of laughter, raucus conversation, and the [[unmistakeable clang of weapons|Continue to Valhalla]].]

$pl["How can I help you?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $fenrir["I just want to be free."](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The wolf visibly strains against his char-black chains, then lets out another yowl. $fenrir["There's a clasp at the back. I can't reach it – not quite. But maybe you can. Can you try it? Please?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Sure. I can try.|Sure. I can try.]] [[2. I should definitely go...|Try to leave Fenrir]]

Again, the old man doesn't appear to hear you. Still wheezing, he says, $odin["No worse provision can he carry with him than too deep a draught of ale."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He taps his staff on the ground again, disrupting some of the glowing, fallen leaves. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. I should go...|I should go]] [[2. Do you know where Odin lives?|I should go]]

The old man taps the ground again. $odin["Drunk was I then, I was over drunk in that crafty Jötun's court."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==He chuckles, then he gestures down the path. $odin["This way,"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== he says to you. $odin["That way too. The hall of Valhalla awaits."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== As soon as he says it, you want to slap your forehead. Valhalla, of course. What better place to search for Odin than the famous hall of heroes? (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["Valhalla, yes yes,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==the man is saying. $odin["Valhalla, beyond the lake."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Thank you.|Approach the lake]]

$pl["I'm glad I didn't help him,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Stopped by old man"))[The old man scowls even harder. $odin["You tried your best to help him,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==he says sharply. $odin["But luckily, you couldn't have removed that chain. Its name is Gleipnir, and it was forged by dwarves. It's the strongest chain in existence."]](else:)[The old man bows his head. $odin["I am glad of that as well. Not that you could have released him. He's bound by Gleipnir, a chain forged by dwarves. It's the strongest chain in existence." ]](after: time + 3s)+$dv[== How is Gleipnir so strong?(click-replace: "How is Gleipnir so strong?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["How is Gleipnir so strong?"] you ask him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["Its made from six magical ingredients: the noise of a cat, the beard of a woman, the roots of a mountain, the sinews of a bear, and the breath of a fish.”] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== That's only five. (click-replace: "That's only five. ")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["That's only five,"] you say. $odin["Ah yes. And the spittle of a bird."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[I see|The old man leaves you]]

{ (click-append:'desperation')+$dv[. //(Somebody is clearly in trouble and needs help)//] (click-append:'whisper')+$dv[, (//there is something odd about the voice)//] }(if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[You ignore the bridge, continuing instead towards the distant hall of Valhalla. You're probably no more than a few minutes away now—](else:)[You ignore the island, continuing instead towards the distant hall of Valhalla. You're probably no more than a few minutes away now—] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Help me. Please help me. Oh, oh. Please help."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[The voice is barely louder than a whisper, but you can still hear the fear, the trembling desperation. It seems to be coming from the direction of the bridge, and the heather-covered island beyond.](else:)[The voice is barely louder than a whisper, but you can still hear the fear, the trembling desperation. It seems to be coming from the direction of the heather-covered island.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Investigate the sound|Investigate the whispers]] [[2. Ignore the sound|Ignore the whispers]]

(if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[You shake your head, then continue on past the silver bridge, keeping your eyes on the distant hall of Valhalla. Step by step, you find yourself drawing closer. You start to hear sounds from the armored hall – roars of laughter, raucus conversation, the unmistakeable clang of weapons. You quicken your step, but right at that moment, yet another voice calls out to you.](else:)[You shake your head, then continue on past the heather-covered island, keeping your eyes on the distant hall of Valhalla. Eventually, you reach the side of the lake, and command your boat to moor itself in the shallows. As you hop from the boat, you start to hear sounds from the armored hall – roars of laughter, raucus conversation, the unmistakeable clang of weapons. You walk towards it, but right at that moment, yet another voice calls out to you.] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $odin["I was right, wasn't I? Valhalla is the place you seek."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[You wheel around to face the voice|Meet old man on opposite bank]]

{ (click-append:'desperation')+$dv[. //(Somebody is clearly in trouble and needs help)//] (click-append:'whisper')+$dv[, (//there is something odd about the voice)//] }(if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[You make your way over to the silver bridge. It's so light and slender that part of you expects it to crumple underfoot, but when you step onto the bridge, it feels sturdy. You start to walk forwards—](else:)[You command the boat to change direction, and carry you towards the heather-covered island instead. Just like before, the vessel instantly obeys. You start to glide towards the island—] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Help me. Please help me. Oh, oh. I need help."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The voice is barely louder than a whisper, but you can still hear the fear, the trembling desperation. It seems to be coming from the island. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Continue towards the island|Investigate the whispers]] [[2. Back off from the island|Ignore the whispers]]

You approach the boat, walking out across the glittering sand that carpets the edge of the lake. It's the size of a small rowboat, but there aren't any oars – not as far as you can see. You stop beside the boat, and peer at runes that glow in a line along the edge. They're written in Elder Futhark, just like the sign above Heimdall's gate: ''SPEAK AND I SHALL MOVE'' [[1. Climb into the boat and try telling it to move.|Push off into the lake]] [[2. Walk around the lake instead.|Walk around the lake]]

(if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[You edge your way across the silver bridge, until you finally set foot on the small, heather-covered island. A breeze whips past, and you hear that voice again.](else:)[You command the boat to pull up in the shallows alongside the heather-covered island. As you exit the boat, a breeze whips past, and you hear that voice again.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Thank you. Yes. Please help!"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== It seems to be coming from a clearing at the center of the island. You make your way over, carefully moving between overgrown patches of heather. You duck past a tree, hop over a rock, then [[arrive at the edge of the clearing|Meet Fenrir]].

