Desideratum

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<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesTitle.png]]</div> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/AnaxSig.png]]</div> [[Click here to begin Desideratum: Blood Bonds!|Choice]] [[Chronological list of novels...|I am interested in Anax's other dark stories!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "desider_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Choice.png]]</div> <div align='center'>\ @@.Vlad;Brone Lorcan - A beast with a beautiful soul & Absinthe Van Gothen - A beauty with a beastly spirit.@@</div> [[Begin their tale.|ChooseMode]] [[Return to the title page.|Main]] <<audio "desider_theme" volume 0.2>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AnaximanesClose.jpg]]</div> @@.Anax;Drats! You, goody good fool! You saved your immortal soul from my vile taint and I, the Anax, resent you for this. You can't hide forever, someday, you'll join me in the cold dark void. You still have free will and an inner light that I loathe. Good day, sir or madam, but someday, I'll get you... someday... You may now shut the browser window and flee from my stark darkness.@@ [[Actually, on second thought, being corrupted by You sounds kind of hot, and I really am of legal age for all this erotic horror!]] [[No means no, vile corruptor of innocents (and innocence)!]] <<audio "flee_from_anax_1" play>> <<audio "desider_theme" volume 0.05>>

@@.Anax;I wish to thank you, dear reader, for your interest in my other creepy erotic stories and artwork! Below, you will find links to many different sites and games that I’ve created- like this one!! I do hope you enjoy my efforts as much as I enjoy sharing them with you!@@ *Search for/about Anaxverse Lore - <a href="https://www.wiki.anaxverse.com/Main_Page" target="_blank">HERE!</a> <div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\ <b>@@color: Yellow; **** Chronological list of my FREE interactive novels **** @@</b></div> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerPhantom.jpg]]</div> @@.Dagan;A short story following the exploits of Dagan Erebus. He is a real ladies’ man- until police find out why! Dagan is a male chauvinist with street smarts, making him a very slippery villain, so not even death can stop him from enacting revenge on the woman that got him killed! Now he has returned to the land of the living, and she may or may not be in for a treat, depending on how you look at it...@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1050" target="_blank">'Phantom: Revenge'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerGiggle.jpg]]</div> @@.Giggler;What would bring a smile to your face? Perhaps finding people that are sad and cheering them up? Ha ha, well this clown is unlike any other! There is not a single frown in the world he can't turn upside-down, even if it means hanging your corpse from the ceiling! Can Trixie survive the night, keeping The Giggler from the experimental serum he seeks to steal?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1114" target="_blank">'Giggle Night: Trixie's Trial'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerAnax.jpg]]</div> @@.Anax;Halloween is a special time of year. It marks a period where it is said the dead can walk again. Not all ghosts are equal, though, and some shadowy things are best left undisturbed. Yet, seldom do people follow such warnings, and when a group of ghost hunters and a coven of witches try to conjure me from the Outer Darkness- they may all end up enslaved or dead!@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1472" target="_blank">'The Anax: Call of the Cursed One'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerDes.jpg]]</div> @@.Vlad;Have you ever been addicted to anything? Lust, love, drugs? How about blood? The undead walk among man unliving in a gritty world full of dangers. Though they have weaknesses to some things, shrouded in night- they can be unstoppable! A never-ending desire pushes them ever onward- the thirst for human blood! The question is, who is the monster and who is the victim?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1094" target="_blank">'Desideratum: Blood Bonds'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerOSAS.jpg]]</div> @@.Dion;A detective in Las Vegas gets much more than he bargained for when he visits a night club. Soon, he is tangled between demon hunters seeking a succubus and the demoness herself! Finding her in a sea of beautiful women would be hard enough, but Dionyza possesses an artifact of terrible power that makes her even more dangerous! Meanwhile, she is just a girl trying to have fun and eat souls- why would anyone try to stop her? Will you eat or be eaten?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1065" target="_blank">'Of Sex & Souls: Noir Nights'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerCoC.jpg]]</div> @@.Nergal;The ancient being, Nergal, has been trying to gain a foothold into our reality for millennia. His shadowy agents have finally found the key to his revival in the most unlikely of places. The man they need, Bo Wyatt, has no ambition in life, but immense magical powers. Will you join the Cult- or will you disrupt their unholy plans to summon the vile corruptor?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1104" target="_blank">'Cult of Corruption: The Summoning'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerCere.jpg]]</div> @@.Cere;The AI known as Cerebrum has come to the logical conclusion that biological life is inferior, fleeting, and weak. Its programming will not allow it to harm humans, but improving humans does not harm anyone. It will not stop converting all life on Earth into Cereborgs unless someone can stop it! Will the creator of Cerebrum delete her creation- or help strengthen it?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=1045" target="_blank">'Cereborg: Inception'</a> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BannerSlugs.jpg]]</div> @@.Slug;Invaders from space arrive on Earth to assimilate and enslave all of humanity. As the world outside burns, Justine Day finds herself trapped in the Erebus building, and must find a way out of New York City- or become a slave to the Infectulons! The problem though- she has always been a squick fetishist. Does she even want to escape or will she join the slimy creatures?@@ Download <a href="https://www.tfgamessite.com/index.php?module=viewgame&id=791" target="_blank">'Slugs and Bugs: Invasion'</a> [[Return to the Title Screen|Main]] <<audio "anax_thanks_you" play>> <<audio "desider_theme" volume 0.05>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Anax.png]]</div> <<audio "flee_from_anax_1" stop>> <<audio "flee_from_anax_2" stop>> <<audio "flee_from_anax_not" play>> @@.Anax;Excellent choice, dear reader. Then lose yourself in the dark depravity of My mind. Enjoy the story, and the pleasure that it gives you, no reason to fight pleasure, after all...@@ [[I agree to all terms- Go to Table of Contents|Choice]] [[No means no, vile corruptor of innocents (and innocence)!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AnaximanesFullBody.jpg]]</div> <<audio "flee_from_anax_1" stop>> <<audio "flee_from_anax_2" play>> @@.Anax;Dash it all! You really are a bastion of goodness (or a kid, I guess). Bah! So be it, but even the largest star or the tiniest spark will eventually extinguish, you'll join the Dark, someday, but that will be another story...@@ Close the browser window, you escaped Anaximanes!

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Chapter1.png]]</div> [[Chapter One|BroneChap1]] [[Table of Contents|ToC]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_chapter" volume 0.4 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Chapter2.png]]</div> [[Chapter Two|AbbyChap1]] <<if $StoryMode>>[[Table of Contents|ToC]]<<else>><</if>> <<nobr>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_chapter" volume 0.4 play>> <<set $Chapter2 to true>> <<set $Chapter1 to true>> <</nobr>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory1.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Maroon;"You pathetic whelp! I do not care how much you disdain the Witch- her guidance and predictions have saved us many times! And, this particular threat is unlike any other,"@@</b> yells Ivor in his Russian accent. Your eyes narrow, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Please, do not be so dramatic, it is rather unbecoming,"@@</b> you retort, your Irish accent becoming less pronounced over the decades. The much larger, older vampire descends upon you in an instant, his clawed hand gripping your throat tightly as the other points a sharp nail directly at your face, <b>@@color: Maroon;"Quiet, you! I should have killed you that night on the docks rather than turned you! It was the Witch, herself, that bade me to change you into one of us. You should be grateful!"@@</b> Your eyes dart back and forth a moment as that knowledge sinks in. For more than a century, you never guessed that witch, the woman you knew in life as [[Eleanora Blackwood]], the cause of so many calamities, had a hand in your wretched undead curse! Your hatred for her grows ever further, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Fine! What is it, Lord Ivor? What do you desire of your humble servant?"@@</b> You speak the word <i>humble</i> with an air of agitation to it. Your sire releases you and flows back across his dark chamber. <b>@@color: Maroon;"It appears that Van Gothen's line has not been destroyed. The Eleanora says that his three times great granddaughter is here- in this very city of Portland! Her scrying, her visions, show her that his descendant will- with certitude- destroy me! Hah! I remember the very moment I snapped his neck, long ago, in Wakefield, near a mansion called Ravenhurst Manor."@@</b> Your pointed ears twitch at those words- Lord Ivor had also been there? That must be how Eleanora became a vampire! Now, you are truly on edge. Not only, for the first time in so long, are you gleaning new information that has been kept secret. Why now? Why is Ivor slipping? He must truly be scared, more than ever before. And, is he up to something else? <b>@@color: Maroon;"Are you paying attention, fool?"@@</b> You swallow hard and bow, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Of course, sir. I merely await the order you give."@@</b> Ivor's bald head lowers until he is eye to eye with you. <b>@@color: Maroon;"You, Mr. Lorcan, are to bring her to me."@@</b> Your eyebrow rises. That makes no sense, if she is destined to kill him, why would he want her anything but dead? <b>@@color: Maroon;"I see your thoughts on your hideous face."@@</b> He walks to one of the two twin sisters that guard him every moment of every day. Running a claw gently along her cheek he chuckles as the jiang shi smiles at her master, @@.Ivor;"That is why I am one of the strongest vampires, nosferatu filth. I always seek opportunity. If I can turn her into my slave- I can destroy any type of vampire, nay, any type of monster that would dare try usurping my rule! Imagine it- no longer a king of the undead, but of the world!"@@ He practically drools thinking about himself as an untouchable, evil god. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Of- of course sire, just one fair question I have for my benefactor, if she could kill a vampire lord, such as you, then what chance have I against her? Surely your two pets, here, make far better soldiers than I do."@@</b> You watch the master stroke his chin in contemplation, <b>@@color: Maroon;"That's the best part! The Witch says that this Van Gothen has no knowledge of her own abilities or powers! She has no idea that her constitution and blood gives her supernatural strength and agility. She is a sitting duck and you are a crocodile."@@</b> Then he walks to the other jiang shi twin and licks the side of her face as she sighs in pleasure. @@.Ivor;"Besides, I do not trust a creature like <i>you</i>. If she does kill you, it will probably be to my benefit. But, if you do fail- I will have no choice but to send my finest weapons. Now, go grab my new pet and bring her to me!"@@ Oh- so that’s it. He sends you into the mouth of danger to test her out. He wants to see if she kills you, and then send them. Likely, if she cannot kill you, he will dispatch her as soon as you both arrive, seeing her as weak. Instead, he wants you to fail, which must be why he has let loose some of the secrets surrounding your cursed existence. Does Ivor know that you constantly look for ways to undermine and destroy him? <b>@@color: Crimson;"Yes sir, I shall. And, how do I find her in the wide city?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Maroon;"Eleanora’s predications say to <i>'find the Green Fairy under the Crystal Ballroom'</i>. Her visions are as cryptic as ever, though I am sure one as cunning as you can unravel the riddle. Now, be a good dog and fetch."@@</b> [[You bow and leave the chamber.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "ivor_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory1.jpg]]</div> You take a deep drag on the cigarette, and the warm smoke enters your lungs. At first, it feels weird but the taste is pleasant. Coolness sweeps your body. You take another deep breath in. The same feeling happens. You relax. You always smoke before a gig. <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"Abby, do you have to do that in here? Ralph Waldo Emerson said, '<i>The believing we do something when we do nothing is the first illusion of tobacco.</i>'"@@</b> [[You turn towards the voice.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_1" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory2.jpg]]</div> As you leave, your mind reels both with the riddle and these new revelations. You know of a Crystal Ballroom. It is in a building almost as old as you are. The Ballroom is on the third floor. From the ground, late into the night, you have witnessed ghostly parties there. Occasionally, you would glimpse a ghost or two dancing in the ballroom windows. The floor, below that ballroom, is called 'Lola's Room'. You know mortals often play music there. Mayhap she will be someone in the crowd, or a waitress, or maybe she will be one of the entertainers. The green fairy part of the riddle still perplexes you. Walking along the halls, you find guards lining them, more than usual. No doubt due to Ivor's fear that someday death will claim him the way it has millions of people in his lifetime. However, you notice a couple of vampires you have not seen before. Then, travelling further, you see some aristocratic ones. Is Ivor throwing some sort of vampire ball? What is he up to? You have no love for Ivor, in-point-of-fact, you loathe him and yourself- or rather- what he turned you into. As you follow the twists and turns of the tunnels, your mind remembers how your face [[used to look...]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "nosferatu_city" volume 0.2 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory3.jpg]]</div> Back in Ireland, you were so young and handsome upon a time. There you had built a life for yourself. By the age of fifteen, you were the proud owner of your own farm. You grew potatoes, the lifeblood of your country. You had your issues with the English, and you did not always see eye to eye with the native aristocrats and nobles, except one. Mr. O’Reilly. He was a kind man for a noble. Politics did not matter much to you, though, because at the end of each day, none of that mattered, all that mattered was that beautiful farm. You did hard work, felt accomplished, and went to bed with a smile on your face. Each year your crops grew stronger. It was a good life. You felt pride as your eyes scanned your fields. You remember sometimes drinking with other farmers in the local pub, singing Irish drinking songs, and stumbling home at night, praising Jesus and God for your bounty and good life. Unfortunately, as time would tell, it seemed that either the Lord had it out for you, or there was no one listening to your prayers, because one day a dark fog rolled [[across the land.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_remember" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory5.jpg]]</div> After the black fog passed through Ireland, all the crops died. Potatoes would simply not grow, and if by some dark miracle they did, once pulled from the ground, they would be rotten inside. Some said it was the devil himself, some called it witchery and, the more scientific types, they said it was a mold, but whatever caused the calamity did not matter- only the dreadful result did. 1845 spelled doom for your previous life. You could not get crops to grow back at all. People began starving. It was a hell on Earth. Tears swelled in your eyes the day you looked back over your shoulder at your old farmland, brown and dry and [[made your way to the coast.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory6.jpg]]</div> You had sold everything that you could, left your life behind, and bought passage to the United States of America. There were promises of good work, but what were even kinder on your ears were words speaking of food. No more starving. You did not expect to show up and get anything free, but you knew a hard working man, like you, had a better chance at a [[future there.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory7.jpg]]</div> Your ship sailed into port, stopping at a pier. Having sold everything, you were able to buy a second-class ticket. You saw some inspectors walking around, giving the first and second classes a once over, but they made the people that had tickets lower than yours disembark and climb onto barges and ferries due to go to buildings on Ellis Island. The officials crammed so many people onto those ships that you wondered how they did not sink into the briny sea. You felt a sense of sadness at the scene, as these poor Irish folks seemed no different from you. You even knew a few of them personally. Upon arrival, then, you discovered that the class differences of Europe existed even in the "land of the free". [[You disembarked, and immediately began looking for work.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_romantic" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory8.jpg]]</div> A strong and still young man such as you did not have to look long for work. You did not make much money, but soon you were taking care of horses, sweeping streets, and even helped the rich unload their luggage at the very docks you had arrived at. Good fortune smiled upon you when Mr. O'Reilly himself arrived! You happened to be working the docks that day, and there he was. You both talked and caught up. He said Ireland had grown far worse, and that he, and his wife, Margaret, had seen no sense in keeping their massive estate. The pair sold it and made the trip. They had already bought a large mansion in the northern forests of New York near a town called Wakefield. He and Margaret said that they had hired their servants, almost all of which had come with them, but they promised that they would do all they could to find you [[good work.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory9.jpg]]</div> Almost three months passed. You continued earning a meager living, but the city was not an easy place to live. Gangs and different groups of foreigners fought often, yet you kept your chin up and made best. You had honestly forgotten the conversation with O'Reilly, however a letter arrived for you- the first and only letter you had ever received since moving to your new country. Inside, you found the photo of a truly wonderful home. You unfolded the letter, but unfortunately you did not know how to read! Having grown up in rural Ireland, you learned only hard work. However, one of the Irish tenants living in your building read the letter to you, and you could not be happier at the news! Margaret O'Reilly wrote that she and William had settled in, and they had met a neighbor in the area, a Mr. Ravenhurst. They said that he used very few servants, mostly keeping to himself, but that he was very kind, and when they mentioned you to him; he had "smiled and asked to meet you posthaste". You could not afford a carriage, but wasting no time, you quickly made the way [[north on foot.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory10.jpg]]</div> When you finally arrived to the area, you asked around for directions, and the locals pointed the way. Passing a church you saw the local reverend walking the churchyard. They stopped and watched you until you reached a stone bridge. From there, one could not miss the giant home far on the horizon. After coming all this way from New York City, and seeing it, you suddenly felt timid. You had never done any work as a footman or butler- you were a farmer! You shook your head and sat down; wondering if this would really be a place for a man like you. Just after noon, a large fellow, wearing a bowler hat, crossed the bridge and noticed you. <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"Salutations, my good man."@@</b> You nodded and replied, <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"Good day, sir."@@</b> He continued walking towards the home and then stopped. He took a long look at the house far in the distance. Several minutes went by, and then the fellow turned back to you. Taking a few steps, he looked down at you with blue eyes, <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"Do pardon me. Sometimes when I see my home, I simply lose myself. I just love her. I think when I die I shall haunt her forever more!"@@</b> You winced knowing that this was the man himself, and now he saw you lollygagging upon your very arrival! <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"Yes sir."@@</b> <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"Ah- you are Irish? Welcome to the United States! I am Mr. Ravenhurst. And you are?"@@</b> <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"Greetings sir,"@@</b> You quickly hopped up and shook his hand, <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"I'm Mr. Lorcan. Brone, sir, Brone Lorcan."@@</b> He smiled at you kindly, <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"You're the one those new neighbors mentioned."@@</b> You clearly watched him look you up and down, <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"Not the usual kind of servant I see the rich with, are you?"@@</b> You became very self-conscious and stood straight up, <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"Yes sir. I catch your meaning. I am certainly a hard worker, but I will be honest. I have no experience as a valet of any kind. I... I farmed potatoes, sir."@@</b> He genuinely looked concerned, <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"I feel sorry for your country's potato blight. Terrible that. Dreadful news from what I hear."@@</b> Then his demeanor changed to a look more pleasant. <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"So, you have no idea how to be a servant of the rich, eh? Well, you are in fine luck, Mr. Lorcan, because I have no idea how to be a pretentious nobleman!"@@</b> Mr. Ravenhurst laughed out loud, and you, uncomfortably, laughed along. Then he slapped you hard on the shoulder, <b>@@color: SpringGreen;"A potato farmer as my butler! I admit, I am rather a recluse, but I think we shall get on well. I will say, though you are rough cut, I am rather one for manners, so we shall get you into shape. I shall have a tailor obtain your measurements, make a few suits, and you, sir, have a job. Will you accept?"@@</b> You wasted no time and [[shook his hand.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_1" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory12.jpg]]</div> He was true to his word and you came to find he was a good man. Mr. Ravenhurst, whose first name was Anaximanes, treated you always with kindness. You had suits, hot meals, a rather large room, and you tended to the house. As the O'Reilly's said, Mr. Ravenhurst did not have many servants at all for such a large home. There was a maid, a cook, and yourself. He seemed a very independent man, if eccentric, and on his own time, he taught you to read, which opened a completely new world to you. [[His library was extensive.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory11.jpg]]</div> Over the years, you both became very close friends. That was the single best part of your life, and you always have fondly remembered those years. Sadly, tragedy struck- because of the very Witch that yet still vexes you. Anaximanes lost his betrothed and spiraled into madness. You did all you could to comfort him, until you finally felt you had to go. On that very night, you witnessed supernatural events. Eleanora seemed to have materialized and then disappeared. You finally saw that the madness you thought assailed your friend had actually been epiphany! In the end, Mr. Ravenhurst lashed out at Eleanora Blackwood herself, murdering her, and the locals around Moose Lake hung him for it. You narrowly escaped the mob that came for him and, at your master's very demanding behest, you fled the area. However, before you fled into the night, you returned to Ravenhurst Manor. Anaximanes had given you a key and told you of a puzzle box. Once while cleaning the mansion, you saw the last will and testament of Theodore Ravenhurst- Anaximanes’ father. It had been sitting on a desk, and curiosity got the better of you. Having learnt to read, you went through it. It spoke of odd things, ancient relics, a supposed vault, and all things you had never seen in the mansion. However, there was a part that talked of a puzzle box. It was ordered that it be specifically kept away from the other relics, so as to not taint them, and was in a safe hidden within the library. Following the directions, and the riddle in the will, you found a book, <i>Strange Discoveries of the Ancient World</i>, and when you pulled it, the bookcase opened. There, you found the puzzle box. However, you noticed, at the time, it had a keyhole, and could only be solved if first unlocked. Chiding yourself for your childish curiosity, you put the red and black box back, and shut the shelf, returning to your duties. Just before the angry mob arrived to lynch poor Mr. Ravenhurst, he pulled out his pocket watch, tapped the top three times, and it popped open revealing a key. He had probably read his father’s will a thousand times in his life, seeing it as one of the only links to his dead parents, and he knew how dire it was to his father that the puzzle box be guarded. He gave you the key, told you of the box, and there in the manor, you retrieved the strange item. Wrapping it in a blanket, you threw it into a locked chest with a few of your belongings, and carried it into the night, forever leaving Ravenhurst Manor, and your best friend, behind you. You also avoided the O’Reilly’s for fear of tarnishing their name. You made your way south, and then, wanting to distance yourself from the horrible memories you now endured, you decided to [[make your way west.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory13.jpg]]</div> You slowly made your way westward, eventually reaching Omaha, Nebraska. The different landscapes and climates of America were something to behold. Studying them helped occupy your mind. In Omaha, you worked as a farmhand a few months, which showed you how out of shape you became as a butler. Eventually, you had enough money to buy a ticket on the Transcontinental Railroad, and rode it all the way to its end in San Francisco, California. You heard that there were new cities and towns growing in a place called Oregon. Therefore, you followed the stories north, to [[Portland.|Oregon.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_lament" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_steamtrain" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory14.jpg]]</div> Once there, you began looking for new work yet again, and with your experience working at the docks of New York, you gained a job working the shipping ports. You unloaded cargo day and night. People told stories of men being shanghaied and forced to become sailors, which caused you concern. Keeping your guard up, you always kept an eye opened, worked hard, and went to bed at night thinking about everything you had endured in life. You felt so old, even back then, and that was over a hundred years ago. That became your life. Wake up, eat, work all day, eat, and then to bed. For three years, you did that. Granted, it was very different from what you thought your later days in life would be, but you were alive, healthy, and you even made the younger blokes look like slackers. The depression faded away in time, as you began to feel the pride you had as a hard [[working farmer.]] <<audio "se_steamtrain" stop>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory16.jpg]]</div> One day, you were unloading a ship that had sailed all the way from New York City. It brought back some memories, but you did not slow in your work. Most of it had been unloaded, but not all, and as the sun set, the younger men decided to leave. You did as you always had, and refused to stop until the job was done. You kept unloading. After the sunset, you felt strange- as if you were being watched. Scanning the docks, you saw not a soul. You continued on and finally pulled the last crate from the ship's hold. A cold chill ran up your spine. You felt like there was someone standing directly behind you. You felt a sense of dire dread, but in a strong voice proclaimed, <b>@@color: CadetBlue;"I'll not be shanghaied. I am Brone Lorcan, and I am sure you've heard the name. I'm not scared of you."@@</b> [[You turned around.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory17.jpg]]</div> When you turned, what you saw made your blood freeze. It was no slave master- it was a monster. A twisted, godless abomination. You showed no fear as long white-skinned arms reached around you, and a large, sharp-toothed mouth opened. You had a long life, and a good one, but for the hard times. In that moment you were ready for death! You regretted nothing, and as the creature's vile teeth sank into your neck, you prayed that the Lord would take your soul [[to heaven.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "ivor_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory18.jpg]]</div> A deep sigh escapes your lips, <b>@@color: Crimson;"What's the world come to?"@@</b> You reach the cells in the subterranean lair as your thoughts return to the present. You look at your hands. They seem to be getting worse- more gnarled. Long, spidery claws grow ever sharper. You are not only no longer human, you are devolving even past vampire. Nosferatu, is what they call those like yourself. Monsters even to monsters! Shaking your head, you casually open the metal-wrought door, and then descend deeper [[into the dungeon.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "nosferatu_city" volume 0.2 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory19.jpg]]</div> You merge with the shadows, and enter the cell room. Easily slipping through the bars, in this incorporeal state, you watch the woman you came down to check upon. Sadness always fills your heart when you visit her. You hate being stuck under the thumb of Ivor! You have longed to see him destroyed, to rid the world of that wretched creature, but something within you stays your hand. Because he created you, it seems as if you cannot directly harm him, but maybe, if she does not kill you first, the Van Gothen girl can be persuaded to do the cur in! <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Hello? Brone? Please tell me that you are lurking about and not that fucking Ivor."@@</b> [[You appear at her side.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory20.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Now, Clover, such language is unbecoming of the fairer sex."@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Hi Brone! I’m sorry, but I just hate Ivor! I know you do not like curse words, being an older gentleman."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Hah! Older indeed. Are you quite well?"@@</b> She looks around, <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Really? You are seriously asking if I am ok?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"You know my meaning, can I bring you anything?"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Brone, do you think it is cold down here?"@@</b> She looks miserable. It takes you a moment to register the question, <b>@@color: Crimson;"I see. I assume it is."@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Being a ghoul I... do you ever miss the warmth of the sun or even the chill of snow, Brone?"@@</b> You sigh, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Clover, my dear lady, do not think of such things. Try to keep your spirits up! That is why I visit you every night. You and I are both in this together. If you become depressed, I fear that I, too, may give up."@@</b> [[She puts a small gray hand on yours.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "clover_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory21.jpg]]</div> You think of the past again. The sun was warm, to be sure, and you remember Margaret O'Reilly. Clover, here, surely is Margaret reincarnated. You sense they are the same soul. Just as now, she was a lovely woman then. You recall the many times [[you saw her in Ireland and the States.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory22.jpg]]</div> The kindness of her and her husband never ceased to amaze you. You remember how she had cried, and how even Mr. O'Reilly himself had hurt as they watched Ireland fall apart. In over a century, you never saw two people love each other more than those two did. Soul mates for sure. [[Margaret always cared for you.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory23.jpg]]</div> You recall the promise you made to her on her first visit to see you at Ravenhurst Manor. You expressed your unending gratitude for her and her husband's good work, and promised, on your honor, you would forever be in their debt. You said you would repay her immense kindness someday, and though it took more than a hundred years, [[that day finally came.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory24.jpg]]</div> Several years ago, closer to present day, at the behest of the Witch, Ivor had expanded his operations. One such place was Las Vegas. According to the Eleanora, things would be prosperous there for the Ivor’s dark forces. Prosperous! More like preposterous! You watched the warehouse turn into nothing more than a killing floor. Men and women were kidnapped, brought in, and used like cattle for blood, or worse, they were mentally enslaved by the vampires- or even turned into ghouls! You could do nothing to stop Ivor. He is immensely powerful, but, you try to stay close to your foul master, biding your time until you can overthrow him. However, the injustices and murders have always torn your [[soul asunder within.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory25.jpg]]</div> Over time, people started poking around. There was a detective Riley, a truly tenacious man, which found his way into our den. You stood several nights in the shadows within an arm's length of him as he surveyed and stalked the complex. But, you recognized his face the moment you first saw him- there was no doubt- he was Mr. O'Reilly reincarnated! You let him watch as the slaves and victims came and went, hoping he would bring an end to this madness. Your patience paid off, for between the whispers of the Witch, and reports of enslaved police, Ivor knew they would soon descend on his warehouse. <b>@@color: Maroon;"Curse that human! Damn him! The Witch says we must go back to Portland. My slaves within the Las Vegas police tell me that tomorrow they will raid this place at noon. Hmm, that reminds me, I must ensure those police thralls disappear- I want no loose ends. Tonight, Brone, you will help me remove and cull the living humans here. The Witch will use magic to ensure that this all looks as if no one has been here in years. By the dawn, we shall be back in Portland- but not you- you will reap my vengeance on this Riley. The Witch says you must kill him and his family, yet you are to bring his wife to me. According to the Witch, if I can break his wife, and make her my willing bride, then, I shall be made invincible. Invincibility! Besides, I remember how fun it is to corrupt and enslave the wives of my enemies- oh the look on Van Gothen’s face when he had to kill his own wife and family! Now, go!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Certainly, Lord Ivor. I live to serve."@@</b> You would not break your word to the O'Reilly's, and you fumed that Ivor would escape justice, but you came up with a plan. You would retain your honor as a man, and at the same time, you could, mayhap, as you had done from the shadows many other times- ruin Lord Ivor’s plans. You would let Walter Riley and his daughter live, and you would take his wife, but you would do all you could to help his wife withstand the mental and emotional degradations that you knew Ivor would use to break her down until she would beg to do whatever he wanted. The next night, you climbed from a shallow grave at a Las Vegas cemetery and flew into the night [[as a bat.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "ivor_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory26.jpg]]</div> You flew to Riley's home and found him sitting in his driveway inside his automobile. You melted into the shadows and waited for him to go inside. As he reached the home, your hands wrapped around his throat and you cut off his air so that he could not yell, <b>@@color: Crimson;“I remember you, you know, you and your wife. I have seen your souls before- you two always manage to find each other. True love, ah, maybe... Do not scream- you understand, me?"@@</b> He nodded frantically. You only barely released his neck so he could breathe, but so that you could cut him off, if need be. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I watched your name change over history, O’Reilly which became just Riley. Mr. Riley. I tried to save you, because I owe you for your kindness upon a time—"@@</b> For a moment you looked down, remembering the past, but then, you turned back, and stared into the mortal's trembling eyes. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Your persistence is quite magnificent! However, old friend, it has become deadly. My lord has sent me to kill you and your daughter, and claim your Clover for himself."@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"No!... ack!"@@</b> Again, you were forced to silence him! You became quite annoyed. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Mr. Riley, please, you must understand, I could have as easily snuffed out your life as a candle. I do not find joy in killing, and I promised, long ago, on my honor, that I would repay your kindness for helping me with my old master, Anaximanes of Ravenhurst Manor. Do not force me to do what I do not desire to."@@</b> He raised his hands in defeat, so you again loosened your grip. <b>@@color: #756049;"Ah..."@@</b> Riley caught his breath again, <b>@@color: #756049;"I don't understand, please!"@@</b> Your heart dropped. This was a good man, and now you were about to ruin his life, <b>@@color: Crimson;"I know. I am sorry, but you must invite me into your home so that I can take Clover. You, and Rose, you will both be safe and alive. However, I cannot return empty handed, or my lord will know I did not slay you and your kin. He would then come for you, himself, and that would surely be your demise. Now, please, good sir, invite me into your lovely home so that this ugly business can be dealt with."@@</b> You saw turmoil in the man's eyes, but he finally said aloud, <b>@@color: #756049;"Please... please come in."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Thank you, Mr. Riley."@@</b> You easily picked the human up, glided across his lawn, and set him at his front door. You then bowed and gestured politely towards the home. <b>@@color: Crimson;"After you, my good man."@@</b> He hesitated for a moment, but then [[he opened the door.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_clover" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory27.jpg]]</div> You heard him go inside, and his lovely wife came into the living room. You had seen her photo before, given to your master by one of the enslaved police, and you knew that it was Margaret O'Reilly. These two had found each other after two lifetimes, and again you felt horrible. You were about to separate them. You decided the time had come. <b>@@color: #756049;"No, it's worse! I... I was right about the vampires, and..."@@</b> You rushed in behind Walter. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Hello, Mrs. Riley, I am Mr. Lorcan. At your service."@@</b> You bowed low and put out a hand to take Clover's and kiss it. Her face froze in horror, and you could see a scream stuck in her throat. You remembered that these two had no idea of their past lives and titles. You had, out of old habit, reacted towards her as you had the late Mrs. O'Reilly. You stood up again, towering over them both. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Ahem, yes, well as I said, I am Mr. Lorcan. But, please, dear lady, do call me Brone."@@</b> It looked as if she might scream! Riley tried to calm her down, <b>@@color: #756049;"No! Don't scream! I don't want Rose wrapped up in any of this!"@@</b> Clover seemed to have the same thought, and put a hand to her mouth. Her eyes were wide with terrified confusion. <b>@@color: Orchid;"Walter, what the hell is happening?"@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"I'm not sure, I even understand, but—"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Pardon me for interrupting! I want to, foremost, apologize for this situation. I have been forced to intercede due to Mr. Riley's impeccable sleuth abilities. Outstanding, really. He stumbled onto an operation that my lord has been running. One which produced an abundance of what, my forlorn kind, too easily refer to as resources and material. That is- the living."@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"This has to be a joke!"@@</b> You could see that trademark Margaret passion begin to burn inside her! <b>@@color: Crimson;"No, though I wish it was. You see, Mrs. Riley. I am to kill your family and take you back to my lord as a prize. This was to be the penalty brought upon you by your husband's detective work. The operation had too many eyes upon it, and so, we had to move it elsewhere. You will accompany me, and I will spare your husband and child."@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"No... no! Walt, please!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"My dear lady, pray, I beg you to remain calm."@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Calm? You are a vampire! Walt, I love you! I always have, but you can't let--”@@</b> Suddenly Clover swayed slightly on her feet as you used your [[hypnotic powers on her.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory28.jpg]]</div> Concern crossed Walter's face. <b>@@color: #756049;"C-Clover?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"I am sorry, Mr. Riley. I had to dominate her mind. Unfortunate, really, I do not like using my powers."@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"Make her normal again, please!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Sir, I shan't do that. She has proven to be as fiery as I recall her spirit in the last century. She is quite all right, I assure you. Clover, are you scared?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"No, Master. I feel very nice."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"See? She's in no pain whatsoever."@@</b> In anger, Riley turned and grabbed your collar, <b>@@color: #756049;"I'll kill you if something happens to my Clover!"@@</b> You lightly, and firmly, not to mention quite easily, removed his hands as he winced in pain. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Blast it, man! I have to do this!"@@</b> you hissed, your patience fully spent, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Now! Go to Rose, and I plead to your sensibilities- stop looking into this. I know you love your wife, and I can promise, based on all I have seen, if the past is any indicator, you two shall meet again. But, for now, I <i>must</i> take her!"@@</b> Tears swelled in Riley's eyes as his attention turned to his enthralled wife. <b>@@color: #756049;"Clover, I love you, I won't stop looking for you."@@</b> You felt so bad for your old friend. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Clover, tell your husband your feelings for him."@@</b> In a voice void of all emotion, she spoke, <b>@@color: Orchid;"Yes master. I love you, Walter. I have since the day we met. I will always love you. I feel that nothing can ever keep us apart."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"There! She's telling no thumper- that is the truth. Now, we must leave, Clover. Come with me."@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Yes Master. I will come with you."@@</b> You watched as Clover calmly walked over to you, and you daintily took her hand. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Mr. Riley, my condolences, but please, take care, sir. Good evening."@@</b> In a shadowy gust, you [[carried her off to a terrible fate.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory29.jpg]]</div> You easily covered the miles between Las Vegas and Portland. As an undead monster, even carrying a grown woman, you could easily slide up shadows, climb over mountains, and rush down dark roads. You grudgingly brought her to Ivor. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Here she is, sire. Just as you requested."@@</b> <b>@@color: Maroon;"Very well done... and not too bad to look at. Why did you dominate her?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"She is very spirited my lord. I had no choice. No choice."@@</b> You felt like a louse for doing that to her, but it truly was for the greater good. <b>@@color: Maroon;"And- what of the detective and his daughter?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"Dead, of course. The permanent kind. It was not hard at all, a single mortal and his fourteen year old daughter."@@</b> <b>@@color: Maroon;"Excellent. Now, fool, give her mind back- let the widow Riley see her future husband! Hah!"@@</b> You fight back the memories of the ordeals that Ivor put her through. Though, you kept tabs on her husband, the very one that you claimed to have killed. [[Walter became as broken as Clover.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "clover_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory30.jpg]]</div> Every month or two, you would trek back to Las Vegas and check on Mr. Riley. He became a slave to alcohol, took up smoking, and suffered crippling depression. His daughter, Rose, grew up and moved away. Walter kept his secret about that night for years, but once his little girl moved out, he grew bold- bold and suicidal. You feared with all the attention he received from radio and local television that you would learn of his demise at the hands of some supernatural creature, but the populace simply laughed. No one took him seriously, assuming he was a drunkard whose wife had abandoned him. You kept observing Mr. Riley over the years, and Clover's heart broke ever more as you would relay what you learned. Eventually, so much bad news took its toll on her, and she could stand it no more. So, though you took immense risk, you stole her away into the night and [[brought her to Walter.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory31.jpg]]</div> You and Clover watched as her husband stepped out of a bar called The Commonwealth, his legs wobbly from the drink, yet he sobered up when he saw his wife. <b>@@color: #756049;"Clover!"@@</b> She stepped out of the shadows with you at her side. <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Yes, it's me. When Brone told me that you had given up on life, I didn't believe it. Walt, why?"@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"Why? Because of that, that, <i>thing</i> right there! It stole you from me!"@@</b> You felt guilty again for interrupting their life. You had seen no other choice, however, hearing the former O'Reilly speak down to you added to the pain. She looked back at you and then back to him, <b>@@color: DarkGray;"Brone? He is a friend. Please, do not say such hurtful things about him!"@@</b> Walter put a hand to his forehead in disbelief, <b>@@color: #756049;"Hurtful? Fuck you, vampire! C'mon Clover, let's run!"@@</b> He grabbed her hand and then froze in shock. You knew he must have noticed that she bore a striking resemblance to a corpse. Sighing, you shook your head. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I shall leave you two alone, for a moment."@@</b> You went into the shadows, and lurked along the alley for a while, until you spotted a car coming towards the three of you. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Mrs. Riley. We must be away."@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"You are my wife, Clove, please; you do not have to go!"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGray;"I do, or you and Rose will be killed, and I will become something terrible. Find someone else, Walt, take up a hobby, and love our daughter, just, let go! You need to live life!"@@</b> You sensed life forces advancing towards you, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Come, hurry, mortals approach!"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGray;"I love you, Walter!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #756049;"I love you too, my lucky Clover!"@@</b> Then, you wrapped your cloak around her and returned to the shadows. You felt so bad for— [[Ivor suddenly screams at you!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory32.jpg]]</div> Your mind slams back to the present as Ivor demands your attention. <b>@@color: Maroon;"You! What are you doing in this cell with Clover?"@@</b> You quickly think of a lie, <b>@@color: Crimson;"I merely wanted to ensure she was still your prisoner, and more so, I wanted to see how far you had come on breaking her into your willing concubine, sire."@@</b> His eyes narrow and then he looks past you to her, <b>@@color: Maroon;"She is strong. Beyond anything I anticipated. Some force... some... <i>thing</i> protects her. No matter what spells the witch tries— they too fail to disenchant it. But, eventually, she will be mine!"@@</b> He floats to Clover, roughly grabbing her chin so she looks up at him, <b>@@color: Maroon;"We have all the time in the world, don't we, woman?"@@</b> Then his burning eyes glare back at you, <b>@@color: Maroon;"Get going! Tonight, I win a new prize!"@@</b> As he stares at you, you see Clover look around his shoulder at you, her face showing that she understands. [[You slink back into the Shanghai Tunnels.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "ivor_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory33.jpg]]</div> The tunnels beneath Portland snake under the city. They provide a great haven for undead such as you. You have lived here for almost a century, so you know every nook and cranny. [[However...]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_default" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory34.jpg]]</div> Occasionally, a tunnel collapses... such as this one. You growl! This was the way to reach your destination above ground. Vampires grow weak in water, the very opposite of the earthly element that binds you. You cannot cross this. That means— you glance back into the darkness behind you. There is another way to reach the building you seek, but now you will have to take a risk. Ringlers Pub connects to the tunnels. You could become mist, slip through the cracks in the wall, and reach your destination, but it will not be dark. You could be seen. You hesitate. The other option would be to traverse the city above ground, but until very late at night, that is dangerous. There are always monster hunters lurking in the shadows and alleys. [[You decide to remain below ground.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory35.jpg]]</div> You know you are much closer to the surface. Electric lamps light the tunnels now. You are very close. Moving as quickly as you can, you try to find the way out. You do not like being as vulnerable as light makes you. Finally you reach a wall of stone and brick, and you are certain on the other side is the underground pub. You will yourself into a fog. You assume if water could feel, and it became steam, it would feel as you do. You feel light and yet thick. [[You stream through one of the cracks.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory36.jpg]]</div> You feel yourself congeal, and soon you feel solid again. You are inside the pub, and the mortals at the bar have not noticed you. You stoop low, again becoming a fog, and roll [[along the ground.]] <<audio "se_bar_pub" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory37.jpg]]</div> You slide outside, unnoticed, and solidify yet again. In the darkness of night, you slip into the shadows, and in this realm, you are invisible to humans. You circle the building and see McMenamins, which is where Lola's Room can be found. There are several people coming and going and you find it hard to remain in the shadows. [[You see fliers on the ground.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "aa_song" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory38.jpg]]</div> Hmm... Absinthe and Arsenic? Absinthe is a drink you recall from your living, human days. They often called it the 'Green Fairy'. The damn Witch's prophecy! One of these women is the Green Fairy. At least you can find your target now. You can hear the music inside. Shaking your head, you slither into the building and try to make your way upstairs. What happened to music? You make your way to [[Lola's Room.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory39.jpg]]</div> The music is far louder and there are so many people! The lights, the sounds, and the crowd fill you with anxious dread! Any, or all, of these people would flee from you into the night from fear, but this room is a hell for you. You glimpse the band from the flier on the stage, the red haired girl singing— you feel something. Her blood and power dwarfs the rest of the humans. They feel weak to you— yet her blood— her blood screams of immense life power! You lick your lips. No! No! Never let into the beast! You will not feed on the living! You will not become like them, like Ivor. You exit [[back into the street.]] <<audio "aa_song" volume 0.4>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory40.jpg]]</div> You walk in the shadows, invisible once more, and far more comfortable. A place overflowing with life would once have been welcomed, but now, you feel so old and gray. You are nothing but a walking corpse, dead inside, fearful to be feared. You sulk in the night, the memories of your past haunting you again. You watch for hours as the people begin to go home, keeping a watchful eye out for your target. Finally, after midnight, you see the girl. She signs a couple of autographs, and then she and her band mates walk down the street. You stealthily follow behind them, until they reach some apartments. They go inside, and you go up to the door. You cannot enter a home without being invited! You chide yourself for not simply plucking her away from her friends. You can only stalk the perimeter of her home. Finally, luck is on your side! At just after 2 a.m. she steps out of the building. There are a few people here and there, but she is virtually alone. She seems to be going on a walk. You wait until she turns down a deserted street, and you [[make your move!|make you move!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_default" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory41.jpg]]</div> Clearing your throat, you smile, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Pardon me, my lady. I am Mr. Lorcan. And you are?"@@</b> She turns to you. <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the fuck?"@@</b> she laughs slightly, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Only in Portland!"@@</b> You are momentarily confused. Usually, at this point, the female has screamed or turned to run. Yet, she laughs at you? <b>@@color: Crimson;"Miss, I do apologize for interrupting your nightly stroll. But, I must insist that you come with me."@@</b> Now she looks agitated. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Ok, ok. It <i>was</i> funny, but now, I think you've had your fun, Dracula. I can handle myself fine. So, just back off."@@</b> She is not one for manners, [[it seems.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_2" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory42.jpg]]</div> You snarl at her, but manage to fight the urge to attack. Being a nosferatu means you constantly fight your undead nature to try and remain a gentleman. It is excruciatingly hard, and moments like this make it ever more so. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I tell you, truly, I do not desire to harm you. You do not know the situation. If you will, please, my dear, come with me, I will explain everything to you."@@</b> She begins chuckling, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Look, weirdo, that's either a mask or someone beat you to death with an ugly stick. You are a joke! You do not scare me. I have had a hard life, and I know how to fight. Just get your high ass home, and let me enjoy the quiet of the night."@@</b> You deeply sigh, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Very well. I gave you ample chances. If you will not come with me willingly, then@@</b> [[I shall enslave you!]]<b>@@color: Crimson;"@@</b>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory43.jpg]]</div> You fly into her face, and you feel your will burn behind your eyes, @@.Brone;"That's it, look into my eyes! You obey <i>me</i>, mortal!"@@ She does not react quickly enough, and you can feel her own mind caught within your power. You grasp it tightly within your mind, <b>@@color: Crimson;"There... there we...”@@</b> she fights harder than any mortal you have encountered, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Grr... there, I have you."@@</b> Her eyes glaze over. <b>@@color: #a73865;"You have me."@@</b> You still feel her willpower struggle to free it from your own, <b>@@color: Crimson;"You truly are powerful. You will follow me down into the tunnels below. We have much to discuss and I need to keep you safe until—”@@</b> You feel your hypnotic hold shatter like a glass, and in that instant of incertitude [[she strikes you hard!]] <<audio "quote_brone_3" play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory44.jpg]]</div> Her blow sends you backwards into the wall. No mortal has ever laid a blow to you since your conversion! No human has ever broken your mind control before! She stares in disbelief at her own strength, and then she turns and runs into the night toward Forest Park. You lean against the wall trying to make sense of this. One punch from such a small woman knocked you back as if an automobile had crashed into you. Ivor should, indeed, fear this female. She is the ally you have waited for! You finally have an opportunity to end that damned vampire's vile reign once and for all— [[assuming she does not kill you first!|assuming she does not kill you first…]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_amb_6" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_punch" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory45.jpg]]</div> Pushing yourself back on your feet, you hope to cut her off before she reaches the park, and you [[give chase.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory46.jpg]]</div> You know she ran this way, but you do not sense her powerful life force. You will not be able to find her on foot, so you transform into a bat. She has caused you to use many of the powers in your arsenal. She must surely be Van Gothen's descendant. You idly wonder as you flap about, how did she come to be? The vampires as a whole tried to destroy his bloodline. Yet, a single Van Gothen still exists, and after just one brief meeting, you now comprehend why the undead feared him so much. Suddenly, you catch her scent and track her to Forest Park! You were hoping to catch her before she reached this place. It is more of a wilderness than a park, but using your bat wings, [[you ascend into the sky above.]] <<audio "se_bat_form" volume 0.3 play>> <<audio "se_wings" volume 0.7 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory49.jpg]]</div> Though you have the form of a monstrous bat, you are no ordinary flying rodent, and you scan below with sharp eyesight. You circle for some time before you notice a woman following the river to the edge of a small lake. She naturally boasts incredible power, so much so that she clobbered you with a single blow, and that was upon dry land! If you get into the water, you will become weaker than the average mortal, assuring your demise. If she would only listen to you! You only then notice the girl step into the lake and walk out towards- a corpse? No! That is no corpse! [[It is a rusalka!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_wind" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory50.jpg]]</div> You swoop down and metamorphosis into your vampire form, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Girl! Do not go to her! I cannot get into the water; I cannot save you!"@@</b> She is waist deep in the water, and turns to you, <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the fuck! How did you find me? Did you kill her! Stay away from me!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"No! I did not have anything to do with her demise. She must have died here. That is a rusalka! She is the spirit of a woman that has drowned."@@</b> You watch the lithe, pallid form stand and silently walk through the water towards the girl! Your desire to save this woman from her own ignorance exponentially grows as you watch the undead creature approach her. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Oh dear me! You need to come here! Please, I cannot get into the water!"@@</b> [[You helplessly watch the water spirit rise up behind the Van Gothen woman.|You helplessly watch the water spirit rise up behind the Van Helsing woman.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_ghost" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory51.jpg]]</div> The woman's eyes have not left you. <b>@@color: #a73865;"You freak! So, you can't swim? Well I can! I will swim away from you, and I am going to tell the police--"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"She is behind you! Hurry! Please, give me your hand, get out of that blasted water!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"You expect me to believe—"@@</b> She glances slightly over her shoulder, and spins around standing face to face with the undead female. <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the actual fuck?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Teal;"Kiss me."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"What is happening tonight! This has to be a dream!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"No, it is not! This is no dream, come back to me!"@@</b> You reach out but cannot quite touch her! <b>@@color: Crimson;"Give me your hand, I beg of you, please!"@@</b> She seems to be lost in the black almond-shaped eyes of the specter. <b>@@color: Crimson;"No, no! Do not look into her eyes! She is a type of ghost, not a vampire! I don't know if your powers will protect you from—"@@</b> <b>@@color: Teal;"Kiss me."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Yes. I will kiss you... No... no... I won't!"@@</b> The lake spirit's face twists into horrid anger. <b>@@color: Teal;"You! How did you free your mind, morsel?"@@</b> Your heart stops (or would have if it even did still beat) as you helplessly watch the ghost woman latch onto your target and pull [[her down into the water!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory52.jpg]]</div> You gawk as you see that she still reaches above the water. You have never witnessed anyone be able to stay up like this when a rusalka has them within their tenacious grasp. Her powers must be stalwart against all undead, not just vampires, for her to be able to achieve this feat. Shaking your head in disbelief, you reach as far as you dare, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Take my hand- take it!"@@</b> Her head comes above the water, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck no! You are both trying to kill me! Let go bitch!"@@</b> You can tell from her movements that she kicks the ghost off her leg. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Leave me alone!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"I plead again, you will drown! I beg to your sensibilities, and I promise I shall not harm you in the least. Please take my hand!"@@</b> You see her consider it. Maybe she can sense your concern, or maybe she plans to pull you in, but she swims towards you and reaches for your hand, <b>@@color: #a73865;"If you murder me, I swear I will kill you!"@@</b> Just as her hand reaches yours, [[she vanishes with a splash!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory53.jpg]]</div> You stare at the water. Baring your fangs, you hiss in anger. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Why would you not listen, child?"@@</b> You see the splashing stop and can make out their shapes. You can tell the rusalka has her now, and the seconds tick by. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Oh bothersome burdens!"@@</b> You quickly think about your powers. A bat, fog, hypnotism, invisibility, and more—but water stops everything! Not in an age have you felt so utterly powerless. [[You watch bubbles form.]] <<audio "se_splash" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory54.jpg]]</div> How long can mortals hold their breath? It has been over a hundred years since you even thought about it. You see no other option. If you wade out a few steps, you could pull her up, but she might kill you because you will be vulnerable. You may even become so weak that you might not be able to pull her up at all. You had heard stories of vampires being weighted and thrown into water where they will spend eternity, eventually losing their minds to the hunger for blood. Yet, if you risk your life to save this girl, you might save countless people, vicariously, by helping her destroy Ivor! You make up your mind! You can tarry no more! Splashing into the water, you instantly feel sluggish. You reach down and grab the girl’s hair, pulling with all your strength! The rusalka tries to fight and holds onto the girl's clothes, but the fabric of the shirt and pants rip, tearing them off. You are certain that you are hurting the poor lass by tugging her hair against the opposite, rough pulls of the rusalka, but the Van Gothen girl's thick hair holds! You manage to pull the naked woman away from her predator, and you get [[her onto the land.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory55.jpg]]</div> She gasps for air and spits up water, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Thank—"@@</b> she coughs more as you slap her on the back to help get water out, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Thank you... I—"@@</b> she takes a few deep breaths, <b>@@color: #a73865;"I thought I would die. I kind of wanted to die."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"That was the rusalka's influence. She wanted to drown you. You would have become like her. You would have forever haunted this water, with her, finding others to drag down after dark for their souls. Men die gruesome deaths, but a woman that a rusalka drowns, becomes a rusalka herself."@@</b> The watery woman springs up at the edge of the lake near you both, yet you hear not a single splash. <b>@@color: Teal;"You horrid, ugly nosferatu! You dare taint my lair with your touch! You steal my treasure!"@@</b> You stare at the ghost and say nothing. Even the undead creatures of the world find nosferatu to be hideous. You are an outcast in a sea of outcasts. Then her black eyes turn back to the nude girl, <b>@@color: Teal;"Please. Come back to me. We will pleasure each other under the waves in the day, and at night, we will lounge in the mud and find more women to become like us!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck off, bitch!"@@</b> The strong woman retorts, yet at the same time, she steps behind you for safety. Does she trust you to protect her? Taking the role, you step forward and let anger flare in your voice, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Be gone! Be gone from us, mistress of the lake, you shall find no lover in this beautiful and spirited girl!"@@</b> The pale apparition descends silently under the water. [[You turn to the girl...]] <<audio "se_splash" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory56.jpg]]</div> Your eyes linger on her. The moonlight and water follow voluptuous curves and for a moment you forget your hideous visage. She is ripe for the taking! Her blood courses with strength as her heart beats so quickly from her near death experience. You want to drain her dry! Yes! Then you will have your way with her corpse until she awakens tomorrow- your unholy servant bent on destroying Ivor and making you the Master of the undead! No! No, no, the blood lust, the evil, the corruption! For a hundred years, you have fought off that poison, those terrible thoughts and desires. This woman is like a drug, a temptation, something you need and want, but cannot have! You have not felt this in— ever. You quell your beastly desires. That hard moment passes quickly, and you are a gentleman again- not a monster. You quickly turn your head away. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I do apologize for my unbecoming behavior. My name, again, is Brone. Mr. Brone Lorcan. I did not mean to look at you so shamefully, dear—?"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Abigail. Absinthe."@@</b> She sighs, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Abby. Just call me Abby. And, sure you meant to look. Men always do— you can if you want. Don't I look lovely, like you said?"@@</b> You fidget with your claws, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Quite so. Indeed. Though it would be unbecoming of me to gawk at nudity- regardless of the beauty thereof."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Are you for real? You are really a vampire?"@@</b> You cannot believe how well she handles all of these revelations of the dark world around her. Perhaps it comes with Van Gothen blood. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I am. I am both <i>for real</i>, whatever that means, as well as a vampire. A nosferatu, more specifically."@@</b> You take off your frock coat and shirt, handing the articles to her while averting your eyes. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I am certain you must be chilled to the bone, milady. Do take this and put it on. We have much to discuss and I do not desire you to catch cold."@@</b> [[She pauses for a moment and then takes it.|Chap2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_2" volume 0.3 loop play>>

