The Escape - GotF (1.1)

You crush the band in your grip, whispering a thankful prayer to the enchanted item. The symbols around you spark to life. Lines blaze across the traced diagrams now imprinted on the floor. Blue fires consume the pages and ignite the book in your hands. Everything is in its proper place. The Teleportation Sigil is stable. It will remain open until it is used a single time, but you will need to leave all of your items behind. Are you ready to escape this place? [[Use the Portal]] [[Leave]] (set: $portalOpen to true)

You put the blue-jeweled band on your arm. Your mind surges with understanding. Signs dance before your eyes, and your subconscious overflows with knowledge of all things magical. Where once you were but a caterpillar, now you have emerged as a butterfly. You've gained the status ''ARCANE WISDOM''! [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $arcaneWisdom to true)

(if: $pactCheck is true)[You try to slide the ring onto your finger. Before it touches your other hand the band slips from your grasp and hits the floor. The ring rolls unnaturally across the floor towards an unknown destination. It vanishes from sight. (set: $hasRing to false)] (if: $darkPact is true)[You slide the ring onto your finger. The ring cinches tighter than you thought possible, to the point where it is physically painful. There's a scorching of your flesh as it fuses to your very body. You feel power course through you. Power and... //hunger//... (set: $bloodHunger to true) (set: $hungerCheck to false) You've gained the status ''BLOOD HUNGER''!] [[Return to INVENTORY]]

You draw the circles upon the ground. The diagrams guide you. The ''BAND'' on your arm is losing energy, you can feel it. Once the charge is gone, you will no longer comprehend the arcane arts before you. It's now or never. The phrasing must be written across the ground the user wishes to use as a transport area. What were the words? [[(NOTEBOOK) Consult the text]]

There's something wrong with you. Your fingers part the surface tension of whatever waste fluid is rotting in this bucket. Bugs crawl up your arms. If not for the cloth over your mouth, you'd be puking in there by now. [[I must dig deeper]] [[Leave]]

You clutch the black-glass cameo tightly to your chest. It robs the warmth from you like ice. The statue's form is uncertain. It will not make the first move. What will you say to it? (if: $darkPact is true)[[I have returned]](if: $pactCheck is true)[[Hello?]] [[Retreat]]

WARNING: Initiating DEVELOPER MODE unlocks all available outcomes immediately. This mode is for testing purposes, and can significantly alter gameplay experience. It is recommended to discover outcomes naturally. Enable DEV MODE? [[Enable]] [[Return to start]]

You set about creating the sigils. Once they are completed, you can escape this place for good. Go to wherever you desire. You must draw them upon the ground. (if: $hasChalk is true)[[(CHALK) Draw the symbols]] [[Use blood to draw the symbols]] [[Leave]]

You unlock the heavy lockbox. The lid open slowy on squeaky hinges, and within the box your torch illuminates a box of belongings stored within. Whoever used this locker had an affinity for stolen baubles. A wrapped item lies against the wall of the box. A coil of chain wraps an old Timepiece. [[Take the Timepiece]] (set: $searched104 to true)

You shot the old key into the rusted lock. It turns with a //click!// and you swing the door open to the hallway beyond. This is it. Freedom is on a few steps away. Ready? (if: $altAccess is true)[[Exit your Cell]] (if: $run1 is true)[[Escape]] [[Leave]] (set: $hasOpenedDoor to true)

You spin on a dime, the sharpened metal in your hands. The guard barely has time to give chase before the sharpened spike of solid metal pierces his chest and splits clean out the other side with a splash of blood. The guard gasps in shock and his legs give out. You pull your spike free of his body, still dripping blood. You're safe. (if: $pactCheck is true)[[Leave this place]] (if: $darkPact is true)[[Stare at the corpse]]