''At this point, the player has chosen one of three paths:'' - They met Fenrir, and tried to help him (set:$Odin_annoyed to true) AND (set:$met_Fenrir to true) - They met Fenrir, and didn't try to help him (set:$Odin_impressed to true) AND (set:$met_Fenrir to true) - They didn't meet Fenrir (set:$Odin_ambivalent to true)

You turn away from the wolf, and start to walk back towards the (if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[bridge.](else:)[boat.] Before you make it five paces, you hear that voice in your head again. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Stupid human,"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==it says, and now it sounds completely different: sharp and fierce and hissing. You glance back at the wolf, and it bares its teeth at you, as its eyes turn an angry red. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$fenrir["I hope you rot in Helheim. I hope you //burn//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== It strains against the chains, then snaps its jaws, and you're struck by the smell of blood. You [[hurry away|Meet old man on island]], trying to put as much distance between yourself and the giant wolf as possible.

At the center of the clearing is a trembling pile of fur. It's a giant wolf, with droopy ears and wide, terrified eyes. The wolf is staring right at you, whimpering and whining. That's when you notice the chain – a winding mass of char-black steel that pins the wolf in place. It's on so tight that the frightened animal must be barely able to breathe. You hear that desperate voice again, although the giant wolf doesn't actually move its mouth. Somehow, it seems to be speaking the words directly inside your brain. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Can you help me? Please? //He// did this. It hurts!"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. Who did this?|Who did this?]] [[2. I should go|Try to leave Fenrir]] (set: $met_fenrir to true)

You're almost back at the (if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[bridge](else:)[boat] when you hear yet another voice. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["You were right not to help him."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You wheel around, and see a figure standing nearby. It takes you a moment to recognize him – then you gasp. It's the old man from earlier, only his hood is down now, and he's staring at you with a strong, bearded face. He taps the ground with his staff, and his cloak flutters around him, as though caught by a sudden breeze. His silver hair is long and loose. His eyes are as black as coal. [[The old man speaks again|Conversation with old man 3]]

You wheel around, and see a figure standing a short way up the beach. It takes you a moment to recognize him – then you gasp. It's the old man from earlier, only his hood is down now, and he's staring at you with a strong, bearded face. He taps the ground with his staff, and his cloak flutters around him, as though caught by a sudden breeze. His silver hair is long and loose. His eyes are as black as coal. [[The old man speaks again|Conversation with old man 4]]

$odin["First time in Asgard?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You spin around, and see a hunched old man in the middle of the path behind you. His face is obscured by a hooded cloak. His feet are dirty and bare. In one hand, he holds a gnarled-looking staff, which he's using to prop himself up. He clears his throat with a rasping sound. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$odin["What do you think of Glasir?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. The leaves are beautiful.|Conversation with old man]] [[2. Who are you?|Conversation with old man]]

$be[''Previously...'' * You are a journalist on a mission to Interview Odin All-father. * You walked up the rainbow Bifröst to enter the realm of the gods. * You managed to get past Heimdall and enter Asgard.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Continue|EP2 Title Screen]]

You step onto the boat, where it floats in the shallows of the mirror-like lake. You glance at the runes, then you clear your throat: Move forward, boat! (click-replace: "Move forward, boat!")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Move forward, boat!"] you command. You feel the vessel shiver beneath you, then speed off across the surface of the lake. It moves to fast that you're almost thrown out the back. Woah, boat, slow down! (click-replace: "Woah, boat, slow down!")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Woah, boat, slow down!"] you command. The boat shivers again, then slows down to a leisurely place. You relax, then glance over the side of the boat, down into the crystalline water. At the bottom of the lake, you see fat, black pebbles, wisps of weed, and the occasional copper-backed fish. [[The boat continues onward|Find the island]]. (set: $use_boat to true)

The path ends, and you step back out from dappled shade of the trees. The world opens up, and you find yourself standing at the edge of a giant lake. On the opposite bank, you see a colossal hall that appears to be covered by armor. Steel shields line the roof; spears bristle on the walls. Valhalla. It must be. Odin's hall of heroes. But how are you supposed to get there? You glance around, and spot a wooden boat moored up in the nearby shallows.(click:'wooden boat')+$dv[// It might be a good way to cross the |A>[lake].//(click:?A)+$dv[// Then again, you could probably just walk around the edge of the lake instead.//]] A line of runes has been carved along the wood on one side. They're glowing softly, just like the leaves of the trees behind you. [[1. Investigate the boat|Investigate the boat]] [[2. Ignore the boat|Walk around the lake]]

It takes you a moment to recognize the figure – then you gasp. It's the old man from earlier, only his hood is down now, and he's staring at the wolf with a strong, bearded face. His silver hair is long and loose; his eyes are as black as coal. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $fenrir["Too slow,"] says a furious, hissing voice, and you realize it's the wolf, talking inside your head again. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$fenrir["//Stupid// human. Too weak. Too //slow//."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==It bares its jagged teeth at you. Its eyes turn an angry red. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You scramble to your feet, and the old man grabs you by the arm. $odin["Stupid is right,"] he mutters, as he drags you (if:(visited:"Walk around the lake"))[[[back towards the bridge|Conversation with old man 2]].](else:)[[[back towards the boat|Conversation with old man 2]].]