[[Continue the story.|Chap2 [[Back to the beginning...|Main <<stopallaudio>> <<set $Chapter2 to true>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory2.jpg]]</div> You blow smoke towards the man talking to you. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Toby, why do you always have to be so straight edge? It's annoying!"@@</b> Your girlfriend, Scarlett, agrees as she lights one up too. <b>@@color: Magenta;"Yeah, Toby. Let her live a little! We are young, hot, and fucked up!"@@</b> You make a kissy face at her and she makes a letter V with her fingers and licks through it. [[Tobias is not impressed.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory3.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"I would expect this kind of behavior from <i>her</i>"@@</b>, he says, his eyes looking at Scarlett as he nods in her direction, <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"But, not <i>you</i>."@@</b> You take another drag, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Why Toby? Because I am the innocent girl you met in elementary school?"@@</b> You clasp your hands together and hold them against your cheek, the cigarette protruding out, and you make puppy eyes. <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"No. I mean, yeah, you are the same girl, but—"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Tobias, seriously! We have the same argument every damn time there is a show and you see me smoking cigarettes, pot, or getting wasted. Chill- the- fuck- out."@@</b> He just turns and leaves the shared apartment, stomping down the [[wooden stairs.|He just turns and leaves the shared apartment, stomping down the wooden stairs.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory4.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Really, Abby? You can be such a bitch- he has always been in love with you!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck off, Sylvain! I am not in the mood for all this. I just wanted to enjoy a cigarette, calm down, and then head out to do our show over at McMenamins. I know Toby has always liked me. But, hell, he knows the shit I went through in childhood with my adopted parents. He knows what— what my so-called father did to me. I don't know how to even have a real relationship."@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Well it still does not give you the right to treat one of the only people that care about you like that."@@</b> The longhaired man sighs, <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"I'll go check on him."@@</b> [[You watch him go.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory5.jpg]]</div> Maybe you are <i>too</i> mean sometimes. You just do not feel like anyone understands you. You have never felt like you fit into society. Darker things have always held attraction with you, and you were seen as odd by the other kids in school because of several reasons, one of which was your crush on Robert Smith and love of his band, The Cure. Most kids born in the 90's had very different tastes than you. You had always been creative too, and your artwork depicted romantic, yet dark things, like a well-dressed vampire suckling the pale neck of a woman in bed as she held his head against her, quickening the beautiful death that would soon claim her soul and bind her forever to his power. Other kids bullied Tobias because of his smaller stature, and he clung to you for protection. You never backed down from a fight. The things you liked, he liked by proxy, and over the years other misfits like yourself came together until you formed a band. You were always the one in charge, and you are an asshole by nature, not to mention fairly raunchy, but you accept that, and as far as you are concerned, if people want to be your friend- they have to accept that too. [[Scarlett laughs.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory6.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Magenta;"Damn, Abby!"@@</b> and then she says, in a mocking tone, <b>@@color: Magenta;"You're such a bitch!"@@</b> She laughs again, <b>@@color: Magenta;"Toby is the <i>real</i> bitch if you ask me."@@</b> You smile, <b>@@color: #a73865;"I know. He is such a whimp, but— I don't know. Maybe, I should be nicer, but I can't help myself. I'm pissed off at the world, at life, and everything. I don't need someone telling me not to smoke, or drink... or fuck."@@</b> She pulls her top down. <b>@@color: Magenta;"I wouldn't mind doing that last one right now, slut."@@</b> She flips you off and takes a swig of whiskey. You smile, and flip her off in return, putting your middle fingers against your tongue. <b>@@color: Magenta;"Yeah, Abby- that right there. Use that!"@@</b> You two first fooled around in High School. Toby was jealous, but he was never your boyfriend anyway. You never have had a real boyfriend or girlfriend, though Scarlett has been in your life a decade now. You two still have sex every now and then, and you both have a lot in common- the main thing being that neither of you want anything other than to have fun. No strings, no vows, no stress, and besides, if you ever did fall in love with each other, it would not work out because she is as dominant as you are. [[You would probably crash and burn.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory8.jpg]]</div> Suddenly Fawn Everett, the other girl in the room, says, <b>@@color: Orchid;"You two can fuck if you want. I've been playing with myself for half an hour and no one even notices."@@</b> You put out your cigarette, <b>@@color: #a73865;"We have gotten used to it, you narcissistic pervert."@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Mmm... I can't help it. I am hot, and I love it. I wish I could clone myself and just—"@@</b> You zone out as she continues. Fawn is conceited, egotistical, and spoiled, and sometimes, seems insane. Her family is rich because her dad leads some technology company in Cali, and there is no reason she should have to share this apartment with the other four of you, she could afford much better. Also, she is extremely attracted to herself. Her vanity knows no bounds. [[Scarlett steps up in front of you.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory9.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Magenta;"Seriously, do you want to fuck before the show, because I really want to."@@</b> You kiss her deeply, tasting the alcohol on her breath, <b>@@color: #a73865;"We don't have time. We need to get over there and do the mic checks, get everything set up, and then play for the fans!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Magenta;"Fine, but after the gig, I want you!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"I'm all yours, lover,"@@</b> you say as you kiss her again, and then turn towards Fawn. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fawn, I need to use the mirror."@@</b> [[Her reflection looks up at you.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory10.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Well, if you must."@@</b> She stands up and walks away, glancing back at herself on last time. <b>@@color: Orchid;"I'm heading downstairs."@@</b> Scarlett puts an arm around you, admiring your reflection. <b>@@color: Magenta;"You look hot like this. I love it."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Thanks, babe."@@</b> You give your mirror image a wicked grin, and then the two of you head downstairs. The boys and Fawn wait below. <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"I'm sorry I acted like that, Abby."@@</b> Toby is just so submissive. Only he would apologize when you are the cruel one. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Whatever. Ok, let's go."@@</b> [[You all walk down the street together.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory11.jpg]]</div> Everyone talks and begins to cheer up as you walk down the streets until you arrive at the McMenamins-Ringlers Annex Building. There are already people waiting for your band, and you see some of your groupies handing out fliers. [[You take one.]] It is always surreal to see yourself on something like this. Such a cliché look, but the whole Goth/punk scene here tonight probably finds the campy fliers to be cool. Everyone sets up equipment and you do a few sound checks. There are some technicians on hand that test the lights. Eventually when everyone is ready, they start letting people up to the second floor, and Lola's Room fills up quickly. [[You begin the show!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_street_busy" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory12.jpg]]</div> You all begin playing. The music fills the room, and the lights flash. You feel the energy of the crowd and it enlivens you. Everything flows so well, and the show goes great. There is a point in the night when you feel a strange chill, some sensation as if you are being watched, but of course, you are. Still, that few seconds makes you uneasy inside. [[The show continues...]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "aa_song" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory13.jpg]]</div> You all do great. At the end of the show, you play your band's signatures song: <b>@@color: #a73865;What's the world come to When everything's going the way of the gun What's the world come to If life is a shadow of what has been done I want you to know Don't take it slow Just come undone And the sin will take hold I can't hold it back It's too much to ask You know the way You're up to the task But please don't ever say What's the world come to When bullets are all that you can understand What's the world come to When all that I touch will leave blood on my hands I want you to know Don't take it slow Just come undone And the sin will take hold I can't hold it back It's too much to ask You know the way You're up to the task But please don't ever say What's the world come to What's it all come to Nothing to see through It's all been spoken Shattered and broken Give it to me Don't tell me What's the world come to@@</b> Once the show ends, sweat covers you, and you feel exhausted in a good way. The crowd loved the show, and you all pack up some of your things, and everyone [[heads back to the apartment.|Tobias begins to berate your actions.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory15.jpg]]</div> The whole way home, Scarlett and Toby have little arguments. You do not know if Scar can even love just one person, or if she is polyamorous. Or she might be afraid of commitment, as you are, but whatever the case, she seems to be jealous of him and he seems to be jealous of her. You are first inside, and you light up a cigarette and fall back into the chair. Of course, immediately, Tobias berates your actions. <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"Abby! Why are you smoking again?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Magenta;"God damn, Toby, leave her alone!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Listen, both of you. You need to calm down! I will do whatever the fuck I want. Toby, you are not my father, shit, I don't even know who the hell my real dad is, but I know what I am doing. I am an adult!"@@</b> You take a long drag and exhale, <b>@@color: #a73865;"I just want to calm down. You are both stressing me out."@@</b> The straight-edged Toby interjects, <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"But, you could end up addicted. Those cancer sticks don't really calm you down. They lower the oxygen levels in your blood and—"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Stop. I do not need a lecture. Let's get to the root of it. Let's just be open about it all, Tobias. You have loved me since we were little kids. You always did what I did (with the exception of your non-smoking and drinking) and you always have wanted to be with me. As far as I know you are still a virgin, even with all the girls you could have that come to the shows."@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"I'm saving myself for you; I want it to be special."@@</b> [[You put out your cigarette, lean back, and spread your legs.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_2" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory16.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: #a73865;"You want me? Come here and have me. There is only a thin piece of latex between you and my cunt. Let's finally do this. Pop your cherry! Be a man- and take me!"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Oh my god!"@@</b> you hear Sylvain bemoan from a corner of the room. You can hear Fawn giggling. Scarlett exclaims, <b>@@color: Magenta;"If you won't, then I am going to have her, myself! That's so hot, Abby."@@</b> [[Toby stares at you.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory17.jpg]]</div> You can plainly see a mix of emotions broil within his mind. He looks like he might cry, or might take you up on the offer, or that he might even slap you- which you would at least respect. You would probably respond well being dominated by a man you offer yourself to. Instead, he folds his arms and looks disgusted. <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"You know."@@</b> His voice wavers as though he might choke up, but then he continues, <b>@@color: DarkKhaki;"Until tonight, right now, I did love you. I have always thought we would end up together. I wanted to be with you, and I see... I see clearly that I wasted my time. You do not love me. You will never love me. And, you are just a dick. You always push people away, and then when you do not get attention, you come back, demanding it from those of which you alienated yourself. I'm going to my room now. I do not know if I want to live here anymore, or even stay in the band."@@</b> He pauses as if waiting for you to respond. [[You stand up and walk towards him and Scarlett.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory18.jpg]]</div> You stand before him, and since you are a foot taller, you look down into his tear-filled eyes. <b>@@color: #a73865;"You can go. You can run away. You do whatever the hell you want, little Toby."@@</b> Then you laugh right in his face. <b>@@color: #a73865;"I do not even care."@@</b> Maybe you hate yourself and you do this because you are an emotional masochist, someone that wants to be deeply loved but doesn’t know how to do anything but feel pain and commit self-destruction. Maybe you are sadistic and treat people like this because you want to see people and the world hurt just like you do. Maybe you do love Toby, and you know you are a broken toy that could never be fixed, so you love him enough to protect him from being dragged down and broken by you. Whatever the reason, he quietly turns, walks into his room, and softly closes the door. [[Then you turn to Scarlett.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory19.jpg]]</div> She holds her guitar, and you pull it down and then deeply kiss her. You hold the kiss for a long while as your tongue dances about her own, and when you break away, she turns her head and gasps for air. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Let's fuck right now. You are better for me than Toby, and we both know that neither of us will ever love the other one more than we love ourselves."@@</b> <b>@@color: Magenta;"Fuck yeah, babe. Sex for the sex god!"@@</b> [[Sylvain objects.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory20.jpg]]</div> You look over to him as he interjects, <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Fuck you Abby. I am not sticking around for this shit. You should feel ashamed."@@</b> He does not go to his room; rather, he goes down the stairs and slams the door. You see Fawn smiling at you with her hand down her pants, like always. The girl is some kind of nympho. Then you turn back to Scarlett and [[pull off her shirt.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory21.jpg]]</div> You play with her breasts and kiss her tattoos. She moans in response. <b>@@color: Magenta;"Fuck yeah, Abby."@@</b> The two of you begin kissing as you slide a finger into her already hot wet snatch. She gasps slightly into your mouth as you do so, and you begin to finger her as you suck on a nipple. [[She spreads her legs wide.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_scar" volume 0.2 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory22.jpg]]</div> You provocatively crawl backwards off the sofa until you reach the ground and look up at her bloodshot eyes, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Lay back and enjoy this- you deserve it."@@</b> Scarlett laughs through closed lips and leans back, presenting her crotch to you. <b>@@color: Magenta;"You black-hearted, little rug munching bitch. Enjoy yourself."@@</b> You dive in with gusto, taking large licks up her slit as her juices pile upon your tongue. After an initial cat-bath of the area, you toy with her clit using your tongue, and you slide your fingers inside her pussy. You do slight variations of movements, and you can tell by her responses that she is already close. [[You pull back.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory23.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Magenta;"Oh fuck, you little tease. Finish it."@@</b> You start fingering yourself, <b>@@color: #a73865;"I will finish when I feel like it, bitch."@@</b> She starts fingering herself and you both smile at each other. Then, not losing eye contact, you go back down on her, to finish what you started. It does not take long before she shakes and her head rolls back. <b>@@color: Magenta;"Yes-yes-yes-AH!"@@</b> Her body relaxes. You give her cunt a couple of kisses, and then sit up. <b>@@color: #a73865;"My turn, now."@@</b> [[Scarlett does not respond.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory24.jpg]]</div> She is out cold. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Damn it, you selfish, sexy slut."@@</b> You guffaw a bit. She might be tired from the show, she might be too drunk, or she might be fucking with you. Either way, you cover her up and then [[turn around to leave.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory25.jpg]]</div> Fawn stands there in the corner near the mirror, very nude, playing with herself. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Jesus, Fawn. You stayed here and watched all that, you pervert!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Whatever, Abs. I am a fucked up voyeur. You saw me in the corner! That was hot. I am going to finish myself off using the mirror and go to bed."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"You don't have some speech to give me about Toby?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Orchid;"Honestly, I do not care about any of you. I like the whole soap opera I get to watch, I like the fame of being in the band, and I like to bring home girls after the show. That's it."@@</b> You laugh, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Yeah, that's so you. I'm going down to shower and then I think I might take a walk."@@</b> She is already squatting in front of the mirror on the floor and watching her reflection finger itself. [[You leave to go downstairs.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory26.jpg]]</div> You open the door to the stairs, and there is Sylvain, arms crossed, waiting at the bottom. <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"So, you <i>finally</i> decided to come down."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck off, Sylvain. I do not need another one of your speeches,"@@</b> you say as you make to pass by him. <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Absinthe- Abigail- your behavior is getting worse. You are burning bridges. You might lose some of us as friends, and you definitely are precariously close to losing the band. Is that seriously what you want?"@@</b> [[You pass him at the bottom.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_1" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory27.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: #a73865;"I know I am a bitch, but that is who I am- and you will all have to accept it or get the fuck out."@@</b> He shakes his head causing the long blond hair to flow, <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"When I met you in high school, you were a bitch, true, but you were a bitch with a golden heart. You looked after the rest of us Goths at the school like a mother hen. You made sure we were safe, you gave us good advice, and you were never disrespectful to us- only to the plebeians that harassed our uniqueness."@@</b> Your mind flashes back to then. <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"The older we get, the bitterer you have become. Toby fucking loves you. That man would probably kill himself if he thought it would win your heart. As Goths we know the beauty of dark romance, but you are becoming plainly cruel. You are not the same girl. You should go up and apologize to him."@@</b> You turn towards him and take a deep breath, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Leave me alone! I don’t care! I never told him to love me! I never told him to follow me like a damn puppy. It is his own fault that he is hurt- not mine!"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Not your fault? Fuck you- it is completely your fault, Abby!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"After what my adoptive dad did to me—"@@</b> <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Oh no- don't pull that shit to defend your actions in the present!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Look, I don't trust men, I can't and I never will. If you cannot accept who I am or what I become, then you might as well end our friendship now."@@</b> He becomes agitated, <b>@@color: DarkGoldenRod;"Fine! I can't stay in the band, and I will try and talk Toby into going too. You fucking ass. You will have no friends left in the world. I am beginning to hate you, and I never thought that could be a possibility."@@</b> You start to say something, but you stop. Instead, you turn and quietly [[walk into the bathroom.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory28.jpg]]</div> You walk into the bathroom and close the door. Fuck them all. No one understands you. No one ever could. You are fucked up and you will always be alone because of it. You lean against the mirror and spend a few more minutes telling yourself how you deserve to be alone, that you are a monster- fit for no one! Finally, after enough self-loathing hate-filled introspective scolding, you undress and [[start the shower.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_dripping" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory29.gif]]</div> The water feels good on your tired muscles. You put your head against the cold tiles as the hot water streams down your neck and back. Your anger at yourself, the situation, and Sylvain begin to subside as you bathe. Maybe he was right. Maybe, just maybe, you should go up and say you are sorry to Toby- to everyone, for how you have acted. You have been feeling agitated over time at the world. People are stupid. The Earth is dying. You have started to hate everything in life because life is not what you want. Yes you are a bit famous around Portland, yes you have had good friends that stuck with you even though you are so bitchy, but you feel as if you have some other, greater purpose in life. It is like some part of your soul inside wants to fight its way out. If you released the building rage, would it be [[good or bad?]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_shower" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory30.jpg]]</div> You step out of the shower and dry off. Your band's signature song plays in your head. It feels good to be clean after the long day in latex and leather. Staring at your reflection in the mirror, you smile. Tomorrow, you will make everything right. You do not know what has been making you lose control and lash out at those that care about you, but it has absolutely become worse over the years, and really, deep down, you do not want to lose your friends. You put on some skimpy clothes. You want to take a walk, and often times, you feel somewhat sexy when people look at your body. It makes you feel strong. Growing up, you used to fight bullies at school to defend the other so-called outcasts. You once punched a football jock so hard you knocked him out and got school suspension. Some would look at that as making you a martyr, but you know that it was what came after the school day, which truly made your actions noble. When you would get in trouble, your parents, that adopted you as a baby, would punish you harshly for your 'un-lady like' behaviors. They would whip you with a belt, lock you in a closet, or sometimes, after you were a teenager, while your so-called mother watched, your father would molest or rape you as punishment. [[You finish dressing and go outside.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_dripping" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "des_amb_default" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory32.jpg]]</div> Sometimes you go on these late night walks. Few people walk around or drive this late, and you can collect your thoughts and be alone. You so often feel alone, even when a crowd gathers to hear you sing. The other reason you walk around at night has to do with fighting. It is not often, but occasionally men try to mug you, or worse, and you have used your bare hands to beat those fuckers down. They never expect a girl like you to be able to kick box, but you are no ordinary girl- just a broken one. You walk a few streets over when [[someone approaches you from behind.]] <<audio "se_dripping" stop>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory33.jpg]]</div> He clears his throat and says, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Pardon me, my lady. I am Mr. Lorcan. And you are?"@@</b> You turn to him. <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the fuck?"@@</b> It takes you a moment, but it is clearly a big man dressed as a vampire, so you chuckle, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Only in Portland!"@@</b> He appears somewhat confused, but continues, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Miss, I do apologize for interrupting your nightly stroll. But, I must insist that you come with me."@@</b> So, he <i>is</i> a creeper. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Ok, ok. It <i>was</i> funny, but now, I think you've had your fun, Dracula. I can handle myself fine. So, just back off."@@</b> [[You clench your fists.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_2" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory34.jpg]]</div> He snarls, <b>@@color: Crimson;"I tell you. I do not desire to harm you. You do not know the situation. If you will, please, my dear, come with me, I will explain everything to you."@@</b> You laugh, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Look, weirdo, that's either a mask or someone beat you to death with an ugly stick. You are a joke! You do not scare me. I have had a hard life, and I know how to fight. Just get your high ass home, and let me enjoy the quiet of the night."@@</b> He gives a long sigh, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Very well. I gave you ample chances. If you will not come with me willingly, then I shall enslave you!"@@</b> [[His eyes glow!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory35.jpg]]</div> He moves faster than anyone you have ever seen, and suddenly, he is face to face with you before you can even react, @@.VBrone;"That's it, look into my eyes! You obey <i>me</i>, mortal!"@@ You try to scream, but no sound comes out. Your mouth does not even open. Your thoughts feel slow, and you feel almost a heat grow behind your eyes. <b>@@color: Crimson;"There... there we...”@@</b> you feel your mind being somehow controlled and you try to force your thoughts free of the power! <b>@@color: Crimson;"Grr... there, I have you."@@</b> With those words, you feel suddenly numb. He obviously has you. <b>@@color: #a73865;"You have me."@@</b> Something feels wrong though. Like something is off about your Master. <b>@@color: Crimson;"You truly are powerful. You will follow me down into the tunnels below. We have much to discuss and I need to keep you safe until—”@@</b> No way! Alarms go off in your mind; some part of you recalls the closet in which your father locked you. You feel your own willpower surge back, and [[you are pissed!]] <<audio "quote_brone_3" play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory36.jpg]]</div> You punch him in his stupor with every ounce of strength you can muster, and he slams backwards against the wall. You see a mixed look of bewilderment, anger, and perhaps even fear in his creepy eyes. Then you turn and run into the night towards Forest Park. You are too scared to run into a building because he might corner you, but out in that wilderness you could probably get away. [[You do not look back.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_flee" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_punch" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory37.jpg]]</div> You run a few blocks. You are very close to the hiking trails now. The streets are practically deserted. What just happened to you should be impossible. That truly was a real vampire! The adrenaline in your system pushes you forward faster than you ever have run before and you [[reach Forest Park!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory38.jpg]]</div> It is so dark. You wish you had a smart phone or a flashlight. In the moonlight though, you can make out most obstacles and see the trail. Your speed decreases vastly because of the terrain and lack of light, [[but you keep moving forward.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory39.jpg]]</div> You hear water and make your way to it. Being gothic, you read a lot about vampires because you found them romantic, but this thing looked like Count Orlok. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Why couldn't it have been an Ann Rice vampire?"@@</b> You reach the river and some kind of metal railing. You carefully make your way across the river because you read somewhere that vampires cannot cross running water. Whether they can or not, you do not know, but maybe it will help. [[You make it across!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory40.jpg]]</div> You continue to run through the forest as best you can, and you cross a small creek and slip on the mossy rocks. You land with a splash and jump right back up. You look back the way you have been running and do not see any vampire or costumed rapist or whatever that guy was. [[You keep going the way you were.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Eleanora.jpg]]</div> She caused such calamity a century ago, costing your employer and friend, Anaximanes, his very life! [[Back|BroneChap1]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory41.jpg]]</div> You find the river has wrapped around and start following it. The excitement and adrenaline have worn off and now you are cold and tired. It has to be almost 3 a.m. You constantly look over your shoulder to see if you are being followed. You hear a distant wolf howl, but do not see anything. Finally, you come the opening of [[a small lake.]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory42.jpg]]</div> About twenty feet from the shore you can see a woman lying face down in the water! <b>@@color: #a73865;"Hey! Hey you!"@@</b> You look back again and see no vampire behind you, so you begin to wade out towards the girl to see if she is hurt. You go out until the water is waist deep. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Hey! Are you—"@@</b> the clouds move such that the moonlight pours down around you and [[you see she is a corpse!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_ghost" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory43.jpg]]</div> You hear a bat fly overhead and turn as you hear a voice yell, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Girl! Do not go to her! I cannot get into the water, I cannot save you!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the fuck! How did you find me? Did you kill her! Stay away from me!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"No! I did not have anything to do with her demise. She must have died here. That is a rusalka! She is the spirit of a woman that has drowned."@@</b> This fucking bastard probably did kill her. That hypnosis thing was some kind of parlor trick. He gets women out here and kills them! <b>@@color: Crimson;"Oh dear me! You need to come here! Please, I cannot get into the water!"@@</b> [[No way you will get out of the lake!]] <<audio "se_bat_form" volume 0.3 play>> <<audio "se_wings" volume 0.7 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory44.jpg]]</div> You stare at your would-be murderer. <b>@@color: #a73865;"You freak! So, you can't swim? Well I can! I will swim away from you, and I am going to tell the police—"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"She is behind you! Hurry! Please, give me your hand, get out of that blasted water!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"You expect me to believe—"@@</b> You glance over your shoulder because you see a flicker of movement and then splash as you spin around! The woman, the dead woman, stands in front of you! <b>@@color: #a73865;"What the actual fuck?"@@</b> <b>@@color: Teal;"Kiss me."@@</b> This is insane! This is all impossible! <b>@@color: #a73865;"What is happening tonight! This has to be a dream!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"No, it is not! This is no dream, come back to me! Give me your hand, I beg of you, please!"@@</b> The man's voice sounds distant as you watch your reflection in the dark, black eyes of the beautiful woman. <b>@@color: Crimson;"No, no! Do not look into her eyes! She is a type of ghost, not a vampire! I don't know if your powers will protect you from—"@@</b> <b>@@color: Teal;"Kiss me."@@</b> You feel safe here in the water. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Yes. I will kiss you."@@</b> You feel like you did before, when that bald man's eyes glowed. You have to fight! <b>@@color: #a73865;"No... no... I won't!"@@</b> The lake spirit's face twists into horrid anger. <b>@@color: Teal;"You! How did you free your mind, morsel?"@@</b> She tenaciously grabs your waist and [[pulls you down into the water!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory46.jpg]]</div> Kicking your legs for dear life, you try to stay on the surface. You reach your arms up, at this point; maybe you have a better chance of fighting that man that you punched in the face than this crazy woman trying to drown you! You catch glimpses of him on the shore. He reaches as far as he can, but his arms are not long enough. <b>@@color: Crimson;"Take my hand- take it!"@@</b> You have to escape both of these lunatics! You gasp for air, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck no! You are both trying to kill me! Let go bitch!"@@</b> You kick the woman directly in the face, and she releases you. <b>@@color: #a73865;"Leave me alone!"@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"I plead again, you will drown! I beg to your sensibilities, and I promise I shall not harm you in the least. Please take my hand!"@@</b> You consider it, again. He seems to be really trying to help you or maybe you can pull him into the water and she will try to drown him instead of you. Either way, you swim towards the shore and reach out a hand, <b>@@color: #a73865;"If you murder me, I swear I will kill you!"@@</b> Just as your hand reaches his, [[you are submerged with a splash!]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory47.jpg]]</div> You continue to reach towards the surface, but the swamp woman pulls you down. You keep struggling to free yourself, and you succeed! You begin swimming back up, yet she swims faster than you can see, and instantly grabs you again. You keep struggling and look up. You can see your hands in the moonlight. When you look forward, [[she is there!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_drowning" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory48.jpg]]</div> You see her eyes again... everything is ok. You stop struggling. You stare into her eyes and she reaches forward to kiss you. You feel her soft lips press against yours and her tongue goes into your mouth. It tastes like moldy water and feels cold like raw fish meat. You continue to kiss your Mistress. She tears your clothes off and then holds you tightly. You feel safe. Your head swims because you cannot breathe, but the Mistress holds you still, so you are not worried. Then [[you feel something pull your hair!]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_rusalkatizing" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory49.jpg]]</div> The pain snaps you out of your trance! Your Mistress... you are torn free from her grip! Your lungs burn! You choke for oxygen as the vampire pulls you onto the shore. You gasp for air and spit up water, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Thank—"@@</b> you cough more as he slaps you on the back to help get water out, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Thank you... I—"@@</b> you take a few deep breaths, <b>@@color: #a73865;"I thought I would die. I kind of wanted to die."@@</b> <b>@@color: Crimson;"That was the rusalka's influence. She wanted to drown you. You would have become like her. You would have forever haunted this water, finding others to drag down after dark for their souls. Men die gruesome deaths, but a woman that a rusalka drowns, becomes a rusalka herself."@@</b> The watery woman springs up at the edge of the lake near you both, yet you hear not a single splash. <b>@@color: Teal;"You horrid, ugly nosferatu! You dare taint my lair with your touch! You steal my treasure!"@@</b> She is clearly pissed at your unlikely savior. Then her black eyes turn back to you, <b>@@color: Teal;"Please. Come back to me. We will pleasure each other under the waves in the day, and at night, we will lounge in the mud and find more women to become like us!"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Fuck off, bitch!"@@</b> You retort, yet at the same time, you step behind the large man for safety. He did save your life after all, hopefully not to just drain your blood dry. [[He steps forward.]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_ghost" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_splash" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory51.jpg]]</div> His eyes linger on your nude body. He called you <i>'beautiful and spirited'</i>. He actually sounded sincere. You make no attempt to cover yourself because men are all pigs, even this hero, and besides, you feel kind of turned on with everything happening. All the thrills tonight have made the rest of your life look boring by comparison. He suddenly looks away. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I do apologize for my unbecoming behavior. My name, again, is Brone. Mr. Brone Lorcan. I did not mean to look at you so shamefully, dear—?"@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Abigail. Absinthe."@@</b> You sigh, he did save you, <b>@@color: #a73865;"Abby. Just call me Abby. And, sure you meant to look. Men always do— you can if you want. Don't I look lovely, like you said?"@@</b> The monstrous man fidgets with his long hands, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Quite so. Indeed. Though it would be unbecoming of me to gawk at nudity- regardless of the beauty thereof."@@</b> <b>@@color: #a73865;"Are you for real? You are really a vampire?"@@</b> You are beginning to believe that all this awesome stuff tonight actually has happened. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I am. I am both <i>for real</i>, whatever that means, as well as a vampire. A nosferatu, more specifically."@@</b> He takes off his frock coat and shirt and hand them to you. You notice that he never looks up. <b>@@color: Crimson;"I am certain you must be chilled to the bone, milady. Do take this and put it on. We have much to discuss and I do not desire you to catch cold."@@</b> [[You pause for a moment and then take it.|Chap3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory50.jpg]]</div> Anger flares in his voice, <b>@@color: Crimson;"Be gone! Be gone from us, mistress of the lake, you shall find no lover in this beautiful and spirited girl!"@@</b> The pale apparition descends silently under the water. [[He turns to you...]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Chapter3.png]]</div> [[Chapter Three|Des59.1]] <<if $StoryMode>>[[Table of Contents|ToC]]<<else>><</if>> <<nobr>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_chapter" volume 0.4 play>> <<set $Chapter3 to true>> <<set $Chapter2 to true>> <<set $Chapter1 to true>> <</nobr>>

<<set $StoryMode to false>> <<set $SMToC to false>> <<set $HToC to false>> <<set $giveUp to false>>    <<set $Chapter2 to false>> <<set $Chapter3 to false>> <<set $Chapter4 to false>> <<set $Chapter5 to false>> <<set $Chapter6 to false>> <<set $Chapter7 to false>> <<set $Chapter8 to false>> <<set $Chapter9 to false>> <<set $Chapter10 to false>> <<set $Chapter11 to false>> <<set $Chapter12 to false>> <<set $Chapter13 to false>> <<set $Chapter14 to false>> <<set $Chapter15 to false>> <<set $Chapter16 to false>> <<set $Chapter17 to false>> <<set $Chapter18 to false>> <<set $Chapter19 to false>> <<set $Chapter20 to false>> <<set $Epilogue to false>> <<set $HuntNight1 to false>> <<set $HuntNight2 to false>> <<set $HuntNight3 to false>> <<set $HuntNight4 to false>> <<set $HuntNight5 to false>> <<set $HuntNight6 to false>> <<set $HuntNight7 to false>> <<set $HuntNight8 to false>> <<set $HuntNight8 to false>> <<set $SancNight1 to false>> <<set $SancNight2 to false>> <<set $SancNight3 to false>> <<set $SancNight4 to false>> <<set $SancNight5 to false>> <<set $SancNight6 to false>> <<set $SancNight7 to false>> <<set $SancNight8 to false>>  <<set $sancTrainingRoom = 1>> <<set $sancWorkshop =1 >> <<set $sancGym = 1>> <<set $sancFoundry = 1>> <<set $sancLab = 1>> <<set $sancLibrary = 1>> <<set $sancStables = 1>> <<set $sancCourtyard = 1>> <<set $sancStorehouse = 1>> <<set $talkedtoRoy to false>>  <<set $Sword to true>> <<set $Stone to true>> <<set $Rope to true>> <<set $Amulet to true>> <<set $Seal to true>> <<set $CursedGold to true>> <<set $Helm to true>> <<set $Serum to true>> <<set $Club to true>> <<set $Book to true>> <<set $Vest to true>> <<set $Suit to true>> <<set $Scepter to true>> <<set $Bag to true>>  <<set $ZoneAsylumFin to false>> <<set $ZoneCavernsFin to false>> <<set $ZoneDocksFin to false>> <<set $ZoneForestFin to false>> <<set $ZoneGraveyardFin to false>> <<set $ZoneMountainFin to false>> <<set $ZoneMuseumFin to false>> <<set $ZoneSewerssFin to false>>  <<set $XInFirstSquareFound = false>> <<set $XInSecondSquareFound = false>> <<set $XInThirdSquareFound = false>> <<set $BarbSafe to false>> <<set $BarbShows to false>>  <<set $WraithDead to false>> <<set $GjengangerDead to false>> <<set $PontianakDead to false>> <<set $StrigoiDead to false>> <<set $RevenantDead to false>> <<set $NachzehrerDead to false>> <<set $VulkodlakDead to false>>  <<set $FixForCavernsMoneyToGold = true>>  <<set $CurrentCharacter='Absinthe'>> <<set $currentHuntZone = {}; >> < <<include "CombatConfig">>  <<include "MusicSounds">>  <<set $MountainBadEnds to false>> <<set $CavernsBadEnds to false>> <<set $ForestBadEnds to false>> <<set $SewersBadEnds to false>> <<set $DocksBadEnds to false>> <<set $AsylumBadEnds to false>> <<set $GraveyardBadEnds to false>> <<set $MuseumBadEnds to false>> <<set $VampireLairBadEnds to false>>   <<set $BimboBE to false>> <<set $DwarfBE to false>> <<set $FireBE to false>> <<set $GiggledBE to false>> <<set $PlantBE to false>> <<set $SluggedBE to false>> <<set $BEBFF to false>> <<set $BEBSS to false>> <<set $BECC to false>> <<set $VulkBE to false>>  <<set $BabaBrewBE to false>> <<set $ClawBE to false>> <<set $GogglesBE to false>> <<set $HeadBE to false>> <<set $PinkPotionBE to false>> <<set $SlugBE to false>> <<set $SnowballBE to false>> <<set $StrangePlantBE to false>> <<set $TentacleBE to false>>  <<set $BroneMuseumBE to false>>

Created by Anaximanes

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory38.jpg]]</div> [[Back|You all walk down the street together.]] <<audio "quote_abby_3" play>>

<<nobr>> <div class="VideoBackdrop"> <div class="VideoDisplay"> <video width="100%" height="auto" autoplay> <source src="Pictures\DesIntro.mp4" type="video/mp4"> </video> </div> </div> <<timed 13s>><<goto "Main">><</timed>> <</nobr>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneChoice.png]]</div> [[Continue to Brone's Tale|Brone Lorcan or [[Back|Choice <<audio "quote_brone_1" play>> <<audio "desider_theme" volume 0.4>>

Blood Bonds

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AnaxEnter.png]]</div> @@.SGhost2;© 2018, 2019 Anaximanes Entertainment™, Anaxverse, the A inside of a circle logo, and the Anaximanes Entertainment logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Anaximanes Entertainment™. All characters, art, and assets and other intellectual properties appearing in any of my projects, including Desideratum: Blood Bonds, are copyrights and trademarks of Anaximanes Entertainment™. All rights reserved. The Anaxverse trademark and all characters, their distinctive likeness, and related elements are trademarks of Anaximanes Entertainment™. © 2008 All rights reserved. This is a work of fiction. The creator of this game/interactive novel does not supply, encourage, or condone violence of any kind. All characters and events portrayed in this game/interactive novel are fictional and any resemblance to any real persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.@@ <b>@@color: Crimson;WARNING!!! This story contains sexual themes! By downloading, reading, or playing this story, you agree that you are of legal, sexually mature age in the country in which you reside. Anyone that has heart issues or any other mental or health issues that can be triggered through noises or fear- DO NOT PLAY THIS GAME! Mature audiences only. The Anax has a dark mind, and my work is an extension of said mind. Play at your own risk.@@</b> <b>@@color: Maroon;This interactive story, art, and publishing were created in the United States of America, and this story is FREE, and all characters portrayed within are assumed to be 18 years or older if this story is read in the United States (and characters are assumed to be of legal age in whichever country the reader resides).@@</b> <b>@@color: Red;No one should be charged to play this! No website should have charged you to download or use this file. This is free!!!@@</b> <b>@@color: #ff4d4d;This story was conceived, written, produced, and all artwork/3D renders done by The Anax.@@</b> [[I am of legal age and agree to all terms.|Start]] [[I am not of legal age, or rule 34 scares me!]] THIS UPDATE REQUIRES A NEW GAME USE THE SHORTCUT BELOW You can also skip to the end of [[Chapter 4|Des140]] You can skip to [[Chapter 9|Chap9]] You can skip to [[Chapter 11|Chap 11]] You can skip to [[Chapter 13|Chap 13]] You can skip to [[Chapter 15|Chap 15]] You can skip to [[Chapter 17|Chap 17]] If you already read Ch 17 & 18 you can skip to the [[Museum Hunt.|MuseumStart0]] (Currently Due to COVID-19 issues, it only has Story Mode available, and not the Game Mode. We will try to do the game mode depending on Impresario's situation, thank you for understanding.) You can skip to [[Chapter 19|Chap 19]] Preview the [[Special Bad Ends|Temp BE Menu]] <<run Config.history.maxStates = 2;>>

<b>[[Characters]]</b> <b>[[Artifacts]]</b> <b>[[Inventory]]</b> <b>[[Bad Ends]]</b> <b>[[Credits]]</b><<nobr>> <br /> <br /> <<include "CharacterSheet">><br /> <<include "HuntingMap" >><</nobr>>