You slam the heavy piece of metal through the skeleton's spine. The spine snaps apart and the entire animated creature buckles and collapses as its bones break. The creature strikes the ground and erupts into a plume of dust as the magic fades. All that remains is the animated arm attached to you with a vice-like grip. The gemstones in the band twinkle. [[Remove the band]]

You slide the dense metal spike in between the bracket and the wall. You push with your full weight. The iron groans and //ping!// //ping!// //ping!// the bolts break off and the iron fitting droops down from the wall, twisted by force. You take the torch from the heavy sconce. You gained a ''TORCH''! [[Back]] (set: $hasTorch to true)

You raise the heavy ''METAL SPIKE ''above your head and bring it down on the lock. The lockbox on the door deforms from the impact, and a deep cleft in the metal can be seen. Emboldened, you swing again- the door breaks even further, and you swing the spike over and over again until the entire lock is reduced to pieces. The door swings open. [[Escape]] [[Leave]]

You open the top of the vial. The liquid pours over the metal wall bracket and instantly it melts and hisses as it turns to putty and slops down the wall. You lost the ''MYSTERIOUS VIAL''! The torch falls and you catch it in your hand. You gained a ''TORCH''! [[Back]] (set: $hasVial to false) (set: $hasTorch to true)

You unstop the cork and pour the mystery liquid over the grate. Instantly the metal smokes and warps, pooling like melted ice cream as the supports give out and the grate falls out of the way with a loud //clang!// The path in front of you is just wide enough to enter. You cannot see a thing beyond... Do you dare enter? [[I dare]] [[I do not dare]] (set: $hasVial to false) (set: $openedGrate to true)

You unstop the cork on the bottle. Bottoms up! As soon as the liquid touches your mouth your flesh begins to smoke. The substance flows through you, burning the whole way down and spilling out of your torso as it eats through your bones. In moments, you're a puddle of meat on the floor. Apparently it was magical acid. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You unstop the cork and pour it over the lock. The metal hisses and smokes as it melts away. The entire mechanism crumbles and falls into a puddle. The door swings open. Thank God you didn't drink that, huh? This is it. Freedom is on a few steps away. Ready? [[Escape]] [[Leave]] (Set: $hasVial to false) (set: $hasOpenedDoor to true)

You throw the ''MYSTERY VIAL''. It strikes the ''GUARD'' and shatters on impact. He screams horribly as his flesh begins to smoke and fall away. The bottle was magical acid! The ''GUARD'' melts into nothing. You're safe. (if: $pactCheck is true)[[Leave this place]] (if: $darkPact is true)[[Stare at the puddle]]

You say the words aloud as they are drawn. The chalk is gone, the last of it only dust in your hands. Lost ''CHALK''! But it doesn't matter... you're almost free. [[(BAND OF ARCANE) Charge the Sigil]]

You shove the stake into the skeleton's ribcage. Unsurprisingly, it doesn't really care. The force throws it off-balance, however, and you see the opportunity before you. The armlet band is glowing suspiciously. This is your chance- it will strike soon! [[(SHARP STAKE) Stab it again!]] [[(SHARP STAKE) Stab through its arm!]]

You peer more closely at the sharp piece of wood. Right up on that pointy end, reeeeaaallll close... so close you can count the individual grains of wood. Just like you made me describe every single floor tile. You slip and the ''STAKE'' goes straight through your orbital socket. Pissing off the Author is DEFINITELY not the path to freedom. You ''DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You drive the stake into the edge of the drawer. Using the wood as a lever, you leverage the drawer open. It works! The lock breaks, but so does your trusty weapon! Lost ''SHARP STAKE''! The drawer is open now, at least... [[Search the drawer]] (set: $hasWeapon to false)