$pl["Sure. I can try,"] you tell the wolf. You start to make your way forward. The wolf's giant flank is still trembling, and you hear another whimper. Up close, you start to smell the wolf – a musky scent, like ancient sweat and slowly rotting meat. You stop when you're still a few steps away. Where the chain loops back over the wolf's huge shoulder, you see something that looks like a clasp. There are more of those runes inscribed on the metal, but they're much too small for you to read. [[1. Move forward, and unlock the clasp.|Unlock the chains]] [[2. Turn back, and leave the wolf alone.|Try to leave Fenrir]]

$pl["I see,"] you say. But you're not sure that you do. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Meet old man on island"))[The old man turns, and looks towards Valhalla. $odin["You know,"] he says. $odin["It isn't easy to get in. But I might be able to help."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He sticks out a hand, and passes you a small piece of bone. You look down at it, and see that it's intricately carved into the shape of a raven. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== What is this? (click-replace: "What is this?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["What is this?"] you say. But by the time you look up, the cloaked old man is gone. There's no trace of him anywhere. Nothing except that carved-bone raven [[clasped tightly in one of your hands|Go back along the boat / bridge]]. (set: $raven_received to true) ](else:)[The old man turns, and looks towards Valhalla. $odin["You know,"] he says. $odin["It isn't easy to get in."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You turn and look at Valhalla too. (if:(visited:"Meet old man on opposite bank"))[You're close enough now to make out the door on the front of the structure](else:)[From the island, you're just about close enough now to make out the door on the front of the structure] – a door so large that even a jötunn would struggle to force their way in. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Any advice? (click-replace: "Any advice?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Any advice?"] you say. But by the time you look back,(if:(visited:"Meet old man on opposite bank"))[[[ the cloaked old man is gone.|Continue to Valhalla]]](else:)[[[ the cloaked old man is gone.|Go back along the boat / bridge]]]. There's no trace of him anywhere. Not even any footprints in the sand.] { (click-append:'jötunn')+$dv[, //(You only saw a giant once, from far enough away to be safe, but close enough to know not to ever mess with one)//,] }

{(if: visits is > 1)[(redirect: "Leave Fenrir alone")] }As you turn away from the wolf, it say something else, with a ragged edge of desperation. $fenrir["Wait! Wait! I know you're clever. Resourceful. //Brave//. You must have been to make it past Heimdall."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You turn back to face him. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $fenrir["I'm guessing you didn't beat him in a fight... so it must have been something else."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==He watches you with his dark eyes. { (if: $heimdall_drunk)[$fenrir["You got him drunk. Is that right? You spotted his weakness and exploited it. Listen: I think we could make a good team. Help me now, and I'll help you get what you want."]] (else-if: $heimdall_deal)[$fenrir["You struck a deal. Is that right? Very good, very clever, smart. How about we strike a deal too? Help me now, and I'll help you get what you want."]] (else-if: $deadwarrior)[$fenrir["You tricked him. Is that right? Very good, very clever, smart. How about this? Help me now, and I won't tell anyone that you lied to him."]] (else:)[$fenrir["Very good. Very smart. Listen: I think we could make a good team. Help me now, and I'll help you get what you want."]] } (after: time + 2.3s)+$dv[== (if: (visited: 'Sure. I can try.'))[[[1. Move forward, and unlock the clasp.|Unlock the chains]] [[2. No thank you|Leave Fenrir alone]]](else-if: (visited: 'How can I help you?'))[[[1. Sure. I can try.|Sure. I can try.]] [[2. No thank you|Leave Fenrir alone]]](else-if: (visited: 'Who did this?'))[[[1. How can I help you?|How can I help you?]] [[2. No thank you|Leave Fenrir alone]]](else:)[[[1. Who did this?|Who did this?]] [[2. No thank you|Leave Fenrir alone]]]

You take a deep breath. Then you step forward, and reach for the clasp. But before you have a chance to touch it, you're yanked back by a rush of wind. You skid across the dirt, grazing the skin off your knees and elbows, before coming to land in a prickly clump of heather. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You hear a bellowing voice. $odin["Not this time, Fenrir."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== A [[figure has appeared|Stopped by old man]] at the edge of the clearing, wielding a wooden staff. (set: $help_fenrir to true)

You turn your back on the boat, and start walking along the white-sanded shore instead. It's hard to be sure how long it will take you to reach Valhalla, but as long as you stay close to the edge of the lake, you should get to the hall eventually. As you walk, you glance into the crystalline water. You see fat, black pebbles, wisps of weed, and the occasional copper-backed fish. Looking up again, you notice a delicate structure in front of you. It's a bridge, by the look of it, long and spindly, and made of something like silver. It leads away from the shore, out across the water, where it and connects to a small, heather-covered island floating in the middle of the lake.(click:'island')+$dv[ //Such an interesting looking place, there must be something there.//] It would be a detour, (click:'detour')+$dv[// (best not to be distracted, Valhalla is your destination afterall)//] so you decide quickly. [[1. Investigate the bridge|Investigate]] [[2. Ignore the bridge|Ignore]]

$pl["More importantly, who are you?"] you ask. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["I'm a wanderer,"] he says, with a wave of his hand, as though this fact is unimportant. Then he changes the subject back to (if:(visited:"Meet old man on opposite bank"))[the whisper. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $odin["That voice belonged to Fenrir."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Who is Fenrir?|Who's the wolf?]]](else:)[the wolf. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $odin["That creature is Fenrir."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Who is Fenrir?|Who's the wolf?]]]

$pl["Who did this?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $fenrir["It was the trickster, Loki!"](after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The wolf lets out a terrified yowl. $fenrir["He led me here. He told me there was food. Then he chained me up!"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[1. How can I help you?|How can I help you?]] [[2. I should really go...|Try to leave Fenrir]]

$odin["Fenrir,"] says the man, with venom in his voice. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$odin["The son of Loki, and the most dangerous being in the nine realms."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== The son of Loki? (click-replace: "The son of Loki?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["The son of Loki?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Meet old man on opposite bank"))[$odin["He's a giant wolf. He doesn't look like his father, but don't let that deceive you."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He scowls, then runs a hand through his silver hair. $odin["The gods confined him on an island at the center of the lake. It was the only way to stop him from destroying the cosmos."] (after: time + 2.4s)+$dv[== [[I'm glad I didn't meet him.|I'm glad]]](else:)[$odin["They don't look alike. But don't let that deceive you."](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He scowls, then runs a hand through his silver hair. $odin["The gods confined him here, on this island, to prevent him from destroying the cosmos."] (after: time + 2.4s)+$dv[== [[I'm glad I didn't help him.|I'm glad]]]