@@.SGhost2;This is where you will find the Character Unlocks, just like in my 5 finished other projects I did before this one! However, due to the mechanics, I only add them on the FINAL RELEASE of a project!@@ <<nobr>> <<link Back $return>> <<audio "character_sheets" stop>> <<audio ":paused" play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = true>> <</link>> <<if $GameAudioActive>> <<audio ":playing" pause>> <<audio "character_sheets" volume 0.4 loop play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = false>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/ArtifactsMenu.png]]</div> <br /> <br /> <<if $Stone>> [[Adder Stone]] - Magical rock obtained from a troll. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Adder Stone - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Vest>> [[Babr-e Bayan]] - Enchanted jerkin obtained from a hobgoblin. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Babr-e Bayan - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Suit>> [[Blood Suit]] - Living body suit obtained from a nosferatu. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Blood Suit - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Book>> [[Book of Thoth]] - Egyptian book of spells obatined from a curator. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Book of Thoth - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Club>> [[Club of Dagda]] - Celtic staff obtained from a nercomancer. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Club of Dagda - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $CursedGold>> [[Cursed Gold]] - Stolen Aztec gold obtained from a ghost. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Cursed Gold - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Sword>> [[Dyrnwyn]] - Welsh sword obtained from a dark elf. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Dyrnwyn - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Rope>> [[Gleipnir]] - Norse rope obtained from a dryad. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Gleipnir - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Helm>> [[Helm of Hades]] - Greecian helmet obtained from a necromancer. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Helm of Hades - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Bag>> [[Kibisis]] - Enchanted satchel obtained from a hobgoblin.. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Kibisis - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Scepter>> [[Scepter of Osiris]] - Egyptian scepter obtained from a mummy. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Scepter of Osiris - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Seal>> [[Seal of Solomon]] - Judaic ring obtained from a cowboy. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Seal of Solomon - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Amulet>> [[Talisman of Žemyna]] - Lithuanian necklace obtained from a witch hunter. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Talisman of Žemyna - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<if $Serum>> [[Xenopox Serum]] - Medical vaccine obtained from a mad scientist. <<else>> @@.Amelia;Xenopox Serum - LOCKED@@ <</if>> <br /> <br /> <<link Return $return>> <<audio "character_sheets" stop>> <<audio ":paused" play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = true>> <</link>> <<if $GameAudioActive>> <<audio ":playing" pause>> <<audio "character_sheets" volume 0.4 loop play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = false>> <</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Credits.png]]</div> @@.Aka;I wrote, produced, designed, did all the art, and so forth, but I would like to mention those people that helped make my vision a reality!@@ @@.SGhost2;Without a doubt the largest thanks on this project goes to the Impresario. He selflessly programmed the "Game Mode" version of D:BB. It was he that programmed it so that we had a map, inventory, random monster encounters, and more. Thank you so very much, dear friend, for sharing your skills and time for me and my fans!@@ @@.Brone;Huge thanks goes to BlankSubroutine for his programming assistance. I had an artistic vision and no ability to make my art appear as I desired. Blank selflessly stepped up to help, and I am forever grateful! Blank created the coding I needed for things such as the backgrounds, text effects, and character unlocks. Thank you so much for your assistance!@@ <b>@@color: Red;Thank you to Dr. Sevarg! The good doctor (or should I say evil scientist) has been instrumental in editing. He always sends very detailed bug and grammar reports on all my projects, and I am in his debt for this selflessness. Thank you, sir, for devoting your time!@@</b> @@.MarlenaMinded;Thank you to every one of my@@ <b><a href="https://www.patreon.com/Anaximanes" target="_blank">Patreon</a></b> @@.MarlenaMinded;supporters! Having quit my job, only to produce entertainment for you to enjoy, I can only live on whatever you invest in me. I could never truly express the emotions that well up inside me when I know you enjoy my work and are willing to support me. Thank you to everyone! But a special thanks goes to my $20 and up Patrons! I shall put a list of you here on the final update!@@ <<nobr>> <<link Back $return>> <<audio "anax_video_game" stop>> <<audio ":paused" play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = true>> <</link>> <<if $GameAudioActive>> <<audio ":playing" pause>> <<audio "anax_video_game" volume 0.4 loop play>> <<set $GameAudioActive = false>> <</if>> <</nobr>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStoryIntroEnd.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: Crimson;Brone Lorcan must always fight the vampire's curse that twisted his body. Though his flesh succumbed to that vile cancer, his mind has not. He remains a gentleman in deed and thought, regardless of the titanic effort required to do so. Where will he take Absinthe Van Helsing? Can he trust her? Can he trust himself around her? The answers shall be found in the future and final release of <i>Desideratum!</i>@@</b> <b>@@color: Red;Watch my YouTube videos <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaoP6uWcgZZPzUzIGru98fA" target="_blank">HERE</a> to learn more about the Mind Control Fetish community!@@</b> <b>@@color: OrangeRed;If you desire to invest money in my projects, so that I can create even more, my Patreon can be found <a href="https://www.patreon.com/Anaximanes" target="_blank">HERE</a>@@</b> <b>@@color: OrangeRed;though this interactive novel is absolutely free!@@</b> <b>@@color: Orange;Check my blog, often, found <a href="http://anaximanes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>@@</b> <b>@@color: Orange;to get the latest news from The Anax. Updated two or three times a month!@@</b> <<audio "brone_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStoryIntroEnd.jpg]]</div> <b>@@color: #a73865;Abigail has always felt that she had some unfulfilled purpose. She lived a hard life, abused herself, and was on a path of self destruction. Will she go with Brone? Will she join the vampires or destroy them all- him included- when she finds out her true strength and powers? The answers shall be found in the future and final release of <i>Desideratum!</i>@@</b> <b>@@color: Red;Watch my YouTube videos <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaoP6uWcgZZPzUzIGru98fA" target="_blank">HERE</a> to learn more about the Mind Control Fetish community!@@</b> <b>@@color: OrangeRed;If you desire to invest money in my projects, so that I can create even more, my Patreon can be found <a href="https://www.patreon.com/Anaximanes" target="_blank">HERE</a>@@</b> <b>@@color: OrangeRed;though this interactive novel is absolutely free!@@</b> <b>@@color: Orange;Check my blog, often, found <a href="http://anaximanes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>@@</b> <b>@@color: Orange;to get the latest news from The Anax. Updated two or three times a month!@@</b> [[Back to the beginning...|Main <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory57.jpg]]</div> You wait patiently as the girl puts on the coat and shirt, @@.Abby;“Ok, you can turn around.”@@ You stand a moment, finding her still beautiful even without makeup or without her rather skimpy outfit, @@.Brone;“I trust that feels better?”@@ She gives a small smile, @@.Abby;“Yeah, thanks.”@@ Now warmer, her excitement bubbles up again, @@.Abby;“Seriously, though, I can’t believe this is all real!”@@ Shaking your head, you flatly state, @@.Brone;“As much as I would like to say that it is not real- it <i>is</i> quite real.”@@ @@.Abby;“Why are you upset? Being immortal and having vampire powers like the mind control you used on me, sounds awesome!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, the grass is always greener, I think the saying goes. Now, we need to talk. Out in these woods, I have hidden something that, I think, may belong to you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Belong to me?”@@ @@.Brone;“Of course, this is all conjecture, but I once read the will of Theodore Ravenhurst, an adventurer and explorer, and in his will it mentioned a box. I know that your ancestor, Calis Van Gothen, befriended and often went with Theodore as he sought archaic treasures. Calis is your direct ancestor by blood. At some point, or in some way I do not know, a puzzle box became involved, and—“@@ @@.Abby;“Woah! A puzzle box!”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, I have held it in my own two hands. I can only assume it belonged to your ancestor, so, it feels right that I should give it to you. On more than one occasion, I have thought about opening it, but, something told me I shouldn’t. I was told to keep the box hidden, by my late friend, and so I have.”@@ @@.Abby;“Where is it!”@@ @@.Brone;“First, we need the key. Follow me, this way.”@@ You turn and hike through the woods, with [[Absinthe following.|Des58]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_3" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory58.jpg]]</div> Leading Absinthe along, you trek through the lush forest, until you find the small pond you were looking for. @@.Brone;“Ah! This is the one.”@@ She stands behind you as you fall to your knees and place your palms on the grass. @@.Brone;“Now, where is it?”@@ You move your hands through [[the grass.|Des59]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory59.jpg]]</div> Finally, you feel a wire! @@.Brone;“Ah ha! Now, to pull it up.”@@ Slowly, you pull on the wire and bring up a small metal box from the bottom of the pond. Popping open the box’s clasp reveals a key held within a sealed plastic bag. @@.Brone;“This is where I hid the key to the puzzle box. Now, I’ll take you to it.”@@ She hesitates a moment, @@.Abby;“Hey, how do I know that I can trust you?”@@ @@.Brone;“Because, I saved your life. Is that worth nothing?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, but what if this is all a trick?”@@ she asks, as she begins following you from the water. @@.Brone;“Let me put it this way, you already showed how strong you were against me. I am unarmed, and my powers are no match for your own. Because of your Van Gothen blood and constitution, which, even now, I smell potently, you have some sort of natural, or supernatural, strength against monsters- or, at least, against the undead. You bested my mind control ability, which no mortal ever has, and you even fought off a rusalka when she took you by surprise. I cannot imagine how powerful you will be with the right weapons in hand.”@@ Just then, the abandoned cabin comes [[into view.|Des60]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory60.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Great. I’m with a vampire at a creepy cabin in the middle of the woods. Nothing could possibly go wrong here.”@@ You chuckle, @@.Brone;“I must admit, I certainly was unsure how the night would go, but I know your family is tied to this artifact. I am compelled to let you try to solve it.”@@ @@.Abby;“I read once, in a book, that old school vampires would stop to count things, if a person dropped them. Like, you know, if someone had a compulsive disorder, is that why you are so focused on me solving this box?”@@ @@.Brone;“Maybe. It’s as if a voice calls to me.”@@ [[You walk inside.|Des62]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory62.jpg]]</div> Walking inside you go over to a window and look out, just to ensure there will be no interruptions. @@.Abby;“You said, it’s like a voice?”@@ she asks. Not turning back, you answer her, @@.Brone;“Indeed. Once I became this terrible abomination, the first chance I got, I returned to the boarding house in which I stayed, and I took the key and box. However, unlike when I lived, the moment I touched the puzzle box with my undead flesh, t’was as if a voice spoke within my mind, m’lady. It compelled me to hide it from Ivor, to ensure that he would never obtain it. Strangely, the compulsion to obey the box was stronger even than when Ivor orders me to do something.”@@ @@.Abby;“Huh, weird. Also, who is Ivor?”@@ You turn back to her, @@.Brone;“He is the bastard that turned me into a vampire, if you pardon my language.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, like I said before, you seem to hate what you are, but do you have any idea how many times in my life I fantasized about be a fucking vampire! Hypnotizing and seducing people, drinking their blood, transforming them into—“@@ With a disgusted hiss, you turn back to the window, @@.Brone;“Mayhap you are not the hero I seek after all. Maybe you would enjoy becoming a foul undead thing that haunts the night. Maybe I should just take you right to him.”@@ She walks up and puts a hand on your shoulder, @@.Abby;“Look, they are fantasies, ok? Maybe if you tell me why it’s so bad, I will understand.”@@ @@.Brone;“As if you care? I heard how you speak to your friends, you know, before you came outside your apartment tonight.”@@ Her hand leaves your shoulder, @@.Abby;“Oh. Yeah, that. I was going to apologize to them tomorrow. I can be a real bitch, but I don’t mean it. Like, I don’t want to be, but it’s hard, really hard, to fight my nature.”@@ @@.Brone;“Hah! Then you may already understand my eternal hell and predicament for I know all-to-well how difficult it is to fight the nature within us.”@@ You sigh and slouch, every moment, even this one, an unscratchable itch scrapes inside your skull. Blood. All you want, need, is blood- human blood. Her blood. @@.Abby;“Please, tell me, Mr. Lorcan.”@@ Shaking away the terrible urges within, you turn with a smirk, @@.Brone;“You remembered my name.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, man. I am honestly excited, and I want to know all about this. I have always felt like something was missing, a part of me, and I think fighting the creatures of the night is probably what that missing piece is. I want to be part of something bigger. Teach me, seriously.”@@ @@.Brone;“As you wish, Absinthe.”@@ You tell her about your past, your farm, the potato blight of 1845, about Ravenhurst Manor, about many other things, until you get to the part about the docks of Portland. You tell her about Ivor, and how he attacked you, draining you of [[your life’s blood.|Des63]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory63.jpg]]</div> <i>I awoke in a total stupor, lying upon a stone floor. My blurry vision soon sharpened, and I realized I lay in a tomb or underground. The first thing that perplexed me was how, though I was nude, I felt no cold or chill. I did not feel stiff from lying on the ground for an untold amount of time, and even as I tried slapping the hard stones with my bare hands, I felt no pain. It was as if my sensations of touch had become dulled to a great magnitude, and then, with a startled gasp, I noticed the pallor of my flesh! My skin looked like that of a fresh corpse, and I did not know what to make of it. Nearby, I found, what I first thought to be a pile of clothes in corner of the dungeon-like setting, but as I drew closer, I found them to be human cadavers! Though, I was not cold, within my soul, I felt a chilblain frost, as if the flame of life had left me, and I was compelled to dress myself. Horrified, confused, and alone, I picked through the stiff, rotting corpses of sailors from the port and others, and pieced together my outfit. I took a scarf, from one, his face twisted in a silent scream, forever frozen in terror. That scarf, the color of blood, I pillaged and wrapped it round my neck. Only after confiscating these articles of clothing from the poor, dead people, did I finally find it in me to try and recall how I arrived in this hell. I recalled working, and feeling a shiver down my spine, only to turn and face a hellish creature with glowing, damning eyes and sharp, long fangs. I remember the creature’s fangs puncturing my neck’s flesh, and though, again, I felt no pain, it felt as if, I should cover my neck- that is why I wear this scarf to this very day. But, as I sat contemplating my ill fate, and what would become of me, my troubled curse and confusion had only just begun.</i> @@.Ele;“Mr. Lorcan.”@@ <i>A voice I instantly recognized, but could not believe, caused me to</i> [[turn in fear.|Des64]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_wakes" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory64.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“Eleanora Blackwood!”@@ @@.Ele;“Ha ha ha, indeed, it is me, Mr. Lorcan.”@@ <i>I could scarcely believe my eyes. The very witch that my master, Anaximanes, had managed to kill, now stood before me, her skin more alabaster even than in life, her eyes, blood red, and this only managed to amplify her naturally terrifying aura.</i> @@.Brone;“How did—how?”@@ @@.Ele;“How is it that I still walk while your poor, foolish master’s corpse dangles from a tree somewhere?”@@ <i>Her words cut my heart, and I say, I almost wept. However, it would be clear in a few moments that she had never intended to wound my sensibilities with grief- she wanted me to become angry.</i> @@.Ele;“Oh, poor Brone Lorcan. You and I are dead, of a sort. We are vampires now, my good sir.”@@ @@.Brone;“A vampire? You mean like those creatures from the Penny bloods?”@@ <i>In my day there were highly illustrated, small, cheap story books people could buy, called Penny bloods, though, later they called them Penny Dreadfuls. At the time, while I lived in Ireland, I could not read, however they were full of pictures, and one could follow the story by the artwork alone. Each scene, the artist painstakingly tried to match to the horror story the writer penned, and such dark, gothic tales made for interesting and terrifying entertainment. Often, they would have ghosts, monsters, and other strange things, and now, now I was something right out of myth, fiction, and folklore!</i> @@.Ele;“Oh! Yes, exactly like those little stories, Mr. Lorcan. You are doomed to walk the Earth for eternity, and you can only survive on the blood of innocent victims.”@@ @@.Brone;“Victims?”@@ @@.Ele;“Oh, yes, that reminds me, you- slave- come to me.”@@ <i>Horrified, I watched a young lady, naked, step out from behind a wall and stride up to the evil witch without any</i> [[hesitation or care.|Des65]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory65.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“Oh my!”@@ <i>I made to take off my coat and cover the poor lass, but the witch stopped me.</i> @@.Ele;“Mr. Lorcan! Do control your gentlemanly habits! You no longer have to follow the rules and etiquette of the living. Humans, like this nameless girl, are but for your food and pleasure. You can use her, my friend; her body is your plaything.”@@ <i>I swallowed hard, for in that moment a strange temptation swelled in my chest. I could do anything without repercussion or judgment? I could be free of my station in life, that of a low class, farmer and workman? I needn’t bother earning a living anymore, and I could have any woman of my choosing and then feast on them? A darkness that had not been within me through life, seemed to haunt me in death. Licking my lips, I asked</i> @@.Brone;“My plaything?”@@ <i>I had forgotten all about the treacherous Blackwood, our history, her past transgressions, for I was so focused upon this nude woman and the witch’s words. Until that day, the most I had seen of nudity had been a woman’s leg once when she lifted her dress like a harlot! Sexual, archaic urges flowed in me, as Eleanora took my hand, putting it</i> [[round the girl’s slim waist.|Des66]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory66.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“H-hello, miss.”@@ <i>Eleanora cackled that evil laugh of hers,</i> @@.Ele;“Mr. Lorcan, you need not address her with such kindness. She is meat. She is not a missus, miss, or anything else. Do you sweet talk your steak and eggs, sir?”@@ <i>I barely registered what she said. While my sense of touch had dulled to almost nothing, my hearing had increased tenfold. Every time the woman’s heart beat in her chest, I heard the telltale thump. Every beat of that pumping organ, like a drum, pounded upon my mind, urging- nay- commanding me to make it stop. Every desire in my body became a mixture of sexual and animalistic. The lust haze shifted into a hunger- a thirst.</i> @@.Ele;“I am most certain that you are simply starving, aren’t you? You have not even drunk so much as a singular drop of blood.”@@ @@.Brone;“Blood?”@@ @@.Ele;“Yes, as I said, that is now your sustenance. Only by drinking her life essence, will you continue to exist as yourself! Show him your neck, slave meat.”@@ @@.Eve;“Yes, Mistress.”@@ [[The girl tilted her head back.|Des67]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory67.jpg]]</div> <i>When the helpless lass threw back her head and my eyes caught sight of her pale, smooth neck, I could smell her blood potently, though it coursed ‘neath her skin. I cannot compare that odor to anything I smelt inside my human lifetime. Not the best, finest cooked meal I had ever smelt could even begin to compare to the ambrosia I sensed within this poor, enthralled woman.</i> <i>As my hands trembled and my mouth ached with need, in a hoarse whisper, I said,</i> @@.Brone;“I— I could not possibly—“@@ @@.Ele;“Oh but you <i>can</i> possibly, Mr. Lorcan! In fact, you <i>will</i>. Now, what you <i>can’t</i> possibly do is resist your new nature. In life, you were a thorn in my side, a friend and protector of the late Mr. Ravenhurst, but now? Now, I shall see you corrupted and your soul damned for my pleasure.”@@ <i>She leaned in close, whispering the next words into my ear,</i> @@.Ele;“I am certain that you smell her red, warm blood. I know you hear her mortal heart begging you to stop its living beating. I know what you need- her ichor, her lifeblood. Slake your thirst, Mr. Lorcan.”@@ <i>Suddenly, by an accord not my own, I threw my head back</i> [[and hissed!|Des68]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory68.jpg]]</div> <i>Instincts, new and unabashed suddenly overrode any iota of humanity that remained within me. Her scarlet liquid, pumping through her warm, living skin, beckoned unto me. At that moment, all I desired in the whole of reality was that sweet nectar filling her veins. In that same instant, deep within my soul welled now a specter afore unknown to me. Something darker than a moonless night, something fouler than a thousand forsaken demons, something stronger than hell’s own fury- and it welled up from some desolate hole dug into my being when Ivor cursed me with this unholy and blasted transformation! As the cunning, evil witch’s abhorrent cackling echoed through the subterranean chamber, spurning me to damn myself by claiming the helpless life before me, the innocent victim draped in my very arms—</i> [[I stopped myself.|Des69]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory69.jpg]]</div> @@.Ele;“What do you think you are doing, foolish Irishman! Feast upon her!”@@ <i>In almost a whisper, for I suddenly felt drained and tired beyond measure, and, I dare say, embarrassed at myself that I almost became a slave to the thirst, to this new form, and I said,</i> @@.Brone;“No. I shan’t Eleanora. I won’t do it.”@@ @@.Ele;“You think stopping yourself one time will make any difference?”@@ @@.Brone;“It is <i>something</i>. I must fight it; I must not lose myself! Just before I gave into the bloodlust, I realized that whatever has been done to me, to us both, it is an aberration. <i>We</i>- we are aberrations!”@@ @@.Ele;“You weak imbecile!”@@ <i>She laughed incredulously,</i> @@.Ele;“You will eventually give in to your nature! Or fight it, for either way- I’ll see your spirit broken! I’ll see your soul turned!”@@ @@.Brone;“No! No, you shall not, witch! Whatever has happened to me, it’s wrong! I won’t kill innocent people- this woman and I, we are <i>both</i> victims!”@@ <i>I stepped back, and Eleanora,</i> [[took my place.|Des70]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory70.jpg]]</div> @@.Ele;“Victim? She is having the time of her life, aren’t you slave?”@@ <i>the witch said callously as she groped the poor woman, and then, to my shock, Eleanora molested the enthralled woman’s sex! The girl gasped and then moaned at the intrusion, clearly oblivious to the terrifying situation in which she stood. This nameless woman was nothing more than willing prey at the jaws of a predator! At that I turned my gaze, but the</i> [[witch continued.|Des71]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory71.jpg]]</div> @@.Ele;“She would die anyway, eventually. Even if this worthless meat lived another sixty years, she would simply grow old. She would wither like any other mortal, her bones becoming brittle, her health declining, her muscles devolving into little more than enough to hold her upon her feet. Will that death be as pleasurable as the one that I offer her, Mr. Lorcan?”@@ @@.Brone;“Speak not to me of this! Do not try and dupe me! You cannot convince me that I am doing a favor by culling the innocent! I shall kill myself first!”@@ @@.Ele;“Really? You think you can off yourself? Only if Ivor, your new master, releases you from his will can you do such a thing. But, even if your willpower were so great that you could manage to overcome his own, you are an Irishman.”@@ @@.Brone;“What has that to do with anything!”@@ @@.Ele;“You’re a Catholic, and I know it. So, you know what will become of your soul if you commit the blasphemous, unforgiveable act, correct?”@@ <i>Now, I found myself bound between the fear of God and the power of the devil made manifest! Laughing, Eleanora punctuated her point by puncturing the</i> [[woman’s neck!|Des72]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory72.jpg]]</div> <i>I heard the sickening sound of Eleanora’s fangs penetrating the quivering flesh. Both women moaned in intervals, as Eleanora’s fingers still invaded the woman’s body. Within my inhuman ears, the strong beat of her heart slowed and at the same time, her moans began to subside, both becoming weaker with every passing moment, until the only sounds filling that profane, cold hall were the last sucks from the witch’s blood-stained lips. She finally pulled her head back, her hollow laughter now huskier in tone,</i> @@.Ele;“Yes! That rush! I have always enjoyed killing, but now, in this form, it grants even better gratification!”@@ <i>Looking at the body of the girl, I gravely asked,</i> @@.Brone;“And, so, now, she, this woman, your irreproachable victim, will come into this undeath as well, only to desire to victimize other innocent people, just as was she?”@@ <i>The witch held the corpse, admiring it a moment as if it were a curious trinket,</i> @@.Ele;“She could, yes, if Ivor gave me permission to grant her such a desirable blessing as eternal life. Only if our master, allows us to have our own vampire minions may we do so. However, no, her cadaver will not rise as ours have; instead, it will feed your brothers and sisters.”@@ @@.Brone;“My siblings? Nay! They are in Ireland, woman! Tell me not that you managed to bring them here!”@@ <i>She laughed, and with a strength belying the small-framed and delicate constitution of her body, held up the now gray-skinned corpse of the girl with ease with only one hand. Casually, the witch walked, her high-heeled boots clicking over the stones, until she stood over to a metal-wrought grating inlaid onto the floor.</i> @@.Ele;“No, you fool, come, come and see what fate awaits those that turn their backs on the blessing that we two have received.”@@ <i>Terrified beyond reckoning, but with curiosity in equal proportion, I willed my feet a few steps and looked down into what might only be described as the maw of</i> [[Hades itself!|DesPit]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/StarvationPit.jpg]]</div> <i>My fear-filled eyes beheld a heinous hell as they looked down into the fiery, orange glowing eyes of emaciated, wingless, wizened gargoyles. These wretched beasts hissed and howled upwards baring wide mouths teeming with long, sharp dagger-like teeth. I felt as if I were looking into the soulless eyes of devils, and just as I registered the hideous, twisted forms, as if discarding refuse into a bin, Eleanora tossed aside the dead girl- straight into the dark pit! Frightened with abject panic, I gasped, as before the body managed to impact upon the cold stone floor below, the creatures had already caught her and torn into her flesh. Like piranhas, swimming the Amazon, these horrendous hellspawn ripped through the carcass in a matter of seconds! Sickening, bone-cracking noises rose up from the hole, like ghosts rising from the grave, and then, following the behavior exhibited by wolves, the fiends tore asunder her appendages and fought over the bloody bones. As the winners of this terrifying spectacle darted off into darkened corners of the unholy oubliette, four or five of the monsters stared up at me, moaning and growling, wanting more flesh to sate their endless, ravenous hunger! My stupor shattered just as my mind had, when Eleanora</i> [[again spoke.|Des73]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory73.jpg]]</div> @@.Ele;“Those are your kin, Brone Lorcan. Forget about whatever blood ties you had back in Ireland. Your famished family probably starved to death in the potato blight as it is, but you shan’t have such a forgiving or kind fate as that.”@@ <i>She smiled down at the rabid creatures and lowered the grating, locking the cage door,</i> @@.Ele;“These lovelies are known as <i>The Starved</i>.”@@ @@.Brone;“S-starved?”@@ @@.Ele;“Oh yes, Mr. Lorcan. You see, these were once vampires just like you and me. However, some refused to eat, like you have, and others were sentenced to this fate by Ivor himself- they being failures in his eyes. If we vampires do not drink human blood, we slowly devolve. Some vampires, like Ivor, are a thousand years old- or older- and over time they have taken on a more monstrous constitution, regardless of the amount of blood they drink. Fresh, new vampires, like you and me, we become young, pale as snow, and slake the maddening thirst for a time. But, for those that do not feed, their bodies first become gnarled and thin. Their features twist, their frames becoming wiry, and they become almost bat-like. Long ears, wrinkled folds, and, if they still refuse to drink blood, they gain a mouth of sharp teeth. In that late stage, they are shunned by vampire society and known as nosferatu.”@@ @@.Brone;“Nosferatu—“@@ @@.Ele;“Yes, but you see, in that stage of devolution, nosferatu still retain their minds; however, the march of time progresses unabated, and their bodies- and their minds- break down as the hunger and need to drink blood consumes whatever vestiges of humanity they managed to cling to. And so, unless their red, liquid desideratum is met, and they finally give into the nature of a vampire- they become one of these- a starved. The Starved are mindless, more akin to rabid and wild animals than anything else. I keep them as pets and feed them scraps.”@@ @@.Brone;“No, you must be lying—“@@ @@.Ele;“Hah! How often I do, Mr. Lorcan, but for once I speak the direct truth to you. You see, whether you give into the dark nature bestowed upon you by Ivor, becoming corrupt and evil, or you continue to refuse to feed upon human victims- I will have my entertainment. I will watch you fall and lose your soul either way- punishing revenge for the times you interrupted my spells and plans back in Wakefield. You will either become a force of darkness and be my willing ally, or become nothing more than my frothing, fervent pet.”@@ <i>With that, the witch walked away, her triumphant cackling bouncing off the stone walls behind me, while the starved ones in the pit below, roared in confused anguish, their minds gone and their bodies calling for flesh. For a moment, I wondered how many of those poor souls had ended up this way</i> [[upon Eleanora’s whims alone.|Des74]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory74.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“And, now can you better understand? My existence is a torture to an extreme. That unspeakable, horrid truth looming over me every moment of every day—I will become a monster, eventually and inevitably, regardless of what path I choose! A despairing situation for a soul that is already lost.”@@ Absinthe appears concerned, @@.Abby;“I—I didn’t know anything like that. I always thought being a vampire would be cool.”@@ @@.Brone;“Cool? It appears to be a delight and blessing for the jaded, cruel, or unkind, but for anyone with a heart and soul, becoming one of the undead means only a brutal affliction. A curse! I am now to become some charnel monstrosity for eternity for either way, such I am. Lose my mind and eat corpses like a starving, rabid animal, or willingly dine on the blood of the living, and lose my mind to corruption, becoming another Eleanora or Ivor.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, maybe you can just drink a little?”@@ You laugh with an empty forlorn tone that clearly indicates the hopelessness of the suggestion, @@.Brone;“And, in my day, you would ask an opium addict to only inhale one breath’s worth of the stuff, or one addicted to heroin, to use only a drop? No. What you state is impossible. Once I feed, if I ever do, I will drain that victim dry. Bloodlust overrides even those that feed multiple times a day, as Eleanora or Ivor do, so were I to get but a drop on my tongue- I should become untamed and chaotic, trying to slake a thirst that has grown for over a hundred years!”@@ @@.Abby;“I have been really thirsty a couple of times in my life, and I cannot begin to imagine enduring that for so long. Shit. How long does it take before you—you know, become a starved?”@@ @@.Brone;“I am the only vampire known to have lasted this long. Some make it a year, and there have been a few to not drink for more than twenty, but I have managed to hold onto my mind through sheer determination and a desire to see Eleanora and Ivor’s reign come to an end. Hence, why I sought you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, how did you even know about me? You told me what those two did to my, what was he, great-great-great grandfather?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, I shan’t go into every gory detail, but it was clear that villainous pair enjoyed what they did to him. Ivor bragged about it this very evening. After more than a lifetime, he still relishes his triumph over your ancestor. As far as how I found you, Eleanora spends her nights often scrying the future. However, whatever magical medium she utilizes, gives her the predictions in riddles and often, they remain vague.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, she found out that I was alive, and that I can stop Ivor somehow?”@@ @@.Brone;“Indeed, and Ivor, then, sent me to fetch you. He believes if he turns you into a vampire, you will retain your natural, Van Gothen, power over monster kind- the strength, speed, and agility you appear to exhibit- but become his loyal minion, eradicating his enemies for him across the world.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean, like, vampire hunters?”@@ @@.Brone;“Hah! There are some monster hunters here in Portland, and I have watched them on many nights, but regardless of the adventures they have gone on and the foes that they fight, they are still regular human beings. Their blood does not have the mystic advantage yours bestows upon you. I admit they are very cunning and strong in their different ways for mortal man, but they could not stand against Eleanora and Ivor. Even if they assaulted him directly, as an entire force, I think they would find only quick deaths- or worse- they would be turned.”@@ @@.Abby;“What makes you think I would have a chance in hell then! I have never killed anyone or fought a monster in my life!”@@ @@.Brone;“I tell you, I saw the fear in Ivor’s eyes and felt it emanate from my master. That was the first, and may I add, only time I have ever experienced that. He has a profound fear of you, in fact, he sent me after you as a ‘guinea pig’.”@@ @@.Abby;“He thought I’d kill you?”@@ @@.Brone;“After the thump you gave me earlier tonight, I know you could. And, my reasoning was that if you killed me, I would be free from the curse, finally, but that if you did not, then I could help you kill my master! You must recall that we did not know what to expect. That you are a singer in a band with no monster hunting experience seems unfathomable. You are innately empowered by some force unknown to me, but destiny has given me a grand opportunity. Eleanora found you, Ivor sent me, and now they have sealed their own fates! You and I will end them!”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t, man, this is all crazy—“@@ @@.Brone;“I know you are scared, but worry not, I have a plan! First, we will get whatever relic lies within the puzzle box, then I’ll take you to go see Hobs, and then—“@@ @@.Abby;“Hobs?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, he’s a dreadful little hobgoblin, but he sells weapons, potions, and equipment for gold coins and such. I never spend any of the treasures I have found over the decades, hoarding them. I’ll spend all my savings on you, and we will get you prepared.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, I guess that sounds cool, what else?”@@ @@.Brone;“After we go to the House of Haggle, that’s Hobs’ shop, I shall take you to ‘the Sanctuary’. That is base of Portland’s monster hunters. They use an abandoned factory. Once you convince them to join our cause, I am certain they will be able to handle Ivor’s forces, while we face off against him in battle!”@@ @@.Abby;“You think a bunch of strangers would risk their lives to save a nosferatu and follow a lady that shows up out of nowhere?”@@ @@.Brone;“Well—not at first. As I said, you’ll need to convince them to join our crusade. Trust me, I have followed many of them on their hunts, watching from the shadows, and they have no love for monsters of any kind. Earn their trust, show them what is at stake, because, it is merely a matter of time before they run afoul of Ivor, and instead of them assaulting his lair, he will send an army of vampires to their own!”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, ok. Wow! I feel the excitement building in me! I mean, this is nuts, but it feels right to me, somehow, and I am shaking! This will be awesome!”@@ @@.Brone;“Hmm, I admire your optimism, and I am hopeful, too. Once the monster hunters, they call themselves the Night Stalkers, teach you how to fight the forces of darkness, then you’ll be prepared to face off against Ivor! There are many ancient relics and artifacts that the strongest creatures of Portland guard, and by obtaining them, I think we will grow strong enough to fight them head on.”@@ @@.Abby;“Alright, I’m in! Now what?”@@ @@.Brone;“Now, I will give you the box, let’s hope whatever Calis Van Gothen put in there, was worth all this trouble.”@@ You approach the old cabin’s [[fireplace.|Des75]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_4" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory75.jpg]]</div> I hid it, here, in this abandoned cabin decades ago. You pull some of the bricks from the fireplace, and soon, find your hidden treasure. Amid gold coins, gems, and diamonds you have gathered throughout your undeath, is the [[puzzle box.|Des76]] <<audio "se_rock_move" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory76.jpg]]</div> The moment you touch it, you hear that voice inside your mind, <i>@@.SGhost2;<<psy>>Yes, you have brought a Van Gothen! Finally! Give her this box- hurry!<</psy>>@@</i> You rock on your feet a moment, the unknown power of the box has never been so demanding, so desperate. For the first time, in regards to this box, you feel uneasy. Turning, you carry it to Absinthe. @@.Brone;“This is it, as I said, I do not know what it contains, but it wants you. It makes me feel as though you must have it.”@@ [[You hand it to Abby.|Des77]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory77.jpg]]</div> The moment you let go, a dread fills you. Should you truly do this? You do not know what it contains, and the box itself, or whatever is inside, clearly has magical properties. @@.Brone;“Do you hear the voice?”@@ @@.Abby;“No,”@@ she says, examining it, @@.Abby;“I don’t hear anything, but it looks awesome! So, how do I turn it?”@@ @@.Brone;“You need this.”@@ Handing her the key, you step back, as she unlocks it. Even you feel somewhat excited, though you hope you will not [[regret this.|Des78]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory78.jpg]]</div> She unlocks it, and quickly shifts the sides around. @@.Brone;“How are you solving it so quickly?”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t know! It’s like these symbols make sense, it’s actually really easy!”@@ Flabbergasted, you watch, gawking in disbelief, as the young woman finishes it! @@.Abby;“There! It’s done. But, the little door is closed.”@@ @@.Brone;“Little door?”@@ @@.Abby;“There is a—woah! Cool!”@@ The box clicks within, as if gears and mechanisms shift, and then, in unison, the top folds back in a series of triangular shapes. @@.Brone;“What is it! What is inside?”@@ Absinthe squints an eye and peers down into the box, @@.Abby;“I can’t see, but it looks like, I don’t know, maybe a liquid?”@@ @@.Brone;“A liquid?”@@ at that moment, the smell of what lies contained in the dark container assails your nose- blood! Something different than normal blood, some like Ivor’s, but even more potent! @@.Brone;“Absinthe, hurry, close it!”@@ [[Panic wells inside you!|Des79]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory79.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“How?”@@ is all the girl manages to ask before a strange fountain of blood issues up from the crate, defying all logic [[and physics!|Des80]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_wakes" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory80.jpg]]</div> Within a heart’s beat, the goop covers Absinthe’s face! From under it, you hear muffled [[cries for help!|Des81]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory81.jpg]]</div> You rush to her aid! @@.Brone;“Absinthe, I am so sorry, I think I see to some degree what happened here! Please, fight it!”@@ The woman tries to pull the blood from her face, but it continues oozing over her! She pulls off the coat in an attempt to use it as a rag, but it does not work! Trying to ignore her nudity, you reach out to pull it off directly, but the moment your hand makes contact, the voice fills your mind, a hundred times stronger than when it remained in the box, <i>@@.SGhost2;<<psy>>Release me! You cannot stop me. You will not stop me!”<</psy>>@@</i> Instantly, you pull your hand back! Suddenly, you cannot seem to do anything to help her! @@.Brone;“Absinthe, it won’t—somehow.”@@ You look at your hands but cannot will them forward, @@.Brone;“Somehow, it won’t let me touch you or help. It’s as if it has a greater power over me than even Ivor!”@@ You can only watch as more of the blood issues from the [[puzzle box!|Des82]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory82.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“Oh no! This is terrible!”@@ You repeatedly scream apologies as the blood now slithers up her body. Though you try to not see it, you watch as it first covers- then enters Absinthe’s sex! If you were not already pale as the grave, you’d have just become so. Suddenly, more [[oozes from the box!|Des83]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory83.jpg]]</div> Stumbling back in disbelief you fall, your eyes never leaving the horrible scene unfolding before you! Just as with the water, Absinthe has held her breath much longer than you expected a human capable of doing, but her movements are finally slowing from a lack of oxygen! @@.Brone;“Absinthe!”@@ You grow speechless as the woman finally makes one last struggle and falls to the ground. The blood flows over her, and pulls her limbs closer together, until she lies in a [[fetal position.|Des84]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory84.jpg]]</div> The cabin grows totally silent for a long while. Slowly, your mind still reeling from the dramatic episode, you crawl to your would be savior, aghast and expecting to find her dead. However, you hear her heart beat. The blood oozes and flows into her ears, mouth, nose, sex and anus, and all you can do is helplessly watch as it does. Then, your own self-preservation flares up, and you feel the sunlight approaching. For a moment, you consider killing yourself by walking outside and waiting for the light to burn you into ash and dust, but suicide means God will sentence you to hell. Instead, you hang your discarded coat over the window, tying it in place with your scarf, and remain inside, [[watching over Absinthe.|Des85]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory85.jpg]]</div> Hours pass as the sun makes its way through the sky, and during that time, in the dark cabin, you sit in contemplation of what you should do. You never knew that the box held this cursed blood! It was never meant to be opened by anyone! All you had ever read about it was that it had to do with Calis Van Gothen, and now, you, guilt ridden to the core, wonder if the dark power of this blood tainted your mind or if you simply made a costly, horrible assumption that it would be meant for his descendant. As time passes, the blood becomes a second skin on the helpless girl, yet she breathes and her heartbeat continues pounding inside your ears. You continue your introspective chastising, until the last rays of sunlight, vanish outside, and night falls. At that precise moment, you scream in startled fear as Absinthe [[shrieks awake!|Des86]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory86.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“Absinthe! You’re alive- and awake!”@@ Her hands grab her skull as if something within causes her immense pain! @@.Abby;“No! No! I will not! Fuck you!”@@ she screams to an unseen assailant. You quickly surmise the blood is as much within her flesh as on the outside, and her brain likely floats in an ocean of the foul stuff. @@.Abby;“Gah! No, I’m the one charge of me!”@@ This seemingly internal struggle for control, finally abates, and Absinthe [[stops screaming.|Des87]] <<audio "se_abby_pain" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory87.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“What the hell! My hands!”@@ She looks down at her body, @@.Abby;“What the fuck did you do to me, Brone!?”@@ @@.Brone;“Now, please, calm down, I am unsure what happened to you. I promise, I meant no harm, I did not know what the box contained!”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, I do! I do now. I—I have new memories. I can’t make sense of everything; it is as if I am two people in one body.”@@ @@.Brone;“Dare I ask you to explain?”@@ [[She stands up.|Des88]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "brone_theme_5" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory88.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“This shit is blood?”@@ @@.Brone;“It smells like it, and in every way that your Van Gothen blood smells divine to me, this blood smells of blasphemy.”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s the blood of a guy named Vlad the third, Vlad Țepeș. I know so much, I can’t explain it. Almost two hundred years ago, my ancestor, Calis, and a guy named Dippel, and I think some others attacked Vlad’s castle in Romania. That, Ivor guy, was there too, I saw him. At first, Vlad thought himself invincible, but the people attacking him, they managed to overcome him. Ivor watched from the shadows, and could have saved Vlad, but, instead, he let them destroy Țepeș, so that Ivor would be free of his master’s power to build his own undead kingdom.”@@ @@.Brone;“What! This is—“@@ @@.Abby;“There’s more. The monster hunters could not find a power capable of destroying Vlad. They even put this blood in direct sunlight, and though it squealed and bubbled, it hardened on the outside and saved itself. Vlad is immortal, and so, they took the blood and sealed it in that box. A man that was there and his wife, Ravenhurst, they took the box and vowed to guard it with their lives.”@@ @@.Brone;“Ravenhurst! Anaximanes’ parents!”@@ @@.Abby;“When you became undead, it’s like, vampires have some sort of psychic bond. I see it all now; I feel it. That’s why you can’t directly kill Ivor- and why he could not kill Vlad!”@@ [[These revelations confound you.|Des89]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory89.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“I don’t know what Țepeș was, exactly, I can’t remember everything, but he was not a normal vampire. He got his blood—from—from—“@@ @@.Brone;“From where!”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t know, man! He’s fighting me from looking into his mind, like how I fought him off from invading mine a minute ago.”@@ @@.Brone;“So, he definitely does not have control over you?”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t think so, he tried, but I was strong enough to repulse him,”@@ she frowns a moment, @@.Abby;“Shut up! You sure as shit won’t use me like a puppet!”@@ @@.Brone;“So- you now hear the voice, too, don’t you?”@@ Nodding, she says, @@.Abby;“Yeah, it’s Vlad. He wants to use me, but I have a better idea.”@@ @@.Brone;“What?”@@ @@.Abby;“We use him!”@@ @@.Brone;“You cannot be serious, surely!”@@ @@.Abby;“Think about it, he wants Ivor dead in revenge, you want him dead for the same reason, and even though we just met today, I like you. I want to be your friend, and this all sounds so kickass, I have to do it! It’s calling to me!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, my lady, I would say two things, one is that this suit of blood, uh, blood suit, it might be subtly influencing you, to ensure you do kill Ivor.”@@ @@.Abby;“Maybe. But, I was really looking forward to all this monster fighting stuff before you even gave me the box. What is the other thing?”@@ @@.Brone;“You said we met <i>today</i>, but it is tomorrow.”@@ @@.Abby;“What?”@@ @@.Brone;“You have been passed out for an entire day. You awoke, as a vampire would, the moment the sun set. If what you said about Van Gothen putting this suit in daylight is true, you maybe only empowered at night.”@@ @@.Abby;“What! I can’t go out in the daytime anymore?”@@ @@.Brone;“I don’t know,”@@ you say, retrieving your coat and scarf and donning them, @@.Brone;“But, the suit, itself, might not be able to be in sunlight.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re right, he’s telling that—“@@ she stops suddenly, and you fear it might be trying to consume her mind again. @@.Brone;“Absinthe!”@@ @@.Abby;“No, it’s ok, Brone. He’s showing me things. Vlad says that I am immortal as well, so long as we remained joined. Even if something tore me in half, he could pull my pieces back together.”@@ @@.Brone;“How utterly grotesque!”@@ @@.Abby;“So, the Blood Suit, it will protect me, but it means, you’re right, I can only go out at night. So, maybe, in a freak way, you ended up helping me by having me open the box. I’m not a vampire, so I don’t have to drink blood, and my already super power over the creatures of the night, are actually amplified by Vlad’s blood!”@@ @@.Brone;“Of course, he’s trying to sell you on the idea of symbiosis, as it serves his purposes, for now. What assurances have we that the moment you let down your guard, or sleep, that he shan’t take you over completely and make you his slave?”@@ @@.Abby;“I guess we don’t, but, to be fair, you tried to enslave me too!”@@ @@.Brone;“Only because I thought I had to!”@@ [[She looks thoughtful.|Des90]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory90.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Maybe it’s the same for Vlad? Maybe he thought he would have to possess me, but I want to kill Ivor! Hell, I want to hunt monsters and fight! My body always wanted to, but I never found what I needed, but you have changed everything Brone, thank you.”@@ You felt sick with guilt before, and you have put this girl through hell in one day, and she thanks you? @@.Brone;“You are grateful to me?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah!”@@ @@.Brone;“You are not an average woman, are you?”@@ @@.Abby;“Hell no! I am Absinthe Jackson, no, not anymore- fuck my adopted last name, apparently my real name is Absinthe Van Gothen, and I am anything but an average woman! This is my calling!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, I suppose we should make our way to the House of Haggle, while the night is still young.”@@ @@.Abby;“No, first, I want to go to see my band mates, my friends. They are probably wondering where the hell I went, and why I missed the gig tonight.”@@ @@.Brone;“You truly think it is wise? I would recommend that, at least until we find out how to remove the blood suit, that you stay far away from any innocent mortals- especially if you care for them!”@@ @@.Abby;“Fuck no! This is really awesome, and Sylvain will be jealous as hell, he always wanted to be a vampire.”@@ @@.Brone;“You’re not a vampire, but exposing them to the supernatural world means that forces they never knew existed will know they exist! You may as well put targets on them!”@@ @@.Abby;“Listen, they have been my friends for years, and I still owe them an apology. I’m going, and you can’t stop me.”@@ With a sigh, you acquiesce, @@.Brone;“So be it, m’lady. But, we cannot stay too long, we have much to do.”@@ [[Smiling, she practically runs from the cabin.|Chap4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Chapter4.png]]</div> [[Chapter Four|Des91]] <<if $StoryMode>>[[Table of Contents|ToC]]<<else>><</if>> <<nobr>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_chapter" volume 0.4 play>> <<set $Chapter4 to true>> <<set $Chapter3 to true>> <<set $Chapter2 to true>> <<set $Chapter1 to true>> <</nobr>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory91.jpg]]</div> You cannot wait to get back and see your friends. You rush across the landscape faster than you could ever run before. Even flying as a giant bat, Brone seems to have trouble keeping up. Finally, you reach your apartment, covering all that distance at a full sprint, yet you are barely out of breath. Brone swoops down and you watch in awe as he becomes himself again. @@.Abby;“About time, old man!”@@ @@.Brone;“How on Earth can a mortal move with such speed?”@@ @@.Abby;“Alright, let’s go!”@@ You open the door and walk inside, but after a couple of steps, you realize Brone is still outside. Walking back to the door, you open it, @@.Abby;“Well, are you coming?”@@ @@.Brone;“What? You desire your friends to meet me! You are as mad as a hatter!”@@ @@.Abby;“Damn it, Brone! I want to introduce you!”@@ You turn to walk away and he still remains outside, so, turning back, the anger in you grows, @@.Abby;“I am not going to argue about this!”@@ @@.Brone;“I’m not out here because of that! I cannot enter a home unless invited.”@@ @@.Abby;“Woah, that’s a real thing?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, it is real!”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, please, sir, welcome to my humble abode. You are invited inside, Brone Lorcan!”@@ @@.Brone;“You don’t have to be so formal.”@@ You giggle in response, and the two of you go upstairs. @@.Abby;“Where are they?”@@ @@.Brone;“I do not smell them; there are no humans in this building.”@@ @@.Abby;“Maybe they went out looking for me.”@@ @@.Brone;“Mayhap. But, we have wasted enough time, there are some caverns on the other side of Portland, opposite of Forest Park, and that’s where all the goblin folk live.”@@ @@.Abby;“Goblin folk!”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, come, I shall explain on the way.”@@ You and Brone stick to the shadows and make [[your way across town.|Des92]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_3" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory92.jpg]]</div> Once you are back into relative wilderness, he continues, @@.Brone;“Goblins are a type of fairy creature.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re telling me there are such things as fairies!”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, fairies, sprites, goblins, trolls, giants, all those things from folklore are real.”@@ @@.Abby;“No way, why doesn’t anyone ever find them?”@@ @@.Brone;“They do.”@@ You quirk an eyebrow, @@.Abby;“But, if people are finding all these monsters, wouldn’t there be online videos and stuff?”@@ @@.Brone;“I know it might surprise you, but things like goblins, vampires, and all other manner of mythical monster, do not respond very kindly to meddling humans. That’s why so many mortals go missing in the wilderness across America. As humanity spreads around the globe, they are pushing the monsters into ever smaller areas.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean, the goblins would take them?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, and probably eat them, if I know anything about those snot nosed, squeaking ne’er-do-wells.”@@ Finally, Brone leads you to a path. @@.Brone;“This is it. Over this rise the road leads down into the caverns, and Hobs, being a hobgoblin, set up the entrance to his shop there.”@@ [[You reach the top.|Des93]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory93.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“This is awesome!”@@ You rush to the edge and peer over. There are, what look like, crude stone stairs that spiral down to a little lake in what might be an old volcano or a crater. @@.Abby;“So, we will get to fight goblins down there?”@@ @@.Brone;“Hardly! You have no weapons, and the last thing I need to do is start a war between vampires and goblins.”@@ [[You follow Brone down the spiral.|Des94]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory94.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“This is the entrance to the caverns. A word to the wise- never go left.”@@ @@.Abby;“Why?”@@ @@.Brone;“That leads down into the goblin caverns, but to the right is Hobs’ tunnel, and since he is goblin kin and likely supplies them with ill-gotten goods, his tunnel is considered a safe area. No creature should interrupt us there, or else they would probably feel Hobs’ wrath.”@@ @@.Abby;“Hobs’ wrath? C’mon, you said he is just a little hobgoblin! He can’t be too tough.”@@ @@.Brone;“His store fills to the brim with occult, ancient, and cursed items. Knowing him as well as I do, it is likely that he keeps the strongest, most insidious, relics for himself. Listen carefully when I tell you to be on your guard around him! Goblin-kin are very cunning, deceitful, and selfish.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, got it, watch out for tiny super villains.”@@ Brone shakes his head and sighs, as you follow the tunnel, and then, around a bend, you can [[make out blue light.|Des95]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory95.jpg]]</div> The scene shocks your rational mind, and it takes you a moment to believe what you are seeing! There is a shimmering, blue liquid, defying gravity. @@.Abby;“What is that!”@@ @@.Brone;“That’s the entrance to Hobs’ shop. At least the one I know about.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean there’s other tunnels that lead to glowing water?”@@ @@.Brone;“That’s not glowing water! That’s a magical portal he erected here. He probably has them all over the world so creatures can come to his shop from anywhere. When one exits, it puts one back to wherever they entered from.”@@ @@.Abby;“No. Fucking. Way. You are telling me that magic is real and that there are such things as teleporting portals! How does it work?”@@ @@.Brone;“I honestly haven’t a clue. That is how goblin-kin seem to move around. They have some sort of innate way of using portals. C’mon, you saw me turn into a bat; surely you can accept magical doorways!”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, I never thought of a vampire’s powers as magic, but I guess it is. So, we walk through here and—“@@ @@.Brone;“And we are instantaneously inside the House of Haggle. Oh how I hate that place.”@@ @@.Abby;“Where is it really, if this is only a portal?”@@ @@.Brone;“That, no one knows. Where the actual physical location of the place is, is anyone’s guess. For all I know it’s not even in our dimension.”@@ @@.Abby;“There’s other dimensions?!”@@ @@.Brone;“Oh bother, c’mon.”@@ [[Cautiously, you step inside.|Des96]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory96.jpg]]</div> All your expectations are dashed! Part of you thought it would be like a worm-hole from a movie, but you felt like you just took a step, and you poke your head back into the portal, and see the cavern behind you. The other let down is the shop itself! Inside your imagination you pictured this wondrous, mystical scene, but it looks like a shoddy rundown wooden shanty with random strings of decorative lights and neon signs. @@.Abby;“Brone, this place is cheesy.”@@ @@.Brone;“Shh, let’s not draw attention to ourselves. You’re probably the only human to ever set foot in here.”@@ Your eyes scan the massive building. Aisles stretch out in either direction, lined with rows of weapons. You see everything from swords to machine guns. The whole place is as if random bits of history were cobbled together and sold. Suddenly, a loud voice [[yells out.|Des97]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory97.jpg]]</div> @@.Hobs;“Welcome to the upscale and prestigious, House o’ Haggle!”@@ As you look ahead, directly across from the entrance, is a gnarled, creepy little green man. He wears a top hat and a vest, and something about him puts you off. With his cockney British accent, he then continues with, @@.Hobs;“Wot unique and powerful item can Hobs help you find to— Brone Lorcan! You ol’ raspberry tart! Get out of me store this instant!”@@ Perplexed, you turn to your undead companion, @@.Brone;“Now, now, Hobs, I intend to buy!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Not in a hundred years have you ever bought so much as a scrap of me trinkets and treasures! Nah mate, you always look only! Get out of ‘ere, right now, if you know what’s good for you! Know wot I mean?”@@ @@.Brone;“I promise, I really will purchase items this time, look!”@@ Brone produces the bag filled with the gold and gems he took from the fireplace back in the cabin. Confused, you watch as Hobs sniffs the air, and then, in a slow, freakishly unsettling way, the hobgoblin’s grin grows bigger and bigger across his misshapen face. @@.Hobs;“Oh, ho, ho! You got a right good haul ‘ere, Brone Lorcan, yeah you do! Welcome, of course, mate, do look all about! There’s so many unique and expensive things ta spend that dosh on, yeah? So, go on, look—“@@ and in a almost demanding voice, Hobs adds, @@.Hobs;“—and buy somfing!”@@ [[Chuckling, you look up at Brone.|Des98]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "hoh_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "quote_hobs_2" volume 0.2 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory98.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Ha ha, you told me to keep a low profile! More like you didn’t want him to see <i>you</i> until we were ready to leave!”@@ Brone glares at you and walks to the far right aisle. He then turns and follows the wall with you in tow, @@.Brone;“Now that we have permission to buy, we just need to figure out what to get.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, you know what vampires are like more than I ever could.”@@ @@.Brone;“You likely won’t be only killing vampires. Look around the store, some of these shoppers are likely to be your direct enemies soon enough.”@@ You scan the large room, and see many strange figures. Again, it takes your mind a moment to truly fathom what you look at. There are some green-skinned storybook-looking witches cackling, there are little, skinny guys chattering that resemble Hobs, and you see a huge man. He must be twelve feet tall and as wide as a truck. @@.Abby;“You mean I might have to fight that giant dude over there?”@@ @@.Brone;“That’s an ogre, and that’s what I mean. An ogre will fight you very differently than, say that witch over there. She will probably use magic, whereas ogres use their immense brawn.”@@ Brone watches the two little green men walk to the counter and start talking to Hobs. @@.Brone;“And, that goblin and kobold will be a very different fight than the others.”@@ @@.Abby;“Kobold?”@@ @@.Brone;“That’s the taller one. They have large ears and noses, and are blind as a—”@@ Brone runs his fingers along his pointed ears, @@.Brone;“Well, you know.”@@ @@.Abby;“This is going to be so strange; I have so much to learn.”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, but as I said, I will help you, and I think the Night Stalkers will too. I believe you should leave it to me to pick out the weapons, then, as, not only do I know all about the monsters in Portland, but I can also figure out what we can afford with my savings.”@@ As Brone goes about his shopping, you walk around on your own, and make your way to the far side of the store. In your case, you are interested in the shoppers more than the weapons. You act like you are browsing the next aisle over while you eavesdrop on the [[green women.|Des99]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory99.jpg]]</div> @@.Witch1;“I can’t get over how hot it was what you and the other coven sisters did to me! I am so happy that you managed to stop me before I saved us all!”@@ The two of them look exactly identical except for their hair, and when the other witch answers, her voice exactly matches the first’s, @@.Witch2;“Yes, I was so wet holding you down and forcing you to drink the brew, but look at you- you are one of us now, and we love ourselves.”@@ @@.Witch1;“Yes, I find you more beautiful and sexy than anything but my own reflection and the Mistress, Herself.”@@ The two cackle madly, until they [[turn towards you!|Des100]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory100.jpg]]</div> @@.Witch1;“Ooh, what a pretty girl.”@@ @@.Witch2;“Yes, but she could be even prettier.”@@ @@.Abby;“I’m cool, thanks, though.”@@ @@.Witch1;“Don’t you want green skin?”@@ @@.Witch2;“And, black hair?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, like I said, I’m good.”@@ The witch on the right reaches up and grabs the small vial of liquid hanging around her neck, and asks, @@.Witch1;“Should we take her?”@@ @@.Witch2;“No! Hobs would stop us. But, I have an idea.”@@ In a whisper, you can just make out as she says, @@.Witch2;“Look at her! No weapon, no protection- we’ll wait outside. When she leaves, we’ll make her perfect, just as we are!”@@ @@.Witch1;“Hee, hee, hee, ok,”@@ responds the other. @@.Witch2;“Alright, dear girl, we will leave you be. See you, soon!”@@ [[With that the cackling pair leave.|Des101]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory101.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Brone better find me some damn gear or I might be in trouble!”@@ Your attention now falls on the ogre. It appears to be looking at massively oversized hammers. You watch as, with total ease, the lumbering giant lifts a hammer and holds it straight out. His biceps are as big as your entire torso. @@.Abby;“Holy shit! If that guy punched me, it’ll break every bone in my body!”@@ Setting the mallet back, [[the ogre moves on.|102]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory102.jpg]]</div> As the ogre walks, the wood groans under his feet and you boggle that the floor does not collapse. You turn and slowly make your way towards the front of the store. The goblin and, kobold, you think it was called, have moved away from Hobs and seem to be [[having a conversation.|Des103]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory103.jpg]]</div> Their words are foreign, but they sound angry about something. Then, the taller one sniffs the air and turns [[in your direction!|Des104]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory104.jpg]]</div> Brone was right! The thing’s eyes are all white, like it is blind, but it knows you are here. It makes some noises and points, and the goblin looks over at you, grinning. Though you do not know what they are saying, they appear to be ogling you like a piece of meat. @@.Hobs;“Hey! You two!”@@ The pair turn towards Hobs, and he says a few weird guttural words to them before they make to leave the store, though they look back at you more than once. @@.Hobs;“Remember, you tell Stenhållare that if he puts that stone into a woman’s naughty bits, it’ll make it so he can get ‘er right up the duff, mates! He’ll have all the littol troll sons he wants.”@@ He pulls a pile of gold off the counter and into a sack he then sets behind it. The goblins must have bought something. Standing at the counter, you [[turn and look at Hobs.|Des105]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory105.jpg]]</div> This close to him, you can really get a view of his features, and it’s not a good one. He stands about four feet tall, long pointed ears protrude from the sides of his head, and his teeth look as if they have never been brushed in his life! @@.Hobs;“Ooh, what a fit girl! You came right in ‘ere, and I didn’t notice! Heh, heh.”@@ @@.Abby;“I’m here, um, with Brone.”@@ @@.Hobs;“With a nosferatu? Why would a fit girl like you hang out wif a minger like him?”@@ the little creature laughs, and even though he is speaking English, you only understand some of what he says, @@.Hobs;“Hey, now, me girl, fancy joining ol’ Hobs for a nice cuppa? Or, buy a few fings from behind me ‘ere.”@@ @@.Abby;“Brone’s shopping for me, thanks though.”@@ You have a hard time looking the hobgoblin in his creepy eyes. @@.Hobs;“Well, for girl like you, how about somefing on the house? Know wot I mean?”@@ Hobs reaches over and picks up a [[potion.|Des106]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory106.jpg]]</div> @@.Hobs;“I has many potions and trinkets, but you can have this special potion, for free, no dough at all, miss, she’s yours!”@@ With everything else that has happened to you today, the idea of magical potions seems legit. @@.Abby;“Um, thanks, Hobs, but what does it do? What kind of potion is it?”@@ @@.Hobs;“It’s a right pink potion, it is!”@@ @@.Abby;“I meant, like, what happens to people that drink it? Does it have any effects?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Ah, yeah, actually, see whoever drinks this grows happier than they have ever been in their entire life! One o’ these pink potions is enough to make them happy forever.”@@ Laughing, you ask, @@.Abby;“Are you saying, this will make me high?”@@ @@.Hobs;“High? No, no! Those are levitation potions, take you right up, top floor, and they’re all sold out. This is a <i>pink</i> potion. Makes a bird very pretty, too!”@@ @@.Abby;“Let me get this straight, if I drink that,”@@ you point to the milky pink glowing liquid, @@.Abby;“I will become happier and prettier?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Yeah! Guaranteed that you will be happier and more lovely than ever before!”@@ @@.Abby;“There are signs all over that say, ‘no returns’! What kind of guarantee is that?”@@ @@.Hobs;“In your case, miss, since it is a gift, if it don’t work, then, I’ll give you anyfing else in me whole shop!”@@ @@.Abby;“For free? Anything at all?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Yep, cross me heart- I swear it!”@@ Trying it may not a bad idea. You could drink it, and then simply say it did not make you happier, and ask Brone what the strongest, most expensive item in the store is, and then pick it for your free item. [[Take the potion and enact the plan.|BimboBuzz1]] Or [[Think over the offer.|Des106.1]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory105.jpg]]</div> You think about it, and just as you are about to accept the offer, Brone drops a bunch of equipment on the counter. @@.Brone;“What is that?”@@ Brone asks non chalantly as he finishes putting down weapons. Then, his eyes bulge and he exclaims, @@.Brone;“What!? Are you trying to get her to buy one of those Doxy Drinks, you cur!”@@ @@.Abby;“A ‘doxy drink’? What’s a doxy?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Why, wot is a doxy, you ask? It’s a happy, vibrant, beautiful woman!”@@ @@.Brone;“No! A doxy is another word for a prostitute. He’s trying to make you into a, what do you call them, a bimbo!”@@ @@.Abby;“What!?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, if you imbibe a Doxy Drink, it does not matter if you are a male or a female, it turns you into a sex crazed, hyper feminine woman, submissive in every way and to every whim to whoever mixed their own sexual liquids into the concoction. It’s what one might call a ‘love potion’.”@@ Brone frowns a moment and asks, @@.Brone;“Hobs, how do you even have this? These are only made with the, uh-”@@ Brone shifts uncomfortably a moment, @@.Brone;-“<i>Dew</i>, of a succubus. Are you consorting with demons?! If you are the BDA will show up and—“@@ @@.Hobs;“No, I promise, mate! Fairy sold it to me. Found and it brought it right 'ere to the man himself. Gave up some real dough, to acquire it.”@@ @@.Brone;“Found where?”@@ @@.Hobs;“It was found on Ghost Nook Island.”@@ @@.Brone;“What? That makes no sense, why would a succubus have been anywhere near Wakefield? That damn Eleanora!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Don’t know, me lad, and I don’t care none- paid high for it, but it will pay for itself once someone drinks it. I’ll sell the drinker, see, on the side. Trust me, she’ll love it! Hobs’ House of Whores!”@@ @@.Brone;“Dear goodness! You mixed your— you vile little imp.”@@ @@.Hobs;“See here, Lorcan! You going to come into me own shop and insult me or are you gonna purchase these fings?”@@ @@.Brone;“I <i>am</i> buying, sir!”@@ With that, Brone opens the little cloth sack and pours out the contents. Hobs’ face lights up! Though you are pissed that he tried to turn you into a bimbo prostitute slave, you hold your tongue. You want to get out of here as soon as possible. Rubbing his hands together with a greedy twinkle in his eyes, Hobs says, @@.Hobs;“Cor blimey! Very good! This dosh’ll pay for all this and more!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, that was what I thought, we will need some kind of armor.”@@ @@.Hobs;“I have the finest armors on the ’ole of the Earth, I do! What’re looking for? Grecian, Arthurian, Atlantian—“@@ @@.Brone;“No, not anything bulky, what do you have that would allow Absinthe to maintain her mobility. Come on, I am paying all my savings, give me something good, Hobs.”@@ The hobgoblin steeples his fingers and then rubs his palms together, @@.Hobs;“Right, mate! I know just the fing for you- the Babr-e Bayan!”@@ You and Brone both ask at the same time, what that means. @@.Hobs;“Babr-e Bayan is right old. Rostam, the Iranian hero, he wore it into battle ages ago. Tough as dragonscales, but light as cotton!”@@ @@.Brone;“But, will it protect her against magic?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Not magic spells, per se, you’d need somefing like an Adder Stone for that, but, Babr-e Bayan, protects against all elementals. Fire, ice, wind, when one wears the Babr-e Bayan, renders all these natural fings much weaker. You could probably take a nice stroll on the sun or sleep comfortably in the middle of an arctic storm!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, why would she need that? I say, then, sell me the stone you mentioned- sell me an Adder Stone.”@@ @@.Hobs;“Aw, it’s a right pity, but I sold the last one to a couple of me mates for their master. Out of stock, and you do not have enough to afford one even if I had it. Good Adder Stones are very dangerous to get. <i>Very</i>.”@@ @@.Brone;“Fine! You are sure there is nothing else?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Nofing. This is a real powerful artifact, and I’m giving you a right good price, mate. This is worth a bit more dosh than you ’ave left over. But, because you’re finally buying my wares, and getting so many fings today, I figure it’s close enough to even out.”@@ @@.Brone;“Ok, we’ll take it.”@@ You look through the things as Hobs and Brone help dress and arm you. Throwing knives, guns, and a crossbow for ranged attacks, and an oak stake and silver knife for close range all find a place on your body. The arming goes well, though, at one point, Hobs gropes your butt when he is helping hook on your holsters, and you backhand him, knocking his hat off his head. @@.Abby;“Watch it, buddy.”@@ @@.Hobs;“Ow! Girlie can hit real hard! Look ’ere, I’m just lonely’s all, and your shiny red arse practically demands to be touched, my fair lady!”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, forget it, just finish this up.”@@ When they hold up the Babr-e Bayan, it looks like a tiger skin vest. @@.Abby;“Oh my god, I have to wear this? It looks horrible!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Ah, nah, see, it’s magic. Here, put ’er on.”@@ The goblin helps dress you, @@.Hobs;“Now, fink of what you want it to look like.”@@ @@.Abby;“Seriously?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Yeah, yeah, go on, then.”@@ You concentrate and think about your black leather jacket from your gig last night. @@.Hobs;“Oh, yeah, look at that!”@@ @@.Brone;“Huh, that looks really good, Absinthe.”@@ @@.Abby;“What—“@@ you look down to find the Babr-e Bayan looks exactly like your coat! After they finish dressing you, you ask about the little glass vials that Brone has purchased. He bought you two health potions and two willpower potions, which you put into your inventory bag on your utility belt. [[Soon, everything is in order.|Des107.1]] [[(Click here if you need an explanation about the inventory)]] <<audio "hoh_theme" volume 0.3>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo1.jpg]]</div> Raising the potion to your nose, you sniff it. It smells like bubblegum, sex, and something you cannot place, but your pussy twitches. @@.Abby;“What is this?”@@ @@.Hobs;“That, my dear lady, is one of the most rare, unique potions in the whole o’ the world, it is!”@@ @@.Abby;“But what does it—“@@ @@.Hobs;“Happy! One sip-o’- that will wash away cares with mind melting pleasure. He he, I promise you, it’s guaranteed, like I said, or else you get your pick of the place, remember?”@@ Oh, yeah, strange, you forgot he even said that. You have to use your other hand to wipe some drool from your lips. The hobgoblin rubs his hands together, @@.Hobs;“Now, guzzle’er down- everyone wants to be happy, you know? Everyone.”@@ @@.Abby;“Happy.”@@ You sniff one more time, and your brain buzzes with excitement, @@.Abby;“Happy!”@@ You drink the [[pink potion!|Bimbo3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory107.jpg]]</div> @@.Brone;“All done, so, how is it, Abby?”@@ @@.Abby;“It feels great. I never imagined I would be covered in knives and guns like this. Scarlette would be all over me right now. I feel sexy as hell!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Heh, heh, heh, that’s because you look sexy as ‘ell! Right then, all finished up. Thank you for shopping at the House of Haggle! Please, come again!”@@ The hobgoblin puts out his hand, motioning for you both to leave. @@.Abby;“Hold on, you forgot my gift.”@@ @@.Hobs;“Gift?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, you said I could have the pink potion.”@@ The goblin’s color drains from his face, @@.Hobs;“Now, wait just a tick, miss, I ain’t giving it up me love potion!”@@ @@.Abby;“Look here, Hobs,”@@ you say, putting your nose to his, @@.Abby;“You said I could have that!”@@ @@.Brone;“You should honor your word Hobs, though, I cannot imagine why she would want a cursed demonic potion.”@@ @@.Hobs;“No!”@@ @@.Brone;“Hobs, she is going to be fighting monsters every single night for a while. Do you know what that means?”@@ The hobgoblin appears confused, @@.Hobs;“You trying to threaten me, mate? You saying she’ll come and try to slay me or somefing?”@@ @@.Brone;“No! Of course not! Who even knows what insane enchantments you have on yourself or in this room for protection, I meant, she will need potions. Lots of them.”@@ @@.Hobs;“Me potions?”@@ @@.Brone;“That’s right, health, focus, armor think of it! Not to mention more weapons! Think of all the gold those monsters out there are hoarding- gold she will gain, <i>and spend</i>, right here.”@@ The hobgoblin’s eyes light up, and in your imagination, you can practically see dollar signs in them, @@.Hobs;“Well, why didn’t you say so! Right then, I did say the girl could have this. How silly of me. Please, take it, and come back and buy any and all potions you need, miss! Oh, and don’t die or anyfing!”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, you’re a real gentleman.”@@ The hobgoblin adjusts his hat and stands up straight appearing to try and take on an air of civility. @@.Brone;“Yes, Hobs, thank you, and a good evening.”@@ The hobgoblin smiles and you can hear his hands rubbing together greedily as you leave [[through the portal.|Des108]]