You pull the ''STAKE'' out and drive it through the skeleton's eyeless skull. The skull shatters, but the skeleton pushes you away, still holding tightly to your other arm. It pulls the stake from its own head and drives it into your chest. Blood pours forth and you gasp for air before collapsing to the floor. The armband glows almost tauntingly as your life leaves you This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You pull the ''STAKE'' free and stab straight through its shoulder. The entire arm breaks away and the animated skeleton topples over at once. It hits the ground and turns to dust as the magic leaves it. Your trusty ''STAKE'' is unharmed. Also, the glowing armband is still animating the skeleton's arm holding you tightly. [[Remove the band]]

You stand your ground and bare your sharpened stake. The guard swings at you with a club and misses- You drive the ''SHARP STAKE'' into his chest. The guard coughs up blood and falls backwards, dead. You are safe. (if: $pactCheck is true)[[Leave this place]] (if: $darkPact is true)[[Stare at the corpse]]

You jam the ''SHARP STAKE'' into the grate with all your strength. Using it as a lever, you push with your feet and hips and wrench the grate downward as hard as you can. //SNAP!// Your trusty weapon shatters into splintered wood- unusable. You lost ''SHARP STAKE'' (if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERIOUS VIAL) Pour the vial on the grate]] [[Leave]] (set: $hasWeapon to false)

You open the locket. Inside is a mysterious vial. It glows softly green. It looks acidic. Gained ''MYSTERY VIAL'' [[(MYSTERY VIAL) Drink the vial]] [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $hasVial to true) (set: $hasSilverLocket to false)

You open the tiny drawstrings and upend the contents of the bag into your hand. It's a band of metal, silver in the dim light. A ruby so dark it looks like spilled blood rests in the center. Just holding it makes you feel uneasy somehow. You gained a ''BLOOD-RED RING'' [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $hasRing to true) (set: $hasBag to false)

You put the tiny key into the slot in the drawer. It turns with a //click!// and the drawer swings open. [[Search the drawer]]

You fish the tinderbox from your pocket and strike it at the torch. Sparks fly and the torch roars to life in your grip. You withdraw it from the wall and hold it before yourself to banish the darkness. Your pounding heart calms as your surroundings are illuminated. [[Search the left cells]] [[Search the right cells]] [[Retreat back toward Annex]] (set: $hasTorch to true) (set: $hasTinder to false)

You strike it a second time- The collarbone shatters, and its hold on you weakens for a moment, but it won't let you go! The skeleton recovers quickly and slashes your throat open with its weathered fingers. The armband glows almost tauntingly at you as your life fades away. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You raise up your torch and take the first steps into the Lower Cells. There are two ranks of closed cells, four walls of them- and as you peer over the railing before you there is another visible cavern of imprisonment below. (if: $cellsQ is true)[You hear nothing. Perhaps the creature lurks further below?] [[Search the left cells]] [[Search the right cells]] [[Retreat back toward Annex]]

You shine your light into the room. There are no windows, and the walls here are darker than in your cell. The air is cold and damp, with drops of condensation rolling down the furthest reaches of the room. The space itself is a long rectangle leading far off in one direction and toward a door at the other. The walls are raw, exposed rock. This place is making you uneasy. (if: $smallDoorOpen is true)[[Descend]](if: $smallDoorOpen is false)[[Try the door]] (if: $seenShrine is true)[[Return to the Shrine]](if: $seenShrine is false)[[Walk down the corridor]] [[Leave]]

You aim for the arm holding you tightly and swing. The torch smashes right through the ancient bones and the bony hand still clutching your own arm is all that remains attached. The skeleton falls backwards onto the floor and shatters like glass as the magic within it expires. You're safe. Also, the glowing armband is still animating the skeleton's arm holding you tightly. [[Remove the band]]

You swing your torch down at its head. The skull shatters completely on contact with the hefty torch, and embers shower across the room. The skeleton staggers back, but its hold on your arm is still strong. The armlet band is glowing suspiciously. This is your chance- it will strike soon! [[(TORCH) Smash the arm off]] [[(TORCH) Hit it again!]]