$be[''Episode 2: Realm of Gods'' Your choices ] |A>[''Did you use the boat?''] (click: ?A)+$dv[==$be[(if: $use_boat)[You (and 82% of players) used the magical boat.]{ }(else:)[You (and 14% of players) ignored the magical boat and walked round the lake.] ] |B>[''Did you meet Fenrir?''] (click: ?B)+$dv[==$be[(if: $met_fenrir)[You (and 67% of players) visited the island on the lake.]{ }(else:)[You (and 28% of players) ignored Fenrir's whispers.]] (if: $met_fenrir)[ |C>[''Did you try to help Fenrir?''] (click: ?C)+$dv[==$be[(if: $help_fenrir)[You (and 61% of players) tried to release Fenrir.]{ }(else:)[You (and 38% of players) decided not to help Fenrir.]] |D>[''What did the Norse really believe?''] (click: ?D)+$dv[==$be[ * Asgard was the Norse realm of the gods. * One notable location was Glasir: a gleaming grove of magical trees. * Fenrir (a giant wolf) was chained up on an island called Lyngvi. * His chain, Gleipnir, was forged by dwarves.]]{ }(else:)[ |E>[''What did the Norse really believe?''] (click: ?E)+$dv[==$be[ * Asgard was the Norse realm of the gods. * One notable location was Glasir: a gleaming grove of magical trees. * Fenrir (a giant wolf) was chained up on an island called Lyngvi. * His chain, Gleipnir, was forged by dwarves.] [[Start Episode 3|Previously (ep3)]]]

$pl["I'm a powerful god,"] you say to him. He frowns for a moment. Then he laughs again. The sound is so loud that it seems to run down the Bifröst, and you find yourself wondering if people can hear it all the way back in Midgard. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== After an age, he stops laughing. $heimdall["Seriously though,"] he says to you. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. Fine. I'm a fallen warrior.|2. I'm a fallen warrior.]] [[2. Fine. I'm just a journalist.|3. I'm just a journalist.]] [[3. Seriously though. I'm a powerful god!|Seriously though. I'm a powerful god!]]

$pl["No, not exactly,"] you say to him. He's still staring at you with those piercing eyes, and you remember something you once read about him: his eyes are so powerful that he's able to see a hundred leagues away from him. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["No mortal has interviewed Odin All-father sinces the days of Hávamál,"] he tells you. Then he shakes his head, and his expression softens. (click:"expression softens")[==$heimdall["Either way, I can't let you enter. The only people allowed through these gates are gods and fallen warriors."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm a powerful god.]] [[2. I'm a fallen warrior.]] [[3. I'm just a journalist.]]

You leap forward, trying to swipe the horn from Heimdall's hand. But it's already too late. The Gjallarhorn reaches |B>[Heimdall's lips]... (click: ?B)+$dv[==Instead of sounding the horn, he takes a |C>[mighty glug]. (click: ?C)+$dv[==You hear a slosh of mead. Then he lowers the horn, wipes his mouth on the back of his hand, then lets out an [[enourmous laugh|Meet Heimdall 3]].

//Who was the first ever being?// That feels like a good place to start. But before you can actually talk to Odin, you'll need to find a way into Asgard. That's why you're currently walking up the wide, shimmering |A>[Bifröst]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You wonder whose idea it was to build a road out of actual rainbows. It's much too garish, and the colors keep [[splashing on your shoes|EP1 Intro 3]].] (set: $q1 to true)

$pl["Haven't you heard?"] you say to him. He's still staring at you with those piercing eyes, and you remember something you once read about him: his eyes are so powerful that he's able to see a hundred leagues away from him. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["I hear everything,"] he says, after several drawn-out seconds. Then he shakes his head, and his expression softens. (click:"expression softens")[==$heimdall["Either way, I can't let you enter. The only people allowed through these gates are gods and fallen warriors."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm a powerful god.]] [[2. I'm a fallen warrior.]] [[3. I'm just a journalist.]]

(if:(visited:"1. I'm a powerful god."))[$pl["Fine. I'm a fallen warrior,"] you say.](else:)[$pl["I'm a fallen warrior,"] you say.] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["A fallen warrior, eh?"] Heimdall scratches his beard.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["I'm not sure I believe that (visited:"1. I'm a powerful god.")[either]. What did you die of? Attacked by a dormouse?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== (visited:"1. I'm a powerful god.")[He lets out another enormous laugh. This time, he almost loses his balance, and puts a hand on the gate to steady himself.](else:)[He lets out another enormous laugh. The sound is so loud that it seems to run down the Bifröst, and you find yourself wondering if people can hear it all the way back in Midgard.] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== When he finally stops laughing, he gives you another piercing look. $heimdall["Fine,"] he says. $heimdall["Let's say you're really a fallen warrior. The next question is this: do you know who //I// am?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[I know who you are.]] (set: $deadwarrior to true) (set:$lied_to_heimdall to true)

$pl["Stop–"] you start to say. But it's already too late. The Gjallarhorn reaches |B>[Heimdall's lips]... (click: ?B)+$dv[==Instead of sounding the horn, he takes a |C>[mighty glug]. (click: ?C)+$dv[==You hear a slosh of mead. Then he lowers the horn, wipes his mouth on the back of his hand, then lets out an [[enourmous laugh|Meet Heimdall 3]].

//Where did humans first come from?// That feels like a good place to start. But before you can actually talk to Odin, you'll need to find a way into Asgard. That's why you're currently walking up the wide, shimmering |A>[Bifröst]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You wonder whose idea it was to build a road out of actual rainbows. It's much too garish, and the colors keep [[splashing on your shoes|EP1 Intro 3]].] (set: $q3 to true)

//Do you know how the cosmos will end?// That feels like a good place to start. But before you can actually talk to Odin, you'll need to find a way into Asgard. That's why you're currently walking up the wide, shimmering |A>[Bifröst]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You wonder whose idea it was to build a road out of actual rainbows. It's much too garish, and the colors keep [[splashing on your shoes|EP1 Intro 3]].] (set: $q5 to true)

$pl["I have no idea."] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Heimdall frowns. Then he nods again. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Centuries ago,"] he starts to explain,(after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$heimdall["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together – //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 6s)+$dv[== He puts the key into the lock, and starts to turn. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["My child passed the knowledge to his own children, and they passed on the knowledge too. Eventually, it made its way to people like you."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm grateful.|I'm grateful.]] [[2. People like me?|People like me?]]