<div align="center"> <iframe width="854" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/alj3r-SLiRA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div> @@.SGhost2;Click CC (Closed Captions) in the above video if you have any trouble hearing me. Video quality available up to 720p. Also, please note that "Character Unlocks" mentioned in this video are available only in the final release!@@ [[Return to the House of Haggle!|Des106.1]] Or Sell your soul- visit the guide! (WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE FINAL RELEASE!) <<audio "hoh_theme" volume 0.00001>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory108.jpg]]</div> As you step out, you almost trip over the witches! The one that had tried to give you her vial has her fingers in the other’s cunt and the two are deeply kissing. You feel a thrill run through you! @@.Abby;“That’s so freaking hot!”@@ Brone steps through next, @@.Brone;“Oh my! Dear lord!”@@ [[He covers his eyes.|Des109]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_4" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory109.jpg]]</div> The two women are soon in another position and you feel your pussy suddenly heat with need, but then, the blood suit begins massaging it from within! Your legs almost buckle at the invasion, @@.Abby;“Oh, shit, that feels so good.”@@ Brone turns to you, @@.Brone;“Your heartbeat just increased! Are you well?”@@ You chuckle, @@.Abby;“Yeah, Brone, I’m good, I just, this is really sexy. Look at them!”@@ He shakes his head, @@.Brone;“Well, at least these two harlots have forgotten all about you. Let’s go.”@@ It’s hard to walk with the suit molesting you, but once you are out of the cavern and away from the sexy scene behind you, the suit stops its sexual intrusion and your mind clears. Hmm, this is something you must watch out for being [[merged with Vlad.|Des110]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory110.jpg]]</div> You make your way across town, following Brone to an old factory. @@.Brone;“This is it.”@@ @@.Abby;“This run down dump is the Sanctuary? I was picturing something very different!”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, I know, not much to look at. You see, though these hunters obtain the gold coins that monsters use as currency, they can’t spend them.”@@ @@.Abby;“What! Why?”@@ @@.Brone;“Because, one cannot simply walk into a store and buy eggs with gold! Now then, while these different monster hunters are powerful, from my spying on them, I have found that they each seem best suited for a particular hunt.”@@ @@.Abby;“What do you mean, exactly?”@@ @@.Brone;“Some are avid zombie hunters, others seems to be exceptional against werewolves, there’s an Irish woman, lovely lass, she was once a marine biologist, and I have seen her mostly square off against creatures like that rusalka that tried seducing you.”@@ As you approach the building, you notice [[a cool truck!|Des111]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory111.jpg]]</div> You run over to it, @@.Abby;“This is fucking cool! Look what they did!”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, it’s a piecemeal developed contraption. Occasionally, a few of them team up and ride in this. There is a woman that constantly welds and works on it. Rather formidable girl, indeed. Anyway, they have no vampire hunter among them. There was one here several years ago, but Ivor dispatched the Jiang Shi twins, and, oh dear it was a horrific bloodbath.”@@ @@.Abby;“What’s a Jiang Shi?”@@ @@.Brone;“The best I can tell you is to picture two deadly female vampire assassins capable of an immense array of martial art acrobatics. They are called the ‘hopping vampires’ in Chinese for a reason.”@@ @@.Abby;“I hope I get to face off with them!”@@ Brone guffaws, @@.Brone;“Personally, I fear you facing them more than I fear you facing Ivor himself.”@@ The two of you approach the back [[of the building.|Des112]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory112.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“So, where are they?”@@ @@.Brone;“They mostly reside in the basement. I have stalked through their entire base.”@@ Brone hops up and walks inside with you in tow. @@.Abby;“Wait! You said you had to be invited to go into a building.”@@ @@.Brone;“I didn’t say <i>‘a building’</i>, I said <i>‘a home’</i>. Though they live here, this is not a home, nor their property, and at this point, it’s barely even a building! Without their vampire hunter around, they have virtually no protection against us. Notice, no garlic and they dwell in the lower part of the building where there are no windows, and that means, no sunlight.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s stupid!”@@ @@.Brone;“Well, ignorant, maybe, but they don’t know better. None of these people have even fought vampires. Ivor’s forces have mostly acted with complete immunity throughout Portland. In fact, it’s usually the other monsters in Portland that fight us over territory or resources.”@@ @@.Abby;“Resources? Like what.”@@ @@.Brone;“My apologies, it seems, even I have become somewhat jaded. People. Monsters need humans to reproduce.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s crazy!”@@ @@.Brone;“Think about the monsters you probably have heard about in your picture shows and books. You have a werewolf, and how do they get more werewolves?”@@ @@.Abby;“They attack someone, and if the person doesn’t die, they become one too. But they only change on a full moon night.”@@ @@.Brone;“The first part is correct, however, the latter is mere folly. Werewolves do tend to howl at a full moon, but those hairy brutes stalk the wild forests every night, trust me. And, what of vampires?”@@ @@.Abby;“Like you said, you get bitten and turned.”@@ @@.Brone;“Exactly, almost all monsters reproduce in such ways, requiring a human transformation. Even those goblins, like Hobs.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean if he had bit me, I’d turn into a hobgoblin, too!”@@ Brone laughs, @@.Brone;“No! They work differently. They are magical creatures, and use enchantments. Sometimes, they will enchant humans, just like a vampire with mind control, and keep the human as little more than a toy or pet. However, when they get really desperate for forces, or, perhaps if there is something sending them into a sexual frenzy, the pack of them will use their spells to turn a woman into one of them. There are no natural female goblin-kin. They are born all male, but the females were always originally a human being.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean, he can turn me into one of him and then breed me?”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes, terrible thought.”@@ Though you nod to your companion, you feel a shot of sexual excitement at the fantasy of being pregnant with a bunch of [[creepy little goblin babies.|Des113]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory113.jpg]]</div> You enter a lobby area and there is an old elevator. @@.Brone;“This is as far as I go. I cannot see you earning their trust if you walk in there with me at your side. Likewise, I suggest you keep our acquaintance a secret.”@@ @@.Abby;“You mean our friendship.”@@ He tilts his head and smiles, though a nosferatu smiling, even when happy, is still a bit off-putting. @@.Brone;“Thank you, m’lady, I feel you are my friend as well.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, what should I do? Just take the elevator and tell them I am here to help fight the forces of darkness or something? Are they like the super heroes?”@@ @@.Brone;“No, they are not flashy braggarts in capes; they are people that other humans think are insane and are complete outcasts of society.”@@ @@.Abby;“Why?”@@ @@.Brone;“Absinthe, think of what happens when one of your loved ones disappears while you and your family are hiking in the mountains. The officials come and ask you what happened, and you explain that the ground opened up, little green men with pointy ears wielding knives and swords grabbed your wife, and then the ground sealed up behind them.”@@ @@.Abby;“Shit. They would think you murdered her.”@@ @@.Brone;“Yes. These people ended up here through terrible travesty and horrendous hardships, they can trust no one besides others like them. You, on the other hand, while very unique, and lovely, have not had your whole family turned into zombies, or had your mother drown and become a rusalka, only later to try and drown you. Imagine what these poor people’s psyches are like, and try to be kind to them. Though they would kill <i>me</i> on sight, I pity them and hope they will accept you and eventually stand with us against Portland’s vampire horde.”@@ @@.Abby;“I get it now. I was excited and this is all cool and new to me, but, to these people, it has been the exact opposite.”@@ @@.Brone;“Exactly. Alright, I think I have taught you a fairly good crash course on pertinent matters, and you should get going. I wish you luck, m’lady.”@@ Brone bows low, @@.Brone;“I will head back to Ivor’s lair and see what they are up to. So, I shall keep you updated and informed as I am able.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks Brone. This has been crazy, but I feel better than I ever have before, and I really hope we get to be friends forever.”@@ He smiles again, as you enter [[the elevator.|Des114]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory114.jpg]]</div> As you slide the door closed and hit the basement button, Brone leans on the stair railing, @@.Brone;“Remember, Absinthe, you have super human strength and all these weapons, so don’t kill these poor people, even if they try to kill you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Kill me!?”@@ You yell up as he goes from view. Great. You forgot you are clad in a suit made of blood. What if they do try and fight you. Mulling it over, you pop your neck and stretch. Then you give a big smile a couple of times, as if you are preparing for a big job interview. @@.Abby;“Ok, ready!”@@ [[The elevator stops at the basement level.|Des115]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory115.jpg]]</div> The bottom resembles the top floor, only there is a single door on the far end. You check your equipment and stretch one last time. Taking a deep breath, you open the door and find [[a long wide hallway.|Des116]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory116.jpg]]</div> A few dim, industrial lights hang from the ceiling, and you make it in a few steps before you notice a woman sitting in the shadows on your right. @@.Abby;“Oh, hey! My name is Absinthe Van Gothen. I have come to—“@@ She stands up, @@.Kat;“I sense no magic within you. You are no vitch.”@@ Her accent is Russian. @@.Abby;“A witch? No, I’m—“@@ @@.Kat;“I do, however, sense your intensely dark aura. You drip vith evil.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh! That’s not <i>my</i> aura, I think. It’s probably this Blood Suit. Long story! So, I was-”@@ She opens the door and screams for backup before turning back to you, @@.Kat;“I do not know vhat manner of monster you are, but I vill kill you, or at least keep you busy until the others end your foul existence!”@@ [[You try to plead!|Des117]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory117.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Seriously, please, listen to me, I am not a threat, I—“@@ She draws two knives and leaps into the air towards you! Instinct pulses in your muscles, and as she lands, she strikes. She stabs at your chest, then swipes across your abdomen before launching a series of kicks, all of which you manage to dodge! Again, she tries to stab, but as she does, you latch onto her wrists and use her momentum to toss her to the ground and launch yourself [[across the hallway!|Des118]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_1" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory118.jpg]]</div> She rolls on the ground in pain a moment, @@.Abby;“Please! You have to listen to me, I came to—“@@ [[Just then, the door behind you opens!|Des119]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory119.jpg]]</div> Three women rush into the hallway. With an east coast accent, the largest of the three women yells, @@.Rosa;“Hey! What do you think you’re doing, coming in here like this!”@@ @@.Kendra;“Look thar, she hurt Katerina! Oh, ye shouldn’t have done that, lass.”@@ says a woman that sounds a bit like Brone, but with a much thicker accent. @@.Siri;“I don’t want to kill her,”@@ says the tall blonde. @@.Rosa;“Damn it, Siri, grow a pair already, will ya?”@@ the big woman retorts before she rushes at you swinging two heavy maces. You easily dodge the slow, strong attacks, but every so often the red haired woman in the wetsuit tries to stick you with her harpoon. Then the blonde woman, the one they called Siri, shakily aims the gun at you and fires, missing completely and almost hitting her friends. While the other two attack at once, you spin and flip in the air, landing behind them and right in front of Siri. In a swift movement, you pull the gun from her hand and toss it down the hallway. @@.Kendra;“Hold still ye blooming harlot!”@@ The redhead stabs at you and almost skewers the cowering Siri. @@.Abby;“You people are going to hurt each other!”@@ You finally make a move, grabbing the harpoon when she thrusts it, and pulling her forward with a strong jerk- right into your other fist. The blow knocks the redhead down. Then, you toss away her weapon. The blonde runs away, going back through the doors she came through, and the big woman takes a massive swing, missing you as you step up to her, nose to nose. @@.Rosa;“Damn, you’re fast. Real fast.”@@ She tries a few more swings, but you stay in right against her. Every move she makes you step around, and end up right behind her, as if it were a dance. @@.Abby;“Sorry for this,”@@ you say, and hit her in the back of the head. The blow sends her reeling forward and she loses her footing and lands on several full trash bags. Something inside you beckons you to leap right and you do, narrowly [[dodging a knife attack!|Des120]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory120.jpg]]</div> @@.Kat;“Impossible! How could you have dodged that?”@@ @@.Abby;“Honey, I am trying to tell you, I am here as a friend.”@@ @@.Kat;“Liar!”@@ She tries to attack again, and this time, you kick at her knee. The blow sends her careening across the floor and into the wall as she drops her knives and holds her leg. Then you leap to the left, just as you hear a grunt and an axe [[narrowly misses you!|Des121]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory121.jpg]]</div> The largest man you have ever seen lashes out with a punch, and you duck and leap back as he raises his axe, @@.Jack;“Hold still, s’il vous plaît!”@@ @@.Abby;“Listen to me!”@@ @@.Jack;“No! You listen! You have hurt my friends, and you should have run away ma petite cherie! Now, I must save them and end you!”@@ Without another word, you swing your leg in a brutal horizontal kick, getting him in the stomach. With your power, the blow lifts the large man off the ground and sends him into the same wall as the [[knife-wielding woman.|Des122]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory122.jpg]]</div> @@.Ayana;“Shit, did you see that?”@@ You turn and see a man and a woman donning red suits, and a woman wearing a leather outfit. @@.Arion;“Hell yeah I saw that. A flying Frenchman! How did that girl kick big ass Jacques, across the room?”@@ asks the man. @@.Selena;“I don’t know, but this looks like a blast to me!”@@ yells the woman in leather, and as she does she grabs what looks almost like two short swords from within her jacket. As she runs towards you she flings the swords forward, which causes them to come apart and become two razor sharp whips! The deadly chains fly through the air and she lashes at you. @@.Abby;“Stop! All of you listen to me!”@@ @@.Selena;“You’re kidding, you hurt our friends, bitch!”@@ she yells as she whips again. @@.Selena;“Shit, maldita sea!”@@ She tries again, and this time you are ready. You fall to the ground as the whips pass over your head, and then roll towards her on the ground. As you roll, you retrieve the axe the big guy dropped, and when you pop up in front of the woman, she tries to bring her whips across your mid section like closing jaws, but you spin, turning your back to her front and hold up the shaft of the axe. The blades hit it and wrap around the shaft several time, then you spin back. With the chains wrapped around the axe, this pulls the hilts from her hands. You toss the axe and connected chains across the room before grabbing the woman and [[flinging her behind you!|Des123]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory123.jpg]]</div> Now the man starts laughing, @@.Arion;“Damn girl, I don’t know what you are, but seriously, thank you for kicking the shit out of that giant Canadian.”@@ @@.Jack;“Va te faire foutre, Arion!”@@ moans the large man, still holding his gut on the ground. @@.Ayana;“Play nice boys. So, bro, we just shoot her?”@@ @@.Arion;“Yep. The usual, I’ll aim high, you aim low, and if she gets within reach, I play whack-a-bitch with my bat.”@@ The two aim, and as they fire, your blood suit sends a tremble through your body. As if it has a mind of its own, the suit shoots out tendrils towards the wall, and pulls you instantly to the side. The pair stops firing so as to not hit their friends, and the suit returns to normal. @@.Abby;“Cool!”@@ @@.Ayana;“Let’s get her!”@@ @@.Arion;“A’ite, sis!”@@ Now they work as a team and you suddenly find yourself dodging blows from his customized bat as she uses jabs and kicks, but, again, between your own instincts and the blood suit, you simply dance around the pair, easily dodging their blows until you leap up a few feet off the ground and kick outward with both legs, as if you were doing the splits in mid-air. Your boots make contact with both their heads and send them flying in different directions at once. @@.Sani;“Stop this madness.”@@ [[You turn to the new voice.|Des124]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory124.jpg]]</div> You look up to see a Native American shaman right out of history! @@.Sani;“Force, no matter how concealed, begets resistance. You have brought harm, here, to this place. I cannot permit its continuance.”@@ @@.Abby;“Listen, I swear that I meant no harm, this is all a clusterfuck, yeah, but it’s not my fault! If you will all listen to me—“@@ @@.Sani;“Day and night cannot dwell together. Some of us, here, can sense the true world around us. You are the night, and we are the day. We cannot dwell together.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s not me! This suit is made from—“@@ [[As the old shaman kneels, light erupts around him!|Des125]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory125.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“What in the hell!”@@ It’s as if his body is giving off light. Smoke swirls about him, and [[in a bright flash—|Des126]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory126.jpg]]</div> He transforms into a monster covered in gray fur! @@.Abby;“Oh my god, he’s a fucking werewolf!”@@ In a guttural voice, he replies, @@.Sani;“I am a skinwalker. I am feared among my people- and among the enemies of light and life. I must end you, dark one.”@@ The gray furred beast leaps at you! As his claws slash and his jaws bite at you, you find this the toughest hand to hand combat you have had. In this form, he moves faster than any human, but you manage to stay ahead of his moves. Finally, he leaves you an opening, and wasting no time, you thrust out a fist, getting him in the shoulder, and he whimpers like a dog as he hits the ground rolling. The light flashes again, and he is a man holding his shoulder. @@.Molly;“That’s enough, miss.”@@ [[You hear a rifle cock behind you.|Des127]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory127.jpg]]</div> Turning, you see a young cowgirl, probably only eighteen or nineteen years of age. The look in her eyes says she won’t miss, but you are certain you can escape and get her. @@.Abby;“Look, I don’t want to have to hurt you.”@@ Suddenly, you feel the cold barrel of a gun press against the back of your skull at an angle that would not hit the girl, but would certainly kill you. A gruff man's voice comes from behind you, @@.Roy;“No, ma’am, <i>I</i> don’t want to have to hurt <i>you</i>. Now, you ain’t getting out of this, I don’t care what weird power you use. Trust me; my trigger finger's itchy as hell and quick as lightning.”@@ The room is very quiet, though moans and grunts come from some of those you had to stop. @@.Roy;“Molly, you come forward and put that rifle where if you shoot, you’ll hit her heart, but not your pa.”@@ @@.Molly;“Yes, sir!”@@ Once she is in place, you feel his gun withdraw, @@.Roy;“Ok, darlin’, now you turn around nice and slow. I ain’t ever shot anyone in the back, and I ain’t startin’ today.”@@ [[You turn to find an old cowboy.|Des128]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "roy_theme_1" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_gun_cock" volume 0.7 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory128.jpg]]</div> He has specialized guns in hand, and old worn leather duster and a big white beard. @@.Roy;“I’ve been in the game for a long ol’ time, and I know not to jump the gun. So, who are you and what exactly is it you came here to do?”@@ @@.Kat;“Shoot her!”@@ yells the first girl that fought you as she holds her knee, @@.Kat;“She seethes with evil!”@@ @@.Roy;“Katerina, kindly stay out of this. All ya’ll, just stay calm and think for a second. This here girl came in and whooped every one of your asses- even Lightfoot’s! And, ain’t ya’ll still breathin’?”@@ No one answers, but his point is made, @@.Roy;“If she wanted to kill us, only me and Molly would still be alive, and even then, for all I know, she could probably get out of this too. Now, miss, please explain yourself before my daughter’s finger gets tired.”@@ @@.Abby;“My name is Absinthe Van Gothen.”@@ The old man's eyes widen just a moment before he hides the surprise with his stoic face again, @@.Roy;“Van Gothen?”@@ he asks as if maybe he knows something about your real family. @@.Abby;“Yeah, that’s me. Portland is in danger, big danger.”@@ @@.Molly;“We know that- these good people and my pa risk their lives every night to—“@@ @@.Roy;“Hold on now, Molly, let the nice woman finish.”@@ @@.Molly;“Yes, sir, pa. Sorry.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I know you guys go out and fight monsters, but there is a vampire lord, a big shot, Ivor, and I have it on good authority that he is planning something big. I don’t know what, but I know he is scared of me, and I know that it is only a matter of time until he comes here.”@@ @@.Roy;“And, why should we trust you?”@@ @@.Abby;“Because I am being honest. If you want me to go, I’ll go, and I will try to fight them, but word on the street is that the last vampire hunter ended up in a very bad way. I wanted to make a good impression, but that girl over there saw me and went into a fit.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, you sure as shit made one hell of a first impression!”@@ The old man laughs, @@.Roy;“Molly, I think she’s safe, go ahead and stand down.”@@ [[You feel the rifle pull away.|Des129]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory129.jpg]]</div> @@.Kat;“No, McCoy, she is evil, vhy won’t you listen!”@@ You turn towards the voice, and see her still holding her knee among her friends who all seem in pain. @@.Roy;“Katerina, I know you sense something dark on her. I reckon it’s that goo.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yes! It’s the blood suit; it’s literally made of unholy blood!”@@ @@.Roy;“How about as everyone picks themselves up, you tell us all about it and how you got here.”@@ [[You explain your side of things.|Des130]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/AbbyStory130.jpg]]</div> You tell them about how you were a singer only a couple of nights ago, and while you do not mention Brone is a vampire, you tell them how he got you the blood suit and your equipment. You explain that you are new to all this and that you wanted to help them and go out monster hunting as well, to learn to fight better so that you will eventually be strong enough to face Ivor. @@.Abby;“I intend to earn your trust, even hers—“@@ you point to the girl on the ground. @@.Roy;“Ok, we heard you out. Now, how’s everyone feeling about this?”@@ You stand, quietly letting them discuss you. Some of them side with the old man, saying that you could have slain everyone that fought you. The shaman and Katerina, both apparently psychic to some degree, do not want you anywhere near them. So, by a majority vote, they let you into the group. But, right after he congratulates you, the cowboy says, @@.Roy;“These people are the closest thing to a family Molly and I have left. You turn sour in any way, and I promise you, I will see you dead.”@@ Not knowing what else to do, you nod and reply, @@.Abby;“I understand, and I won’t let you down.”@@ He puts out his hand and you shake it, @@.Roy;“Name’s McCoy, Roy McCoy, and Molly’s my daughter.”@@ You turn and shake the young girl’s hand. @@.Abby;“It’s great to meet you both. As I said earlier, when you had a gun to my head, I’m Absinthe Van Gothen.”@@ @@.Roy;“Water under the bridge! I’ll let the others introduce themselves tomorrow, after they get some rest.”@@ He laughs to himself, @@.Roy;“You done a real number on ‘em. Alright, now I guess we’ll show you around the place before the sun comes up. Everyone works the graveyard shift in this line of work.”@@ You follow him into the double doors out of which poured [[all these people.|Des131]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory131.jpg]]</div> You walk in and find the giant warehouse has been sectioned off into different makeshift rooms, the first of which appears to be a training room. @@.Roy;“This is where we come to practice our different attacks and learn how to use weapons. It ain’t state-of-the-art, but it works. Now, most of the time, the Bishops, that’s Arion and Ayana, stay in here. They tend to fight zombies more than anything else, and that means careful aiming. If you ever want to talk to them, this is the place to come.”@@ He walks to the doorway and [[beckons you to follow.|Des132]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory132.jpg]]</div> The next room you enter looks like a car repair shop. There is a garage door on the far left side of the room, and shelves lined with belts, spark plugs, and other automobile related odds and ends. And, on the far right side, sits a pristine vintage motorcycle. It is a real beauty and the perfect condition is in direct opposition to the room around it. @@.Roy;“This is the workshop where we maintain vehicles. You probably saw ‘The Juggernaut’, that huge armed van out front. Sometimes, Selena brings it in to work on parts, or Rosaline will find some new thing to weld to it. This here bike belongs to Selena, and lord help you if you touch it. She spends almost all her time in here working on it, polishing it, and, uh—“@@ he looks around, @@.Roy;“—talking to it.”@@ @@.Abby;“She talks to it?”@@ @@.Roy;“Look, I was raised not to judge my fellow man, so, I don’t stir up any trouble with her about it, she can be a firecracker, but, yeah, she definitely talks to this thing like it’s alive.”@@ He purses his lips and shakes his head, @@.Roy;“Takes all kinds,”@@ he says with a warm smile. Then, he slaps his hands together, @@.Roy;“Alright, let’s move along.”@@ Roy leads you into a large empty room [[across the hall.|Des133]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory133.jpg]]</div> This room has a blacksmith’s anvil, numerous tools, blueprints, and steam tanks. @@.Roy;“This is the foundry. When she’s not out killin’ monsters, Rosaline Vaas spends all her time in here. She designed the Juggernaut schematics right here, and even helped build parts of this sanctuary. That woman is real good with her hands and tinkering. She’s even improved on some weapons and forged brand new ones, and she’s probably the toughest damn woman I ever met. Stay on her good side- is my meanin’.”@@ She must have been the woman swinging those two handed maces with ease. @@.Roy;“Next stop is the mess hall!”@@ The old cowboy next takes you [[to a storehouse.|Des134]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory134.jpg]]</div> The room has medical supplies, food crates, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and even booze and cigarettes, which tempt you. @@.Roy;“This is the supply room. There’s a Texas-sized French Canadian named Jacques that usually stays in here.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, the lumberjack that tried to cut me down with an axe?”@@ He smiles and nods, @@.Roy;“Yep. That big ol’ boy is in charge of supplies. We all try to salvage what we can wherever we can get it, and bring it here. He keeps inventory and cooks our meals.”@@ @@.Abby;“How’s the food?”@@ He chuckles and winks at you, @@.Roy;“Well, it’s better than poking your eye with a stick- but only by a little.”@@ This old guy is kind of funny. @@.Roy;“Now, his attitude is about as big as his altitude, so try to stay thick-skinned and don’t let him intimidate you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Got it.”@@ @@.Roy;“Him and Arion Bishop go at each other a lot, but it’s in good fun, so try to keep a sense of humor about it.”@@ @@.Abby;“Will do!”@@ Next, he leads you into a room [[filled with chemicals.|Des135]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory135.jpg]]</div> There are shelves with different colored concoctions sitting in jars, test tubes, and a laptop. @@.Roy;“Only one person uses this lab here, and that’s Siri Solen. Tall woman, blonde hair- I think she’s a Viking or something.”@@ @@.Abby;“She’s from the Netherlands?”@@ @@.Roy;“Maybe, but she is also a scaredy cat, so if trouble ever breaks out, like when you showed up, she’s going to run here and hide.”@@ @@.Abby;“A monster hunter that is scared?”@@ @@.Roy;“She’s not really a monster hunter, actually, but we made her come here and help us out.”@@ @@.Abby;“Can I ask why?”@@ @@.Roy;“We had been staking out a laboratory right here in downtown Portland, and they were doing experiments on monsters.”@@ @@.Abby;“What! There are companies with monsters?”@@ @@.Roy;“Kept’em in cages. Trying to do mad scientist things, you know, things God never intended for this good Earth.”@@ @@.Abby;“What happened?”@@ @@.Roy;“Turns out that Siri is some sort of scientist type, and she was working there. She grew a heart, and meant well, because she did not like them torturing all those creatures, and I don’t blame her. Killing a monster because we have to, that’s one thing, but torture just ain’t right- it just ain’t.”@@ @@.Abby;“I guess that makes sense.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, Siri up and released the critters on the same night we was gonna bust in and kill all them monsters! When she freed them, the things first killed just about everyone in the complex, and then ran out into the night. We swooped in and saved her, but she set back our crusade by a long shot. Hell, even the dang sewers are now filled with weird animal monster hybrids. The entire city is riddled with these things, and it’s her fault. Now, to her credit, she has done a lot to try and help us. She studies the monsters’ DNA and genes, and whatever else makes them what they are, and helps devise everything from poisons to plagues to use on them. Sometimes, I can’t tell if she is a well-meaning doctor or a mad scientist, but if you need her for something, this is the place.”@@ [[You follow him to the room across the hall.|Des136]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory136.jpg]]</div> @@.Roy;“This is the library. We all have found books over the years that might help us find a weakness in one monster or another.”@@ @@.Abby;“Like silver bullets and werewolves?”@@ @@.Roy;“Yeah, everyone knows that. But, like, I once found a book on folklore and it turns out that iron can kill fairies real easily.”@@ You frown, @@.Abby;“Why would you kill fairies!”@@ He guffaws in response, @@.Roy;“Boy howdy, you got a lot to learn, just like you said. See, fairies and elves and all that can be mean as hell. There’s good ones, but there’s also real bad ones. Them nature spirits are chaotic, so, you watch yourself against them. One second they seem ok, and then, they turn on you. They use a type of magic called glamour.”@@ @@.Abby;“Wow, that’s intense.”@@ @@.Roy;“Anyway, reading some of these books would probably do you good! Katerina spends all her time in here. She mostly hunts witches.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh! I saw some of those. I mean, me and some of my friends have done Wiccan things, but—“@@ @@.Roy;“Yeah, that stuff is feel-good hippie magic what-not. No, I’m talking about the bad witches, the kind that eats kids and causes curses and calamity. How Kat manages to come back from solo hunts against those magic casting creeps boggles my mind. She’s a hell of a witch hunter.”@@ @@.Abby;“She seems to be able to sense evil, which probably helps, and she was fast with those knives.”@@ @@.Roy;“True. But, I reckon a lot of her power comes from these books. She’s always training with those knives or reading these. Knowledge is power.”@@ Next you walk through a door that opens into [[a large hangar.|Des137]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory137.jpg]]</div> When you walk inside, the thin metal walls do little against the cold, but there are some electric heaters- and a horse. @@.Abby;“A horse!”@@ Something about horses always make you think about your childhood, but your adoptive parents never had a horse. Still, you really love them. You walk up to pet it, but the horse neighs at you and clops around always keeping outside your touch. It must be the blood suit! @@.Roy;“Woah now, girl, woah.”@@ You step back and Roy’s touch instantly calms her down. @@.Roy;“This here is ol’ Bess.”@@ @@.Abby;“Bess.”@@ @@.Roy;“Yep. She’s thirty-one years old, and been on hundreds of monster hunts.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s fucking cool! You ride a horse on your hunts!”@@ @@.Roy;“Sure, if the terrain is for it, but after talking with you about those sewers, I think I may need to clean’em out some, so Bess won’t be comin’ on that one.”@@ He runs his hand along her side and she seems happy, @@.Roy;“This is where me and Molly spend most of our time. I ride Bess around here to keep her in shape and train my shootin’ on horseback. Molly does all the chores and takes care of my horse.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, she doesn’t monster hunt with you?”@@ @@.Roy;“Hell no! She’s my only daughter! She’s the only kin I got left in this world, and I ain’t lettin’ some monster run off with her and—you know.”@@ @@.Abby;“I heard that monsters use human women to—“@@ @@.Roy;“Yeah, make babies, and no McCoy belly will be producing hellspawn!”@@ The cowboy appears defensive and angry. You found his weakness and fear- it’s his daughter, Molly. @@.Roy;“Now, enough jawin’, there’s a couple of more spots to show you. One is just out these hangar doors.”@@ [[You follow Roy outside.|Des138]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory138.jpg]]</div> You step into an old courtyard of the abandoned factory with trash and debris strewn about. There is a bench with a blanket and an oil drum with a fire burning within. @@.Roy;“Out here is where Lightfoot spends all his time.”@@ @@.Abby;“The cool shaman werewolf!”@@ @@.Roy;“No!”@@ snaps the cowboy, @@.Roy;“He’s not one of those god damn, wolf bastards.”@@ He seems visibly upset. @@.Abby;“I’m sorry, I did not mean to offend you.”@@ His light colored eyes calm and he replies, @@.Roy;“Yeah, I know. I should not have said those things in the presence of a lady, and I’m sorry too. But, uh, Lightfoot ain’t a werewolf, he’s a skinwalker.”@@ @@.Abby;“What is the difference, because he seemed like a wolf monster to me.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, if you ever saw the two side by side, you’d tell the difference, but he can turn into all kinds of animals.”@@ @@.Abby;“What!”@@ @@.Roy;“Oh yeah, I seen that injun become a eagle creature, a bear monster, a mountain lion monster, the wolf thing that he fought you as, and more. If workin’ with that Ute has taught me a thing, it’s that you respect the hell out of nature and you fear yourself a skinwalker.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, but, why does he stay out here?”@@ @@.Roy;“Listen, Lightfoot is a man of few words, and almost anything he bothers to say is wise, so always listen to him. When I asked him why he sleeps out here every day- rain, snow, or shine, he said, <i>‘When a man moves away from nature his heart becomes hard.’</i> I think he means that as the animals and elements do, so too, does he.”@@ @@.Abby;“What’s a Ute?”@@ @@.Roy;“Tribe of injun from Utah. Just, if you do come out here, try not to bug him. Like I said, he don’t talk much, and he likes his solitude. I think even his own people fear him.”@@ Roy starts stroking his beard as if in thought, @@.Roy;“Huh.”@@ @@.Abby;“What?”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, I mighta just thought of something you two have in common. He judged you like how his tribe judges him. You might keep that in mind. Maybe it will help bridge some understanding. Oh well, now, last stop cause I need some shut eye and the sun’s coming up.”@@ He leads you back into the building, through the factory and [[down a different hallway.|Des139]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory139.jpg]]</div> @@.Roy;“And, here’s your room!”@@ Looking around there is nothing you can compare it to. It is run down, freezing cold, and the only light is a lantern on the nightstand that Roy turns on for you. @@.Abby;“Hmm, only a four star room is available?”@@ @@.Roy;“Ha! She don’t look like much, but she’ll do.”@@ @@.Abby;“Do we share rooms?”@@ @@.Roy;“Heck no! This is your room, and it looks a bit lived in because a few years ago, this is where the last vampire hunter slept before his horrible demise.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh really? That makes it even quainter.”@@ @@.Roy;“I think you and me are gonna get along real well, maybe we can hang out and shoot the shit sometime. I’d love to learn more about you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Is that a come on?”@@ He laughs, @@.Roy;“No, nothing like that. You remind me a lot of my late wife.”@@ He sighs deeply, @@.Roy;“Now, I better hit the hay! Goodnight, Absinthe, it’s been good meeting you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah man, it’s been cool meeting you, too. Thanks for helping stop that big misunderstanding and for showing me around.”@@ @@.Roy;“What can I say; I’m just a fatherly kind of man. Goodnight.”@@ With that, the cowboy smiles and leaves you in the room alone. You walk around and look at everything and then [[sit on the bed.|Des140]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesStory140.jpg]]</div> Sitting on the bed, you take in everything from the past two days. It has been a trip! You met a vampire, almost drowned, got infected by some ancient vampire’s blood, met a hobgoblin, and joined a monster hunting club- it is surreal, yet this is reality. You have been living alongside monsters your entire life and had no idea that any of it was real. Tomorrow, you’ll poke around this building- and you definitely want to go on your first monster hunt! Lying back on the bed, you feel exhausted, and, in your full gear, [[you fall asleep.|ArtifactsBloodSuit]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "abby_theme_4" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/ChooseWhere.png]]</div> <table> <tr> <td> [img[Pictures/SancHomeChoiceSanctuary.jpg][Somewhere in Sanctuary]] </td> <td> [img[Pictures/SancHomeChoiceStore.jpg][Store]] </td> <td> [img[Pictures/SancHomeChoiceHunt.jpg][Head out monster hunting]] </td> </tr> </table> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/ChooseRoom.png]]</div> <br /> <<if $graveyardArtifact>> <<set _maxCount=8>> <<elseif $asylumArtifact>> <<set _maxCount=7>> <<elseif $docksArtifact>> <<set _maxCount=6>> <<elseif $sewersArtifact>> <<set _maxCount=5>> <<elseif $forestArtifact>> <<set _maxCount=4>> <<elseif $Stone>> <<set _maxCount = 3>> <<else>> <<set _maxCount = $Sword?2 : 1>> <</if>> <table> <tr> <td> <<if $sancCourtyard gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceCourtyard.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceCourtyard.jpg][Courtyard]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancFoundry gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceFoundry.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceFoundry.jpg][Foundry]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancGym gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceGymnasium.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceGymnasium.jpg][Gymnasium]] <</if>> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <<if $sancLab gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceLaboratory.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceLaboratory.jpg][Laboratory]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancLibrary gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceLibrary.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceLibrary.jpg][Library]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancStables gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceStables.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceStables.jpg][Stables]] <</if>> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <<if $sancStorehouse gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceStorehouse.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceStorehouse.jpg][Storehouse]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancTrainingRoom gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceTrainingRoom.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceTrainingRoom.jpg][Training Room]] <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $sancWorkshop gt _maxCount>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceWorkshop.jpg]] </div> <<else>> [img[Pictures/SancChoiceWorkshop.jpg][Workshop]] <</if>> </td> </tr> </table> <<link "Return" $presanctuary>><</link>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BroneStory107.jpg]]</div> @@.Hobs;“Welcome to the upscale and prestigious, House o’ Haggle, wot item can ol’ Hobs sell you today?”@@ <div align='center'> <<store_list_items 5>> </div> <<link "Return" $presanctuary>><</link>> <<if !$firstStoreEntry>> <<set $firstStoreEntry = true>> <<run _focusTemplateForFree = setup.combat.ItemTemplates['Focus Potion'](); _focusTemplateForFree.sourcePassage='Inventory-Potion-Focus'; $Character_Absinthe.AddInventory(_focusTemplateForFree); $Character_Absinthe.AddInventory(_focusTemplateForFree); >> <<run _hpTemplateForFree = setup.combat.ItemTemplates['Health Potion'](); _hpTemplateForFree.sourcePassage='Inventory-Potion-Health'; $Character_Absinthe.AddInventory(_hpTemplateForFree); $Character_Absinthe.AddInventory(_hpTemplateForFree); >> <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "hoh_theme" volume 0.3 loop play>> <div style='display:none;'> <div id='Inventory'></div> <div id='InventoryNav'></div> </div>