You open the bag's weathered drawstrings. A small cameo tumbles out into your hand. It's a dark metallic shade, and the image within is a black glass that reflects no light at all. This thing feels sickening to touch. Gained a ''DARK CAMEO''! (set: $hasOtherBag to false) (set: $hasCameo to true) [[Return to INVENTORY]]

You say the words aloud as they are drawn. Your hand aches and your blood still flows gently from the excruciating gash in your palm. But it doesn't matter... you're almost free. [[(BAND OF ARCANE) Charge the Sigil]]

You flip through the weathered notebook. The book describes in explicit detail every step the corpse took to escape. They had a plan... one that they were unable to complete before their demise. A Teleportation Sigil, designed to bring the user wherever they desire. Along with the description is a short note: //"The Band will show the way"// [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $bandKnown to true)

//"I will open a way for you known only to myself. You will be delivered from all danger and shall receive your freedom."// The knife is cold in your hand. It fits perfectly in your fingers. //"All I request in return is a small boon... my ''MARK'' upon your flesh. It will be quick, and you shall suffer no ill effects."// [[What's the catch?]] [[I'll take my chances]]

I can't keep defending this behavior. You pick all four mushroom species and cram them together in your hands like some kind of twisted fungus sandwich. Four different unknown substances squish together in your mouth and you swallow them all whole (super impressive, by the way). [[Am I alive?]]

You go to sneeze and blood blows out your nose and eyes. Your head hurts. You don't know what's going on, where you are, who you are. The nose bleeding stops immediately. You feel refreshed, and your stomach is full as if you've had a good, filling meal. Also, you can see ghosts. [[I can see what?]]

Bold choice. You pick the green, spiky shroom and scarf that thing like your life depends on it. I can't believe I'm saying this, but your entire body is instantly rejuvenated! All negative statuses ''CURED''! You're absurdly lucky, man. [[Boring. I'm eating a different one]] [[Whew! What a rush!]] (set: $greenShroom to false)

The cameo shudders in your hand. //"...oh? So it can hear us after all..."// A voice so old it could be made of the dust of civilizations cracks to life. Your skeleton wants desperately to be free of your body. //"A visitor, after all this time. How quaint. To what do I owe the pleasure?"// [[I must escape this place]] [[I cannot say]] [[Flee]] (set: $hasCameo to false)

You put your hand on the edge of the tunnel. Metal wires race through your bones and hold you tightly. The ''MARK'' on your hand burns. There is no other recourse. You must honor the bargain. [[Try the door]]

You return to the center of the adjoining room. [[Check INVENTORY]] (if: $seenBand is false)[[Inspect the skeleton]](if: $seenBand is true and $hasBand is false)[[Take the band]] [[Search the desk]] (if: $hasTorch is false)[[Get closer to the torch]] [[Leave]]

Wait, seriously?! I thought we were over this phase! You're not actually going to stop everything you're doing to search every single square centimeter of this place, are you?! [[Every. Single. One.]] [[Leave]]

You pick one of the blue mushrooms and shove the whole thing in your mouth. It tastes like dirt. You chew and swallow. By some absolute miracle, this one doesn't do anything to you. [[Boring. I'm eating a different one]] [[Whew! What a rush!]] (set: $blueShroom to false)

Dude. Fine. Since you're so keen... what else do you want to eat? [[Polka-dots are my jam]] [[Angry and green, baby!]] [[Gimme the EYES!]] [[All of them]]

You lift your guttering flame and wave it about to dispel the shadow. Flickering shapes are banished in each direction, unveiling wavering strips of the room about you. A midnight-black shape flees with the shadows. There's something down here with you. [[Run!]]