(if:(visited:"1. I'm a powerful god."))[$pl["Fine. I'm actually a journalist,"] you say. Heimdall narrows his eyes. Then he nods. $heimdall["That's more like it."] He nods again. Then his face lights up.](else:)[$pl["Neither. I'm just a journalist,"] you say. $heimdall["A journalist, eh?"] Heimdall narrows his eyes. Then his face lights up.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["How about this. Instead of interviewing Odin, you could interview me instead?"] He flexes his shoulders, then runs a hand through his beard. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["I take it you know who I am?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[I know who you are.]] (set: $journo to true)

$pl["Of course! Odin knows everything!"] you say to him. He's still staring at you with those piercing eyes, and you remember something you once read about him: his eyes are so powerful that he's able to see a hundred leagues away from him. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["You're probably thinking of Mímir,"] he says, after several drawn-out seconds. Then he shakes his head, and his expression softens. (click:"expression softens")[==$heimdall["Either way, I can't let you enter. The only people allowed through these gates are gods and fallen warriors."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm a powerful god.]] [[2. I'm a fallen warrior.]] [[3. I'm just a journalist.]]

$pl["So what?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["I think,"] he says. (after: time + 0.8s)+$dv[==$heimdall["That instead of teaching your kind to read, I should have taught you some manners instead."] (after: time + 2.8s)+$dv[== You shuffle your feet. But before you have a chance to say anything else, he finishes turning the key. You hear an almighty clunk, then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your face. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Welcome,"] says Heimdall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["To ][[Asgard|Enter as a dead warrior]]$heimdall[."]{ }(set: $dismissed_heimdall to true)

Before taking the keys, you decide to check that Heimdall is really sleeping. (click:"really sleeping")+$dv[== You lean forward, and wave a hand in front of his eyes. When he doesn't react, you clear your throat, and he doesn't react to that either. When he's sober, Heimdall's senses are the best in the nine realms – but when he's drunk, it seems to be a totally different story. The key is right in front of you, still hanging from a loop at his belt. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Reach for Heimdall's key]]

$pl["I'm here to interview Odin,"] you reply. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Odin?"] His eyes narrow, and you feel for a moment as though he's peering at a place somewhere deep inside your skull. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["Does he know you're coming?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. No. Not exactly.]] [[2. Haven't you heard?]] [[3. Of course. Odin knows everything!]]

You're a journalist. A good one. The best in Midgard. Especially since Agnarr was eaten by trolls. That's what you get if you're stupid enough to go searching for scoops in |A>[Jotunheim]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You're smarter than that. You're staying clear of Jotunheim. You're making your way to a different realm. [[Asgard: home of the gods|EP1 Intro 2]].]

When you get there, you're hoping to interview Odin: the brilliant, fearsome All-father. Odin doesn't know you're coming. Or maybe he does. Isn't Odin meant to know |A>[everything]? (click: ?A)+$dv[You'll have to make sure your first question is a good one... [[1. Who was the first ever being?]] [[2. Where did humans first come from?]] [[3. Do you know how the cosmos will end?]]]

Eventually, the rainbow Bifröst comes to an end. (click: "end")+$dv[==Up ahead, you see a towering gatehouse, with turrets that gleam in the sun. You've heard about this place: Himinbjörg, or '|B>[sky castle.]' (click: ?B)+$dv[==There's a gate at the front of the gatehouse: a mesh of golden bars. Through the gaps between the bars, you glimpse a grove of fire-colored trees, and the soaring spires of Asgard. [[You approach Himinbjörg...|EP1 Intro 4]]

As you approach the gate, your heartbeat flutters in your chest. Up close, you notice a message carved into the stone above the gate. It's written in the ancient, |A>[intricate runes] of Elder Futhark. (click: ?A)+$dv['' |B>[ONLY GODS (AND DEAD HUMANS) ALLOWED]''] (click: ?B)+$dv[==You stop in your tracks. You're definitely not a god, and last time you checked, you were still very much alive. Agnarr (curse him) would probably have been allowed inside... But how will [[you get in?|Meet Heimdall 1]]

(set:$heimdall_drunk to true)You take one final look at Heimdall, still slumped against the wall, mumbling and hiccuping with mead running down his thigh. Then you turn away, and step through the golden gates. (click:"golden gates")+$dv[== You find yourself standing in a small, green meadow, with flame-colored trees lined up in a ring around the edge. Beyond the trees, you see the graceful spires of golden palaces, and a range of mountains whose snow-covered peaks seem to brush the cloudless sky. A breeze flows past, rippling the grass by your feet. (click:"your feet")+$dv[== It's enough to take your breath away. Asgard: home of the gods. Now, you just need to find Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== What could possibly go wrong? (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[End episode 1|Your Choices (Ep1)]]

You take one final look at Heimdall. He bows his head, then gestures for you to continue. You bow your head too, then you turn away, and step through the golden gates. (click:"golden gates")+$dv[== You find yourself standing in a small, green meadow, with flame-colored trees lined up in a ring around the edge. Beyond the trees, you see the graceful spires of golden palaces, and a range of mountains whose snow-covered peaks seem to brush the cloudless sky. A breeze flows past, rippling the grass by your feet. (click:"your feet")+$dv[== It's enough to take your breath away. Asgard: home of the gods. Now, you just need to find Odin. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== What could possibly go wrong? (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[End episode 1|Your Choices (Ep1)]]{ }(set: $heimdall_deal to true)