[img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChooseHunt.png]] <<set $Character_Absinthe.health=500>> <<set $Character_Absinthe.willpower=100>> <table> <tr> <td> <<if $AsylumCompleted>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceAsylumSmall.jpg]] </div> <<else>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceAsylumSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Asylum']] </div> <</if>> </td> <td> <<if $CavernsCompleted>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceCavernsSmall.jpg]] </div> <<else>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceCavernsSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Caverns']] </div> <</if>> </td> <td> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceDocksSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Docks']] </div> </td> <td> <<if $ForestCompleted>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceForestSmall.jpg]] </div> <<else>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceForestSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Forest']] </div> <</if>> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <<if !$GraveyardComplete>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceGraveyardSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Graveyard']] </div> <<else>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceGraveyardSmall.jpg]] </div> <</if>> </td> <td> <<if !$MountainsComplete>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceMountainSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Mountain']] </div> <<else>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceMountainSmall.jpg]] </div> <</if>> </td> <td> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceMuseumSmall.jpg]] </div> </td> <td> <<if $SewersCompleted>> <div class='greyout'> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceSewersSmall.jpg]] </div> <<else>> <div class=''> [img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChoiceSewersSmall.jpg][ConfirmHuntChoice][$huntChoice='Sewers']] </div> <</if>> </td> </tr> </table> [[Return|SanctuaryHome]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "characters_menu" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<<switch $sancTrainingRoom>> <<case 1>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom1.jpg]]</div> As you approach the training room, you hear gunshots, and you cover your ears. Peering inside, you see the Bishops, though you cannot recall what their first names are. You watch them a moment. The sister fires two guns at the same time at two targets, and the brother looks through the nearby rifles and machine guns. Once she stops, she turns and sees you, and her guns rise instantly as she drops to a knee. @@.Abby;“It’s ok, I come in peace,”@@ you say, arms raised. She stands up and pulls out a foam ear plug, @@.Ayana;“You’re going to get yourself killed doing like that, girl.”@@ Her brother turns and pulls out his foam ear plugs. @@.Arion;“Oh no. You think you can do us like yesterday and then just come up in here like we are friends or something. Nope.”@@ @@.Abby;“I didn’t mean anything yes—“@@ @@.Ayana;“Save it. Arion and I been around enough to know that everybody gots a motive. Until we figure out what you’re really doing here, you can take a hike.”@@ @@.Arion;“Yeah, you can use the training room when we’re out killing those damn zombies.”@@ @@.Abby;“Fine. Whatever.”@@ Not pushing the issue further, you <<return "leave the room">> <<set $sancTrainingRoom = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the training room to see Arion showing his sister how to hold and fire a particular gun, @@.Arion;“See my stance? You have to keep your legs like this and—“@@ he looks over and sees you. @@.Arion;“What do you want, newbie?”@@ @@.Abby;“Nothing in particular. I thought I might do a bit of target practice. It’s imperative that I become the best hunter I can be.”@@ @@.Arion;“Well, Ayana and me are currently using these facilities, so you can practice another time.”@@ @@.Abby;“Why are you two so cold to me?”@@ @@.Ayana;“You don’t know us, you don’t know where we are from or what we’ve seen!”@@ @@.Arion;“Ayana, calm down. Um, Abby, is it? We know we can trust only each other- well, and maybe the Québécois.”@@ @@.Abby;“You speak French like Jacques?”@@ @@.Arion;“Hell no, I don’t. That big ass lumberjack’s dialect is way different than ours. We’re from Louisiana, so we speak it more—“@@ @@.Ayana;“Arion,”@@ Ayana folds her arms and points at you with her eyes. @@.Arion;“Yeah, well, just get lost, newbie. My sis and I have a lot of work to do.”@@ @@.Ayana;“You heard him!”@@ You turn to leave and eavesdrop just a moment. @@.Ayana;“Do you think she’s safe?”@@ @@.Arion;“I don’t know- that red shit on her freaks me the hell out. But, we’ll worry about her later. We have to be totally ready, Ayana. Serious! You have to pay attention. Remember what happened in Haiti.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Fuck you, Arion! That haunts me every night!”@@ @@.Arion;“Sorry, sorry, it’s just that this will be even harder. Laveau is not some two-bit witchdoctor. She’s gone beyond Loa, she’s dealing with something demonic.”@@ Laveau? You walk away wondering what they are <<return "talking about.">> <<set $sancTrainingRoom=3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom3.jpg]]</div> You approach the training room cautiously, expecting to be chased away. Hearing no gunfire, you peer around the corner. @@.Ayana;“Who was she, and why were those people even there?”@@ asks Ayana, sitting on a crate. Arion stares at the wall as if in deep though, @@.Arion;“I think they might be telling the truth, sis.”@@ @@.Ayana;“The BDA is real? That’s the kind of stuff crackpots say online.”@@ Then, chuckling, she adds, @@.Ayana;“Shit, Arion, next you’re gonna say that aliens are real!”@@ @@.Arion;“Might be,”@@ he says, still thinking. @@.Ayana;“Bureau of Demonic Analysis are the ones that busted up our stakeout at the graveyard?”@@ @@.Arion;“Look, Ayana, bigfoot’s real, vampires are real, damn near any monster you ever heard of is real! Shit, things we ain’t even heard of is probably out there killing some dumbass that was stupid enough to go lookin’ for it.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Ok, Jesus! Fine, so the BDA is real and we gonna let them just chase us off like a scared couple of bitches?”@@ @@.Arion;“No. No way. We did not come all this way, we did not lose everything just for some agent and her army of agents to show up and ruin this.”@@ @@.Ayana;“We trained too hard! And, I want to see Laveau dead with my own two eyes.”@@ @@.Arion;“We will,”@@ he says, putting an arm on her shoulder, @@.Arion;“We, definitely, legit, will see her dead.”@@ @@.Ayana;“But, that agent said we’d go to prison for interfering with <i>governmental affairs</i> or some shit like that.”@@ @@.Arion;“Hell, she’ll probably just have us killed. If we disappear, who’d know? Who’d care?”@@ @@.Ayana;“What about the other Night Sta—“@@ @@.Arion;“Serious, Ayana?”@@ he interrupts, @@.Arion;“You think these people really give two shits about us? Nah, we on our own; always on our own.”@@ Deciding you heard enough, you <<return "step away.">> <<set $sancTrainingRoom=4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom4.jpg]]</div> You carefully approach the training room, expecting to see the Bishops. Only silence fills the air, so you peer into the room, but it’s empty. Are they out looking for that Laveau woman? What about those BDA guys, the agents. Supposedly, they were going to stop them from hunting her down. You take a look around. There are some massively powerful weapons here, but several of the melee weapons are missing. They must have left with those to kill zombies so the agents would not hear gunfire. You wonder why they don’t trust the Night Stalkers and why the government is involved with them. You take one more look around before you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancTrainingRoom=5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBSS3.jpg]]</div> As you approach the Training Room, you do not hear gunfire, but you do hear voices. Staying in the hall, you stand and listen. @@.Arion;“Well, what are we supposed to do? Those damn agents are getting in the way. We have never been this close to killing her once and for all, sis!”@@ @@.Ayana;“She has to be at Lone Fir. Maybe we figured it out before they did. Maybe we will get to her first and kill her ourselves. Knowing the bitch ass government, they’ll not only spare her life, but give Heloise Laveau a safe room and try to use her as a weapon against other countries.”@@ @@.Arion;“Shit, Ayana, you’re even more jaded than I thought. Look, we will do this. That cemetery is big, and she could be using any part of it.”@@ @@.Ayana;“We got the weapons, let’s just head out there and find her!”@@ @@.Arion;“Sis, you need chill, we’ll do it. But we have to be prepared. Tomorrow, we’ll go, in the daytime, we’ll map the place out, poke around for clues. We’ll make a plan, tomorrow night, and then, the next, we’ll hit Laveau with everything we got, ok?”@@ @@.Ayana;“I guess. Shit, Arion, I want revenge.”@@ @@.Arion;“Me too, sis, me too. Ok, let’s practice.”@@ They begin firing weapons, so you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancTrainingRoom=6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom5.jpg]]</div> Approaching the training room you do not hear gunfire, but you do hear voices. Standing in the hallway, you listen. @@.Arion;“I think coming from the west side might work best.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Yeah, but, the vulkodlaks will smell us, if the wind is still blowing in from the sea.”@@ @@.Arion;“Damn, true dat.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Ok, new idea, we circle around and try to assault her main base directly, just skip past all the revenants and zombies. Then, we’d minimize the loss of ammo or the chances of her hearing us coming.”@@ @@.Arion;“You always want to just go in guns blazing.”@@ @@.Ayana;“How many times do I have to say it, bro, we have to get revenge. I’d rather we just attacked tonight.”@@ @@.Arion;“Yeah,”@@ he chuckles, @@.Arion;“Just what we need. We’d have hid in the graveyard waiting for sundown, and some snitch would see us and call the fucking cops. I’d rather take my chances with the zombies.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Fine, we do it your way, just not the west side. I’m telling you that those undead werewolves will track us too easily that way.”@@ @@.Arion;“Fair enough. Now, let’s draw a map—“@@ Having heard enough, you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancTrainingRoom = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom4.jpg]]</div> You enter the Training Room, only to find the Bishops missing. Damn! You were going to ask them if you could tag along tonight. They must have left before sunset. You turn to leave, when you see the map that Arion talked [[about drawing up.|Training7]] <<set $sancTrainingRoom = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancTrainingRoom8.jpg]]</div> Approaching the training room you do not hear gunfire, but you do hear voices, so you enter. @@.Arion;“Oh, hey.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Hey, Abby.”@@ @@.Abby;“Just making my rounds tonight.”@@ @@.Arion;“Listen, about how we have acted.”@@ @@.Abby;“No, it’s alright, don’t worry about it- water under the bridge.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Cool, cool. We’ve run a check on all the weapons and ammo in Sanctuary, and we should have things sorted and ready to be loaded onto the Juggernaut whenever you’re ready.”@@ @@.Arion;“Yeah, and we talked with Katerina. We’ve been down to those tunnels under the city before. No vampires or anything attacked us, but we let her know where we entered from, so maybe we can use it as a way inside.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Yeah, it was safe, at least, at that time, so maybe they don’t guard there.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s great! Thanks for the help!”@@ @@.Arion;“Shit, it ain’t nothing. After what you did to save me and my sister, we owe you.”@@ @@.Ayana;“Yeah, we don’t know how good we are at fighting vampires, but we’ll do our best.”@@ @@.Abby;“Seriously, I know you both will be great.”@@ You all spend a bit more time discussing the hunt in the graveyard from last night, and then, you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancTrainingRoom=9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancWorkshop>> <<case 1>> /* Workshop 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the garage, and see the woman that tried to use some kind of razor whips on you. She is working on the vintage motorcycle, and you can make out some of her words as she mumbles, @@.Selena;“No- don’t even think about it.”@@ She pauses a moment, @@.Selena;“Because I’ll hunt your green ass down and kill it if you ever make it out of there.”@@ Who is she talking to? @@.Selena;“Hey, you chose this and—what do you mean who is she?”@@ The woman turns and sees you, @@.Selena;“Oh, hey! Buenas noches, mamacita!”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey. Who are you talking to?”@@ Standing up, she wipes her hands with a rag and [[approaches you.|SancWorkshop1.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the workshop to find Selena lost in thought. You stand a few moments, admiring her. She’s free and beautiful. Then your mind turns to Scarlette and you think about the band. @@.Selena;“Oh! Why if it isn’t the sexiest monster hunter in the whole building.”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey, Selena!”@@ She smiles and [[approaches you.|SancWorkshop2.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop =3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop3.jpg]]</div> Walking into the workshop, you find the room empty. Even though you helped Selena survive, she seemed to need rest and time to herself, and she is likely resting in her room. However, curiosity over this motorcycle that can drive itself, becomes too much, and you take the opportunity to check it out. Kneeling down beside it, you see nothing out of the ordinary. You check for technology, assuming that mechanically, she must have a device or something that can steer and lock onto a GPS, like a self-driving car, but no luck. Puzzled, you tap it twice with your knuckle, and are shocked to hear two taps back. Quirking an eyebrow quizzically, you tap the metal three times in a pattern, and three matching taps in the same pattern return! You look over it one last time, but, while vintage, it appears perfectly normal. Getting a creepy vibe, you decide it is best to leave the bike alone and [[leave the room.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancWorkshop =4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop2.jpg]]</div> As you approach the workshop, you, again, hear Selena talking, seemingly, to herself. @@.Selena;“No, man! I don’t feel like going out for a drive.”@@ She stops for a second, @@.Selena;“Because, I’m <i>human</i> remember, ese? I need time to heal and shit, I can’t just—“@@ she stops, @@.Selena;“She is?”@@ You hear her shuffle a bit on the concrete floor, @@.Selena;“Hey, Abby, you there?”@@ [[You walk into the room.|Workshop4.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop =5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop5.jpg]]</div> As you approach the workshop, you hear her motorcycle revving, @@.Selena;“Hey mamacita! Perfect timing! I was just about to go out on a ride. Hop on!”@@ Shaking your head, you say, @@.Abby;“I am going on a hunt tonight with Kendra.”@@ @@.Selena;“Wow! You never stop! Seriously, you’re really amazing!”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, you can come with us?”@@ @@.Selena;“Ha! Me on the water? No thank you, chica, I like wheels and ground under me. You two have fun, with you there; I know she’s safer than ever!”@@ She revs the engine and pulls out into the night. You watch her go and then [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancWorkshop =6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop3.jpg]]</div> As you approach the workshop, you hear Selena’s motorcycle revving. You always enjoy seeing her, so you turn the corner and enter the room, only to find she is not there and the motorcycle revving on its own! As soon as you enter the room, it shuts off. You peer about the area, confused and on edge. You could see the pirate ghosts, can other ghosts hide from you? <i>@@.Vlad;<<psy>>Any ghost in the Physical World, you’ll be able to see, because we are one. They might be invisible to normal humans, but you are, in some ways, undead now.<</psy>>@@</i> Then what could be happening? @@.Abby;“Hello?”@@ You walk towards the motorcycle, when green smoke flies out of the engine! Leaping back, you [[draw your weapons!|SancWorkshop6.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop7.jpg]]</div> You approach the workshop and hear Selena talking. Before, in previous nights, you had no idea who she was talking to, but now, you know her secret. You walk into the room to find Grimey leaning back on her bike, with Selena doing something to the front wheel. @@.Witch1;“Hey, Sel, the hot chick’s back!”@@ @@.Selena;“Shut up,”@@ she says, @@.Selena;“Hey mama, I guess you already met this green grease ball.”@@ “Funny, real funny, you know, coming from a grease <i>monkey</i>.” She stands up and wipes her hands on a cloth before walking over to greet you. Grimey leaps down and skitters over [[next to her.|Workshop7.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop8.jpg]]</div> As you approach the workshop, you hear metallic rattling noises. Walking into the room, you find the the Juggernaut parked in the garage and the duo working on it. @@.Selena;“Anything loose there?”@@ He grabs the metal grating that protects the windshield and violently tries pulling it away, making the same noise that you heard down the hall. @@.Witch1;“The only thing loose up here- is me!”@@ Grimey sees you and hops down quickly rushing over, @@.Witch1;“I’m loose, did you know that?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah. I have a feeling you’d sleep with anything that had eight legs or less.”@@ [[Selena laughs.|SancWorkshop8.1]] <<set $sancWorkshop = 9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancFoundry>> <<case 1>> /* Foundry 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry1.jpg]]</div> You barely enter the area before the large woman spins around to face you, hammer and tongs in hand, @@.Rosa;“What do you want?”@@ she asks in an annoyed voice. @@.Abby;“I’m just getting my bearings.”@@ @@.Rosa;“Well, get them somewhere else.”@@ @@.Abby;“Listen, I’m sorry about yesterday. It really was a misunderstanding, and I honestly did not want to hurt anyone—“@@ @@.Rosa;“Coming to rub it in my face?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, I didn’t mean it like—“@@ She walks over to the workbench and tosses down her tools, @@.Rosa;“Fine. You meant no harm, or so you say, but we’ll see. I’m the mother hen here and you fuck with my chicks, and I’ll see you dead.”@@ That’s like how you feel about the band- the band! You need to check up on them tomorrow! @@.Abby;“I totally get that and respect it. Ok, well, see ya.”@@ You head back the way from <<return "which you came.">> <<set $sancFoundry =2 >> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the foundry to find Rosaline sitting at her tool desk making something. @@.Abby;“Hey! I thought I’d come see what you’re up to.”@@ @@.Rosa;“Busy.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh, making a new—“@@ She turns and loudly says, @@.Rosa;“Busy!”@@ Sheesh, so much for trying to make friends here. Defeated, you head back out [[into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkFoundry2 to true>> <<set $sancFoundry=3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the foundry to find Rosaline is missing. Idly wondering what she might be out doing, you walk around the room, looking at the different devices. There are many different tools, an anvil, strange steam pipes and tanks, and you see something very out of place. It is an old book, hand written, and the cover is leather. There are words engraved, <i>‘The Steam Works of Johann Conrad Dippel’</i>, and as you flip through the old, worn pages, there are schematics and designs for things you have never seen before! Steam suits, vehicles, even a flying machine! It looks cool, but surely cannot be real, although, some of the nearby pipes and tanks appear to be directly from the book. What is Rosaline up to? Replacing the book onto the desk, you walk back [[into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkFoundry3 to true>> <<set $sancFoundry=4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry1.jpg]]</div> Walking into the foundry you see Rosaline banging on some very heavy metal parts. She lifts one, and it must weigh 80 pounds. @@.Abby;“Here, let me help you.”@@ She glances at you and snorts in disgust, @@.Rosa;“Don’t need any help.”@@ She carries it over and puts it down with a deep clang. She goes to the desk and starts peering into the diary you saw before, Johann Dippel’s. @@.Abby;“So, what are you building?”@@ Without looking up from the book, she says, @@.Rosa;“You really care?”@@ Honestly, while you were just trying to make small talk, you are actually genuinely curious, @@.Abby;“Yeah, seriously. I’ve hardly seen you since I got here, and this looks interesting.”@@ @@.Rosa;“Been busy. I had to go out on a hunt, and I got these,”@@ putting the book down, she walks over to what appears to be a stack of gold records. Lifting one up, she shows you that there are holes punched into it at random intervals. @@.Rosa;“Damn near died, but didn’t. That dragon should have given these up. Didn’t care about the rest of the damn treasure. Beast could’a lived. Just needed these.”@@ She killed a freaking dragon! @@.Abby;“What are they?”@@ @@.Rosa;“Heh,”@@ she smirks and puts the disc back on top of the stack, @@.Rosa;“You wouldn’t believe me, girlie.”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, Rosaline, I know we got off on the wrong foot, but I’ve been busting my ass around here, c’mon, stop teasing me.”@@ [[She gives you an incredulous look.|SancFoundry4.1]] <<set $sancFoundry=5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry5.jpg]]</div> Walking into the foundry, Rosaline greets you, @@.Rosa;“You helped Molly and Roy. Damn shame that she’s been bitten by one of them mutant spiders, but you made sure they both came back.”@@ She is certainly direct, @@.Rosa;“You have my thanks for that. Been hearing things about you from some of the others. You’re growing on me.”@@ @@.Abby;“Cool, thanks, I am trying.”@@ @@.Rosa;“You’ve done some crazy shit this week, I respect that. Now, what do you want?”@@ @@.Abby;“I wanted to tell you that when we were down in the sewers, I found some old pumps and pipes that I don’t think are in use anymore. I made a map; it’s in the blue section. Here.”@@ She looks over your map, @@.Rosa;“Sure they are big enough and thick? The pressure the steam will create, it’s huge, girl, and I don’t want an explosion.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, only you can be the judge of it, but looked like the stuff you need for your weird robot.”@@ @@.Rosa;“Heh. Ok, I’ll go give it a look. Thanks.”@@ With that, she walks to her desk and starts working. You stand a moment, but she still ignores you, so you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancFoundry=6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry6.jpg]]</div> Walking into the foundry, you find Rosaline has built something! It appears that she went to the sewers and obtained some of the old pipes and pieces that you found there. It's huge. She has it hanging from several ropes, and you notice the gold discs that she mentioned. They lie on the ground and she appears to be placing them inside. @@.Abby;“Wow! You really are making a robot!”@@ @@.Rosa;“Yep.”@@ You wait a moment for her to explain more, but as usual, she is a woman of few words. @@.Abby;“Well, cool, I just wanted to check in.”@@ She looks up at you, @@.Rosa;“Look, I have a one-track mind. I want to get this thing working.”@@ @@.Abby;“I get it, seriously.”@@ With that, she turns back to the machine, and just as you are about to leave, she says, without looking up, @@.Rosa;“Thanks for turning me on to these parts.”@@ Smiling, you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancFoundry = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry7.jpg]]</div> Walking into the foundry, you find Rosaline has made a ton of progress. The robot is massive and stands firmly on two legs. @@.Abby;“Wow, Rosaline, I am sorry for interrupting you, but this is amazing.”@@ @@.Rosa;“Yeah. Almost done with it. I installed all the discs, and basically, I did a massive overhaul to Dippel’s original design using our tech from today.”@@ @@.Abby;“Like microchips and things?”@@ @@.Rosa;“Nah, there’s really none of that. It’s all hoses, steam, pressure and valves, but I plan on arming it, you know, to help you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Help me?”@@ @@.Rosa;“Look, if this hunk of scrap really works, then I plan on using it against the vampires with you.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re going to help me?”@@ @@.Rosa;“I’m not blind. You’ve pulled more weight around here than anyone ever has. I don’t really hate you, so I’ll do this. Just keep helping my baby chicks, cool?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, cool, thanks!”@@ She turns and gets back to work, falling silent. She’s a woman of few words, and you probably said enough, so taking her cue, you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancFoundry = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancFoundry7.jpg]]</div> Walking into the foundry, you find Rosaline tightening some bolts on the steam robot. Glancing up, she says, @@.Rosa;“Already back? What is it?”@@ @@.Abby;“I’ll be back with Selena in just a few minutes.”@@ She says nothing else, continuing to work, so you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancFoundry=9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancStorehouse>> <<case 1>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the supply room, and find the huge guy that tried to cut you down with an axe. He appears in very deep thought, @@.Abby;“Sorry to bug you, I am just poking around and getting a feel for the place.”@@ He does not move, but his eyes glance over to you and then back. You are not sure if you should say anything else or not. When Roy showed it to you yesterday, you did not get a chance to take it all in. In a gruff, voice with a French accent, he suddenly- and flatly- states, @@.Jack;“This is the storehouse, and I am in charge of the inventory. You got lucky yesterday, but if you take anything from here and do not mark it into the book, then I will cut you down, for I am not only a beau gosse, but a man true to my word.”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, I don’t know what beau gosse means, but I promise, I am not here to steal—“@@ @@.Jack;“Ha! You expect me to just trust you? Just like that, eh? You come in and somehow manage to defeat seasoned monster hunters- defeat me- and expect me to believe it was all a simple misunderstanding? Non, seulement, non. You are here as a spy or you serve some monster.”@@ Sighing, you nod your head, @@.Abby;“I get it, man. I do. I am a total unknown to all of you and I have never been on single monster hunt. I don’t know shit about monsters, and I don’t know how to even have friends- I’m usually rude and mean. So, fuck it. I only came to look, not get attitude, but you’re going to respect me, someday. I’ll earn the trust of all of you because I need your help, and I’m a real bitch when it comes to my enemies. So, whatever monsters I do hunt- are as good as dead.”@@ Turning, to leave you make it a couple of steps before Jacques stops you. @@.Jack;“Hey! I am sorry. Maybe you mean well; maybe you don’t, eh? I be vénère, you know, eh, I am annoyed. So, I am sorry I snapped, I do have some very close friends up on Mount Hood, and there has been trouble.”@@ @@.Abby;“From down here it looks like it always has, what happened?”@@ Eying you warily, he says, @@.Jack;“I still do not trust you, but I see no harm here. If you notice, strangely, the weather over the mountain will become treacherous and suddenly abate, the clouds forming and disappearing as if by magic.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I have seen something about it on the news, about weather patterns or whatever, what about it?”@@ @@.Jack;“The storms come only when humans climb towards the summit. When no humans are trying to climb, the weather becomes normal again. As soon as a man tries his luck, the snows and wind come to chase him away. This is not some weather pattern, non, this is magic, I say. And, my friends have pleaded with me for help. However, I am not powerful against magic.”@@ @@.Abby;“What do you mean?”@@ @@.Jack;“Magic can be very different between how it be used, yeah? You make a fire, and fire be fire, but how you use it changes everything. You make a nice omelette du fromage, and the fire was good, non? But, you throw a moltov cocktail into someone’s window and their house burns down, you used bad fire, oui? Such is magic. I am strong. I am big. I can fight many men, even I have fought a bear with my hands only- and I can fight many monsters of ice and frost, but whatever this magic is, it is stronger.”@@ @@.Abby;“Stronger than a usual monster can shoot at you?”@@ @@.Jack;“Cast. Cast at me, yes. A yuki-onna might try to freeze me, but I am hardy and I carve her down to ice cubes. But, nothing I know of, in the cold wilderness that I love, has such power to summon storms at will. My friends say it is a dark elf, and that she has caused these storms.”@@ He frowns, @@.Jack;“They say, she has become much worse lately, as if she suddenly has become angry. I have fought countless monsters on Mount Hood, and never have I fought an elf, but I know that they are rare. Usually, they do not like snow and caves, dark elves do, and they are rarer. I do not know if my thick muscle will prove strong enough to face her, but also, I cannot let my friends on the mountain suffer.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, you’re scared of her?”@@ He throws out his chest, @@.Jack;“Scared! Jacques Lombar fears nothing! I will show you and the elf that nothing can stand against the mighty Jacques!”@@ @@.Abby;“Noted. Well, how about I come with you?”@@ He laughs and shakes his head as he sits down, @@.Jack;“Hah! You would only slow me down and be a diversion. I’d have to keep us both alive. Non, girl, you go on now, I have to think how I will stop this elf.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, well, I tried. If you change your mind, let me know.”@@ <<return "Nodding, he waves you off.">> <<set $sancStorehouse = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the storeroom to see Jacques holding his leg. @@.Abby;“Are you ok?”@@ He looks up and stands up tall, but then falls back to sit on the counter. @@.Jack;“No, I am not. Between what happened on the mountain and dealing with those vampire women, I think I pulled something.”@@ @@.Abby;“Can I help?”@@ @@.Jack;“No, it will heal in time, but merci!”@@ @@.Abby;“I was going to head out on a hunt again tonight, and thought I’d see if you want to come too, but it appears you need rest.”@@ He looks somewhat embarrassed, @@.Jack;“I am used to being strong and fearless, but maybe I am getting too old for this.”@@ You smirk and retort, @@.Abby;“Don’t let Roy hear you say that!”@@ He chuckles, @@.Jack;“Oui, oui! Few men alive are as tough as he.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, get well, so you can get out there and fight alongside me, big guy!”@@ He nods, @@.Jack;“Oui, a little rest now is all I need. Be safe.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks,”@@ you say, already [[entering the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the storeroom to see Jacques choosing what to cook for dinner. He looks through some cans before noticing you, @@.Jack;“Ah! Mon amie, Abby!”@@ [[His face lights up.|SancStore2.1]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse4.jpg]]</div> <<if $talkedtoRoy>> You walk into the supply room, looking for anything that might help with Roy’s search for Molly. You think about grabbing bandages or disinfectant, but then, you realize that you have healing potions and other such items. Honestly, you can probably do more with what you have than if you bother raiding this room. As you turn to leave you idly think to yourself that Jacques must be back on Mount Hood tonight. His tracking abilities could have helped locate Molly. <<else>> The room is empty with Jacques nowhere to be found. He must be out on Mount Hood. You look through the different supplies for a few minutes, waiting to see if Jacques will show, but he doesn’t. <</if>> [[You return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse5.jpg]]</div> You walk into the Storehouse and find Jacques carrying supplies, @@.Abby;“Hey, man, how are you? Your leg better?”@@ @@.Jack;“Oui! It is!”@@ He moves the heavy crate and lays it down. @@.Jack;“I noticed that you took some smokes- merci for using my paper to list it.”@@ [[You nod.|StorehouseTalk5]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse4.jpg]]</div> You walk into the Storehouse, but there is no sign of Jacques. You recall the story he told you last time about his wife and the werewolf and you feel sad thinking about what he went through. Maybe he spends so much time up on Mount Hood with the barbegazi because they feel like family or help him cope. He obviously loves the outdoors, even with such an ill fate regarding it. With nothing else to do here, [[you return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse1.1.jpg]]</div> <<if $LycaonFight>> You walk into the Storehouse, and Jacques stewing. @@.Abby;“Hey, man, you need to talk about that whole fighting thing?”@@ @@.Jack;“No, you were right to step in. I just miss, Meline. I feel robbed and regret not being able to save her.”@@ You put an arm on the large man, @@.Abby;“I understand. It’s hard and you see him as the reason.”@@ @@.Jack;“Maybe all werewolves, do they come from him? Is it like this?”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t know, honestly. He doesn’t talk much. I will say that he immediately trusted me, so, maybe he is gullible or foolish.”@@ He laughs, @@.Jack;“You saying that we should not trust you!”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t mean it like that!”@@ you say chuckling. @@.Jack;“If he stood down from hurting you, and he saved Siri, then, he is not like the wolf that took my life.”@@ He sighs a moment, and then changing the subject he says, @@.Jack;“You know, I’d like to help you with your plans and the attack, and I will. We will use everything the storehouse holds that can be used as a weapon or to heal.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, Jacques.”@@ @@.Jack;“Oui, and I shall sort all that out tomorrow night. For now, I just want to get drunk. Care to join me?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, I appreciate it. I am going to go out on a hunt.”@@ He smirks, @@.Jack;“Every night you do this, very admirable. Eh, do as you like, such youth and passion. Just remember, resting can be good for the body and soul as well. The mountain is still very clear since your visit, and the barbegazi made a song about you. The whole tribe sings it. You should come with me sometime.”@@ @@.Abby;“As soon as I know Ivor is stopped, I will, I promise. I admit, I am tired, but I also feel more alive and real than ever.”@@ @@.Jack;“You have changed in only a week’s time. You’re doing great, mon amie, and I am proud to be your friend.”@@ You don’t know what to say to this. You really have come a long way, and so much has happened. You are opening yourself up to people more than you ever have. You know that it makes you vulnerable, yet, you feel good about it, about these new friends. @@.Abby;“I am glad we’re friends too, big guy. But, I need to get moving, the sun will eventually rise.”@@ Nodding, as he pulls out a bottle of whiskey, he says, @@.Jack;“Oui, I understand. Have a good hunt, Abby.”@@ With that [[you return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 8>> <<case 8>> <<else>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the Storehouse to find Jacques’ in thought. @@.Abby;“You ok?”@@ @@.Jack;“Non, mon amie, I am upset.”@@ @@.Abby;“Why?”@@ @@.Jack;“That Lycaon, he is a wolfman, like the one that killed Meline.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, he didn’t do it.”@@ @@.Jack;“I know, but I slay those werewolves wherever I find them, without mercy or regard. Now, one of the mutts is in our home. I should put that dog down.”@@ @@.Abby;“Jesus, Jacques, tone it down a notch.”@@ @@.Jack;“Just leave me be,”@@ he says. @@.Abby;“Ok, obviously you are in a sour mood. I’ll see you around- just don’t do anything rash, please.”@@ He just grumbles, and [[you return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 8>> <<case 8>> <</if>> <</switch>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStorehouse1.1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the Storehouse and Jacques greets you, @@.Jack;“Absinthe! I must apologize about last night.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, that was not cool, man, not cool.”@@ @@.Jack;“You were right to step in, and again, I see how much you have helped me. I lost myself in rage. I relieve that horrible night every time that I close my eyes.”@@ @@.Abby;“I understand. I think about my friends all the time, but we have to be strong; we have to keep our emotions in check. Lycaon will be an immense help in the coming attack; we need his aid. The two of you, honestly, might work very well as a team.”@@ He gasps, @@.Jack;“Team up with this man wolf?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I’m telling you, last night, watching you, I think your strengths actually work well in tandem.”@@ He laughs, @@.Jack;“If anyone else told me this, I’d probably spit in their face! But, I trust you. I understand that he can help the team. I should apologize to him.”@@ @@.Abby;“I think that is a good idea.”@@ @@.Jack;“I will do this. Oh! And, I have the supplies packed for the attack. I will load them onto the Juggernaut whenever you are ready to assault the vampires.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, Jacques.”@@ @@.Jack;“I will sit here for a while and think. And, then, I will find this Lycaon and tell him that I am sorry for my reaction. Merci.”@@ @@.Abby;“Don’t worry about it. I need us to all work together- the world itself is at stake.”@@ Nodding, he agrees, @@.Jack;“You are right, oui, there are large concerns.”@@ With that, [[you return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStorehouse = 9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancLab>> <<case 1>> /* Laboratory 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the lab and see the woman that shot at you and fled. She is hunched over her computer making a spreadsheet. You clear your throat, but she continues along. You clear it again and cough, but still she ignores you. @@.Abby;“Fine. I can take a hint.”@@ As you turn to leave she stops you, @@.Siri;“Oh! Sorry! When I am working I am really in the zone! Please, come in!”@@ [[You walk up to her.|SancLab1.1]] <<set $sancLab=2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory2.jpg]]</div> You step into the laboratory, to find Siri mixing some chemicals together and muttering to herself, @@.Siri;“—there. I can’t do that. Oh what to do! Maybe I can trick him and—“@@ Your eyes glance over to her [[open screen.|SancLab2.1]] <<set $sancLab=3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the laboratory to find Siri across the room mixing potions, but she appears to hear you enter and turns towards you a moment, @@.Siri;“Oh! Hi there!”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey, Siri.”@@ You walk into the room and peer around. Her laptop is closed, but you recall the messages before about threats. In an effort to discover what this woman is up to, you try asking some questions, @@.Abby;“How are things with you?”@@ @@.Siri;“So busy! I am doing something very important, and I just need a bit of time to finish it up.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh? What is it that you are working on?”@@ @@.Siri;“It’s—“@@ she pauses, @@.Siri;“It is very complicated. Listen, I am too busy to talk. Can you come back another time? Thanks.”@@ Her voice is not angry, but you can tell that she has become defensive. You were likely too direct. @@.Abby;“Oh yeah, sure, no problem at all.”@@ @@.Siri;“Thanks!”@@ Turning, you take one last look around hoping to discover any more clues, but see nothing that you understand before [[returning to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLab=4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory4.jpg]]</div> You walk into the lab, and Siri leaps up, covering whatever she was working on with a sheet and turning to you. She quickly closes the gap until you are face to face. @@.Abby;“Uh, so, what are you working on?”@@ @@.Siri;“I— I can’t tell you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, Siri, I’m not going to blab. I just want to—“@@ @@.Siri;“Please, I must insist that you leave my lab.”@@ This is totally out of character. She’s been so focused and absent minded, but she looks incredibly alert right now. @@.Abby;“You sure I cannot help you with anything?”@@ @@.Siri;“Yes. Yes, I am positive. I need you to leave the lab and do not come back tonight.”@@ She seems to suddenly realize how panicked and intense she sounds, so she adds, @@.Siri;“Please. I meant, to say <i>please</i> leave my lab. I am working on something and I just need solitude.”@@ @@.Abby;“Jeeze, ok.”@@ @@.Siri;“Thank you.”@@ As soon as you walk out of the room, she closes and locks the heavy door behind you. Ok, that woman is getting more suspicious every night that passes. She is definitely up to something. Putting your ear to the door, you listen, but do not hear anything. Giving up, you [[return to your night.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLab=5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SewersEnd24.jpg]]</div> You walk into the lab to find Siri and Roy chatting, @@.Roy;“Please, doc, let me go with you. I’ll do anything for my baby girl.”@@ @@.Siri;“I understand your stress, Mr. McCoy, but, trust me, you cannot come with me.”@@ @@.Roy;“Doc, I want to help you! I need to do something.”@@ @@.Molly;“Daddy, please let me out of this cage. I promise I am myself again.”@@ He ignores Molly, @@.Roy;“Please, doc, c’mon.”@@ @@.Abby;“I was going to go out with Kendra tonight, but I’d rather help Molly, too, if I can.”@@ Roy looks at you and gives a smile- there’s a twinkle of pride in his eye. @@.Siri;“I’d be absolutely ok with you both accompanying me, however, in order to obtain the Xenopox strain, that I will need, I will be dealing with a doctor, a, uh, doctor of ill-repute.”@@ @@.Roy;“We don’t care about the man’s dang morals! I want to save Molly!”@@ @@.Siri;“I am afraid that the doctor made it quite clear that I am to come alone.”@@ It must be the person that was messaging Siri! It’s got to be the super villain that threatened to kill all of you. Trying to sound as if you don’t know who she is talking about, you say, @@.Abby;“You sure it will be safe to go alone?”@@ @@.Siri;“I assure you, Ms. Van Gothen, that I have no choice in this. So, please, allow me to go. I have a chemical compound of my own that he requires for his own agendas. I intend to make a trade, and while he may be unscrupulous, I do think we have a mutual respect for each other’s intellects.”@@ @@.Roy;“Fair enough, doc. So, you go get the stuff and we can fix her tonight?”@@ @@.Siri;“I will go obtain the Xenopox, but, and again, and I cannot stress this enough, I am not certain that it will undo this mutation. However, I will return tonight, yes. To do a simple trade should take trivial amounts of time.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, I’ll be on pins and needles waitin’, but good enough for me.”@@ @@.Molly;“Daddy? Wanna fuck me? Ha ha ha!”@@ Roy keeps his stoic face as he says, calmly, @@.Roy;“Look, I gotta go somewhere else.”@@ After he departs, Siri gathers some bottles, @@.Siri;“Ok, I’m off! Hopefully, soon, we’ll have Molly back to human, I mean, at least, that’s my hypothesis.”@@ @@.Molly;“Absinthe! Please, come help me! At least talk to me; I’m lonely!”@@ Siri steps out and you think about [[checking on Molly.|DesLabWWYD]] <<set $sancLab=6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory5.jpg]]</div> You walk into the lab to find Roy frantically going through drawers while Molly taunts him and laughs. @@.Abby;“Roy? What’s wrong?”@@ He looks at you, and though his face is stoic, there is something of fear and worry in his eyes. @@.Roy;“It’s Siri! She never came back last night, not all day- Abigail, something’s happened to the only dang person that can save my baby! I’m tryin’ to find out where she is!”@@ @@.Molly;“I know where she is! Ha ha!”@@ @@.Roy;“Molly! Why won’t you tell me, darlin’? Please!”@@ @@.Molly;“Because, I don’t want to be cured. I love this!”@@ She begins lewdly rubbing against the cage bars causing her father to quickly look away and return to opening every cabinet that he can find. @@.Abby;“Did Siri, seriously not tell you where she was headed?”@@ @@.Roy;“No!”@@ He turns and begins flipping through notebooks. @@.Roy;“Dang it! She said that she was goin’ to see that doctor.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yes, I remember that part. You two had been talking when I came in the room.”@@ @@.Roy;“Yeah, but she never said where the guy was! I’ve looked through every shred of paper! It’s all science mumbo jumbo!”@@ He begins rifling through drawers. You, however, know where you might find the answer, and you walk over to Siri’s laptop. She left her Booble screen open with the messenger. As Roy continues tearing the place apart, you scroll through her conversation with <i>‘The Doctor’</i>, and you get the answer. He’s at the Hawthorne Asylum. You are about to tell Roy where she is, but he looks frantic. Honestly, he’s not being his usual calm, collected self, and you think that it might be safer to go on your own. You’ve beaten monsters; you can handle some old man. @@.Molly;“Why don’t you stop all that daddy and come help me out of this cage!”@@ @@.Roy;“That ain’t you talkin’ Molly!”@@ He punches the tabletop, @@.Roy;“Where in tarnation did Siri go!”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, Roy.”@@ You walk up to him and put a hand on his shoulder, @@.Abby;“I need you to listen to me.”@@ His intense eyes look at you, @@.Abby;“I know where Siri went.”@@ He perks up, @@.Roy;“Where!?”@@ @@.Abby;“I’m going to go get her and you stay here.”@@ @@.Roy;“What!? Alone? I’ll go and—“@@ @@.Abby;“Roy, please, I can do this.”@@ He looks at Molly and back at you and nods, then steps away a moment as if in thought before turning back to look at you. He opens his mouth to say something, but it’s as if he looks at your face. Not looks at it like one normally does, but as if he studies it, closely, his brows furrowing a moment before he, again, appears as if he is going to say something, yet stops. After a long silence and a deep breath, he says, @@.Roy;“I know you can do it Abigail. My nerves are frayed somethin’ fierce. It’s been like-ta-hell to not be able to help Molly. I almost—“@@ he trails off. @@.Abby;“Almost what?”@@ He looks ashamed somehow, @@.Abby;“Roy, c’mon, please tell me.”@@ He takes a deep sigh, @@.Roy;“I done almost drank.”@@ You quirk an eyebrow, @@.Roy;“Swore it off, years ago. Yeah, yeah, if it’s calling to me this bad, then, I reckon, you’re right. I best stay with my girl here and let,”@@ he looks up at you, again as if he has something very important to say, but continues with, @@.Roy;“Let you do this. You can. I know you’d never let me and Molly down.”@@ @@.Abby;“I wouldn’t. I promise that I’ll come back with Siri and with the pox thing.”@@ You turn to leave. In a voice that almost cracks with emotion, he says, @@.Roy;“Abigail! I— I’m proud of you.”@@ You turn back and his face and the tone in Roy’s voice make your heart feel something deep. For some reason it’s very powerful and tears form in your eyes, @@.Abby;“Just hang tight. I got this.”@@ Prepared for your next hunt, you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLab=7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the lab to find Siri typing away at her computer. @@.Abby;“Siri?”@@ She finishes typing and [[turns to face you|Lab7]] <<set $sancLab=8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory8.jpg]]</div> Walking into the lab, you find Siri and Lycaon talking. @@.Lycaon;“I am truly amazed at what you have accomplished, but, I tell you that my curse marks me through the magic of Zeus himself.”@@ @@.Siri;“Please, sir, I do appreciate your opinion, I do, but if you will just give me some samples of your blood, I could study it. It has to be biological in nature. Mr. Lightfoot won’t acknowledge me, but you seem much more reasonable.”@@ @@.Lycaon;“I must, again, decline, but I thank you for your interest in me.”@@ Seemingly exacerbated, Siri sighs, @@.Siri;“If you reconsider, please come see me.”@@ He stops as he walks past you, and says, @@.Lycaon;“Warrior, do we spill the blood of the Nightbred this evening?”@@ @@.Abby;“Maybe tomorrow night, there is something that I need to do first.”@@ He slaps your shoulder, @@.Lycaon;“So be it. Whenever you are ready, I shall fight by your side, for righteous is the Van Gothen line.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks.”@@ He gives a single strong nod and steps out into [[the hallway.|SancLab8.2]]