You slam the chair into the floor. Splinters fly everywhere with a deafening smash. Pieces of the chair are now all around you. Now you don't have a seat. [[Search the splinters]]

You call out into the darkness. Nobody answers. You'll have to do this yourself. [[Get your bearings]] [[Call out louder]]

You scream as loud as you can. Your own voice echoes back at you. Nobody comes. [[Get your bearings]] [[I need help]]

The Ghost looks up at you in surprise. It's silhouette is like mist or incense smoke. "Oh! A visitor? I never would have thought... Welcome! welcome. We have warmth and a clean space, though I fear I haven't needed sustenance for a long time, and we have no food." [[You've been taking care of this place?]]

''INVENTORY:'' [[Close INVENTORY]] [[Equipment]] [[Keys]] [[Items]] [[Notes]]

The corner is covered in a mysterious moss. There is also a dented bucket covered in an unknown slime. The bucket is exuding a smell you're not exactly a fan of. [[Get closer to the bucket]] [[Inspect the moss]] [[Leave]]

You search the shelves for usable supplies. There are a lot of odds and ends here, but two things catch your eye: a stack of tinderboxes, and a metal-capped hammer. (if: $hasTinder is false)[[Take the Tinderboxes]] (if: $hasHammer is false)[[Take the Hammer]]

You dip the ''FILTHY LOCKET'' into the water. With a little bit of effort, you are able to clean the years of grime off of the locket. Under all of that grime, it's still silver. Gained ''SILVER LOCKET'' (set: $hasSilverLocket to true) (set: $hasFilthyLocket to false) (set: $poolFilthy to true) [[Leave]]

(if: $room4 is true)[You return to the Annex's center. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? [[Go to the Warden's Office]] [[Go to the Chapel]] [[Go to the Lower Prison Corridors]] [[Return to your Cell]]](if: $room5 is true)[You're in the Chapel's grounds. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? [[Enter the Chapel]] [[Inspect the plants]] [[Investigate side room]] [[Return to Annex]]]

You gather yourself and journey on. (if: $room1 is true)[[Leave]](if: $room2 is true)[[Back]](if: $room3 is true)[[Retreat]](if: $room4 is true)[[Close]]

You shut the heavy logbook and take a step back from the desk. This prison is a tomb. [[Return to main room]] (set: $prisonLog to true)

Your hunger surges. You kneel beside the fresh corpse and open your maw wide. Teeth sink deep into soft tissue and an explosion of flavor and ecstasy overcomes you. This is what it means to be alive. You eat your fill and more. [[I still Hunger]]

Fast as lightning your clawed hand snatches the rodent from the ground. Your teeth bite down and crunch through bone and tissue. You savor the overwhelming satisfaction as your burning hunger subsides for the briefest moment. The flavor is divine. [[Leave]]

You reach up to touch the Sovereign's divine form. And your stomach growls. You lean forward and sink your teeth into the unknowable creature. Its flesh is sweet, aged with ancient fear so strong you fear that you'll never know its taste again. //"No... stop! You can't- I... I am Ruler! I am Sovereign!"// It wails in horror as you swallow a larger piece. Your own body is renewed, strengthened. You can feel yourself swell, your clawed fingers tighten around its body as you gnash and tear. It lets out a single horrible screech and falls limp into your arms. You don't waste a drop. [[I Hunger still...]]

You walk onward to the Chapel. The building is ancient and traditional, a squat structure constructed within the bowels of this prison in the style of a church. Soft flickering light spills from a half-opened door in the front. [[Enter the Chapel]] [[Search the exterior]] (set: $room5 to true) (set: $room4 to false)

You walk beneath the arch of twisted metal and take short, careful strides down the hall beyond. A staircase descends into increasing darkness. Across the far wall beside the stairs is scrawled in rough, red lettering: ''//"It hates the light"//'' [[Descend the stairs]] [[Return to Annex]]

You make the journey back through the tunnel and return to the room beyond. It's still suffocatingly dark here. (if: $hasTorch is true)[[(TORCH) Light up the darkness]] [[Leave]] (set: $room1 to false) (set: $room3 to true) (set: $room2 to false)