$heimdall["Centuries ago,"] Heimdall starts to explain, (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$heimdall["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together] (after: time + 5s)+$dv[==$heimdall[– //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 3.5s)+$dv[== He shuts his eyes for a moment, then blows out a breath. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["My child passed the knowledge to his own children, and they passed on the knowledge to others. Eventually, it made its way to people like you."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== I didn't know that. (click-replace: "I didn't know that.")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["I didn't know that,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Not many people do."] He hesitates, then blows out another breath. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$heimdall["Do you promise to tell everyone? That I brought them runes?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[I promise.|He lets you in]]

$pl["I promise,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["That's all I needed to hear."] He unhooks a golden key from his belt and turns to face the gate.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Odin gets all the credit, sometimes. But he's not the only one who helps humanity out."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== You nod at that. But before you have a chance to say anything else, he pushes the key into the lock at the center of the gate. You hear an almighty clunk, then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your face. (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Welcome,"] says Heimdall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["To ][[Asgard|Enter after making deal]]$heimdall[."]

$pl["Of course. I won't tell a soul,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Good,"] says Heimdall, tugging at his beard. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==$heimdall["If you're going to write a nice article about me, there's something I'd like you to include."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== What's that? (click-replace: "What's that?")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["What's that?"] you say. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== He looks pensive for a moment. $heimdall["I want to tell you a story about the origin of writing and runes. If you promise to spread it when you get back to Midgard, I'll let you through the gate."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== [[1. Okay, I promise.|He asks you to include runes]] [[2. Let me hear the story first.|He asks you to include runes]]

After filling his belly, Heimdall lowers the golden Gjallarhorn, and lets out a mighty belch. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Fine. If you're really a fallen warrior, I suppose I should open the gate.] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He reaches for his belt, where a single key is hanging from a golden loop. It makes a jangling sound as he unhooks it. He leans towards the lock at the center of the gate, then he stops abruptly, and looks back at you. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Before you go,"] he says. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["Can I ask you one question?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. Of course. Ask away.|Of course. Ask away.]] [[2. Sorry. I'm in a hurry.|Sorry. I'm in a hurry.]]

As he waits for you to answer, Heimdall takes another swig of mead. You glance away from him, trying to gather your thoughts. Interviewing Heimdall would be better than nothing, but Odin would still be a much bigger scoop. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== Surely there's a way for you to get into Asgard. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Maybe you could try to get Heimdall drunk. That way, you could trick him into opening the gate while he's too woozy-headed to notice.(click:'drunk')+$dv[ //He certainly seems to enjoy a drink, and appears to have already been drinking for quite a while. //] Or maybe you could strike a deal with him. (click: 'deal')+$dv[//He doesn't seem unreasonable, for a god anyway. //]You'll do the interview – make it nice and flattering – but only if he promises to let you through the gates and search for Odin afterwards. (after: time + 6s)+$dv[== $heimdall["So,"] says Heimdall. $heimdall["What will it be?"] [[1. Try to get him drunk|Try to get him drunk]] [[2. Try to strike a deal|Try to strike a deal]]

{(set: _drunk to (text-color:#64E9EE)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*60)+$dv) ) }$pl["How about siblings? Do you have any of those?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== _drunk["Siblings."] His eyes are still closed, and he's started swaying slightly where he sits. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[==_drunk["Half-siblings. Yes."] He hiccups again, and you steal a glance at the key still hanging at his belt. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== _drunk["Thor. Yes, yes. And Baldr too. Then there's Víðarr, and Váli..."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== He trails off. Then suddenly, he starts to snore. The Gjallarhorn tips in his massive hand, and dribbles a stream of golden liquid onto one of his massive legs. You place your own goblet on the floor beside you. This is the chance you've been waiting for. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. Reach for Heimdall's key|Reach for Heimdall's key]] [[2. Check that he's really sleeping|Check that he's really sleeping]]

$pl["I know who you are,"] you tell him. $pl["Everyone knows Heimdall – with eyes so sharp that he can see in the dark–"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He cuts across you. (char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*5)+$dv+(text-color:#64E9EE))["–and ears so sharp that he can hear growing grass."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if: $lied_to_heimdall)[He stoops until his face is level with yours. $heimdall["I can //also// hear when a lie is being told."] He shakes his head,(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== (if: $deadwarrior)[(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[==then straightens up, and takes another [[swig of mead|Heimdall lets you (a warrior) through]].] (else:)[(after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== then straightens up. $heimdall["Anyway. About that] [[interview|How about an interview?]]$heimdall[."]]]{ }(else:)[He shakes his head, then rubs his hands together. [==$heimdall["Anyway. About that] [[interview|How about an interview?]]$heimdall[."]]

$pl["I'm grateful,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Good,"] he says.(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["It was the best thing I ever did."] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== You nod at that. But before you have a chance to say anything else, he finishes turning the key. You hear an almighty clunk, then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your face. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Welcome,"] says Heimdall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["To ][[Asgard|Enter as a dead warrior]]$heimdall[."]