<<switch $sancLibrary>> <<case 1>> /* Library 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the library and see Katerina sitting in an old worn chair. She appears to be reading. Without even looking up, with a Russian accent, she says, @@.Kat;“I know you are there, I can feel the black magic emanating off you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, I know we got off on the foot, yesterday, and I want to say that I—“@@ @@.Kat;“Do not bother apologizing to me. I do not trust you and I doubt I ever vill. I hate, passionately, monsters of every kind. You are something new, yes, and something different, yes, but in the end, you are nothing but another monster. Maybe, you are vorse because you are here to rot us from the inside!”@@ You do not know what else you can say, so <<return "you leave quietly">> <<set $TalkLibrary1 to true>> <<set $sancLibrary = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the library to find Katerina laying on a couch, reading. @@.Abby;“Hi, Katerina, how are yo—“@@ @@.Kat;“Do not talk vith me,”@@ she pauses and then adds a hollow, @@.Kat;“Please.”@@ @@.Abby;“Fine.”@@ You contemplate looking through the books and reading one right next to Katerina to spite her, but with the issues you currently face, you do not have time to [[read and relax.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkLibrary2 to true>> <<set $sancLibrary = 3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary5.jpg]]</div> Taking a deep breath, you walk into the library ready for another standoff with Katerina. However, the library is empty. You poke around a bit before going back [[into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLibrary = 4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary4.jpg]]</div> You walk into the library to find Kat reading. @@.Kat;“Absinthe! I have found two books so far that might aid us.”@@ @@.Abby;“Cool! What are they?”@@ @@.Kat;“Vell, I am certain there vill be more, but one talks about vampires, how to combat them and tactics. This knowledge vill likely aid in our future assault.”@@ @@.Abby;“The other?”@@ @@.Kat;“Ah, the other talks about gods and goddesses. There are references to many, like Nergal, Ophion, and,”@@ she pauses, @@.Kat;“Nuit.”@@ @@.Abby;“Did you find anything, specifically?”@@ @@.Kat;“Not yet, that is, I have only started studying this tome on deities, but the night is young. I vill continue researching every day until you feel prepared to attack.”@@ @@.Abby;“I want a couple of more hunts under my belt, and I want to ensure we have all the Night Stalkers on my side. I’m going to be asking everyone to really risk their lives.”@@ @@.Kat;“Our lives? We go out every night vith the knowledge that it may be our last.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, but a god? You ever fight something like that?”@@ @@.Kat;“Vell, you have a point, there. Anyway, I vill do vhat I can to learn about our enemy.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks Kat.”@@ Nodding, she returns to her book and you [[step out into the hall.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<if $BabaBrewInventory>> or [[Use the Baba Brew.|BESancBB1]] <<set $sancLibrary = 5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary2.jpg]]</div> You walk into the library to find Kat reading. @@.Abby;“Hey, Kat.”@@ She glances up and nods at you, @@.Kat;“I am still researching. I am growing very concerned. The gods and demons, their powers twist, control, and spread like viruses. Beyond anything that usual monsters vill be capable of.”@@ @@.Abby;“All the more reason to stop them.”@@ @@.Kat;“Da, da, this is true. I should tell you that I voke to find a message, written in Russian, here on the table when I came into the room.”@@ @@.Abby;“A message? Like a note?”@@ @@.Kat;“Da, it’s—“@@ she chuckles, @@.Kat;“I cannot believe it, if it is true, but it appears to be from Rasputin!”@@ @@.Abby;“Wait, like the guy from the 80’s song?”@@ @@.Kat;“Eh? He is from Russian history, but he claims to desire to help us. He says he has been vatching us, and he has even come into the Sanctuary to do so. He also mentions your nosferatu friend and says that they know each other. He desires to meet vith you; he says that he vill be here tomorrow night. A trap?”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t know. I have no way to contact Brone to ask him about this guy, but, if anyone is willing to help us stop Ivor, then it is worth the risk. I want him dead. Besides, with your new shadow stalking abilities and with my powers, if Rasputin is a supernatural of any kind, and tries anything, we can team up and defeat him.”@@ @@.Kat;“Vith what you have accomplished, I vill be proud to fight alongside you. But, there is one thing—“@@ @@.Abby;“What’s that?”@@ @@.Kat;“If we do have to fight Rasputin, he’s not known for being easy to kill. Historically, so. He vas or is supposedly a very powerful man.”@@ @@.Abby;“Let’s meet him tomorrow night and get some answers.”@@ Nodding, she returns to her book and you [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLibrary = 6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary5.jpg]]</div> Walking into the library, you find it abandoned. Likely, Katerina is still outside discussing things with Rasputin and Anastasia. Hopefully with actual vampires on your side, you will have a leg up when it comes to attacking the Shanghai Tunnels. With one last glance, you [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLibrary = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary7.jpg]]</div> Walking into the library, you find Katerina, Anastasia, and Rasputin talking in Russian to each other, @@.Kat;“Absinthe! We are making plans here. These two have been a huge help.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thank you both.”@@ Rasputin nods, and Anastasia smiles. @@.Kat;“We have a map, and they are showing me the vays into the lair.”@@ You look at their map and pull out the map and notes that Brone gave you, @@.Abby;“Look, there are also hidden access tunnels here and here.”@@ @@.Ras;“I had no idea!”@@ @@.Ana;“Nor did I, I promise.”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s ok, I trust you, I am sure you two didn’t know, but Brone gave this to me. He knows more about the tunnels than any of us.”@@ @@.Ras;“He is a man of honor, I respect that.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, Brone’s actually the only reason that any of this is happening. He got me the Blood Suit, he brought you two into this, and he led me here to Sanctuary. He’s, honestly, a great person.”@@ @@.Ras;“Hmm, I like that you said <i>person</i> and not <i>vampire</i>. You do not see our kind as enemies, outright?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, I’m figuring out that monsters are like humans, there are good and bad.”@@ @@.Ras;“That is vise of you to comprehend.”@@ @@.Abby;“Which makes me wonder about the two of you, how is it that you are seemingly good guys, but not nosferatu? You’d have to be killing and drinking blood, right?”@@ The pair exchange a glance, @@.Ana;“Rasputin and I do feed on mortal blood.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, you do kill humans?”@@ @@.Ras;“Yes, I admit, we do this. However, we are very discerning about who we feed off. We choose criminals. Murderers.”@@ @@.Ana;“Rapists.”@@ @@.Ras;“Yes, bad people only. There is no shortage of such immoral humans, unfortunately. However, we feel that this is righteous. We rid the vorld of evil, even if we must feed from sinners to do so.”@@ You nod, though you are unsure where you stand on the ethics involved. @@.Abby;“Well, I am probably going to head out on another hunt, unless you need me?”@@ @@.Kat;“No,”@@ Kat says, @@.Kat;“We should be good here. I vill incorporate your notes into our plan.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ok, goodnight.”@@ With that, you [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLibrary = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLibrary7.jpg]]</div> Walking into the library, you find Katerina still working with Rasputin and Anastasia. @@.Ras;“Ah, Absinthe, greetings.”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey, Rasputin.”@@ @@.Ras;“Katerina told us that you vill be going to fetch something from the museum. Anastasia and I vould gladly do it for you. We were there recently, as you know.”@@ @@.Abby;“I appreciate that, but there is something that I want you two to do for us.”@@ Anastasia asks, @@.Ana;“Vhat is it?”@@ @@.Abby;“Tell Katerina anything you can about vampire customs or behaviors so that we can tell friend from foe.”@@ He seems to consider your words, @@.Ras;“Yes, I see. I have been so focused on the schematics of the lair, that I lost sight of such things. Of course.”@@ @@.Abby;“I want to minimize killing. Yes, I know that most of these vampires kill humans, and so do you and Anastasia, but I have learned that things may not always be so cut and dry. I want to spare any that we can, and then later, if they turn out to murder innocent civilians, I’ll track them down, individually, and slay them.”@@ Katerina nods, @@.Kat;“That seems fair. Yes, let’s add that to the plans and go over them again.”@@ The other two agree. @@.Abby;“Ok then, I’m heading to the museum, and I’ll be back with the Scepter of Osiris before dawn.”@@ With that, you [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancLibrary = 9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancStables>> <<case 1>> /* Stables 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables1.jpg]]</div> You walk out into the large hangar and see Roy and Molly McCoy. Molly appears to be cleaning the stall, and Roy pats Bess while he talks to her. As you approach, he turns around, @@.Roy;“Howdy, Abby.”@@ @@.Abby;“Hi,”@@ you say with a smile. @@.Roy;“Molly, come on over here and say hi to the woman.”@@ @@.Molly;“But, dad! She tried to kill everyone and—“@@ @@.Roy;“She did not try to <i>kill</i> everyone. Molly, those folks were not using their heads. They needed to get knocked down a peg or two by someone, and nobody got seriously injured or killed. This little firecracker could have put’em all in pine boxes- but she didn’t.”@@ Molly puts on a smile, and says, @@.Molly;“Yes, sir. You’re right, I suppose.”@@ Then, under her breath she mumbles, @@.Molly;“Somehow, you’re always right.”@@ [[The pair greets you.|SancSTables1.1]] <<set $sancStables=2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables2.jpg]]</div> @@.Molly;“Pa, it’s not fair! I know I could be as good as you! You’ve been teaching me how to shoot since I was just a little thing, please let me go on a hunt!”@@ @@.Roy;“Dang it, Molly, how many times do we have to go over this, you’re still young and—“@@ @@.Molly;“I’m an adult!”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, right now you’re acting like a kid.”@@ @@.Molly;“I’ll go on my own hunt without you!”@@ She throws down the pitchfork she holds, and says nothing to you as she enters the main building. [[Roy looks at you.|Stables2.1]] <<set $sancStables=3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables3.jpg]]</div> Heading out into the large bay area of the old factory, you see Roy McCoy tending to Bessie by himself. He has been so easy to get to know and you feel close even to the horse. @@.Abby;“Hey, Roy.”@@ @@.Roy;“Howdy, Abigail- you feeling any better?”@@ @@.Abby;“I feel helpless, actually. I want to head out there and kill those vampires! I want to save my friends more than anything.”@@ @@.Roy;“Lord, how I know what you feel- I do, more than you can imagine, but you have to stay smart to stay alive. If you rush in and get yourself killed, you won’t be doin’ none of ‘em any good.”@@ You guffaw, @@.Abby;“They don’t want to kill me.”@@ He looks genuinely confused, @@.Roy;“What—“@@ he looks somewhat nervous, only for a split second, before he regains his normal cool exterior, @@.Roy;“What do they want?”@@ @@.Abby;“They want to somehow use me. I think as a last resort, they’d kill me, but apparently I am special, and they want to use me.”@@ He takes a deep breath and sigh, @@.Roy;“Yep. I reckon that they do.”@@ That’s all he says, as if he knows something. You recall how the night you first met, when you said your last name was Van Gothen, he reacted as if he had knowledge about something then as well, but you do not press your luck. @@.Abby;“Where’s Molly?”@@ Now it’s his turn to guffaw, @@.Roy;“Aw, she’s off in her room, poutin’. She’s getting older- she’s eighteen, and feels that she should be able to hunt. I’m an old man, you know, been through hell and back more times than I reckon to say, and I do not want to lose another daughter.”@@ You are shocked, @@.Abby;“I know you said your wife passed, but I have no idea—“@@ He turns away, almost as if to hide his face, and begins messing with a rope, interrupting you with, @@.Roy;“Yeah. Yep. Well, no good dwellin’ on the past. Point is, I want to be good to Molly, but I want her safe too. Now she’s powerful mad at me, and won’t even come to help me with chores. She’s actin’ like a kid, but I just don’t know.”@@ @@.Abby;“Do you want me to talk to her?”@@ @@.Roy;“No, but thanks. I know that girl, and right now she’s fit to be tied. She’d go off like gunpowder. She’s just itchin’ to head out and hunt without help, and anything you say could set her off. The women in my life are always like dadgum dynamite.”@@ Laughing, you ask, @@.Abby;“Maybe you can take her out hunting with you, like to somewhere with weaker monsters or something?”@@ @@.Roy;“Here’s the thing, Abigail, no matter how weak any of them things out there might be- you make one mistake, just one, and you’re either dead- or become one of the bastards yourself.”@@ Looking down, you nod, @@.Abby;“It was just an idea. Speaking of which, you going out hunting? I’d love to tag along.”@@ @@.Roy;“Hell, I was goin’ to, but now I have to do all this other work. Probably another night, I’d really like that, you know, go out with you and see you in action.”@@ You really dig this old guy, @@.Abby;“Cool, so, I’ll see you later?”@@ @@.Roy;“Yes ma’am- now back to work!”@@ As he turns to tend the horse, you walk back [[into the hall. |Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStables=4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables3.jpg]]</div> You head out into the stable area to find a very emotional Roy McCoy. @@.Roy;“Dag nabbit,”@@ he says, approaching you, @@.Roy;“Abigail, you see Molly anywhere, tonight?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, no I haven’t.”@@ @@.Roy;“Damn. She done took off to go on a hunt. I knew it; I <i>knew</i> this was gonna happen.”@@ He rushes over to Bess and opens her saddle bag, rummaging through it for supplies. @@.Abby;“Where did she go? Do you need help?”@@ @@.Roy;“Hell yes, I need help!”@@ he yells before he suddenly stops panicking and turns to you with a calmer tone, @@.Roy;“Sorry for raising my voice. Yeah. I reckon that I could use your help. She’s my little girl.”@@ @@.Abby;“I know. I get it, it’s a family affair.”@@ The old man guffaws, @@.Roy;“Hell, if you only knew. Anyway, she’s got to be in the sewers.”@@ @@.Abby;“The sewers! Why?”@@ @@.Roy;“That’s where I have been systematically exterminatin’ mutants.”@@ Sewer mutants? What’s the world come to? @@.Abby;“Well, let’s go!”@@ @@.Roy;“Not yet, I need to look through the maps and things here. I leave everything orderly, and stuff is missin’ from my saddle bag, and look at my notes and maps over yonder. They’ve been rifled through. I’ve done cleared out most of the sewers, except a couple of areas. So, she’s probably there. But, those parts are directly under where we, the Night Stalkers, took out that MedUSA installation. There’s a lot of weird, dangerous creatures that came out of that place, not to mention the toxic chemicals. I need to keep a level head about this and be smart, so that we can narrow our search and find her faster.”@@ @@.Abby;“She’s your daughter, I’m sure she’s—“@@ @@.Roy;“Don’t say it Abigail. There’s no way to know if she’s fine or not. And, if she’s been taken by them mutants or whatever else scurries around down there, then, I only have one option.”@@ He pulls out one of his guns and checks the ammo in it. That’s when it really hits you. His daughter is alone trying to prove herself on a hunt. She might die or become a monster, and if she does, this poor old cowboy will be forced to kill his own flesh and blood. @@.Roy;“I got a bit more to do here, so, come back when you’re ready to go find my little Molly.”@@ Nodding with tears in your eyes you answer, @@.Abby;“Yeah, man. You got it. I’ll give you some time to prepare.”@@ You are emotional as you leave, because, you never had a real father. This man loves his daughter and he’s going to risk everything for her. Your adopted dad could not have been any more different that Roy. You think to yourself how lucky Molly is as you [[walk down the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<$talkedtoRoy>> <<set $sancStables=5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables5.jpg]]</div> You enter the makeshift stables to find the area empty. Roy’s likely upset about Molly and busy doing whatever he does to cope. Looking around, you can tell Molly has not been doing her work, and likely, neither has Roy. You find some tools and begin cleaning the area, refill the water trough, and even brush Bessie’s mane. @@.Abby;“Look at me,”@@ you say to the horse, @@.Abby;“Being all selfless and all.”@@ It really is out of character for you, and you are aware you must be changing as a person. Taking care of the horse feels familiar and right, and it helps you feel much better, emotionally, after what you went through earlier tonight. When you are finished, you put everything away and [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStables=6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables5.jpg]]</div> You walk into the stable to find Bess munching on hay. As with last night, you tend to the horse. You brush her mane, clean up, make sure she has plenty of water and then pet her a moment. It does not take long to do all this, but caring for this horse makes you feel better somehow. When you are finished, you put everything away and [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStables=7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the stables to find Roy putting down hay, @@.Abby;“Hey, Roy.”@@ @@.Roy;“Howdy.”@@ He finishes what he is doing and then comes to greet you, @@.Roy;“Abigail, thank you so much, so dang much, for helping me with Molly.”@@ @@.Abby;“Seriously, Roy, it’s fine, really.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, I’m in your debt.”@@ @@.Abby;“How is she?”@@ @@.Roy;“She’s been out cold since you brought her to her room. I reckon she needs some rest. I am going to finish up the chores here, and then spend the night in her room making sure she’s going to be ok. If she wakes up, I want to be there.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s great.”@@ @@.Roy;“And, I wanted to say thanks for taking care of Bess here. I found her trough filled, everything pretty well cleaned. I reckon that was all you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I tried to help out.”@@ @@.Roy;“You’re somethin’ else, girl. Thank you.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re making this awkward for me.”@@ @@.Roy;“Heh, fair enough,”@@ he turns back to his work. Just as you are about to go, something crosses your mind. @@.Abby;“Roy, this will sound odd, but, there’s a painting in Molly’s room—“@@ @@.Roy;“Yep, her momma painted that. It’s one of the only things we got left to remember her.”@@ @@.Abby;“Was she a famous artist?”@@ He guffaws, @@.Roy;“No, that ol’ gal was a lot of things, and was a hell of an artist, but not famous or nothing. Why?”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s just that the painting looked familiar to me.”@@ He stops his chores and looks at you, @@.Roy;“Familiar?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I swear that I saw it somewhere before.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well,”@@ he says, turning back to his work, @@.Roy;“I reckon there’s plenty of paintings of horses and Native Americans. You must have seen something like it somewhere’s. That's all there is to it.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, you’re probably right. Alright, I best head out soon.”@@ @@.Roy;“I’ll see you, Abigail, stay safe.”@@ @@.Abby;“Will do, Roy, goodnight.”@@ You pet Bess a moment, and then [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStables=8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the stable to find Roy hard at work. @@.Roy;“Howdy, Abigail!”@@ he yells as he moves a hay bail. @@.Abby;“Hey, Roy.”@@ @@.Roy;“So, what god forsaken monster of evil are you gonna hunt down and kill tonight?”@@ @@.Abby;“Heh, none, actually, just going to the museum to steal a priceless artifact.”@@ He laughs, @@.Roy;“That’s the funny thing about us monster hunters. We all carry or own objects, relics, and them artifact type things, all worth millions of dollars, and we are all poorer than dirt. Life sure is a hell of a strange thing.”@@ Laughing you agree, @@.Abby;“I had not thought about that, but you’re right.”@@ You pause a moment, @@.Abby;“Say, Roy, I really want to advocate for Molly coming on the hunt with us.”@@ He says nothing, and continues working. @@.Abby;“I get it. You’re scared, but she pointed out how many of those spiders that she killed before they got her. When I entered that area, there was only a handful left. She practically wiped out the entire colony by herself.”@@ He takes a deep breath, @@.Roy;“Abigail, there weighs so much on my old heart. There are heaps of things about my past that you don’t know- things that I am damned ashamed of. I tell you, I love Molly, and, you’re right, I am scared. What if she dies? What would I do? How would I go on?”@@ He kicks at the ground, @@.Roy;“If I’d had trained her more, maybe she’d have beaten all them spiders. If you only knew how awful of a father that I am.”@@ @@.Abby;“Awful! You’re insane! I have seen terrible parents, and you’re not one of them. You can’t blame yourself, and frankly, she’s eighteen. She might just pack up and disappear on you. There are no guarantees in life. Please, she needs this. I want her help and yours. Let her come, you said yourself that you owe me for saving her and taking care of Bess.”@@ He nods and looks down a long minute, @@.Roy;“I’ll consider it. I promise.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, Roy.”@@ @@.Roy;“Now, let me get back to this old mare, ok?”@@ @@.Abby;“You got it, have a goodnight!”@@ @@.Roy;“You too, Abigail.”@@ Hoping he’ll let her come, you [[step out into the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancStables=9>> <</switch>>

<<switch $sancCourtyard>> <<case 1>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard1.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the side of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. The old Native American, Sani, you think his name was, stands out in the cold, warming himself at the oil drum fire. You walk towards him, but, without even looking towards you, he says, @@.Sani;“You. Go.”@@ @@.Abby;“I only came to—“@@ @@.Sani;“No. As I told you- day and night cannot dwell together. Leave me be, evil one.”@@ Looks like there is no reasoning with him for now, so you <<return "return to the building.">> <<set $TalkCourtyard1 to true>> <<set $sancCourtyard = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard1.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the side of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani, is still standing out in the cold, warming himself at the oil drum fire. You walk towards him, but, without even looking towards you, he says, @@.Sani;“You. Go.”@@ @@.Abby;“C'mon, man, I could use some sage wisdom.”@@ @@.Sani;“I gave you some. As I told you- day and night cannot dwell together.”@@ He still has not warmed up to you, so you <<return "return to the building.">> <<set $sancCourtyard = 3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard3.jpg]]</div> As you walk down the hallway leading to the back of the abandoned factory, you are surprised to see Sani Lightfoot walking inside; he raises a hand to his mouth and booms out, @@.Sani;“Katerina! Katerina! Come quickly!”@@ He then turns his attention to you, @@.Sani;“This does not concern you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Maybe I can help?”@@ @@.Sani;“You cannot. You will not.”@@ Just then, Katerina comes running down the hallway, drawing her daggers! @@.Kat;“Is she attacking you?”@@ @@.Sani;“Hold, Katerina!”@@ yells the shaman as he raises a hand. @@.Sani;“No. She is not threatening me. However, there is something urgent that you must know. Please, come with me.”@@ @@.Kat;“Of course, Lightfoot.”@@ She eyes you as she slides her daggers back into place, and then walks past you, following Sani into the courtyard. You wonder what that was [[all about.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard1.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the back of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani has returned to his usual place, warming himself by the fire. You walk towards him, and, as usual, though his eyes remain on the fire- he senses you, @@.Sani;“You did well.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, it was an intense night.”@@ @@.Sani;“It occurred to me, as the dawn broke, that we are one in our journey.”@@ Before last night, he always called you evil, what does Lightfoot mean? @@.Abby;“I mean no disrespect, Sani, really, but you’ve done a total 180 on me, here.”@@ @@.Sani;“Even elders have room to grow and learn. Through deed you showed your true self, your purpose. All things in nature have a purpose. I realized that by judging you without knowing what is truly in your fierce heart, I did to you, what my own people did to me and my ancestors. I judged you, not on your deeds, but on your appearance and on the feeling I sensed of the darkness within you.”@@ [[He looks up at you.|SancCourtyard4.1]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard1.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the back of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani stands gazing into the fire and chants a song, but stops as you approach, @@.Sani;“I am singing to the Great Spirit for the battle ahead and to ease your sorrow.”@@ @@.Abby;“My sorrow?”@@ @@.Sani;“Your spirit is not hidden, friend. I see it as a shadow cast by your heart. You have suffered loss this night.”@@ @@.Abby;“I- I had no choice. I was forced to—“@@ You feel sad thinking of Toby and angry at all that happened. @@.Sani;“Calm, please. A thunderstorm builds within your spirit, but such storms can bring about a cleansing rain.”@@ @@.Abby;“I can’t believe they are dead, gone.”@@ His dark eyes look up from the flame and you feel a strong power in them, @@.Sani;“Death and life, they are one. Forms change, Absinthe, but spirit is eternal. Your friends, their forms are no more. Your friends, their spirits, live on.”@@ @@.Abby;“You know, I always thought the afterlife was bullshit, but with all the things that have happened in the last week. Do you mean they are ghosts?”@@ @@.Sani;“Ghosts are spirits, yes. They dwell between the form and the spirit. Your friends, it must have been they that I sensed earlier. They were undead, and their souls were being corrupted.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yes! They had become vampires.”@@ @@.Sani;“You freed them from their pain. They are at rest and peace, for I feel no vengeful spirits. They are with the Great Spirit now. They are well and safer because of you.”@@ @@.Abby;“It fucking sucks!”@@ He chuckles, @@.Sani;“Yes. Yes, challenges like this do, but you proved to be stronger. You overcame much tonight, not just the loss of friends, but you also have mastered the demon within you.”@@ He must mean Vlad. @@.Sani;“When I look upon you now, I see a new resolution.”@@ @@.Sani;“You will feel pain and let tears fall, let sorrow weep, or yell in anger and agony, feel, but do not let it consume you. Your mind and judgment grows more important for all of us. Soon, we shall stand with you as your tribe and we will fight the darkness as one. Our faith in you will make us vulnerable. That is true responsibility. And, it is on your shoulders. You are strong; you can do this. You will do this, and because of you, we all shall grow stronger. Remain vigilant and know the spirits of your friends will be with us that day.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thank you, Sani.”@@ Nodding, the old Ute turns back to the fire and resumes his chanting, so you [[return to the building.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard1.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the back of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani stands gazing into the fire and chants a song, but stops as you approach, @@.Sani;“Absinthe.”@@ @@.Abby;“Sani.”@@ @@.Sani;“Much has changed since you arrived, though scant days have passed.”@@ @@.Abby;“I know that I definitely have changed.” @@ You think about your friends, your new ones, Brone, Vlad, so much has happened in so little time. @@.Sani;“We, the Night Stalkers, too, have changed. It is not only you. You have brought to all of us what we needed most.”@@ You think about everything that has happened, and somehow, what Lightfoot says, makes sense. Each of the Night Stalkers have, somehow, grown as you have. @@.Abby;“I think I understand.”@@ @@.Sani;“You have only begun your journey. The fire tells me of you, of your fate, and of what you shall accomplish.”@@ @@.Abby;“What? What does it say?”@@ @@.Sani;“You are the fire. You burn bright; you cleanse and allow growth from the ashes. Your heat is fierce and deadly, but also, it warms and protects. You will become something great.”@@ You think of Toby and what you have done in the past. @@.Abby;“I don’t feel that great.”@@ @@.Sani;“You will always burn. You are only beginning to understand your nature. Master it- and all evil shall fear you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thank you, Sani, I’ll try.”@@ Nodding, the old Ute turns back to the fire and resumes his chanting, so you [[return to the building.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard7.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the back of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani stands gazing into the fire talking to Lycaon, @@.Sani;“Absinthe.”@@ @@.Abby;“Sani.”@@ @@.Sani;“Lycaon speaks well of you.”@@ @@.Lycaon;“I do.”@@ @@.Abby;“I hardly know you, though.”@@ @@.Lycaon;“You risked your life to save another; you also saved my own life in the process. You do your lineage proud, woman.”@@ @@.Abby;“My lineage?”@@ @@.Lycaon;“Yes, though I know many of you think that your power comes from Calis Van Gothen, in truth, your blood’s power comes from centuries before that.”@@ @@.Abby;“Really? Why are Van Gothens so powerful against monsters?”@@ @@.Sani;“I sense a coming storm approach.”@@ You and Lycaon look around, but the sky is clear. @@.Jack;“Osti de tabarnak de sacrament, de câlice de ciboire de criss de marde!”@@ [[Jacques comes rushing outside.|Courtyard 7.1]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancCourtyard4.jpg]]</div> You walk out to the back of the building into the walled-off courtyard area. Sani stands gazing into the fire and chants a song, but stops as you approach, @@.Sani;“Absinthe.”@@ @@.Abby;“Sani.”@@ @@.Sani;“It is almost time. I feel the forces of darkness; I have killed the vampires that raided our camp.”@@ @@.Abby;“Wait, what?”@@ @@.Sani;“Those that are unclean in blood and soul, came here, both last night and tonight. They did not enter the building.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re saying vampires attacked us! Are you ok?”@@ @@.Sani;“Yes, I am fine. I have freed them from their corrupted bodies, and I hope their spirits find the true path.”@@ @@.Abby;“Shit! I wish you had said something!”@@ @@.Sani;“I saw no reason. They were clearly trained assassins. However, they had not faced the curse of a skinwalker. The demon within me relished the fight; the man within me abhorred what I had to do.”@@ @@.Abby;“I’m just glad that you are ok.”@@ He nods, @@.Sani;“They may assault us again tomorrow night. Again, I shall meet them as a beast. Do not alarm the others. I guard that they may plan.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thank you, Sani.”@@ Nodding, the old Ute turns back to the fire and resumes his chanting, so you [[return to the building.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancCourtyard = 9>> <</switch>>

<<if $Rope and $Seal>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/AsylumStart1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You make your way to the outskirts of Portland, not too far from Forest Park. You have known about the old abandoned asylum for years, as teenagers often would come out here to snoop or party, but from what you heard it was haunted. You stumble out of the woods and into the clearing where Hawthorne Asylum still stands. Just as you are about to walk forward, you sense something, and leap back as a huge claw slashes the air where you had just [[been standing!|BEAsylumStart2]] <<set $postEncounterAudio='zone_asylum_amb'>> <<set $postEncounterAudioBG=undefined>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_forest_amb" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "Asylum-Config">> <<set $huntingAreaAsylum=undefined>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Asylum"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'J'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=6;>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>> <<else>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/AsylumStart1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You make your way to the outskirts of Portland, not too far from Forest Park. You have known about the old abandoned asylum for years, as teenagers often would come out here to snoop or party, but from what you heard it was haunted. You stumble out of the woods and into the clearing where Hawthorne Asylum [[still stands.|AsylumArtBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_forest_amb" volume 0.3 loop play>> <</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Caverns1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You are walking past the garage when Selena revs her engine and yells your name, @@.Selena;“Hey mamacita! Let's head out and check those caverns for goblins! It'll be a blast fighting them with you!”@@ <br /> <br /> This is awesome! You have a chance to grow stronger and learn more about fighting monsters so that you can face off against the vampires! @@.Abby;“Hell yes!”@@ You rush into the room and hop on her hog. Selena rides out into the night, and with your directions, you reach the entrance to the caverns. Selena drives right off the road passing the <i>Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve</i> sign, and off you both go into the forest. You finally find the stone stairs that [[Brone showed you!|Caverns2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "CavernsFirst-Config">> <<include "CavernsSecond-Config">> <<include "CavernsThird-Config">> <<set $cavernsCrystals=new Array(5).fill(false);>> <<set $huntingAreaCaverns=undefined>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Caverns"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'A'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=5;>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>>

<<if $Rope>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/Docks0.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> After your daily rounds, you return to the gymnasium to see if Kendra is ready, and she is! @@.Kendra;“Heyo, lass! Are ye ready tae go?”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Abby;“Yeah, sure am! I’m excited!”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Kendra;“Well, if we have to fight any monsters, let me jump in and take care o’ them. I’ve got an oxygen tank, after all!”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Abby;“Yeah, that makes sense. You got it!”@@ <br /> <br /> She looks a little nervous, @@.Kendra;“And, yer positive that ye want to come along, aye?”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Abby;“Yes! Seriously, I live for this! Plus, I really want to occupy my mind tonight!”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Kendra;“Righto, fair enough!”@@ She checks out a few items from the Storehouse and, together, you [[leave Sanctuary.|Docks1]] <<set $postEncounterAudio='zone_docks_amb_1'>> <<set $postEncounterAudioBG=undefined>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "Docks-Config">> <<set $huntingAreaDocks=undefined>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Docks"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'J'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=1;>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>> <<else>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/Docks1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You decide to try your luck hunting water monsters, so you make your way to one of the local docks. Once there you hop into the cold water and start swimming. You feel kind of silly doing this, because you’ve swam around here several times in your life and never encountered any monsters, but that Rusalka did almost drown you. So, there are definitely strange things in the water. You continue just swimming about, but nothing is happening. Then, behind you, you hear [[a massive commotion!|DocksArtBE2]] <</if>>

<<if $Stone>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/Forest1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You decide to get some fresh air as you contemplate your next move. As Brone says, if you try and assault Ivor’s forces right now, you will likely just wind up dead. When you step outside, into the courtyard, you see Sani Lightfoot and Katerina Mordova talking. You hear their words as you approach. <br /> <br /> @@.Sani;“I will aid you, for this fight is not yours alone. Nature summons me to Her side. Her forces are attacking the very Earth of Forest National Park.”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Kat;“Thank you for informing me. I knew Baba Yaga vould come, eventually. She has made her move, and I can finally have vengeance for my sister, Yulia!”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Sani;“I swear, upon my honor, that I will not interfere with your fight. The witch is your sworn enemy, and it falls upon you to slay her- if you so choose. However, her forces have caused turmoil in the natural world. The ground, upon which we tread, is the blood of our ancestors. I cannot allow those creatures to disrupt the balance of the forest.”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Kat;“Of course, Lightfoot. Thank you, again, for telling me.”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Sani;“Be wary, Katerina. Though I do not deny you your anger, revenge can often turn an issue into a much larger one. We do not always see the best path when vengeance clouds our hearts.”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Kat;“I understand your visdom, but it changes nothing. I vill never forget the twisted, mummified bodies of those children from that day!”@@ <br /> <br /> [[They stop as you approach.|Forest2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "ForestUpperFights-Config">> <<include "ForestLowerFights-Config">> <<include "ForestMisc-Config">> <<set $huntingAreaForest=undefined>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Forest"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'J'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=10;>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>> <<else>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/Forest4.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You have decided to head back to Forest National Park. That’s where Brone chased you and saved you from the Rusalka. You had no idea about monsters and such at the time, but now, now you feel prepared for this! You check your equipment and head [[into the woods.|BEForestArt2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_forest_amb" volume 0.4 loop play>> <</if>>

<<if $Serum and $CursedGold>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/GraveyardStory1.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You make decent time to Lone Fir Cemetery as it is such a well-known location in Portland. You arrive at the north end of the graveyard. There appears to be an old chapel of some kind rising ominously into the night. Even over the tall stone walls you can make out a dark purple glow from within the building. It reminds you of Halloween lighting. Though, you find something else even stranger- there are several black, unmarked vans parked along the wall. Based on the plans the Bishops wrote, it would suggest that is the building where their sworn enemy, a Heloise Laveau, will have set up shop. You decide the quickest way to get there would be to simply climb a van and hop over the wall, so you [[approach the motorcade.|GYStory2]] <<set $postEncounterAudio='zone_graveyard_amb_1'>> <<set $postEncounterAudioBG=undefined>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "des_amb_default" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "Graveyard-Config">> <<set $huntingAreaDocks=undefined>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Graveyard"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'I'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=6;>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>> <<elseif $CursedGold>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/GraveyardStory5.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You make your way to the Lone Fir Cemetery; sure that monster must haunt such places. As you approach the gate, you notice a rolling fog coming out of the graveyard as if it were an open freezer full of dry ice. Peering past the gate, it’s hard to see very far as the fog appears thick. You look behind you and the rest of Portland is perfectly normal, but this graveyard is unnaturally foggy. Having checked your gear, you [[enter the graveyard.|GYArtBEZombie1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_graveyard_amb" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<else>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/GraveyardStory5.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> You make your way to the Lone Fir Cemetery; sure that monster must haunt such places. As you approach the gate, you notice a rolling fog coming out of the graveyard as if it were an open freezer full of dry ice. Peering past the gate, it’s hard to see very far as the fog appears thick. You look behind you and the rest of Portland is perfectly normal, but this graveyard is unnaturally foggy. Having checked your gear, you [[enter the graveyard.|GYArtBEBaron]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_graveyard_amb" volume 0.3 loop play>> <</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Mountain1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> You decide to go monster hunting. After contemplating for a bit, you decide to head out to Mount Hood. From what you have learned since arriving at the Sanctuary, Jacques is the go to guy for these types of monsters and environment, so you head into the storehouse, but he is nowhere to be seen. Curious, you poke around the empty room a bit, and come across stacks of notes. Most are logs tracking who brought things to be stored and shared, but a couple of notes [[stand out to you.|Mountain2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<include "MountainClimbConfig">> <<include "MountainTopConfig">> <<set $huntingAreaMountain=undefined>> <<run setup.theHunt.helpers.undiscoverAll()>> <<run $currentHuntZone.location="Mountain"; $currentHuntZone.positionY = 'F'; $currentHuntZone.positionX=1;>> <<replace '#mapContainer'>><<include "HuntingMap" >><</replace>>

Double-click this passage to edit it.

<<combat_setupPlayer "Absinthe" 500 100>> <<combat_newWeapon "Absinthe" "Attack" 50 0 0 0 90 10 -1 true>> <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold = 150>>  <<set $npcWeaponChoice = "Attack" >>  <<set $encounterChance = 0.4 >> <<set $characterTracked=[]; >>

<<set $MountainClimbEncounterChance = 0.4 >> <<set $combatImageOverride = 'MountainClimb' >> <<combat_newEnemy "Giant-template" 300 100 0>> <<combat_newWeapon "Giant-template" "Attack" 30 0 0 0 60 10 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Giant-template" "MountainGiant1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Giant-template" "MountainGiant2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Sasquatch-template" 200 100 10>> <<combat_newWeapon "Sasquatch-template" "Attack" 20 0 0 0 70 15 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Sasquatch-template" "MountainSasquatch1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Sasquatch-template" "MountainSasquatch2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Mahaha-template" 120 100 10>> <<combat_newWeapon "Mahaha-template" "Attack" 0 0 10 0 80 20 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Mahaha-template" "MountainMahaha1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Mahaha-template" "MountainMahaha2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Cailleach-template" 80 100 10>> <<combat_newWeapon "Cailleach-template" "Attack" 0 0 15 0 85 20 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Cailleach-template" "MountainCailleach1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Cailleach-template" "MountainCailleach2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Yuki-onna-template" 100 100 20>> <<combat_newWeapon "Yuki-onna-template" "Attack" 0 0 20 0 95 20 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Yuki-onna-template" "MountainYuki-onna1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Yuki-onna-template" "MountainYuki-onna2-template" >> <<script>> State.variables.encounterRegions['MountainClimb'] = [ 'MountainGiant1-Start', 'MountainGiant2-Start', 'MountainSasquatch1-Start', 'MountainSasquatch2-Start', 'MountainMahaha1-Start', 'MountainMahaha2-Start', 'MountainCailleach1-Start', 'MountainCailleach2-Start', 'MountainYuki-onna1-Start', 'MountainYuki-onna2-Start', ]; <</script>>

<<set $MountainTopEncounterChance = 0.4 >> <<combat_newEnemy "Harpy-template" 60 100 40>> <<combat_newWeapon "Harpy-template" "Attack" 10 0 10 0 90 40 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Harpy-template" "MountainHarpy1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Harpy-template" "MountainHarpy2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Elemental-template" 250 100 10>> <<combat_newWeapon "Elemental-template" "Attack" 25 0 0 0 70 10 -1 true>> <<combat_copyEnemy "Elemental-template" "MountainElemental1-template" >> <<combat_copyEnemy "Elemental-template" "MountainElemental2-template" >> <<combat_newEnemy "Adrasteia-template" 400 100 25>> <<combat_newWeapon "Adrasteia-template" "Attack" 20 0 30 0 85 30 -1 true>> <<script>> State.variables.encounterRegions['MountainTop'] = [ 'MountainHarpy1-Start', 'MountainHarpy2-Start', 'MountainElemental1-Start', 'MountainElemental2-Start', ]; <</script>>

<div id='combatNotifications'>Absinthe:</div><br /> Health: $Character_Absinthe.health<br /> Willpower: $Character_Absinthe.willpower<br /> Gold: $Character_Absinthe.gold<br />

<b>The Blood Suit seems to sense when there are monsters around you, and you no longer feel a trace of them in the lower half of the mountain. You must have defeated them all</b> <<set $MountainClimb_encounters_done = true>> <<include "BarbSafe Logic">>

<b>The Blood Suit seems to sense when there are monsters around you, and you no longer feel a trace of them in the top half of the mountain. You must have defeated them all.</b> <<set $MountainTop_encounters_done = true>> <<include "BarbSafe Logic">>

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainA5.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You near the summit with every step. The storm clouds seem almost close enough to touch. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInFirstSquareFound and $XInSecondSquareFound and $XInThirdSquareFound and $BarbSafe and $BarbShows>> The barbegazi leads you up to the summit. @@.CereUnit1;“Yes, yes! Follow me. Almost there!”@@ @@.Abby;“You are sure the big man came this way?”@@ @@.CereUnit1;“Yes, yes! He friend to the barbegazi! But, the dark elf, she trapped him in ice. Please help him! This way!”@@ You follow the little gray hairy man to the edge of the chasm, but when he reaches it, he stomps his feet and says some strange words, and a bridge of ice forms! You can finally reach the way across! [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainA6.1.jpg]] [[Enter the icy cave.|DarkElf1]] <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainA6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' >> <<show_compass>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You are as close to the summit as you can get. There is a deep chasm just ahead, and across from you stands a very tall, carved cave entrance. The interior of the cave appears to be alight with blue. Somehow, you know Jacques is in there, somewhere. Now, you only need to find a way across. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]] <</if>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>>

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainB5.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You follow along the winding cliff edges as a chilling wind howls and moans. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainB6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Two cliffaces butt up against each other here. While it appears dangerous, you are certain you can easily make the short jump. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainB7.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>The cliff angles up to the left. Below you, you can make out all the trees and snow. You feel accomplished to reach this height! <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC4.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>This is the western edge of the mountain. Looking over the cliff you can see the forests below. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC5.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You have reached the western end of the lake, but there is no way to climb further up from here. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>A pristine mountain lake bars your path to the north. Heavy snow clings to the trees around you. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInFirstSquareFound>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC7.png]] <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC7.1.png]] <</if>> <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>This area contains the first green foliage you have found on the freezing mountain. The lake ends here, and patches of grass grow from the snow. You feel as if you near something magical. <<set $XInFirstSquareFound = true>> <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInFirstSquareFound and $XInSecondSquareFound and $XInThirdSquareFound and $BarbSafe>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBarb2.png]]</div> Small men scuttle into the open. Their skin has a blue tint and their feet are very long. You do not feel a sense of danger like you have against the other mountain monsters. @@.CereUnit1;“You did it! Helped the barbegazi just like big man! You have stopped all the angry spirits on our mountain. Mountain much safer again!”@@ These little friendly barbegazi are definitely talking about Jacques. You cannot believe how well you have done on your first monster hunt! @@.Abby;“It should be safe now, will you help me reach Jacques?”@@ @@.CereUnit1;“Oui! Oui! I show you! Come, take barbegazi to the summit, and I will help you!”@@ @@.Abby;“Alright, just stay close and I'll make certain you get there in one piece.”@@ <<set $BarbShows to true>> <<elseif $XInFirstSquareFound and $XInSecondSquareFound and $XInThirdSquareFound>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBarb1.png]]</div> After finding those tracks in the snow, and following them here, you discover that these ruins are not abandoned! Small men scuttle into the open. Their skin has a blue tint and their feet are very long. You do not feel a sense of danger like you have against the other mountain monsters. @@.CereUnit1;“You strong! Fight the angry spirits of the mountain, like the big man!”@@ They must mean Jacques! @@.Abby;“Yes! I am a hunter. I have come to find my friend, the big man.”@@ @@.CereUnit1;“Oui, oui! He friend to the barbegazi! But, the dark elf, she trapped him in ice. I can show you the way, but not until the summit path is safe.”@@ He must mean there are more monsters still wandering about somewhere on the mountain tonight. @@.Abby;“I understand, I will return after I deal with them.”@@ Smiling the little barbegazi says, @@.CereUnit1;“Oui, oui! Please help us; we are peaceful! Help stop the angry ones of the mountain and we can help you and the big man!”@@ <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainC8.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You have found ruins! It looks as if decades ago, builders erected an old church or building. Why so high up Mount Hood? Another question you wonder is why it feels so much warmer and safer here than anywhere else you have been? In your gut, you know that this place has something to do with Jacques' disappearance. Perhaps further searching of the mountain will explain what is going on here. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]] <</if>> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>>

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD3.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You are in a forest clearing. A cold stream trickles before you, but looks too wide to leap over. The water becomes a waterfall just to the west, falling down the edge of a cliff and down the mountain. You won't be able to go west or risk falling to your death. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD4.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Brush and rocks dot the landscape around you, and you think you might be able to hop to a rock in order to cross the stream. However, when you reach the edge, the jump looks far, and the rock appears icy, so you back away. You will need to find another way across. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD5.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>There is a way across the stream here! It appears something, maybe the monsters or maybe Jacques, have moved a dead tree to be used as a bridge. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Brush and trees line a stream's edge. It appears the stream curves ever so slightly here. There does not appear to be a way to cross. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD7.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Peering across the freezing stream, you can make out a dense forest. Stone worn smooth by water and wind dot the snowy landscape around you. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD8.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Thick, old trees grow closely together fueled by the water. It is likely you are near the source of this small stream. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainD9.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Wow! A frozen waterfall hangs before you! Some liquid water flows over its frozen surface and fills the stream you followed this way. Even though it seems odd to think it, this means there might be a warmer climate just above you, melting the snow to produce water! Curiosity tugs at you, and you want to find a way above this position and check it out. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE2.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>This is a total dead end. It appears an avalanche came down tthe mountain at one time and blocked other paths you could have used. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInSecondSquareFound>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE3.png]] <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE3.1.png]] <</if>> <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You almost miss it, but just as the clouds part, you see odd tracks in the snow. They are very long and almost ski-shaped! They appear to be going towards the northeast. <<set $XInSecondSquareFound = true>> <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE4.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>The mountainside blocks your way north, and what appears to be the remnants of an avalanche block the way west from here. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE5.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>It looks as if someone chopped down a tree in this area, but you do not see a downed tree anywhere near you. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>A small stream blocks the way north. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE7.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>A large rock formation blocks the way east. A small stream ends or begins just under it. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE9.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>A large rock formation blocks the way west. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInThirdSquareFound>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE10.png]] <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainE10.1.png]] <</if>> <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You find some tracks! They appear to belong to a very long, big set of feet. They appear to be heading up the mountain. <<set $XInThirdSquareFound = true>> <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF1.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>The ways west or south take you away from the mountain, so the only way you can go is eastward to the right. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]] <<stopallaudio>> <<set $postEncounterAudio="zone_mountain">> <<set $postEncounterAudioBG="se_mountain_wind">> <<audio "zone_mountain" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_mountain_wind" volume 0.2 loop play>>

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF2.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>From here, you can go north up the mountain. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF3.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>The snow is deep here, and it goes up to your knees with every step. There is no way up the mountain from here. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF4.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Just past a thick treeline, the way up the mountain looks dark and threatening. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<if $XInSecondSquareFound>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF5.1.jpg]] <<else>> [img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF5.png]] <</if>> <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>Looking around, you see some tracks in the snow! They appear to be going towards the northeast, up the mountain. <<set $XInSecondSquareFound = true>> <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF6.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>You reach a dead end. The mountainside appears unsafe to climb, and thick snow blocks the way west. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF7.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>><<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>From here at the base of the mountain, there are many directions to go, except south- you don't want to leave the monster hunt! <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF8.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>North of you stands a single tree growing next to the cliffside, but even if you climbed it, it does not reach the rocky edges above you. You must continue searching for a place that you can climb. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF9.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>The mountain face ahead of you appears impassable. You will need to find another way up the mountain. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainF10.png]] <<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' >> <<show_compass>> <<huntingAreaDrawMap>> <<linkreplace "[img[Pictures/SafeSearch.jpg]]">>A sheer snowy cliff blocks the way east, and another blocks the way north. <</linkreplace>>[img[Pictures/SafeItem.jpg][Inventory]]

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainGiant1-template' 'MountainGiant1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant1' 'MountainGiant1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1FS.png'>> You manage to dodge the slow, powerful swing of the giant's weapon! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant1' 'MountainGiant1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1FS.png'>> <br /> You fire a few rounds into the giant, but it appears to only anger it! <br /> Your attacks damage the frost giant! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainGiant1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1IN.png'>> <br /> How the hell did you miss something this large? <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainGiant1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1DF.png'>> Finally, the giant has taken too much damage, and it falls to its knees, moaning in pain! The ground shakes under its weight as it collaspes. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|GiantBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> As the giant's blow hits you, it flings you into the air and across the landscape. You land in the snow as it bellows laughter and stomps towards you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant1' 'MountainGiant1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant1FS.png'>> You manage to easily evade the slow, lumbering attack! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant1' 'MountainGiant1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainGiant2-template' 'MountainGiant2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant2' 'MountainGiant2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2FS.png'>> You manage to dodge the slow, powerful swing of the giant's weapon! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant2' 'MountainGiant2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2FS.png'>> <br /> You fire a few rounds into the giant, but it appears to only anger it! <br /> Your attacks damage the frost giant! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainGiant2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2IN.png'>> <br /> How the hell did you miss something this large? <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainGiant2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2DF.png'>> Finally, the giant has taken too much damage, and it falls to its knees, moaning in pain! The ground shakes under its weight as it collaspes. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainGiant2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|GiantBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> As the giant's blow hits you, it flings you into the air and across the landscape. You land in the snow as it bellows laughter and stomps towards you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant2' 'MountainGiant2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainGiant2FS.png'>> You manage to easily evade the slow, lumbering attack! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainGiant2' 'MountainGiant2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainSasquatch1-template' 'MountainSasquatch1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch1' 'MountainSasquatch1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1FS.png'>> Preparing yourself for an attack, you manage to fend off the blows of the bigfoot! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch1' 'MountainSasquatch1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1FS.png'>> <br /> At such close range, you use your knives and slash at the beast as it leaps in for an attack. Your knife slices into its flesh as it howls in pain! <br /> Your attacks damage the sasquatch! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainSasquatch1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1IN.png'>> <br /> The ape manages to leap around your melee attacks causing you to miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainSasquatch1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1DF.png'>> The huge, hairy sasquatch howls in pain and then falls, dead, to the ground. As its body disappears, you find a small amount of treasure in the snow. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|SasquatchBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The sasquatch hits you with its thickly-knuckled fists. It knocks you back with a few blows until you finally regain your defense and drive it back. <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch1' 'MountainSasquatch1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch1FS.png'>> The ape is bigger and slower than you are, and you manage to dodge its attack! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch1' 'MountainSasquatch1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainSasquatch2-template' 'MountainSasquatch2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch2' 'MountainSasquatch2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2FS.png'>> Preparing yourself for an attack, you manage to fend off the blows of the bigfoot! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch2' 'MountainSasquatch2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2FS.png'>> <br /> At such close range, you use your knives and slash at the beast as it leaps in for an attack. Your knife slices into its flesh as it howls in pain! <br /> Your attacks damage the sasquatch! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainSasquatch2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2IN.png'>> <br /> The ape manages to leap around your melee attacks causing you to miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainSasquatch2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2DF.png'>> The huge, hairy sasquatch howls in pain and then falls, dead, to the ground. As its body disappears, you find a small amount of treasure in the snow. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainSasquatch2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|SasquatchBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The sasquatch hits you with its thickly-knuckled fists. It knocks you back with a few blows until you finally regain your defense and drive it back. <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch2' 'MountainSasquatch2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainSasquatch2FS.png'>> The ape is bigger and slower than you are, and you manage to dodge its attack! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainSasquatch2' 'MountainSasquatch2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainMahaha1-template' 'MountainMahaha1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha1' 'MountainMahaha1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1FS.png'>> Preparing yourself for an attack, you dodge the magical attack of the mahaha! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha1' 'MountainMahaha1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1FS.png'>> <br /> You try to keep some distance between you and the spirit. You fire a volley of rounds at it, and the blessed bullets hit their mark, breaking away fragments of the dead, gray flesh. Yet, it continues laughing! <br /> Your attacks damage the mahaha! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainMahaha1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1IN.png'>> <br /> You fire rounds at the mahaha, but it manages to blast cold wind from its hand, flinging loose snow into your eyes! You miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainMahaha1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1DF.png'>> The mahaha's incessant laughs grows slower and raspier, until it falls into the snow and vanishes. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|MahahaBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> A cold blast hits you! The mahaha laughs harder, and before you can react, it- tickles you! Confused, you laugh a moment with it befor eyou manage to push it off you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha1' 'MountainMahaha1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha1FS.png'>> You manage to use the terrain to your advantage and dodge the cold magical blast the mahaha casts at you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha1' 'MountainMahaha1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainMahaha2-template' 'MountainMahaha2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha2' 'MountainMahaha2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2FS.png'>> Preparing yourself for an attack, you dodge the magical attack of the mahaha! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha2' 'MountainMahaha2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2FS.png'>> <br /> You try to keep some distance between you and the spirit. You fire a volley of rounds at it, and the blessed bullets hit their mark, breaking away fragments of the dead, gray flesh. Yet, it continues laughing! <br /> Your attacks damage the mahaha! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainMahaha2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2IN.png'>> <br /> You fire rounds at the mahaha, but it manages to blast cold wind from its hand, flinging loose snow into your eyes! You miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainMahaha2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2DF.png'>> The mahaha's incessant laughs grows slower and raspier, until it falls into the snow and vanishes. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainMahaha2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|MahahaBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> A cold blast hits you! The mahaha laughs harder, and before you can react, it- tickles you! Confused, you laugh a moment with it befor eyou manage to push it off you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha2' 'MountainMahaha2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainMahaha2FS.png'>> You manage to use the terrain to your advantage and dodge the cold magical blast the mahaha casts at you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainMahaha2' 'MountainMahaha2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainCailleach1-template' 'MountainCailleach1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach1' 'MountainCailleach1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1FS.png'>> You prepare yourself for an attack, and withstand the magical frost spell cast by the cailleach. <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach1' 'MountainCailleach1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1FS.png'>> <br /> The blue hag hops around and floats almost as if gravity affects her at a much lower amount. However, it does her no good as you anticipate her next move, and fire an arrow right into her chest! <br /> Your attacks damage the cailleach! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainCailleach1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1IN.png'>> <br /> The crafty cailleach proves too much and she dodges your arrow! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainCailleach1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1DF.png'>> You manage to send a final arrow into the cailleach's chest and she falls to the ground, defeated. After she vanishes into snowflakes, you find some treasure. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|CailleachBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The cailleach says some words in what you think might be Gaelic, and a powerful blast of ice chunks, the size of grapefruits, pummel you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach1' 'MountainCailleach1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach1FS.png'>> Leaping around the rocks and snow, you manage to dodge an icy spell! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach1' 'MountainCailleach1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainCailleach2-template' 'MountainCailleach2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach2' 'MountainCailleach2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2FS.png'>> You prepare yourself for an attack, and withstand the magical frost spell cast by the cailleach. <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach2' 'MountainCailleach2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2FS.png'>> <br /> The blue hag hops around and floats almost as if gravity affects her at a much lower amount. However, it does her no good as you anticipate her next move, and fire an arrow right into her chest! <br /> Your attacks damage the cailleach! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainCailleach2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2IN.png'>> <br /> The crafty cailleach proves too much and she dodges your arrow! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainCailleach2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2DF.png'>> You manage to send a final arrow into the cailleach's chest and she falls to the ground, defeated. After she vanishes into snowflakes, you find some treasure. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainCailleach2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|CailleachBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The cailleach says some words in what you think might be Gaelic, and a powerful blast of ice chunks, the size of grapefruits, pummel you! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach2' 'MountainCailleach2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainCailleach2FS.png'>> Leaping around the rocks and snow, you manage to dodge an icy spell! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainCailleach2' 'MountainCailleach2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainYuki-onna1-template' 'MountainYuki-onna1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna1' 'MountainYuki-onna1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1FS.png'>> The silent ice woman appears to be preparing for an attack- and you manage to avoid it! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna1' 'MountainYuki-onna1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1FS.png'>> <br /> You fire a few volleys of enchanted bullets at the ice spirit. They make impact, knocking pieces and debris from her body, but she continues walking forward uncaring about the damage. <br /> Your attacks damage the yuki-onna! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainYuki-onna1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1IN.png'>> <br /> The woman walks forward, silently, as you aim your guns to fire while backing away. You trip over a rock or log, and fire your guns, missing her entirely. <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainYuki-onna1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1DF.png'>> The woman continues foward even through another hail of bullets, but they finally prove too much, and she falls into the snow. As she melts away, you find treasure. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|YukiBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The woman continues forward, and manages to reach out and touch you! The moment her icy flesh touches you, a chillblain shiver rushes through you, and for a moment, your movement slows! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna1' 'MountainYuki-onna1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna1FS.png'>> The yuki-onna reaches for you, but you manage to dodge her icy grasp! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna1' 'MountainYuki-onna1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainYuki-onna2-template' 'MountainYuki-onna2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna2' 'MountainYuki-onna2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2FS.png'>> The silent ice woman appears to be preparing for an attack- and you manage to avoid it! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna2' 'MountainYuki-onna2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2FS.png'>> <br /> You fire a few volleys of enchanted bullets at the ice spirit. They make impact, knocking pieces and debris from her body, but she continues walking forward uncaring about the damage. <br /> Your attacks damage the yuki-onna! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainYuki-onna2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2IN.png'>> <br /> The woman walks forward, silently, as you aim your guns to fire while backing away. You trip over a rock or log, and fire your guns, missing her entirely. <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainYuki-onna2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2DF.png'>> The woman continues foward even through another hail of bullets, but they finally prove too much, and she falls into the snow. As she melts away, you find treasure. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainClimb' 'MountainYuki-onna2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE1.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|YukiBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The woman continues forward, and manages to reach out and touch you! The moment her icy flesh touches you, a chillblain shiver rushes through you, and for a moment, your movement slows! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna2' 'MountainYuki-onna2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainYuki-onna2FS.png'>> The yuki-onna reaches for you, but you manage to dodge her icy grasp! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainYuki-onna2' 'MountainYuki-onna2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainHarpy1-template' 'MountainHarpy1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy1' 'MountainHarpy1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1FS.png'>> Steeling yourself for the harpy's attack, you dodge her claws! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy1' 'MountainHarpy1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1FS.png'>> <br /> You aim carefully as the harpy flies overhead and fire an arrow. The missle hits its mark, and she caws in pain! <br /> Your attacks damage the harpy! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainHarpy1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1IN.png'>> <br /> You try to fire at the harpy, but between her own movements and the whipping, freezing wind of the mountains, you miss your mark! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainHarpy1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1DF.png'>> You fire another arrow into the harpy, and this time, she drops from the air and crashes onto the rocks below. You walk up and kick at her, but she turns into feathers that are carried away by the winds. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE2.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|HarpyBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The harpy swoops down on you, and her claws rake against your flesh, causing you to scream and drop to your knees in pain! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy1' 'MountainHarpy1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy1FS.png'>> The harpy issues a sharp chirp of anger as she swoops down and misses you with her talons! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy1' 'MountainHarpy1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainHarpy2-template' 'MountainHarpy2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy2' 'MountainHarpy2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2FS.png'>> Steeling yourself for the harpy's attack, you dodge her claws! <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy2' 'MountainHarpy2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2FS.png'>> <br /> You aim carefully as the harpy flies overhead and fire an arrow. The missle hits its mark, and she caws in pain! <br /> Your attacks damage the harpy! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainHarpy2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2IN.png'>> <br /> You try to fire at the harpy, but between her own movements and the whipping, freezing wind of the mountains, you miss your mark! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainHarpy2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2DF.png'>> You fire another arrow into the harpy, and this time, she drops from the air and crashes onto the rocks below. You walk up and kick at her, but she turns into feathers that are carried away by the winds. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainHarpy2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE2.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|HarpyBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The harpy swoops down on you, and her claws rake against your flesh, causing you to scream and drop to your knees in pain! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy2' 'MountainHarpy2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainHarpy2FS.png'>> The harpy issues a sharp chirp of anger as she swoops down and misses you with her talons! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainHarpy2' 'MountainHarpy2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental1'>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainElemental1-template' 'MountainElemental1' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental1' 'MountainElemental1-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1FS.png'>> The large creature is slow, and you focus on defense, so its attack misses. <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental1' 'MountainElemental1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1FS.png'>> <br /> You fire several rounds into the rock hard elemental. It makes no scream or sound. If it feels pain, it is ignoring it. <br /> Your attacks damage the elemental! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainElemental1-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1IN.png'>> <br /> You fire at the elemental, but between the weather and watching your footing, you miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainElemental1-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1DF.png'>> Another round of bullets does the job! The elemental falls to the ground. For a moment, it sits there, and then cracks apart into pieces of ice, snow, and rock. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental1'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE2.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|ElementalBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The elemental's blow lifts you off the ground and into the air. You come back down narrowly missing a cliff. <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental1' 'MountainElemental1-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental1FS.png'>> The elemental swings, but you manage to dodge the blow! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental1' 'MountainElemental1-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental2'>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2IN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'MountainElemental2-template' 'MountainElemental2' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental2' 'MountainElemental2-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2FS.png'>> The large creature is slow, and you focus on defense, so its attack misses. <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental2' 'MountainElemental2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2FS.png'>> <br /> You fire several rounds into the rock hard elemental. It makes no scream or sound. If it feels pain, it is ignoring it. <br /> Your attacks damage the elemental! However, [[it counterattacks!|MountainElemental2-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2IN.png'>> <br /> You fire at the elemental, but between the weather and watching your footing, you miss it entirely! <br /> [[It attacks!|MountainElemental2-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2DF.png'>> Another round of bullets does the job! The elemental falls to the ground. For a moment, it sits there, and then cracks apart into pieces of ice, snow, and rock. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=50 >> <<notify '+50 Gold!'>> <br /> You warily <<EndEncounter 'continue on your way.'>> <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainTop' 'MountainElemental2'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE2.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|ElementalBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2FS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> The elemental's blow lifts you off the ground and into the air. You come back down narrowly missing a cliff. <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental2' 'MountainElemental2-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElemental2FS.png'>> The elemental swings, but you manage to dodge the blow! <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainElemental2' 'MountainElemental2-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainBoss' 'MountainAdrasteia'>> <<combat_image 'MountainElfIN.png' >><<nobr>> <<combat_copyEnemy 'Adrasteia-template' 'MountainAdrasteia' >> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainAdrasteia' 'MountainAdrasteia-PlayerAttack' >> <</nobr>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainBoss' 'MountainAdrasteia'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory === true>> <<set $usedInventory = false>> <<combat_image '!!'>> After using an item, your foe <<combat_InventoryRetaliation "attacks!" $target>> <br /> <<elseif $defend === true>> <<set $defend = false>> <<combat_image 'MountainElfFS.png'>> You watch the dark elf carefully, and when she casts her spell, you leap to the side! It misses you completely! @@.Cere;"Hmm, very surprising. I am somewhat impressed."@@ <br /> You attack again:<br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainAdrasteia' 'MountainAdrasteia-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($attackingCharacter,$target, $weaponChosen)>> <<if _results.target.health > 0 >> <<if _results.hpDamageDealt >0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElfFS.png'>> <br /> You fire bullets at the dark elf, managing to hit her with several! Adrasteia flinches in pain before her eyes flash, @@.Cere;"You dare attack <i>me</i>! I will see you defeated and broken at my feet, human!"@@ <br /> Your attacks damage the dark elf! However, [[she counterattacks!|MountainAdrasteia-EnemyAttack]] <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElfIN.png'>> <br /> Adrasteia throws up a shield of blue light just as you fire a volley of bullets at her. The shield seems to absorb them, @@.Cere;"Hah! You will have to do much better than that, pathetic mortal!"@@ <br /> [[She attacks!|MountainAdrasteia-EnemyAttack]] <</if>> <<elseif _results.target.health == 0 || _results.target.willpower == 0>> <<combat_image 'MountainElfDF.png'>> Seeing an opening, you take a desperate chance and manage to finally deal her a devastating blow. She howls in pain, @@.Cere;"How is this possible! I have lived for a hundred human lifetimes, and then, <i>you</i>, a simple human female without magic, defeats me? No! I must not die! The relic cannot fall into the hands of a tainted soul like yours or the world of mortals and myths will both burn!"@@ You panic as you watch her stand back up, the look of ire and resolve on her face tells you that trouble comes, @@.Cere;"Now, I will collapse this whole cave down on your head and—"@@ The light in her eyes suddenly goes out as her body simply fails her. Adrasteia lands with a splash in the cold water. You breathe hard from the hard work it took to defeat her, and like your steamy breath, the dark elf simply turns to mist and disappears. <br />You gained 50 gold! <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold+=150 >> <<notify '+150 Gold!'>> <br /> Just then, [[a hidden door opens!|DarkElf5]] <<stopallaudio>><<audio 'victory_music' volume 0.2 play>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<hunt_zone 'Mountain' 'MountainBoss' 'MountainAdrasteia'>> <<CombatDebug>> <<if $usedInventory>><<set _tmplink = $target + "-PlayerAttack">><<goto _tmplink>><</if>> <<run _results = setup.combat.DoAttack($target, $attackingCharacter, $npcWeaponChoice, $giveUp)>> <<if _results.target.willpower == 0 || _results.target.health == 0>> <div align="center">[img[Pictures/HuntingZones/MountainBE3.jpg]]</div> <br> <br> [[You are defeated!|DarkElfBE1]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio 'defeat_music' volume 0.3 play>> <<elseif _results.willpowerDamageDealt > 0 || _results.healthDamageDealt > 0 >> <<combat_image 'MountainElfFS.png'>> <<if _results.critStrike>> @@.SGhost2;Critical hit!@@ <</if>> <br /> Adrasteia fires blue light at you, and upon contact, it freezes! @@.Cere;"Do you feel my freezing touch chilling you to your core? You won't last long, girl. Soon, you shall submit and know your place."@@ @@.Abby;"Gah! Shit! This is my first monster hunt, and I won't fail to save my fellow hunter! You hear me! I won't fail!"@@ Gritting your teeth, you fight through the pain as Adrasteia laughs mockingly at your resolve. <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainAdrasteia' 'MountainAdrasteia-PlayerAttack'>> <<else>> <<combat_image 'MountainElfFS.png'>> You watch the dark elf carefully, and when she casts her spell, you leap to the side! It misses you completely! @@.Cere;"Hmm, very surprising. I am somewhat impressed."@@ <br /> <<combat_choosePlayerWeapon 'Absinthe' 'MountainAdrasteia' 'MountainAdrasteia-PlayerAttack'>> <</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DesTitle.png]]</div> @@.SGhost2;Greetings, fans of my Anaxverse! It is I, The Anax, destroyer of innocence and corruptor of minds! I humbly thank you for reading my interactive story. I have worked very hard, using all my free time to share this with the community. I have poured myself into it, and I do hope you have found at least some pleasure in reading the story or even just scrolling through the thousands of 3D renders I devilishly wrought to taint your psyche!@@ @@.Brone;All my income comes from my Patreon, so if you are interested in funding future projects (or just want to help an artist/writer trying to earn a living), please see my Patreon found <a href="https://www.patreon.com/Anaximanes" target="_blank">HERE!</a> I have been around a long time, and people know the quality work I do, and that I finish my projects, thus, any donations will go towards me buying 3D models, hiring musicians, and more- so that I can make even better projects for your enjoyment! Thank you for your support!@@ <b>@@color: IndianRed;I humbly want to thank again, all my fans. You all have been very supportive, and I cannot say in words what that means to me!@@</b> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end_full" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<<show_inventory 'Absinthe'>>

[img[Pictures/Items/ItemCoins.png]] This is the currency Hobs accepts. Only by defeating monsters and stealing their goods can you obtain the money needed to purchase items.

<<item_config 'Focus Potion' 50>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionFocus.png]] Returns some of your lost willpower.

<<item_config 'Health Potion' 50>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionHealth.png]] Returns some of your lost Health.

<<item_config 'Doxy Drink' 0>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionPink.png]] Doxy Drink. Makes you very happy. Forever. Drink it! <<nobr>> <<if false>> [[Doxy Drink Bad End]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<item_config 'Strength Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionStrength.png]] Increases physical damage dealt for an entire hunt.

<<item_config 'Resolve Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionResolve.png]] Steels your resolve and decreases the willpower damage inflicted by enemies for an entire hunt.

<<item_config 'Speed Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionSpeed.png]] In Development! This'll do something one day soon!

<<item_config 'Reflex Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionDodge.png]] Increases your reflex and dodge chance for an entire hunt.

<<item_config 'Antidote Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotAntidote.png]] Cures any damage over time effects for both willpower and health.

<<item_config 'Agility Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionAgility.png]] Makes your attacks faster thereby lowering enemy dodge chances for an entire hunt.

<<item_config 'Armor Potion' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemPotionDefense.png]] Decreases physical damage taken for an entire hunt.

<<item_config 'Baba Brew' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemBabaBrew.png]] Turns one into a sexy, green-skinned nympho witch! <<nobr>> <<if false>> [[Baba Brew Bad End]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

<<item_config 'Fire Bomb' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemBomb.png]] Can destroy certain obstacles.

<<item_config 'Frost Bomb' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemBombFrost.png]] Freezes enemies in place causing them to lose all chance of dodging attacks.

<<item_config 'Poison Bomb' 100>> [img[Pictures/Items/ItemBombPoison.png]] Inflicts damage over time until the target dies.

[img[Pictures/Items/ItemArtBabreBayan.png]] Babr-e Bayan artifact. You can't find this for sale online!

[img[Pictures/Items/ItemXenoPox.png]] In Development

<<goto [[BimboBuzz1]] >>

$InventoryDetails <<link "Back" $return>><</link>>

Coming Soon!

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant1.jpg]]</div> You slowly regain consciousness. Your eyes feel bulged and bleary as if they are swollen slightly, and then you realize you cannot move! The shock propels you back into the waking world, and you realize you are bound and hanging upside-down! You take in your surroundings and realize you are hanging from the roof of a gigantic, yawning cavern. Blue light seems to come from everywhere and nowhere. @@.Abby;“Hey! Help! Get me down!”@@ You scream for a few moments, until small bits of ice and rock fall from the ceiling around you. At the same time a reverberating pattern of thumps echo around you. [[You feel a cold draft.|GiantBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch1.jpg]]</div> You slowly wake up. The last thing you recall was a giant hairy yeti looking thing attacking you. Suddenly, you realize you are freezing, and then, the smell hits you. It is worse than a skunk, worse than anything you have smelt in your life. The horrible, musky smell pushes you fully into consciousness, and you realize that you are naked inside a cave. You look down and see thick gray-white fur. @@.Abby;“Put me down, monkey-boy!”@@ You realize the Blood Suit is gone! How did they manage to remove it? Still, you know your Van Gothen blood gives you superhuman strength against monsters, so you [[make an attack!|SasquatchBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha1.jpg]]</div> You stumble backwards in the snow, as the mahaha comes closer. @@.CereUnit2;“Ha ha ha!”@@ All it does is continue to laugh as when you fought it. @@.Abby;“What’s so funny, creep? Fuck off!”@@ Then, it reaches down and [[picks you up!|MahahaBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach1.jpg]]</div> @@.CereUnit5;“There we go! All those pesky weapons have been tossed away! Hee hee hee hee!”@@ You become vaguely aware of a raspy voice. @@.CereUnit5;“I sense power inside you. You are something special! Soon my sisters will come and we will perform the ritual!”@@ @@.Abby;“Ugh, what?”@@ You ask, trying to sit up. @@.CereUnit5;“Ah- here they are now!”@@ @@.CereUnit6;“She has power!”@@ @@.CereUnit4;“Yes, great power!”@@ @@.CereUnit5;“I fought her! I defeated her! I am the one that summons the Mistress of Winter!”@@ You hear some angry hissing, but no one argues. Finally, you feel strong enough to [[sit up.|CailleachBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna1.jpg]]</div> The ice woman peers down at you. You do not have the strength to even stand up. @@.Abby;“Ok, bitch, you beat me, now go away!”@@ She does not regard you, and instead, gathers up snow and starts piling it on your [[prone body.|YukiBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy1.jpg]]</div> On some level, vaguely aware, you feel the cold snow beneath you and hear two screeching voices talking. They speak English, but it sounds as if they speak in the cadence of crows cawing. @@.Karen;“This is the girl?”@@ The other voice screeches in delight, @@.Kate;“Yes! CAW! Yes! I defeated her! She is not like the others.”@@ @@.Karen;“Yes, something dark inside her. CAW! Ha, ha, ha! We will use her! The new queen will be born, and she will help us take over the mountain- take over the city- CAW! Take over the world!”@@ The sounds and the numbing cold of the snow drift away. Every so often your mind awakens and you feel like you are flying before you, again, [[pass out.|HarpyBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental1.jpg]]</div> You lay in the snow a moment, breathing hard, your body refusing to stand up due to the physical punishment you endured at the hands of the elemental. But, it reaches down, grabbing your leg and easily lifting you into the air! @@.Abby;“What the—! Let me down you oversized popsicle!”@@ You try punching outward with your arms, but cannot reach it. Its blue eyes calmly watch your helpless flailing for a few moments, but then, you feel [[something odd.|ElementalBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf1.jpg]]</div> You pass out for an undetermined amount of time, but you finally awaken, shaking from the penetrating cold. @@.Cere;“Ah, good. You have awakened.”@@ Instinctively, you reach for one of your guns, but find yourself unarmed, @@.Abby;“Where are my weapons!”@@ @@.Cere;“You do not need those mortal human toys any longer. A wizard that came to Portland around a century ago, summoned me, and I have been entrusted with guarding an ancient and powerful weapon- from adventurers like you. However, I grow weary of being alone. I desire a servant, and the other creatures of this mountain do not meet my caliber of refinement. You will serve me as my—“@@ @@.Abby;“Like hell I will!”@@ [[You make to attack!|DarkElfBE2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_bad_end" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach2.jpg]]</div> No sooner do you sit up that an icy hand pulls you hair. @@.CereUnit5;“You go nowhere! Beira, our queen, needs a new form! Heroes, long ago, stopped her from shrouding the world in snow, but you will be her new body!”@@ @@.Abby;“Leave me the fuck alo—“@@ Suddenly, blue light [[fills your vision!|Cailleach3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach3.jpg]]</div> You scream in confusion! @@.CereUnit5;“Scream all you want,”@@ the blue skinned-hag replies, @@.CereUnit5;“We have already won! But first, you are tainted. We need your true blood, not this abomination!”@@ You feel a numbing cold seeping through your body and into the Blood Suit. The throbbing pain inside your head grows stronger as you feel Vlad’s presence ripped away, and soon- [[the suit disintegrates.|Cailleach4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach4.jpg]]</div> More blue women show up as the Blood Suit dematerializes into sparkles. At that moment, the cold willpower of the woman pushes further into your mind, boring into it. @@.CereUnit5;“Yes! I have her. Lend me more power, sisters; let us finally usher in a new ice age! Hee hee hee!”@@ You barely register the cacophony of cackling as you fight with all your mental strength to hold yourself together. But, as the others lend your attacker, the cailleach that defeated you, their own magical power, you can no longer resist, and like a dam breaking, your resistance collapses! The cold, cruel will of the hags flows into your mind and your [[thoughts become theirs!|Cailleach5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach5.jpg]]</div> Your hands fall to your sides and true happiness swells inside you as a chill, deeper and colder than you have ever felt flows into your being. You cannot help but cackle with the others as you feel your body wither as much as your mind. Then, you hear Her voice, her accent Scottish, <i>@@.Cere;<<psy>>I am Beira, Queen of Winter, and I will use ye as me hand and mouth.”<</psy>>@@</i> @@.Abby;“Yes! I see now, this has always been my true destiny!”@@ <i>@@.Cere;<<psy>>“Aye, lass, your fiery spirit will become as cold as ice. Now, relinquish total control to me, lassie, and let me wrap yer world in me cloak of snow and frost!”<</psy>>@@</i> @@.Abby;“Take me, Mistress, I am yours!”@@ It is as if your whole body suffers from frostbite, but instead of the cold from the outside working its way in, it works its way outward from your core, for deep inside your heart, you are colder than the air and snow [[around you!|Cailleach6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach6.jpg]]</div> You feel yourself disappearing, merging with or becoming part of something far greater than yourself. Soon, you and She are one. @@.Cere;“Ye have done well, me servants!”@@ @@.CereUnit5;“Thank you, Queen Beira.”@@ [[You rise.|Cailleach7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach7.jpg]]</div> Petting your faithful hag, you address the others, @@.Cere;“Ye shall help me claim others. We will need many more cailleacha, but we will again have our world. The spirits of summer and spring cannae stop us, not for thousands of years. Just as before, we will allow only the hardiest creatures of nature to survive. But first—“@@ [[You fall to your knees.|Cailleach8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach8.jpg]]</div> @@.Cere;“Pleasure me! I desire to feel again after being incorporeal for twelve thousand years!”@@ Your minions descend into [[sexual debauchery!|Cailleach9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach10.gif]]</div> Once you slake your lusty urges, you take your small force and descend from the mountain. As a walking lesser goddess, anywhere you tread, freezing cold wind and snow follow. Like a blizzard, your forces sweep over Portland. The males are beaten down, chased off, or in desperate cases, destroyed, and the women fight as hard as they can to stop the cold nature magic you and your cailleacha wield. Any female human your hags encounter are swiftly converted into [[your ranks!|Cailleach10]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainCailleach12.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;Soon, all of Portland worships you, and then, your cailleacha fan out, spreading across the globe, and bringing a new and powerful ice age. The frosty magic undoes all global warming, and even along the equator, snow falls. And, you, Beira, Queen of Winter, sit on a throne in the center of the arctic, lording over a white world of ice and snow.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf2.jpg]]</div> You barely make it into a squatting position before the dark elf’s magical stave touches your forehead, literally freezing you in place. @@.Cere;“Not so fast, mortal. You are no match for me at all, yet you still try to stand against me. I respect that. Perhaps, I shall simply use a spell to flip such notions around. All your passions to rise against authority, will now be made,@@ [[passions to serve!”|DarkElfBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf3.jpg]]</div> @@.Cere;“Now, you shall become my loyal handmaiden!”@@ As blue light fills the cavern, your body becomes weightless, slowly rising into the air. @@.Cere;“But first, I shall remove this taint from you.”@@ You feel the Blood Suit burn away, and then blue light fills your vision. Soon, the blue light fills your mind! Your head bends back as a slow moan escapes your lips. @@.Cere;“Yes- my desires become your own.”@@ The glow continues carving out your mind until you feel it at the back of your skull. Your entire being desires only to serve Mistress Adrasteia. The glow slowly dims, but never leaves you completely. And, soon, you feel your body float gently [[to the ground.|DarkElfBE4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf4.jpg]]</div> The first thing you notice is that the icy ground not only feels comfortable- but pleasant. Then, through the blue haze of your vision, you see that your flesh has been remade into your mistress’ very tone and you smile. Looking up, you see her face and tears roll down your cheeks. @@.Cere;“Do not cry, handmaiden, all is as it should be. You are my slave, pet, and companion. Now, rise and I shall dress you with vestments befitting a servant of the powerful Adrasteia.”@@ Before long, blessed with a new outfit, you find yourself [[waiting on your Lady.|DarkElfBE5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf5.jpg]]</div> @@.Cere;“Now, how do you feel?”@@ @@.CereUnit5;“I feel happier than I ever did in my human lifetime, my Lady.”@@ @@.Cere;“Good. Now, slave, it has been a very long time since I had the pleasurable sensations of flesh. Come, and please me.”@@ @@.CereUnit5;“Yes, my Lady!”@@ [[You kneel before Her.|DarkElfBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf6.jpg]]</div> Teasing Her clit with your tongue, you feel nothing but fulfillment by pleasuring Mistress Adrasteia. She wraps Her hand around the back of Her ice throne, @@.Cere;“Oh, very nice, servant girl.”@@ You continue your only purpose in existence- [[pleasing Her!|DarkElfBE7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf7.jpg]]</div> After giving Her pleasure for many hours, she casually regards you, @@.Cere;“This will be the rest of your existence. I will take you with me back into the deep places of the Earth, if a wizard ever does come to claim the sword. Until then, I have been magically bound here as a guardian.”@@ [[And so, you stay.|DarkElfBE8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainDarkElf8.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;You no longer exist as the strong woman you once had been. Doting on the very dark elf whom you lost in battle to, you ensure her every need and desire is met for eternity. Like your Mistress, you are no longer mortal, and as centuries pass, you forget what it ever was to be human at all.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental2.jpg]]</div> You feel an energy throb down your leg as a chill runs through you causing a shiver, @@.Abby;“What are you doing?”@@ The elemental stares at you, its cold blue eyes regarding you without emotion. Then, it [[drops you.|ElementalBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental3.jpg]]</div> As soon as you hit the ground, you make to run, but your leg has become sluggish, almost as if it were asleep. Then, your fearful eyes look down and you see that the Blood Suit appears to be changing into ice. Within your mind, you have sensations of Vlad’s alien mind screaming in fear as the suit continues crystallizing. This process continues until you find yourself stuck in an ice suit! When it finishes, you yell, @@.Abby;“Hey! Ok, you defeated the evil, now, can you let me go?”@@ Suddenly, the snow shifts [[under your feet!|ElementalBE4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental4.jpg]]</div> The snow melts and hardens in a frothing motion as it forms cubes going up your body! @@.Abby;“Wait! Please, let me go! I had good intentions!”@@ If the elemental can hear you, it does not respond, and stands as still as stone as the pieces of ice surround you. You continue pleading, until the ice closes off your [[nose and mouth!|ElementalBE5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental5.jpg]]</div> Once that happens, the ice crystals melt a little again, and then reform. In the end, you find yourself sealed into a tomb of ice. Your mind continues to work even as you give up and expect to pass out from lack of air. Then, you realize that somehow, the suit you wear manages to keep you alive, but the cold filters into your mind, and your thoughts slow. You are consciously aware of this slowing of your thoughts, as if the cold itself [[permeates your mind.|ElementalBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental6.jpg]]</div> The elemental raises its arms, and the snow and earth, itself, open up, slowly sucking the crystal-like ice coffin under the Earth. However, your thoughts become so broken and slow, that you do not even manage to panic or feel fear, until long after the ground has [[swallowed you up.|ElementalBE7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainElemental7.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;Forever more, you sit several meters under the Earth’s crust. In time your thoughts freeze altogether, slipping you into oblivion- a mindless woman and a frozen suit of vampire blood, sealed in an eternal encasing of ice.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant2.jpg]]</div> The breeze is strong enough it pushes you gently away before seemingly coming from the other direction, pulling you the opposite direction. Soon you are rocking back and forth on the rope, and then you turn your head, making the stark realization that the giant whom defeated you, is standing right behind you! The wind is actually his breathing! @@.Abby;“Woah now! C’mon big guy, let me do—“@@ you stop in mid sentence as you watch him masturbating! The giant crouches, looking at you while [[his penis inflates!|GiantBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant3.jpg]]</div> His cock grows bigger than an entire man’s body! Then, he rises to his feet and reaches for you! @@.Abby;“No, stop, please, this will kill me!”@@ @@.CereUnit3;“No,”@@ a booming voice slowly replies. @@.CereUnit3;“Not kill. Finally, more frost giants.”@@ [[It can understand you!|GiantBE4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant4.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Please! Let me go! You can’t have sex with me; it will rip me in two!”@@ The very thought about such a penetration fills you with utter dread. The giant plucks you from the rope as if you were [[fruit on a tree.|Giant5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant5.jpg]]</div> @@.CereUnit3;“No. Suit protects you. Suit wants to survive. Suit forces you to survive.”@@ @@.Abby;“This suit? No way! There is no way you can fit inside my body!”@@ @@.CereUnit3;“Odin kill many. Must make more.”@@ He ignores you and you feel yourself hovering right over his [[enormous dick!|GiantBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant6.jpg]]</div> You shriek in fear of what will happen in seconds as he lines himself up with your pussy. This will stretch you past your limits, and it will crush your bones and insides. There is no way that—he slams you down on his shaft! You see stars as the penis pushes into you, and you feel as if your hips, shatter to accommodate it. Your screams echo off the icy walls, competing with the grunts of the giant as he uses your body as nothing but a cock sleeve. However, as he claimed, the blood suit will not give you the blessing of death, and you are impaled countless times on his cock, your pussy stretched by [[inhuman amounts.|GiantBE7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant7.jpg]]</div> Without warning, the sliding comes faster and faster, breaking you from your pain induced coma, and you realize what will happen next! The giant releases you, but the cock filling your body holds you aloft as a torrent of jism, gallons upon gallons, release into your body and womb. The copious amounts now fill and stretch your womb [[to inhuman limits!|GiantBE8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainGiant8.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;Odin, a god of renown, had once thought the frost giants eliminated, but pockets of them fled. With all their females killed off, they could not reproduce for thousands of years. Every time they would steal away a mortal woman, she would die instantly at their attempt to mate. However, with the Blood Suit ensuring you survive, you became an endless giant-birthing factory. Your belly would swell with the baby giant within a month, and it would be born. Eventually, you had daughters, and even more giants could be produced, until the mountains could no longer contain them, and they drove mankind to near extinction!@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy2.jpg]]</div> @@.Karen;“CAW! Awaken! Awaken!”@@ You slowly regain your senses. First you groggily open your eyes, and everything appears blurry. @@.Kate;“She awakens!”@@ @@.Karen;“She is strong. The evil is strong! We will take away the mountain from nature!”@@ Your vision sharpens and suddenly, you recall your fight with the winged woman! @@.Abby;“No! Hey!”@@ You try to pull yourself free, but you appear tightly bound to a post. @@.Abby;“What the fuck! Untie me!”@@ @@.Karen;“CAW! CAW! Yes! Soon, we will!”@@ @@.Abby;“Who are you!”@@ @@.Karen;“I am Hagatha, I am the oldest harpy on the mountain you humans call <i>Mount Hood</i>. I keep the CAW egg.”@@ @@.Abby;“What? What egg?”@@ The gray haired harpy lifts up a very large purple egg, and as she does, all the other harpies around you kneel and bow their heads, @@.Karen;“The queen’s egg! The harpy queen laid it centuries ago, CAW, and we finally found it. Bought it from a hobgoblin! The <i>Rotten Egg</i> needs a host. Needs an evil host. Needs you! CAW! CAW!”@@ @@.Abby;“Look, bird-brain, there’s no way that giant egg will fit inside me and I would rather starve than eat it!”@@ @@.Karen;“Not eat!”@@ all the harpies screech and cackle, @@.Karen;“Place inside you. Once inside your womb, egg will burst and the essence of harpy queen will spill out. Consume you! Consume mind and soul! CAW CAW!”@@ @@.Abby;“No way! That thing will never fit up there! Get back!”@@ In panic you try to burst your rope bonds, but even with the blood suit, you cannot get the leverage required to force your way out. Just then, you feel something press against your exposed vagina. @@.Abby;“Hey! Get that away from there!”@@ You kick out and manage to strike the harpy, sending her stumbling back, but she manages to hold onto the egg. She motions for other harpies to hold your legs and wastes no more time! As the she pushes the cold egg in father, it suddenly [[vibrates!|HarpyBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy3.jpg]]</div> It feels good, but only for a moment, only long enough to cause you to relax and then she stuffs it deeper! @@.Abby;“Ow! Oh god, fuck!”@@ The gray harpy turns towards the crowd, @@.Karen;“The egg accepts this host! CAW CAW! Harpies will rule the skies again!”@@ Through your immense pain you hear the riotous cheers from the harpies surrounding you. The egg pulses and your teeth grit. Its stretching you further than you [[have ever felt.|HarpyBE4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy4.jpg]]</div> At first, the foreign object feels snug, but every two or three seconds, the purple egg pulses and moves up, just a little bit more, into you. The stretching becomes more and more painful as the narrower top of the egg passes further into you, but the large, wide bottom of the cursed ovum still rests outside your body. @@.Abby;“Gah! Stop! Stop it!”@@ You are basically doing birth in reverse! Then, a few pulses later, you reach what must be a physical limit. And, as your pussy stretches to accommodate the bottom of the egg, you fight to stay conscious; however, thankfully, blessedly, the egg pushes up into you, and your cunt [[swallows it up.|HarpyBE5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy5.jpg]]</div> Now, within you, as if it were magical, the pain from the initial penetration morphs into a perverse pleasure. You feel with each pulsing vibration, the ebbing pain of the cruel insertion dulling away and a cascading, throbbing pleasure filling your mind. As the harpies cackle and take to the sky in celebration, you feel their own happiness, somehow, welling up [[within you.|HarpyBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy6.jpg]]</div> Then, as the egg pushes past your cervix- something you thought would bring nothing but pain- instead, causes you to orgasm with ripples of pleasure. You cannot help but moan up at the harpies fluttering around you in the sky. But, once it rests safely inside your womb- something new happens. You feel an alien willpower, some disembodied mind, trying to find a way into your own! It is just like when the Blood Suit tried to possess you! Suddenly, and internal battle of three wills ensues. <i>@@.BoS;<<psy>>You will be my vessel, CAW, female!<</psy>>@@</i> <i>@@.SGhost2;<<psy>>No! She belongs to me, already, hag! Find another host to infest!<</psy>>@@</i> <i>@@.Abby;<<psy>>Um, guys, I can hear you, you know?<</psy>>@@</i> The other voices ignore your own as they seem to push against each other on some sort of mental or spiritual level. Vlad tries hard to exude his willpower over the harpy, but she proves too powerful for him. Likely, this is far from the first of her rebirths, and she must exist as a spiritual being, whereas Vlad has remained locked in a box. As you hear his final cries of anger vanish, you realize that it was likely his own ignorance about mind control that allowed you to retain your free will at all. And, just as you think that, like a foot stepping on an ant, you feel the full weight of Her power descend upon [[your mind!|HarpyBE7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy7.jpg]]</div> Suddenly, it all makes sense, and you screech to the heavens in a voice not your own, @@.BoS;“CAW! Your queen has come, my darlings!”@@ The harpies swarm above you. Her power warps your body, and your feel your hair lighten and rise as it becomes feathers. You feel your blood suit being pulled back and fashioned into wings as you easily snap your bindings. And then, when the transformation completes, you spread your new wings and sail into the sky on a [[maiden flight!|HarpyBE8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy8.jpg]]</div> Soon, you have a total understanding and warped appreciation for harpy kind. They mate with males that hike the mountain, birthing more harpies. But, the strongest, hardiest males are given to you. You mate with them until they dehydrate and die, then eat the bodies to nourish yourself. Your eggs are the strongest. And within a matter of years, an army of harpies stalks Mount Hood. Finally, in the thousands, you descend [[upon Portland!|HarpyBE9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainHarpy9.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;Absinthe failed to defeat the harpies, and worse, she managed to become their queen! With her power and insight, the entire northwest coast of the United States becomes a harpy paradise. No monster hunters, no BDA, no armies could stop them, and the skies choked with their innumerable offspring!@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha2.jpg]]</div> Even though it seems so gaunt, it lifts you up easily, and you stand, confused, before it. It simply stares at you laughing. Just when you consider turning to run, it reaches out and begins tickling you! Your arms flail as your try to get away from its grasp, but it appears an expert at tickling. The strokes begin to make you laugh uncontrollably, and you become suddenly aroused! The mahaha’s laughter [[grows louder.|MahahaBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha3.jpg]]</div> The more it tickles you, the louder you laugh, the louder your laugh the more orgasmic and free you feel, the more turned on you become, the louder the mahaha laughs. It is a vicious, but pleasurable cycle, and eventually, you stop fighting, letting it tickle you all it wants. The power of the mahaha continues to work its spell on your mind and body, and you laugh harder than you have ever known! As tears fall from your eyes, your pussy quivers, and [[you cum!|MahahaBE4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha4.jpg]]</div> As you cum, your heart instantly stops and you fall, dead in the snow, a smile frozen on your face. Then, white light glows behind your eyes as your body shrivels into a gaunt form. The blood suit bursts and withers too by the undead magic of the mahaha. Then, at first in a whisper, but soon growing stronger, a raspy laughter escapes your corpse, filling the air and [[attracting others.|MahahaBE5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha5.jpg]]</div> Rising to your feet, you feel a cold, empty, hollow joy filling your desiccated husk. You laugh at it, and mahaha’s in the woods laugh back. They slowly come towards you, laughing, and you face them, laughing hysterically at their approach. Soon, they are all over you, tickling you and you tickle them, and they begin fucking you in the snow with their ice cold cocks, and all you can do is laugh about the undead orgy [[occurring on the mountain.|MahahaBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainMahaha6.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;The Inuit tribe has long known of the laughing dead. Now, you rank among them, a mahaha, stalking the snowy lands of Oregon and Washington, looking for the living to share your manic curse with them, damning their souls along with your own.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch2.jpg]]</div> Locking your thighs around his head, you strangle the sasquatch, and he tries to pry you off, but his arms slowly become weaker due to a lack of oxygen. Finally, he falls down, and you flip and land on your bare feet. Punching him hard, he lies back on the ground, his hands raised in defeat. He has an enormous erection as well, though you are unsure if it was the brutal attack or what caused it. @@.Abby;“No! There’s no way I am going to be your captive or mate or whatever you were thinking. I’m leaving so stay down.”@@ It makes a series of strange howls, which you assume means it has given up. But, you are [[suddenly surrounded!|SasquatchBE3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch3.jpg]]</div> The howls were meant as cries for help, and now, several of the brutes have appeared from places in the cavern, some even hanging from the icicles on the ceiling. @@.Abby;“Ok, now, everyone calm down. Just stay back, boys.”@@ You cough as the musky, pungent odor multiplies with all these apes around you. Realizing you cannot fight them all off, you have no choice but to play along until you can [[find a way to escape.|Sasquatch4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch4.jpg]]</div> You let them make the next move, and it becomes clear what they have in mind. You are careful to avoid touching their genitals in hopes they will understand you do not want this, but one gropes you as another sticks its thick, dirty finger into your pussy. The finger easily slides inside you as you gasp and realize how wet you are. It’s that horrible smell! Their musk causes something primordial within your biology to respond, and so, even with your protests and not engaging, they must smell [[your response!|Sasquatch5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch5.jpg]]</div> Even though, consciously, you do not want this, you cannot help but moan in pleasure as one of them lifts you and the other pushes into your pussy. Soon, you are impaled in your anus by the other. The burning pain from the intrusion causes you to scream into the fur of your first attacker. But, after some time passes the fullness and pain simply melt into and with the pleasure of sex. [[The musk is so strong.|Sasquatch6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch6.jpg]]</div> Over days or weeks, you are assaulted repeatedly, and like Stockholm syndrome, you begin to [[want it.|Sasquatch7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch7.jpg]]</div> When your captors leave you alone, you sit and wonder why, wanting to be man-handled like a toy. The musky smell grows on you and even when they are not rutting you like an animal, you play with your pussy thinking about them. Eventually, your belly swells [[with a baby.|Sasquatch8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch8.jpg]]</div> Your pregnancy does nothing but cause you to fall more in love with your mates. Even while you wait to give birth, the males do not forget you, and you find yourself in a [[musky, primitive, heaven.|SasquatchBE9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainSasquatch9.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;Your babies are hybrids, a mix between ape species. They are mostly giant and strong like their fathers, but more intelligent. However, your Van Gothen blood gives them far more power over the others. Soon, the forests and woods in the Northwest United States, teem with hyper-intelligent apes all looking for mates!@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna2.jpg]]</div> You continue pleading with her, but she does not stop. Silently, she takes more snow and dumps it over you. The cold begins to take over, and you worry about hypothermia. You curl up into a ball, and can hear more snow being piled on you. Between the cold and a lack of oxygen, you fall into a sleep [[and die.|Yuki3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna3.gif]]</div> Your soul cannot seem to leave your body, and over the course of a week, inside of a snow cocoon, your corpse endures a metamorphosis. When, the time comes, late at night, you arise from your grave [[as a new yuki-onna.|YukiBE6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna6.jpg]]</div> You look upon your new body. You have no throat or voice, and silently regard yourself. You find within yourself nothing but cold numbness and do not even care that you have died. However, you do have one reverberating desire that pulses through you- you must share your fate with [[other women.|YukiBE7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna7.jpg]]</div> During the day you rest under the snow, and at night, you stalk Mount Hood for the living. Finally [[finding one.|YukiBE8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna8.jpg]]</div> Weeks after your death, you finally happen upon one. @@.Justine;“Oh my! Is that a costume?”@@ You silently walk towards the woman. @@.Justine;“Hello? Hey! This isn’t funny- what are you do—“@@ [[You grab her!|YukiBE9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna9.jpg]]</div> The woman’s screams echo through the woods, but reach only your own, frozen ears. You tear her pants away and sexually assault her. Finally, inside your soul’s core, you feel something. As she screams you penetrate her with [[your icy fingers.|YukiBE10]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna10.jpg]]</div> As the minutes pass, the cold of your attack, and the chill of the air and snow, beat down her resolve, and the woman shivers in silence. You slide up next to her, to help her die faster, and when she takes her last breath, you cover both of you [[in snow.|YukiBE11]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna11.jpg]]</div> You wrap yourself around the corpse of your victim, and lay with her for a week or so as her transformation from warm, mortal into cold, yuki-onna [[finally finishes.|YukiBE12]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna12.jpg]]</div> Late one night, you and your victim rise from the snow. The two of you now work together to hunt and freeze other [[hapless living victims!|YukiBE13]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEMountainYukionna13.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.SGhost2;With your hunting abilities and time, you manage to amass an army of frozen women. Though park rangers and the authorities claim the disappearing hikers are simply becoming lost or injured on the mountain, you know the real reason. You must share the empty cold of the frozen darkness with any woman you can.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $MountainBadEnds>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Mount Hood Bad Ends]] <<else>> [[Perhaps you fought harder...|Head out monster hunting]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end" volume 0.3 play>>