''At this point, the player has chosen one of three paths:'' - They lied to Heimdall about being a god and he noticed (set:$lied_to_heimdall to true) - They lied to Heimdall about being dead and he didn't notice (set: $deadwarrior to true) AND (set:$lied_to_heimdall to true) - They told the truth to Heimdall about being a journalist (set: $journo to true)

''At this point, the player has chosen one of three paths:'' - They entered Asgard after getting Heimdall drunk (set:$Heimdall_drunk to true) - They entered Asgard after striking a deal with Heimdall (set: $Heimdall_deal to true) - They entered Asgard after persuading Heimdall that they're a dead warrior $deadwarrior - They may also have acted dimissive to Heimdall and upset him $dismissed_heimdall

You notice a lock at the center of the golden gate. There's a hole for some kind of key. You touch a hand to the |A>[lock]... (click: ?A)+$dv[== It's as big as your head, and icy cold to the touch. Maybe there's a way to |C>[force it open] whether you're a god, a dead human... or even just a talented journalist with plans to interview Odin. (click: ?C)+$dv[ //No luck. It's unfeasibly solid.// ] Or maybe the |D>[key is hidden somewhere nearby?] (click: ?D)+$dv[==You glance around – then |B>[you freeze]. (click: ?B)+$dv[==You were so distracted by the golden gate that you didn't notice the mountain of a man standing off to one side, half-hidden by a pool of shadows. He has a shaggy beard, a golden cap, and eyes as bright as stars. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== [[Is that who you think it is?|Meet Heimdall 2]]

You recognize the figure. //Heimdall// – watchman of the gods. It's his job to stop people from entering Asgard. It's his job to |A>[stop people like you]. (click: ?A)+$dv[He steps out from the shadows and looms over you. Something glints in his hand – the Gjallarhorn – an alarm so loud that it can be heard in all nine realms. Before you can react, he lifts it to his lips. [[1. Slap the Gjallarhorn from his hands.]] [[2. Shout at him to stop.]]]

Heimdall takes another swig, then he speaks to you in a voice so loud that you feel it vibrate through your chest. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $heimdall["What are you doing here, little one?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[I'm here to interview Odin|Does he know you're coming?]].

$pl["Odin taught us to write?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Heimdall frowns. Then he nods again. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Centuries ago,"] he starts to explain,(after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$heimdall["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together – //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 6s)+$dv[== He puts the key into the lock, and starts to turn. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["My child passed the knowledge to his own children, and they passed on the knowledge too. Eventually, it made its way to people like you."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm grateful.|I'm grateful.]] [[2. People like me?|People like me?]]

$pl["Of course. Ask away,"] you tell him. He looks pensive for a moment, still holding the key just an inch or two from the lock. Then he glances up towards the runes inscribed in the stone above the gate. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Do you know how to write?"] he asks you. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Of course I know how to write. (click-replace: "Of course I know how to write.")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["Of course I know how to write,"] you reply. He nods once. $heimdall["And do you know who taught human beings to write?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. You taught us to write?|You taught us to write?]] [[2. Odin taught us to write?|Odin taught us to write?]] [[3. I have no idea]]

$pl["People like me?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Noble warriors,"] he says. (after: time + 0.8s)+$dv[==$heimdall["People who live an honest life, then die an honest death. You deserve to know how to read and write."] (after: time + 2.4s)+$dv[== You shuffle your feet. But before you have a chance to say anything else, he finishes turning the key. You hear an almighty clunk, then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your face. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Welcome,"] says Heimdall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["To ][[Asgard|Enter as a dead warrior]]$heimdall[."]

You reach a hand towards Heimdall's belt, and take hold of the golden key. It makes a jangling sound as you unhook it, and your eyes shoot up to Heimdall's face, but he doesn't seem to notice. (click:"notice")+$dv[== His lips move, and you realise he's mumbling words in his sleep: $heimdall["Nine mothers' son am I... nine sisters' son am I..."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You pull back from him with the key clasped tightly in your hand. Then you straighten up and hurry over to the gate. You glance back at Heimdall, then stick the key into the |A>[lock]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You hear an almighty clunk, then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your [[face|Enter after getting him drunk]]."]

$pl["Seriously though. I'm a powerful god!"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== This time, Heimdall doesn't laugh. For a moment, he just stands there, perfectly still. Then he shifts his weight forward until he's leaning over you. $heimdall["Look,"] he says. $heimdall["I love a good joke as much as Loki. But I've got a job to do here."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[1. Fine. I'm a fallen warrior.|2. I'm a fallen warrior.]] [[2. Fine. I'm just a journalist.|3. I'm just a journalist.]] (set:$lied_to_heimdall to true)

$pl["Sorry. I'm in a hurry,"] you say. Heimdall frowns for a moment. Then he nods his head. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Disappointing."] he says. Then he turns the golden |A>[key]. (click: ?A)+$dv[You hear an almighty ''clunk'', then the gate swings open, and a rush of warm, sweet-smelling air blows across your face. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Welcome,"] says Heimdall. $heimdall["To ][[Asgard|Enter as a dead warrior]]$heimdall[."]] (set: $dismissed_heimdall to true)

(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[''Episode 1''] ](after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[Golden Gates] ](after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[==(redirect: 'EP1 Intro 1')

(if:(visited:"Try to strike a deal"))[$pl["That's understandable,"] you say. $pl["So, I'll give an interview, no strings attached. But while we're talking, could I have a cup of mead...?"]](else:)[$pl["Okay,"] you say. $pl["I'll give you an interview. But while we're talking, could I have a cup of mead...?"]] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== Heimdall looks suspicious for a moment. Then his eyes light up. $heimdall["Of course!"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He retrieves a goblet from somewhere deep in his cloak, then fills it with mead from the Gjallarhorn. As he works, you notice a golden key hanging from a loop at his belt. (click:"goblet")+$dv[== He passes you the goblet, then sits down with his back against the wall beside the gate. You sit down too, and peer at your goblet. You see your face reflected back at you from the thick, honey-colored [[liquid|You sit together and drink]].