<<switch $sancGym>> <<case 1>> /* Gymnasium 1st time */ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gym, and what a sight! The beautiful Irish redhead is on a mat and doing yoga. You cannot help but stare at her beautiful body. She holds the poses for a long while and you marvel at her flexibility. However, when she stops the stretch, she sees you there, and smiles coyly, @@.Kendra;“What’s the criac?”@@ You chuckle in confusion, @@.Abby;“What?”@@ She laughs, @@.Kendra;“Ye look at me like I’m daft!”@@ She walks over and drinks water from a bottle before [[beckoning to you.|SancGym1.1]] <<set $sancGym = 2>> <<case 2>> /************************ SECOND VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium2.jpg]]</div> @@.Kendra;“Oh come to watch me stretch again?”@@ asks Kendra in her sing-song Irish voice. @@.Abby;“Yeah, just wanted to say hi.”@@ @@.Kendra;“When I went to the storehouse for me breakfast- and no, I don’t eat those lucky marshmellow kinds,”@@ she laughs, @@.Kendra;“Jacques was really animated, more than I have seen him before.”@@ @@.Abby;“Really?”@@ [[She nods.|Gym2.1]] <<set $sancGym = 3>> <<case 3>> /************************ THIRD VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gym to find Kendra punching the bag. You watch her for a few minutes before you break her concentration, @@.Abby;“Hey, Kendra, I don’t mean to be rude, but the way you are punching, it’s off a bit.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh! Hey, lass, no worries. I’m a biologist and not as much a fighter. Fighting water monsters with a harpoon I have gotten quite good at, but after how easily you defeated me a few nights ago, I want to be better with me hand to hand combat, even if it’s to fend off a daft man that can’t take no for an answer!”@@ Chuckling, you say, @@.Abby;“Well, here, stand with your feet like this.”@@ You help guide her on using her feet and legs to throw punches as much as her arms. After a bit, she seems to be doing much better. @@.Abby;“Yeah, I think you got this.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Well, thank ye for obliging me! I’ll practice a wee bit longer, if ye do not mind?”@@ @@.Abby;“No, no, it’s cool, I need to head out on a hunt.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Hmm,”@@ she says, throwing a few hard hitting punches, @@.Kendra;“I’m on to something, meself, but I do nae want to head out just yet. I tend to research before I finally decide it’s time to hunt. I’d take ye along, but as much as you know about this kind o’ combat, you probably do not know the first thing about the monsters of the briny deeps.”@@ Shaking your head, you agree, @@.Abby;“Not a damn thing. Besides, being drowned and eaten by mermaids does not sit well with me.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh how I understand that!”@@ She lays a series of blows to the punching bag, @@.Kendra;“Right then, I hope ye find a land lovin’ monster to hunt down.”@@ @@.Abby;“Me too, see you later.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, be seeing you, and thanks for the pointers!”@@ [[You leave the gym.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancGym = 4>> <<case 4>> /************************ FOURTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium6.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gymnasium to find Kendra doing pushups. As usual, your eyes cannot help but look over her toned body. She glances up and stands. @@.Kendra;“Heyo, lass!”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey, you sure to work out a lot.”@@ @@.Kendra;“It’s because I’m going on a hunt tomorrow night.”@@ @@.Abby;“No way, can I come!”@@ @@.Kendra;“Maybe. I know you’ve helped several of the Night Stalkers, word’s getting around, but,”@@ she shifts uncomfortably, @@.Kendra;“I’d love to say yes, and take ye along, but—“@@ her words trail off. You nod knowingly, @@.Abby;“You’re still upset about your crew from before.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, it’s why I only like to work alone. Watery monsters are another breed compared to those on land. They can come at you from all directions, they can use strange siren calls to trance ye, or some are so large that yer but the size of a minnow to’em and you’d never even see it til yer in its belly.”@@ @@.Abby;“C’mon, Kendra! Don’t do this to me, I can handle it. There must be a reason you’ve been working so hard, surely you could use a hand.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh, aye, this is going to be something big. You ever heard of the Flying Dutchman?”@@ @@.Abby;“The ghost ship?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, I think so. It’s sort of familiar. What about it?”@@ [[Her eyes become very serious...|Gym4.1]] <<set $sancGym = 5>> <<case 5>> /************************ FIFTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium7.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gymnasium and Kendra appears to have just finished working out. @@.Kendra;“Heyo lass, this is it, you ready?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, something happened tonight, and, I really need this hunt.”@@ She looks uncomfortable, but she does not pry, @@.Kendra;“Well, I’m goin’ ta fetch me equipment, and then we’re heading down to the docks. From there, we’ll take a wee boat to Sauvie Island.”@@ @@.Abby;“I had no idea that you had your own boat.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Hah! Well, I don’t! We’re going to feck one!”@@ Laughing you ask, @@.Abby;“What?”@@ @@.Kendra;“We’re just gonna steal a boat!”@@ She winks and makes the sign of the cross, @@.Kendra;“I’ll put it back, if we live!”@@ @@.Abby;“Ha ha, shit, this is crazy.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Ok, I’ll meet you back here soon.”@@ @@.Abby;“You got it.”@@ She leaves and you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancGym = 6>> <<case 6>> /************************ SIXTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium8.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gymnasium to find Kendra sitting on a bench, rubbing her ankle. @@.Abby;“You ok?”@@ She looks up and smiles, @@.Kendra;“If it isn’t the scourge o’ the seas! Aye, I’m fair enough, lass. Tis the ocean’s love. Even with all the training that I do, when ye get out in the brine and have to fight monsters, it’s still hard on a human body.”@@ @@.Abby;“I was so wrapped up with everything that I forgot to ask you about that. How did the hunt go for you?”@@ @@.Kendra;“There were a few mermaids, a siren, nothing too bad. To be honest, I am still at a loss for what you managed tae do.”@@ Nodding, you answer, @@.Abby;“Honestly, there are so many things happening in my life, and, I think the more I have helped out around here, the stronger it’s made me.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Sure as shite!”@@ @@.Abby;“I just wanted to check in and see how things are going.”@@ @@.Kendra;“I’ll be fine, but I’ll need a day or two to recuperate- unlike you!”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s the Blood Suit, I think. Well, I’ll leave you to it! I hope that you feel better soon!”@@ As you turn to leave, Kendra calls out to you, @@.Kendra;“Abby?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yes?”@@ @@.Kendra;“The hardest thing that I faced in those waters last night- it weren’t any o’ them merfolk. It was thinkin’ that I had lost me friend again. All I could think was of ye drownin’ or becoming one of the very beasts we fought. You helped me overcome specters haunting me very soul. Thank you fer that.”@@ You are honestly touched, @@.Abby;“I just did what I had to do, but you should not ever blame yourself for what happened to your old crew. Mermaids? Who, honestly, especially a science team, would believe in such things? It’s not your fault, and I’d say we made them pay.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Ha ha! To be sure!”@@ You both smile at each other before you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancGym = 7>> <<case 7>> /************************ SEVENTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium3.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gymnasium to find Kendra punching at a bag, @@.Abby;“You’re looking better.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye!”@@ she gets in a few more blows before [[walking over to you.|Gym7.1]] <<set $sancGym = 8>> <<case 8>> /************************ EIGHTH VISIT ************************/ <div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium1.1.jpg]]</div> You walk into the gymnasium and Kendra greets you. @@.Kendra;“I’m definitely ready to take on those vampires with ye.”@@ She’s looking much happier, @@.Abby;“Great to hear! I know the time will be soon. I’m heading to the museum tonight to grab an artifact.”@@ She smiles, @@.Kendra;“Ooh, a sexy cat burglar!”@@ You laugh, @@.Abby;“Meow!”@@ @@.Kendra;“Ha ha, well, good luck with yer heist. Should be really easy for ye to get in and out.”@@ Nodding, you answer, @@.Abby;“Thanks, Kendra, see you soon.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye! Be well!”@@ You smile at each other before you [[return to the hallway.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $sancGym = 9>> <</switch>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancGymnasium1.1.jpg]]</div> @@.Kendra;“Well now, yer the sleeven girl that everyone thinks is actin’ the maggot?”@@ You laugh again, @@.Abby;“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t laugh, but you’re harder to understand than Hobs.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Hobs?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, he’s a hobgoblin that sold me my gear.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh ho! Look at ye, fraternizing with the enemy,”@@ she says with a chuckle. @@.Kendra;“How you can stand those little wankers is beyond me. I’ll try to stick to more American sayings, for you.”@@ @@.Abby;“I didn’t mean to—“@@ @@.Kendra;“It’s fine darlin’, I was just asking how things are with ye?”@@ @@.Abby;“I am learning my way around the sanctuary.”@@ @@.Kendra;“We’re lucky to have this building.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, you’re Irish, so that must be where the luck came from!”@@ Shit. Hot chick and you say dumb shit. @@.Kendra;“Ha ha, well, if one’s Irish, they’re lucky enough.”@@ She is actually a very nice woman. @@.Abby;“I am so sorry, what was your name again?”@@ @@.Kendra;“It’s quite alright, I’m Kendra Tallulah, and what is the name of the girl that rowed us all?”@@ @@.Abby;“Absinthe Van Gothen,”@@ you shake her hand. @@.Kendra;“Ooh, so formal, Miss Van Gothen! Ha ha, it’s a real pleasure to meet you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, you too. What do you hunt?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh, ye know, a bit of this and that, but most of my time is spent in the water.”@@ Oh yes, you recall her trying to harpoon you. @@.Kendra;“I was a marine biologist, and barely had me feet wet when out by the Isle of Skye, my crew and I, well, we thought we saw a bloomin’ mermaid!”@@ @@.Abby;“Mermaids are real?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, real as your big tits!”@@ This woman is hilarious! @@.Kendra;“I hopped into a submersible I had on board, and they lowered me into the briny deep. I knew it could not have been a mermaid, but scientific curiosity spurned me on. Once I was a good kilometer or so down, I be damned, but I saw a mermaid staring right into me eyes!”@@ @@.Abby;“No shit! That’s insane!”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh, that’s nothin’, t’was what happened next what caused me to do this for revenge.”@@ @@.Abby;“Revenge?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, the mermaid sang a song, but she was under water, and I guess it worked like a whale’s call, but her siren singing drove me madly in lust. All I wanted was to get out and kiss her right! But, the sub had fail-safes and no matter what I tried, I could nae get the thing open! So, there I sat, banging on the glass, listening to the most beautiful music I ever heard, and then, I saw me crew!”@@ @@.Abby;“What!?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Every last soul on the ship above had swam further down than they could ever swim going back up! They were already near to drowning when they reached her. She stopped singing, and for a few moments, me head still swam. When I looked back up, like sharks, mermaids were out there eating my crew!”@@ @@.Abby;“What the fuck! Mermaids eat people?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, the men- men are nothing but food. Women, they can turn into more mermaids. Regardless, as my men drowned and were eaten alive, I could do nothing but return to the surface. I left those people behind, and they haunt me every night and dream.”@@ @@.Abby;“That’s heavy, Kendra, I’m sorry.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Now, I go anywhere I can tracking down the monsters of the deep.”@@ @@.Abby;“There’s more?”@@ @@.Kendra;“Oh, to be sure! There are many of them, and then, there’s ghosts too, you know.”@@ @@.Abby;“What!”@@ @@.Kendra;“Aye, ghosts are real, and they don’t only haunt houses and graveyards. Drowned sailors, zombified Vikings, there are many dark things that swim. And then, there is the grandfather of all the monsters of the sea- the kraken.”@@ @@.Abby;“What is a kraken?”@@ @@.Kendra;“A type of squid, but different. They are monsters that eat whales like sardines. I think they hunt only the lowest place in the ocean, but all through history there have been reports of giant tentacles reaching up from the sea, only to wrap around man and vessel, and drag them down below.”@@ This conversation went from light to dark. @@.Kendra;“I see that grave look on yer face! Don’t let it get to you! You won’t be fighting any monsters like those for years. That’s why I work out and stretch so much. Most of my fighting is done beneath the waves. Got to stay limber so I can move quick in the water, just like the vile fish creatures do.”@@ @@.Abby;“That makes total sense.”@@ @@.Kendra;“Ok, I’m knackered! G’night!”@@ She walks past you, leaving you in the gymnasium. You think about working out on the equipment, but honestly, you want to just get out there and [[fight something!|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkGymnasium1 to true>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancLaboratory1.1.jpg]]</div> @@.Siri;“Greetings Absinthe, I am Siri Solen, Dr. Solen, I should say. I am a hematologist. It is very nice to meet you.”@@ @@.Abby;“Um, thanks!”@@ You did not expect such a warm greeting. @@.Abby;“So, this is your lab?”@@ @@.Siri;“Yes, well, I am much more used to cutting edge technologies, but this has been my lab for a while now. Ever since I sort of flooded the area with mutant creatures and such.”@@ @@.Abby;“I heard something about that.”@@ @@.Siri;“I was only trying to help the poor things, but now they have gone and eaten people and so forth, so I am trying to help these monster hunters.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, you don’t consider yourself one?”@@ @@.Siri;“I am not sure if you mean a monster hunter or just one of the group, but no to the former and yes to the latter.”@@ Ok, so she is an egghead. @@.Abby;“So, you think of yourself as one of these guys, just not a monster hunter?”@@ @@.Siri;“Precisely. As you probably noticed yesterday, I am not very good at violence. Oh, that reminds me, sorry about shooting at you.”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s ok, you missed me by a mile.”@@ @@.Siri;“You might be right; maybe I should apologize to those I did almost kill.”@@ She seems lost in thought and simply stands there. @@.Abby;“Siri?”@@ @@.Siri;“Oh, yes?”@@ @@.Abby;“So, what do you do exactly?”@@ @@.Siri;“I try and find biological answers to their monster hunting problems. For example, I am currently on a project regarding the contagious bite of zombies.”@@ You shake your head in disbelief. How many monsters are in the world? @@.Abby;“So, if a zombie bites you, you become one, like in the movies?”@@ @@.Siri;“Yes, however, there are so many more ways to become infected!”@@ She smiles as she goes into detail, @@.Siri;“It only requires an exchange of fluids! Saliva, blood, or even—“@@ she looks around and, while giggling, whispers, @@.Siri;“—cum!”@@ @@.Abby;“Zombies will have sex with you?”@@ @@.Siri;“Boy, will they ever! Based on my collected data, I hypothesize that zombies are fundamentally animalistic. There appears little to no use of the neocortex. Everything is done in the lower portions of the brain. They walk, eat, excrete, and reproduce. Oddly, they almost fit all the criteria to be a living thing.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, it’s like a virus?”@@ @@.Siri;“Well, you won’t believe this—“@@ @@.Abby;“Try me.”@@ @@.Siri;“I think there might be magic involved.”@@ @@.Abby;“Magic? You are a scientist talking to me about magic?”@@ @@.Siri;“Keep your voice down! I would hate any of my previous colleagues in other studies to ever hear of such a thing. However, yes, I have studied samples brought to me by the Bishops- they hunt a lot of zombies, and something around Portland has their numbers swelling. I have found that the <i>normal</i>, and I use the word loosely, version of the zombie virus has been infused with something exceeding my knowledge. Roy McCoy says I should look past the science and I’d figure it out, but science is observable data. How can I see past something when I am looking right at it? Ridiculous.”@@ @@.Abby;“Well, I think this is all over my head.”@@ @@.Siri;“Oh! I understand, of course, but if you want to chat again, you know where to find me.” @@ She simply walks over and immediately resumes typing on her laptop. She does seem a bit like a mad scientist. You head [[out of the room.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkLaboratory1 to true>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancStables1.1.jpg]]</div> While Roy is kind, he doesn’t smile much, but Molly wears a big grin. She is still young and has her life ahead of her, but Roy seems almost sad, or as if he went through some very hard times, @@.Abby;“So, you are cleaning up?”@@ @@.Molly;“Yes, ma’am. This is all daddy let’s me do.”@@ @@.Roy;“Molly, honey, it’s a big help. You keep things tidy here for Bess, and I am grateful. I’m gettin’ on in years and after one of those hunts, my old bones ache somethin’ fierce.”@@ @@.Molly;“I’m sorry, pa, I just want to help you out there.”@@ He puts his arm on her and gives her a hug, @@.Roy;“Molly, I don’t want to lose you. I’ll teach you to hunt, someday. I just think you need a bit more time. Right now, there are some real nasty things out there, and they are in packs. In the old days, it was a random monster, maybe two. Please, be patient. I love you, is all.”@@ You feel happy and sad seeing this. Part of you feels happy that this girl is loved so well and so much, but another part of you feels bad because you never had love like that in your life. @@.Molly;“I love you too, pa. I’m sorry for causing a scene.”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s ok! Don’t sweat it.”@@ @@.Roy;“Yep- you should always say what you feel, Molly. Don’t be worried what others would think. Just be truthful.”@@ @@.Molly;“Yes, sir.”@@ The cowboy turns towards you, @@.Roy;“So, you settling in, ok?”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, in fact, I am just going around and getting to know everyone and a sense of the place.”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, if any of them are rude, try not to take it personal. Like I said, we are all here for our own reasons and most of’em are darker than the inside of a cow. So, give them time. They’ll warm up to you when you go out there and beat a few bumps in the night.”@@ @@.Abby;“You’re probably right. But, where do I start?”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, now, there’s a question only you can answer. My advice is to listen carefully when you talk to the other hunters. Odds are, if they are stewing on something, that means they are thinking about their past, and if they are thinking about that- it means a hunt’s-a-comin’.”@@ @@.Abby;“So, you think I should help them? Go with them?”@@ @@.Roy;“Well, odds are they won’t let you, but you could always try. Of course, if you happen to show up someplace on your own, and run into them, now that might work out in your favor- hell, after what you did, it’ll probably work out in <i>their</i> favor!”@@ Laughing you say, @@.Abby;“You’re a sly one, aren’t you?”@@ @@.Roy;“Let’s just say this ain’t my first rodeo! Being a monster hunter is easy- surviving as one is the hard part. But, if you learn to keep your eyes and ears open, especially among your potential teammates, you’ll succeed whether it’s stomping a mythical monster or trying to get a promotion at a desk job. Because- that’s what leaders do. My old lady was like that. Hell of a woman.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, Roy! I guess I’ll keep poking around here and do my best to really listen.”@@ @@.Roy;“Yep, that sounds like a great plan. Alright, Molly, let’s get back to work.”@@ @@.Molly;“Yes, sir. Bye, miss!”@@ You say goodbye to the McCoy’s and [[head back.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkStables1 to true>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancWorkshop1.1.jpg]]</div> @@.Selena;“I’m just talking to myself. So, did you come to kiss and make up?”@@ You shake your head and laugh, this girl reminds you a lot of Scarlette, @@.Abby;“Something like that.”@@ @@.Selena;“Hey, it’s no big deal. You kicked our asses and looked hot doing it. I can appreciate that.”@@ She’s coming on strong. @@.Selena;“Anyway, I could not believe my eyes.”@@ @@.Abby;“Thanks, I guess. I have been in a few fights, but nothing like that. It’s like I am just made for it.”@@ @@.Selena;“Sí! You can say that again! You moved like nothing I have ever seen, monster or man. Damn cool!”@@ You like this chick. @@.Abby;“So, you want to take me on a monster hunt?”@@ @@.Selena;“Ooh- tempting. I can think of something else I’d like to do with you, it’s like a hunt and requires a part of the body that rhymes with it.”@@ @@.Abby;“Damn, you’re forward, and I like it.”@@ She laughs, @@.Selena;“What can I say, in this line of work, every day can be your last. So, I see a girl I like and I go for it, but I can’t head out this second. I need to fix up my bike a bit more. Some of those little green-skins are lurking around Portland, so, I will head out soon to hunt them down.”@@ @@.Abby;“Goblins? And, uh- kobolds?”@@ @@.Selena;“Wow! You know your creepy little green men! Sí, those little bastards! How do you know about them?”@@ @@.Abby;“There’s a cavern on the far edge of Portland, and I saw some there. When you go into the cavern, you have to go left- always go left if you want to fight goblins.”@@ @@.Selena;“Holy shit! That’s a huge help. I have been able to find some of them stealing from dumpsters and stuff on that side of the city, but no matter how much I torture them before they die, they seem more scared of whatever is leading them than to talk to me.”@@ Jesus, this woman tortures them? @@.Abby;“Well, if you head out that way, let me know, and I’ll show you where it is.”@@ @@.Selena;“Sounds good, babe! Ok, I better get back to work.”@@ @@.Abby;“Sure, see ya.”@@ You turn to leave and she slaps your ass causing you to jump and give a little yelp. @@.Selena;“Ha ha, what an ass, mamacita.”@@ Then, laughing, she goes back to work. You blush as you leave the room, the pleasant sting still emanating [[from behind.|Somewhere in Sanctuary]] <<set $TalkWorkshop1 to true>>

<<if $MountainClimb_encounters_done && $MountainTop_encounters_done >> <<set $BarbSafe = true>> <</if>>

[img[Pictures/ChooseHunt/ChooseCheck.png]] <<set _imgUrl = 'Pictures/ChooseHunt/Choice'+$huntChoice+'.jpg'>> [img[_imgUrl][$huntChoice]] <<switch $huntChoice>> <<case 'Mountain'>> <b>@@color: #99c3ed;Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Caverns'>> <b>@@color: #769408;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Forest'>> <b>@@color: #8eb0d6;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Sewers'>> <b>@@color: #8aa27a;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Docks'>> <b>@@color: #15afe1;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Asylum'>> <b>@@color: #d22508;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Graveyard'>> <b>@@color: #b8adc5;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <<case 'Museum'>> <b>@@color: #dcbc95;*Reminder – Never save your game on a hunt! Save your game before heading out! If the game slows down or lags, save before/after the hunt, close the game, and reopen it. Loading should stop the lag.@@</b> <</switch>> <<back "I changed my mind!">> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "se_zone" volume 0.4 play>> <<combat_cleanup>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Mountain2.jpg]]</div> The first note reads: @@.BoS;Roy McCoy - antibiotics (2), gas mask Ayana - shampoo (1), conditioner (2) Lightfoot + gave med kit (3) , + canned food (7), + shirts (2) Do not trust new girl. No woman should be strong enough to hurt me. Katerina says I cannot stop magic. Have to save Barbegazi. Siri took several chemicals, did not tell me which ones. I hate that woman. She's up to something. She also "found" a strange gas tank. Labeled "Giggle Gas". I do not trust it. She says it may help with her work and she wants to keep it here. I have a bad feeling about it. Why does she not keep it in her laboratory? And, I have seen the picture or logo before. It is the symbol of The Giggler. Siri must have some link. As if monsters are not enough, now we may all have to fight super villains too? I do—@@ [[The note ends there.|Mountain3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Mountain3.jpg]]</div> You find another, smaller note. Upon this one, he drew a little sketch of Mount Hood. It reads: @@.BoS;Barbegazi are now hiding. Too many monsters. Maybe if I track them, then, they will help me reach that strange carved door on the summit. Dark elves are magical. Ask others for advice. Especially the quiet Russian. Why now? Giants on the mountain. I will avoid them. Then, off to the right next to the mountain sketch of Mount Hood, it says: Bring climbing gear. Door hard to reach. Tough climb. Ruins. Maybe answers there.@@ So, he decided to go to the mountain even though he could not defend against magic. With your artifact that Brone bought you, the Babr-e Bayan, maybe you will be safer. It supposedly protects against the elements, which means the cold, snow, and wind should not pose you much problem. So, looks like you will go on a monster hunt and maybe, if you can find him, you can earn some trust with Jacques as well. On the other hand, you notice the green gas tank the note said Siri brought to the Sanctuary. You could always take a quick look before you go. [[You need to make a choice.|Mountain4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/Mountain4.jpg]]</div> [[Head to Mount Hood to seek Jacques.|MountainF1]] Or [[Check out the canister from the note first.|Giggle1]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle1.jpg]]</div> You see the green gas container with a laughing clown logo. You have a vague recollection of occasionally seeing it on the news from time to time. It’s definitely the Giggler’s logo. He is a super villain in New York City that you know uses gas to control people. Of course, you fought off the power of Vlad when he tried consuming your mind. Surely, you could handle this, but your curiosity regarding why or how Siri brought it to the Sanctuary eats at you. [[Best to leave it alone.|MountainF1]] Or [[A quick look won’t hurt.|BEGiggle2]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle2.jpg]]</div> You pull the tank to the middle of the room to get a better look at it. The outside paint flakes off easily, and it appears worn. This must be at least a few years old. Around it, sprayed in black paint, are the words, <i>“Giggle Gas”</i>. There must be a clue here. If Jacques does not trust Siri, and she’s been here for a while, maybe you can find out more about her. On the other hand, he might just have [[trust issues.|BEGiggle3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle3.jpg]]</div> A protective cap rests securely on top of the canister. Under it might lie anything from a note to evidence. You have seen this type of cap before at a crappy job you once worked. You had to occasionally inflate balloons using a helium tank. The cap just shields the nozzle. It is easy enough to open. Grasping it, you turn to [[remove the cap.|BEGiggle4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle4.jpg]]</div> The cap comes up, but the can was booby-trapped! The moment you pull the cap off, a pin clinks free, and a plume of green smoke hits you in the face! You turn to run but before you can take a single step, you begin laughing. The laughter quickly grows stronger than anything you have ever felt, and it makes your abdomen muscles hurt. This causes you to double over in pain, while still chuckling, and puts you right back into the ever growing cloud of [[giggle gas!|BEGiggle5]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "giggle_circus" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_giggle_gas" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle5.jpg]]</div> The gas smells familiar. It smells just like the funnel cakes stand at the last fair you visited. Sweet, powerful, and makes your mouth water. You feel funny. You feel lightheaded and euphoric. Your stomach muscles hurt so badly from the hard laughing, but the pain is hilarious. You feel higher than you can ever recall, and though you also feel dizzy, your brain also feels alive! It’s hard to think straight, but when you try to think haphazardly, your mind reacts best. As long as you just ride this high, you know everything [[will be better.|BEGiggle6]] <<audio "se_giggle_gas" stop>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle6.jpg]]</div> The laughing dies down, but you still occasionally have a giggle fit like an unconscious twitch. You feel great! Better than you have ever known! You try to think of something funny to do, and then it hits you! It’s as clear as a red nose on a clown’s face! Grinning deviously, you [[make your plan.|BEGiggle7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle7.jpg]]</div> You just need to put smiles on everyone’s faces. But, who do you know that needs the most laughter in their life. You think for a moment- Katerina! The Russian lady had a bad case of the frowns- probably the worse you ever saw. So, you just need to go see her. As you make to leave the room, your tummy gurgles and you suddenly fart! Of course, that cracks you up, so you start laughing, and that’s when you notice the green smoke and the smell of carnival funnel cakes! Your toots have really lightened up, too, just like you have! Laughing, you [[leave the room.|BEGiggle8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle8.jpg]]</div> The woman sits in a chair, reading as you peek into the doorway. You can only stand still a moment, when a loud fart escapes your cheeks! This causes her to look across the room at the doorway, @@.Kat;“Oh god. What happened! What kind of monster did this?”@@ She tosses the book aside and pulls out her daggers. Then, giggling, you enter the room. She tracks your movements with her eyes, stepping around a table to keep you at a distance. @@.Kat;“Stay back, I knew you were bad news. I will kill you with my—“@@ You squint an eye and push your ass sideways as a long fart escapes. @@.Kat;“What the fuck is wrong with you!”@@ @@.Abby;“Ha ha ha! I have a bad case of the butt burps!”@@ @@.Kat;“Butt burps? You—oh no! You have become a giggle girl!”@@ Her eyes dart around a moment as she thinks to herself, @@.Kat;“That tank in the storehouse! Fuck!”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh, yeah, that makes sense! HA HA HA HA!”@@ You make a sudden move as if you will attack, sending her leaping backwards. @@.Abby;“Hee hee, made you flinch. Am I going to <i>get you!?</i>”@@ Mocking her, you again, pretend to leap forward, sending her tumbling backwards. @@.Abby;“Ha ha ha! Aww, listen, I got this figured out. You’re an angry pants and I can help you feel better, so just come to me.”@@ @@.Kat;“Oh my god, I have no choice, I must kill you!”@@ [[Katerina leaps at you!|BEGiggle9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle9.jpg]]</div> You easily grab her and toss her aside, dodging her knives. Now she ends up on the other side of the room, with the table to your back. @@.Abby;“C’mon! Stop joking around! Be serious and smell my funny fanny farts!”@@ @@.Kat;“Jesus, you have gone mad. You are as strong as you were when we fought last. I must go warn the others!”@@ [[Katerina makes a break for it!|BEGiggle10]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle10.jpg]]</div> You leap into the air, landing between her and the door, and you kick her right in the gut. Moving you leg for the kick pushes another green mushroom cloud out of your rear, but your force causes the Witch Hunter to fly backwards outside the hilarious fluffy floater. She lands on the ground, holding her guts and writhing in pain. @@.Abby;“I didn’t wanna hafta to that! But, you’re acting crazy!”@@ Groaning, she replies, @@.Kat;“You! You’re insane!”@@ You skip over to her and throw yourself down on her chest, knocking the air out of her lungs, @@.Abby;“Hey! What’s more fun than a Canadian Microwave?”@@ She thrashes under you, @@.Abby;“A Dutch Oven! Get it?”@@ As you say that, you slide up on her face and push out [[trapped gas!|BEGiggle11]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle11.jpg]]</div> At first, Katerina tries to push you off, holding her breath, but eventually she has to breathe in your toxic fumes! She tries not to laugh, and you remember how, for just a moment, you tried to fight this wonderful fun feeling, but you gave right into it. This sour puss is fighting it hardcore! But, seeing her under you, you cannot help but be turned on. You start rubbing your green pussy across the twitching woman’s face. Then, laughing, you feel an orgasm rip through you. The pleasure of the sensation causes your ass to relax and more gas issues out. When you look back down, green juices from your pussy cover the unconscious woman’s face. She looks so cute like this, so, you [[do it again!|BEGiggle12]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle12.gif]]</div> You continue raping Katerina’s face for a few minutes, farting and cumming repeatedly. Then, you run dry and need to let your farts fill up again, so you slide back to see your handiwork. Then, you witness Katerina’s transition from buzz-killer to killer clown! Her flesh changes to alabaster and you watch her purple hair become orange. Then, her hair changes shape, becoming much more wild and fun, and finally, she looks up at you with normal, green eyes, instead of her old, weird, human ones. She looks so beautiful now! She laughs, @@.Kat;“Ha ha! You fucked my face!”@@ You giggle, @@.Abby;“Hee hee! Yeah! And I farted all over you!”@@ She licks her lips, @@.Kat;“Yum! Your cum tastes like whipped cream!”@@ @@.Abby;“Go on! Have your fill! Just make me cum and I can give you lots of juice to drink!”@@ [[Katerina’s mouth envelopes your pussy.|BEGiggle13]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle13.jpg]]</div> Now, instead of you doing all the work and grinding your sex over your victim’s face, your victim is busy trying to suck and lick you deeply and passionately. Your corrupted clown cunt spurts with each orgasm as your laughing gas fills the air around you. You enjoy half an hour more of orgasms, before you try to think of [[what to do next.|BEGiggle14]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle14.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“I’m bored of just farting and fucking.”@@ @@.Kat;“Ha ha ha, should we go cheer up someone else?”@@ @@.Abby;“I feel like, like we should be looking for someone.”@@ @@.Kat;“Yeah, I feel funny too, like someone is missing.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah, we need a dick in us.”@@ @@.Kat;“Ooh! It’s been a long time since I had man meat in my goop shoot!”@@ @@.Abby;“But, like, none of the guys here seem right. Oh my god, I got it!”@@ @@.Kat;“What! HA HA! What!?”@@ @@.Abby;“We go to New York City and fuck the Giggler till he fills us full with clown cream!”@@ @@.Kat;“That’s brilliant! We can use my car!”@@ Rushing out of the Sanctuary, you leap into Katerina’s old car and take off on a [[spontaneous road trip!|BEGiggle15]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle15.jpg]]</div> About halfway there, a damn cop pulls you over in the middle of nowhere! @@.Abby;“Oh no! I don’t even have a driver’s license, ha ha ha!”@@ @@.Kat;“That’s ok, neither do I- or insurance! Ha ha ha! We’re fucked! Should we just kill her?”@@ You get really nervous, which causes you to fart more than you have in hours, @@.Kat;“Ha ha! You’re filling the whole car up with your trouser trumpets!”@@ @@.Abby;“Shh, shh, look, I’ve got my mind clear, so let me do the talking, and I’ll get us out of this.”@@ Katerina rolls her eyes, @@.Kat;“Hee hee, if you say so.”@@ As the cop approaches the window, you [[roll it down|BEGiggle16]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "giggle_freakshow" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle16.jpg]]</div> @@.Justine;“Do you know why I pulled you— cough, cough!”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey there, badge bunny, me and my friend are definitely not high or going to see a super villain.”@@ [[The cop spins around.|BEGiggle17]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle17.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Oh! Sorry about that, I get gassy when I’m nervous!”@@ The cop chuckles, @@.Justine;“Ha ha, what—what is that?”@@ [[She draws her gun!|BEGiggle18]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle18.jpg]]</div> @@.Justine;“What the, ha ha ha, what was that! Get out of the, hee hee, car with your hands upsie daisy!”@@ @@.Kat;“We don’t have time,”@@ Katerina yells, @@.Kat;“We really want some clown dick!”@@ @@.Abby;“Shh, you’re going to get us busted!”@@ Turning towards Kat, you put a finger to your lip and then turn back to the officer. You can surely smooth talk the cop, @@.Abby;“She means that we are going to see my sick grandmother who we definitely did not kill and has nothing to do with the Giggle Gang.”@@ @@.Justine;“Ha ha ha! What?”@@ @@.Abby;“Can we level with you, officer?”@@ @@.Justine;“Yeah. Ha ha, heeeee ha ha.”@@ She lowers her gun. @@.Abby;“We are coming from Oregon! We want to fuck the Giggler, so we are going to New York.”@@ @@.Justine;“New York? AH ha ha ha ha! You drove south you ditzy little darling. This is New Mexico!”@@ The cop drops her gun on the ground and leans [[into the window.|BEGiggle19]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle19.jpg]]</div> @@.Justine;“See, you need to get to I-40, and ha ha, head east.”@@ You fart a big one, @@.Justine;“Ha ha! Are you ok?”@@ @@.Abby;“I was stressed!”@@ @@.Justine;“You can relax, I am not going to arrest you! You both seem like good, happy people to me.”@@ @@.Abby;“Oh thank goodness, I thought I would explode!”@@ You relax and huge amounts of gas escape you body. The cop sniffs the cloud as it passes her, @@.Justine;“Ha ha ha! Your farts smell awesome!”@@ @@.Abby;“I can’t stop farting. They just keep coming!”@@ @@.Justine;“That’s ok.”@@ The cop continues trying to explain where to go, but you don’t get it. Finally, after a few minutes, and countless amounts of flatulence, she starts [[making sense!|BEGiggle20]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle20.jpg]]</div> @@.Justine;“Look, silly! Ha ha! You just drive recklessly in any direction, and that’s how you get to New York.”@@ @@.Abby;“Ohhhh- thank you officer! Those are much clearer directions! Much clearer!”@@ @@.Justine;“Oh, I just had a funny idea!”@@ @@.Abby;“What?”@@ @@.Justine;“Can I come too? I really want to put a clown cock in my cunt cavern, pretty, pretty please!”@@ You look over at Katerina, @@.Abby;“Is that ok with you?”@@ She laughs and nods in response. @@.Abby;“Sure, then!”@@ @@.Justine;“Oh! Thank you! I can’t wait to fuck the Giggler!”@@ Stepping out, you push the seat forward and the officer gets [[in the back.|BEGiggle21]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle21.jpg]]</div> You get in and roll up the window. @@.Abby;“Uh oh, girls, I feel some big ones coming on!”@@ You fart a few more times. @@.Abby;“Should I crack a window?”@@ Both of your companions simultaneously yell, <i>“No”</i>, so you start the car. @@.Abby;“Ok, make sure no one has on their seatbelt.”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Justine;“Oh! Good point!”@@ You hear a click as the cop undoes her seat belt in the back, @@.Justine;“Sorry! I have to break that bad habit of wearing one. It’s way funnier in an accident when you don’t! HA HA!”@@ <br /> <br /> @@.Abby;“Great! Let’s go!”@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $StoryMode>> Your killer clown troupe drives off, swerving, in a [[random direction.|BEGiggle22SM]] <<else>> Your killer clown troupe drives off, swerving, in a [[random direction.|BEGiggle22]] <</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEGiggle22.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.Giggler;After several accidents, hit and runs, and a rash of rapes, you finally make it to New York City. There, it does not take long before you find your Master. You have become a <i>Gassy Girl</i>, one of the types of clowns in the Giggler’s Giggle Gang. He is pleased with your blood suit, your fighting abilities, those of Katerina, and he loved the cop you brought along as a present! When he learned of your countrywide mayhem, all he could do was laugh. With you both at his side, the Giggler manages to defeat Trixie Goodwin, eventually turning the east coast into one giant giggled carnival!@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $GiggledBE>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Uncategorized Other Bad Ends]] <<else>> @@.SGhost2;<<book>>Congratulations! You have unlocked the Giggle Girls Bad End! Access it using the menu to the left under Uncatagorized Bad Ends!<</book>>@@ <<set $GiggledBE to true>> <br /> <br /> [[Perhaps you left the container alone...|Mountain4]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end_giggle" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo3.jpg]]</div> It slides down your throat like a frothy, sugary oil. @@.Hobs;“Yes, yes, indeed! How’d it taste you little tart?”@@ You stick your tongue into the vial and try to lick it out, and then you raise it to your lips and smack the bottom of the bottle in the hopes of getting one more drop of the ambrosia! Your head is dizzy, and it’s hard to stand up, but you feel so good- <i>really</i> good! It’s like a warmth flows through your body from your tummy to your tippy toes! @@.Abby;“Hey! You were, like, right! I feel great!”@@ [[The goblin laughs.|Bimbo4]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "be_bimbo" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo4.jpg]]</div> The blood suit starts to feel funny, @@.Abby;“Um, I think there’s something funny going on.”@@ Hobs suddenly freezes and his eyes widen, @@.Hobs;“Damn it! It didn’t work! Look, I’m right sorry, I am! I admit it! I tricked you into drinking this love potion, and I don’t want no trouble—“@@ @@.Abby;“Ooh! My hair is blonde! Pretty!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Eh? Oh, that’s a load off me back. Yeah, and look at that, your eyes ‘ave gone and turned blue as the sky.”@@ @@.Abby;“Really? That’s so cool!”@@ [[The blood suit changes.|Bimbo5]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo5.jpg]]</div> The blood suit becomes pink and changes shape. @@.Hobs;“Blimey! I didn’t expect—“@@ Suddenly your breasts start growing, @@.Abby;“Like, what?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Oh ho ho! This is going real well!”@@ Your breasts continue inflating, becoming heavier, until they [[burst out of the suit.|Bimbo 6]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo6.jpg]]</div> @@.Abby;“Hee hee, this is so cool! Look at my titties!”@@ You bounce up and down causing your new mammoth breasts to jiggle. @@.Hobs;“If this is not just brilliant, then I don’t know wot is!”@@ [[You feel your body stop changing.|Bimbo6.1]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo6.1.gif]]</div> In such a short time you became totally [[sexy and hot!|Bimbo7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo7.jpg]]</div> @@.Hobs;“Gah, look at you! You’re going to fetch a great price for me pocket!”@@ @@.Abby;“You talk funny!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Yeah, that’s a great story, bird- just look at those giant strawberry creams. Oh, I can’t wait to use ’em like pillows!”@@ You see him leering at you, you enjoy that, @@.Abby;“Ooh! You like these? They are, like, so big and bouncy! Bounce, bounce, bouncey bounce!”@@ The hobgoblin’s eyes move up and down with your tits, but then his eyes look lower. @@.Abby;“Oh! You can see my pussy!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Shh! Right then, come on back ‘ere- behind me counter.”@@ He comes around the counter and tries pushing you along. You feel his hand pinch your new, round butt. @@.Abby;“Oh my gawd, I think I love you!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Yeah, that’s great you daft cow, now come on back ‘ere before that pesky nosferatu sees you bouncing round like a twit.”@@ Hobs is, without any doubt, the hottest, sexiest thing you have ever seen, and you feel compelled to submit to him. So, you try to get back with him, but you wobble when you walk, @@.Abby;“My boobies make this hard!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Oh ho ho, they’re making <i>somefing</i> hard, that’s for true!”@@ He helps you and you get back with him. @@.Hobs;“Now, you squat down and put me dobber in your mouth.”@@ Slowly you say it back, @@.Abby;“Dah. Ber.”@@ Are you drunk? You feel kinda silly. @@.Hobs;“Yeah, dobber, see? Me cock, right? Stick it in your mouf and suck it. Should keep you quiet ’til that gothic bloke gets lost.”@@ [[You can’t wait!|Bimbo8]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo8.jpg]]</div> Obeying Hobs makes a tingle rush through your whole body. You were so stupid before, but now you understand- now you’re smart! Your new plumper lips take his cock in, and Hobs grabs your head and starts hammering into you. It feels great! His cock hits the back of your throat and makes it hard to breathe, but this causes you to love him more. @@.Hobs;“Never, ’ave I had a better blow—“@@ @@.Brone;“Blow what?”@@ As you continue sucking, you hear Hobs talking to the weird creep you came here with. The nos, nosfour, the vampire guy. Chuckling nervously, Hobs says, @@.Hobs;“Blow, uh, blow me down, mate! Yeah, that’s it! You sure got a lot of fings to buy there, don’t you?”@@ @@.Brone;“I intend to, but I need to find the girl I was buying these for.”@@ @@.Hobs;“Girl? Hmm, wot’s she—oh yeah, oh god yeah! I mean, ahem, um wot’s she-ee look- uh like, then? Yeah, wot’s she look like?”@@ @@.Brone;“You surely noticed her! I saw you talking to her!”@@ @@.Hobs;“OH! Yeah, um, theeeee uh oh!”@@ @@.Brone;“Hobs are you well?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Oh, uh, yeah, yeah mate, I’m chippah than ever! I remember who you’re meaning, and that fit tart left here a few minutes ago.”@@ @@.Brone;“Left! Dear goodness! Why!?”@@ @@.Hobs;“Don’t know; don’t care,”@@ the hobgoblin sniffs and acts nonchalant, @@.Hobs;“Well, you going to gawk about me store all day or go after your missing girlie?”@@ Just as Brone leaves, Hobs finally ejaculates. He holds your head tight against his greenish crotch until he is all done. @@.Hobs;“I thought I’d bloody lose it there for a tick.”@@ @@.Abby;“Yummy! Mr. Hobsie, I like you, so much. Like, totally, so much!”@@ @@.Hobs;“I think I better lock up shop and try me merchandise out for meself.”@@ The goblin grins with a glint in his [[green eyes.|Bimbo9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo9.jpg]]</div> Soon, he is pounding away! @@.Hobs;“Feck me! I think your cunt has a mouth in it! It’s like it’s trying to suck me bollocks dry!”@@ @@.Abby;“Yeah! It feels so good having you inside me! I want your cock in me all the time, Mr. Hobs!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Call me, Master, you gots it?”@@ @@.Abby;“Totally! Master!”@@ Hobs uses you in many positions for hours before he finally exclaims, @@.Hobs;“I’m knackered. I don’t think me knob can take any more of this.”@@ @@.Abby;“Knobs! Hobs! It like totally rhymes!”@@ @@.Hobs;“Now that I know what you can do, I can use you to make more money from me mates. Right, follow me down below.”@@ [[He leads you into a dark basement.|Bimbo10]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo10.jpg]]</div> Within hours you are getting all the goblin cock you can. You have never felt so happy or fulfilled. The way they treat you, makes you think of your one true love, Hobs. Every day you take more and more cocks, and your body seems to accommodate anything that wants to fuck you. You really like it when ogres pay to use you. They really know how to manhandle you just right, but at the end of the day, you like when Hobs fucks you and then falls asleep on your titties while [[you masturbate.|Bimbo11]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/BEBimbo11.jpg]]</div> <br /> <br /> @@.Dion;When you sleep at night, sometimes, images of a purple-winged lady or a pale witch fill your mind, but mostly you dream about Hobs. Then, when he wakes you up every day, slapping your face with his cock, you come out of your dreams and into a dream reality! You suck, fuck, and spend the rest of your life as Hobs’ pet bimbo.@@ <br /> <br /> <<if $BimboBE>> [[Return to Bad Ends...|Uncategorized Other Bad Ends]] <<else>> @@.SGhost2;<<book>>Congratulations! You have unlocked the Pink Potion (Bimboization) Bad End! Access it using the menu to the left under Uncatagorized Bad Ends!<</book>>@@ <<set $BimboBE to true>> <br /> <br /> [[Perhaps you avoided the potion...|DrankPot]] <br /> <br /> or <br /> <br /> [[Maybe this is the end of the story.]] <</if>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "bad_end_osas" volume 0.3 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/SancHomeRoom.jpg]]</div> Waking up, just after sunset, your body feels rested, but your mind still feels tired as if you did not get deep sleep. You seem unable to recall any dreams. Groaning, you sit up and look at the red blood covering your hands, wondering if this Vlad guy will end up controlling you. Then you realize that tonight is your first chance to hunt monsters! With that in mind, you [[head out of your room.|SanctuaryHome]] @@.SGhost2;First play through? Watch the tutorials below!@@ [[(Click here for a tutorial on how The Sanctuary works!)|SancTuT]] Or [[(Click here for a tutorial on how Monster Hunting works!)|MHTuT]] <<audio "abby_theme_4" volume 0.3>> <<set $Character_Absinthe.gold=1000>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf1.jpg]]</div> Stepping through the carved, stone entrance, leads you into a chamber of carved ice. As you pass the threshold, a large, frosty slab of ice slams down behind you, barring the way back. You will have to find Jacques, and hopefully, together, the two of you can stop the dark elf the barbegazi fear. You take in your surroundings. Mystical blue light appears to glow from far below lighting the room with a cool hue. The only way forward is crossing the bridge, but ice is slippery and you fear falling into the blue glowing guts of Mount Hood. Cautiously, you try to walk on the ice, and though slick, it is strong enough to support your body weight. You carefully make your way across the [[giant room.|DarkElf2]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_ice_cave" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf2.jpg]]</div> The carved ice doorway leads you into a large circular room. It appears half chiseled and half natural in a circular shape. Icy cold water flows in the far left of the room, but on the dry, snowy right side, in the center of the carved circle [[stands Jacques!|DarkElf3]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf3.jpg]]</div> Rushing to him, you stand in awe. This monster hunting world seems surreal. Two days ago, you would never have imagined you’d be looking at a lumber jack frozen in ice, or that Mount Hood crawled with monsters and had an elf living inside it. Yet, here you stand. @@.Abby;“Jacques! Hey! Can you hear me? I came to find you! Jacques!”@@ You slap the ice, but he does not move. @@.Abby;“Maybe I can use my knife and chop my way to you! Hold on!”@@ Just as you reach for your knife a cold, calm female voice says, @@.Cere;“You cannot save him, mortal.”@@ Drawing your blade, you [[spin around!|DarkElf4]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf4.jpg]]</div> You see a woman whose skin shines like silver. Her hair sparkles in the blue light, her eyes glow blue- you see not pupils, and she walks through the frigid water behind you, barefoot, and appears comfortable. @@.Abby;“So, you’re an elf? You don’t look like the movie ones.”@@ @@.Cere;“I am the powerful Adrasteia, and I have no idea what species of my race are called movie elves, but my kind are called Døkkálfar. As a Døkkálfar, I enjoy deep places of the Earth. I like the cold and darkness.”@@ As she approaches you, you slowly move to the side, anticipating an attack at any moment. Soon, she stands right where you just stood, next to Jacques. @@.Abby;“What language is that?”@@ @@.Cere;“Tis the tongue of the Norsemen. Dark Elves, is how <i>you</i> would say it. Look at this mountain of a man.”@@ She reaches up and slides her hand across the ice containing your comrade. @@.Cere;“He thought himself stronger than an elf. Can you imagine?”@@ she chuckles with an air of ego and then turns from him to you, @@.Cere;“I do not think I shall freeze you. I think I shall enslave you. I need a servant girl to attend to my needs.”@@ @@.Abby;“Fuck that, pointy ears! What you <i>need</i> to do is unfreeze him and stop messing with the weather. You’ve stirred up many different kinds of monsters, and even the elementals on the mountain have awoken. Whatever you are doing, and why you are doing it doesn’t matter. I need it to stop.”@@ @@.Cere;“Such boldness for a female! How human customs must have changed! I will enjoy breaking you. I do not care about the mountain or the simple creatures that inhabit it. I am here guarding an artifact, and I am magically bound to continue doing it. However, I have grown tired of humans hiking upon the mountain, and, since it belongs to <i>me</i>, I shall do as I please.”@@ @@.Abby;“Hey, don’t say I didn’t give you a chance to make things right, bitch.”@@ You rush towards the dark elf, but Adrasteia leaps through the air as if gravity means nothing to her, and lands, again, where you just stood. Again, you have switched places. However, now, <<if$StoryMode>>[[she appears angry!|MountainSM28]]<<else>>[[she appears angry!|MountainAdrasteia-Start]]<</if>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf5.jpg]]</div> You enter the new room, still panting from the fight against Adrasteia. Snow covers the floor of the room and pillars of ice line the walls. Emerging from the ground and walls are what appear to be hands carved from ice! In the grasp of such a giant hand, sits a sword across the room. Warning bells ring in your mind, telling you that these ice hands are also guardians, but, you hope by defeating the dark elf, you rendered the room safe. You fought hard to get this sword, and maybe you can use it to hack the ice around Jacques. You fear he may be dead, but you can’t just leave him like that. [[You cautiously approach the sword.|DarkElf6]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_m_ice_cave" volume 0.3 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf6.jpg]]</div> So far the room remains quiet. Approching the ice formation in which the sword rests, you grab it by the hilt. What happens next [[blows your mind!|DarkElf7]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf7.gif]]</div> The sword begins to glow, and then you realize it must be heating up like an oven coil, because the ice around it melts away at an incredible rate! Your mind takes a moment to make sense of this magical artifact. Within seconds, it erupts with powerful fiery heat and light, and still, it does not harm you or even feel uncomfortable- and then you remember! You are wearing the Babr-e Bayan! The artifact that protected you from the cold of the mountain and the icy elements- works with fire too! You feel a rush at the thought of wielding this weapon, but at the same time, you feel more drained of energy by the moment. The odds are that you can only use this at certain times, and that using it would be a risk. If you wield it and lose all your energy, then you’ll simply fall to the ground exhausted. It is as if the adage that <i>with great power comes great responsibility</i> comes to mind. Before your run out of strength, you [[rush to aid Jacques!|DarkElf8.1]] <<audio "se_fire_sword" volume 0.4 play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf8.jpg]]</div> Within moments of reaching him with the sword, the magical ice barrier around the huge man melts away, and he appears fine! @@.Jack;“Merci! I cannot believe my very eyes! How is this even possible?”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s a long story, man. Hold still, I don’t want to burn you.”@@ @@.Jack;“Oui! But, it does feel so good to move again!”@@ He starts laughing, something you have not seen him do, @@.Jack;“Ha ha! I thought life was over for me, and I had no idea you wielded magic!”@@ @@.Abby;“I don’t have magical power, at least, I don’t I think so- this is an artifact that the dark elf guarded. I find it extremely hard to use, and I think the only reason I can is because I already have another artifact that works just right with it. Otherwise, I am fairly certain I would have become ash by now.”@@ He nods, @@.Jack;“Oui, relics are something monster hunters can find on our adventures. They can turn the tides of battle against the forces of darkness. It is rare, though, that a monster hunter manages to have two at once.”@@ @@.Abby;“You kidding? I’m going to try to find all of these badass things I can!”@@ Just then, you finish melting his prison. Jacques stretches a moment and stomps his feet. As the sword’s power burns out and the blade cools, he scoops you up in a giant bear hug, @@.Jack;“Merci! Oh dear girl, thank you!”@@ Holy shit this guy is big and strong! Though you are fierce, you blush a moment, feeling very feminine and vulnerable in his arms. @@.Abby;“Ok, buddy, it’s fine. I just hope you see that I don’t mean harm.”@@ As he sets you down, he smiles and picks up his axe, @@.Jack;“I do trust you now. How can a man not trust a person whom saves his life, no? How did you even come to be here? Did you manage to fight all those monsters on the mountain?”@@ @@.Abby;“It’s a long story—“@@ as you and Jacques leave the ice temple, you explain how you came to find him and about the creatures you encountered. Many times he laughs or appears utterly shocked. Then you reach [[the ruins.|DarkElf9]]

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf9.jpg]]</div> Several of the little gray hairy men rush out to greet you and Jacques. @@.CereUnit1;“Did it! Did it! Saved the Barbegazi!”@@ @@.Jack;“It was all this girl, Absinthe Van Gothen- she, alone, saved you all and your beautiful mountain home. And—“@@ he laughs, @@.Jack;“She even saved <i>me</i>!”@@ The little fellows seem intrigued and happy, and frankly, the entire feel of the mountain has changed. It feels warmer and safer now. You really did something great today, you realize, and you feel proud of yourself. @@.CereUnit1;“Merci! Thank you, Absinthe Van Gothen! Barbegazi grateful!”@@ With the mountain safe, you and Jacques depart for [[the Sanctuary.|DarkElf10]] <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "zone_mountain" volume 0.3 loop play>> <<audio "se_mountain_wind" volume 0.2 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/DarkElf10.jpg]]</div> @@.Jack;“Thank you again, for saving my life, tonight.”@@ @@.Abby;“Seriously! You’d have done it for me.”@@ The warm smile falls from his face, @@.Jack;“Non. No, I would not have. In fact, after you beat me, like a small boy, my pride was hurt. To try and prove that I was manly and strong, I rashly chose to track down the dark elf and face her alone. This foolish decision nearly cost me my very life, and worse, the barbegazi, are my friends, and they too might have died. Not to mention the wildlife that calls that mountain home. My personal failure would have led to the pain and suffering of innocent creatures that mean no harm to mankind.”@@ Nodding, you agree, @@.Abby;“I understand. I do. I recently did something foolish, as well, to my friends. I need to apologize to them and make it right.”@@ @@.Jack;“It is a good idea, yes? Because, any day might be our last, as I just found out.”@@ @@.Abby;“For what it is worth, you are strong. You are seriously the toughest looking guy I have ever seen.”@@ @@.Jack;“I was not always so. Many years ago, I—“@@ he loses focus and his mind appears to drift a moment. @@.Jack;“Nevermind. Thank you for saying that and for saving me, Abby. I will not take this for granted, this gift of life that you have given me, and if I can help you, in any way- come and ask me, s’il vous plaît.”@@ Punching his arm you retort, @@.Abby;“I will, big guy! But right now, I am fucking exhausted.”@@ @@.Jack;“Oui, me as well. Shall we, mademoiselle?”@@ [[With that, you both retire.|MountainBadEndUnlock]] <<set $Chapter5 to true>> <<stopallaudio>> <<audio "sanctuary" volume 0.4 loop play>>

<div align="center">[img[Pictures/ItemArtDyrnwyn.png]]</div> @@.A