$pl["Okay,"] you say. $pl["I'll give you an interview. But how about we make a deal?"] (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== Heimdall looks surprised. $heimdall["What kind of deal?"] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== If I promise to make you look good, will you let me through the gate? (click-replace: "If I promise to make you look good, will you let me through the gate?")+$dv[==$pl["If I promise to make you look good, will you let me through the gate?"] you say. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He stares at you for a moment. $heimdall["You mean you'll write an article about how great I am? In return for entry to Asgard?"] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== That's right. (click-replace: "That's right.")+$dv[==$pl["That's right,"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (if:$lied_to_heimdall)[He crosses his arms. $heimdall["I don't believe you. You've already lied to me once."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== You open your mouth to argue, but his expression is hard and firm. You realize then that your only option is to try to get him [[drunk|Try to get him drunk]].](else:)[He hesitates, then shrugs his shoulders. $heimdall["That sounds good to me,"] he announces.(after: time + 1.2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Just don't tell anybody that I let you in."] (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Of course. I won't tell a soul.|He trusts you]]]

{(set: _drunk to (text-color:#64E9EE)+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*45)+$dv) ) }$pl[Why don't you tell me about your kids?] you say. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Why don't you tell me about your parents?"))[Heimdall takes another drink, then wipes his mouth on the back of his hand. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== _drunk["Centuries ago,"] he says thickly, (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==_drunk["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together](after: time + 5s)+$dv[== _drunk[ - //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 4s)+$dv[== He shakes his head – a tired movement. Then he hiccups, and shuts his eyes. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== _drunk["Anything else?"] he asks you. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[How about siblings? Do you have any of those?]]]{ }(else:)[Heimdall frowns for a moment. Then he nods his head. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Centuries ago,"] he starts to explain, (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together ](after: time + 3s)+$dv[==$heimdall[– //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== You nod. (click:"You nod.")+$dv[== Then pretend to take another drink. Beside you, Heimdall drinks deeply again. When he lowers the horn, the movement seems slightly sluggish. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Refill?"] he says to you, and there's a slur to his words now. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[Not yet. Thank you. Why don't you tell me about your parents?|Why don't you tell me about your parents?]]]

{(set: _drunk to (text-color:"cyan")+(char-style: via (t8n-delay:pos*45)+$dv) ) }$pl[Why don't you tell me about your parents?] you say. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== (if:(visited:"Why don't you tell me about your kids?"))[Heimdall takes another drink, then wipes his mouth on the back of his hand. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== _drunk["I have nine mothers,"] he says thickly,(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== _drunk["They're all giants. Jötnar."] He blows out his cheeks. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[==_drunk["But only one father, as far as I know. Odin, the All-father."] (after: time + 3.5s)+$dv[== He shakes his head – a tired movement. Then he hiccups, and shuts his eyes. (after: time + 2.5s)+$dv[== _drunk["Anything else?"] he slowly asks. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== [[How about siblings? Do you have any of those?]]]{ }(else:)[Heimdall frowns for a moment. Then he nods his head. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["I have nine mothers,"] he starts to explain.(after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["They're all giants. Jötnar."] He blows out his cheeks. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["But only one father, as far as I know. Odin, the All-father."] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== You nod. (click:"You nod.")+$dv[== Then pretend to take another drink. Beside you, Heimdall drinks deeply again. When he lowers the horn, the movement seems slightly sluggish. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Refill?"] he says, and there's a slur to his words now. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== [[Not yet. Thank you. Why don't you tell me about your kids?|Why don't you tell me about your kids?]]]

$heimdall["So,"] says Heimdall. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[==$heimdall["Why don't you ask me a question?"] (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== First, let's drink. (click-replace: "First, let's drink.")+(transition:"dissolve")[==$pl["First, let's drink,"] you tell him. You put the goblet to your lips, and tilt back your head as though you're taking a mighty sip. But you keep your mouth shut, and don't actually swallow any of it. Out the corner of your eye, you see Heimdall raise the Gjallarhorn and glugs for several seconds. (after: time + 2s)+$dv[== He belches loudly, then looks at you. $heimdall["Question?"] he says. (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. Why don't you tell me about your parents?|Why don't you tell me about your parents?]] [[2. Why don't you tell me about your kids?|Why don't you tell me about your kids?]]

$pl["You taught us to write?"] you say. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== Heimdall frowns. Then he nods again. (after: time + 1.5s)+$dv[== $heimdall["Centuries ago,"] he starts to explain,(after: time + 2s)+$dv[==$heimdall["I walked down the Bifröst, straight into Midgard, and bonded with a number of women. We had children together – //so many// children – and I taught one of those children how to write. Before that day, runes were known only to gods."] (after: time + 6s)+$dv[== He puts the key into the lock, and starts to turn. (after: time + 1s)+$dv[== $heimdall["My child passed the knowledge to his own children, and they passed on the knowledge too. Eventually, it made its way to people like you."] (after: time + 3s)+$dv[== [[1. I'm grateful.|I'm grateful.]] [[2. People like me?|People like me?]] [[3. So what?]]

$be[''Episode 1: Golden Gates'' Your choices] |A>[''What did you say to Heimdall?''] (click: ?A)+$dv[==$be[(if: $deadwarrior)[You (and 33% of players) hid the fact that you're a journalist.](else:)[You (and 36% of players) told the truth about being a journalist.] ] |B>[''How did you get into Asgard?''] (click: ?B)+$dv[==$be[(if: $heimdall_drunk)[You (and 24% of players) got Heimdall drunk on mead.]{ }(else-if: $heimdall_deal)[You (and 38% of players) struck a deal with Heimdall.]{ }(else:)[You (and 49% of players) pretended to be a dead warrior.] ] |C>[''What did the Norse really believe?''] (click: ?C)+$dv[==$be[ * The Bifröst was the only way to get from Midgard to Asgard. * Heimdall guarded the end of the Bifröst from his castle: Himinbjörg. * Heimdall had incredible senses and loved the taste of mead. * Heimdall taught human beings to read and write.] [[Start Episode 2|Previously (Ep2)]]

(after: time + 1s)+$dv[== (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[''Story and Narrative Design'' Hugh Davies ''Narrative Design and additional words'' Dan Lambton-Howard] ](after: time + 3s)+$dv[==(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[ This game was originally created as an experimental prototype in //Interactive Non-fiction// for <a href="https://kinnu.xyz/">Kinnu</a>] ](after: time + 3s)+$dv[==(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[$be[ ''GAME OVER'']]