You step into the empty space in the room. The charts and notes are all around you, the arcane artifact on your arm renewing your understanding of every page. [[(DIAGRAMS) Create the Sigils]] [[Leave]]

You curl up and wait for nobody. You remain alone for untold time as your stomach growls [[Call out for help]] [[Get your bearings]] [[Remain on the floor]]

You discard everything and take the first step past the threshold. Darkness surrounds you like a blanket of chill mist. There is no sound, no light, only your feet finding each step after the other as you descend into eternity. The ''MARK'' on your hand is humming gently. Your feet hit flat ground after an indeterminable eternity. [[Is this freedom?]]

The stairs spiral down into darkness. You can see by the light of a few sparse torches- but there is very little illumination left. (if: $hasTorch is true)[[(TORCH) Illuminate the cells]] [[Go forward without light]] (set: $beastHere to false)

You drink the filthy water. Why did this sound like a good idea? Predictably, you vomit your entire digestive tract out of your mouth and die instantly. Who could have seen this coming? This is not the path to freedom. You've ''DIED'' [[Return to start]]

Okay then. You look at the next set of stones. They're definitely still stones. How much detail do you want, man? [[More detail]] (set: $foundTile to true)

Dude. This is a bucket of probably feces crawling with bugs. If you get closer, you're gonna die from the smell alone. [[Reach in bare-handed]] [[Leave]]

(if: $hasSilverLocket is true)[This is the same water you just cleaned that necklace with. It's filthy now. Are you sure you want to drink this stuff?] (if: $hasSilverLocket is false)[You test the water with your hand. It's cold at least. You sense it will refresh you, but this is mysterious cave water we're talking about. You sure you want to just chug it?] (if: $hasSilverLocket is false)[[Yes. Drink]] (if: $hasSilverLocket is true)[[Don't care. I'm thirsty]] [[Leave]]

DEVELOPER MODE Enabled. [[Return to start]] (set: $devMode to true) (set: $altAccess to true) (set: $authorsBane to true) (set: $darkPact to true) (set: $ending1 to true) (set: $ending2 to true) (set: $ending3 to true) (set: $ending4 to true) (set: $ending5 to true) (set: $GotF to true) (set: $expBlock to false)

You slip inside the door. The air here is still and soft, hazy with incense that calms your senses. There are candles upon the altar and in shallow nooks along the wall. There are no benches or furniture save for a few display cases, and a chandelier attached to the ceiling sheds gentle light across the space. The entire roof is decorated in an old and faded mural of stories long-past. This place is safe and holy. [[Inspect the space]] [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

You open the door to the Guard Checkpoint. It's unlocked and the door bolt is broken. The inside is a single small room. There is a pegboard where keys would undoubtedly been stored- it's empty. There's a single chair with a logbook on the table. [[Read the logbook]] [[Return to main room]] (set: $guardCheckpoint to true)

You step into the adjoining room. It's another cell like yours, but smaller. There's a skeleton of bleached white bones lying in the corner, and a desk is on the other side. The torch's light is illuminating the entire room. Where to? (if: $seenBand is false)[[Inspect the skeleton]](if: $seenBand is true and $hasBand is false)[[Take the band]] [[Search the desk]] (if: $hasTorch is false)[[Get closer to the torch]] [[Leave]] (set: $room2 to true) (set: $room3 to false) (set: $room1 to false)

You descend the stairs. In the back of your mind, your patron sighs with contentment. You come at last to the portal to the outside world, and stand atop the small hillock overlooking the gargling brook once again. The town below remains, as before, and you sense in your bones a thrill of excitement. //"How long it's been... tell me... what horrors shall we savor first?"// This path was one of evil. You ''SURVIVED'' Ending: 'Servant of Evil (4)' Play again? [[Return to start]] (set: $ending4 to true)

This entry is written neatly. "Prisoner 1017 showing signs of illness. Admitted to Medical Ward, no diagnoses. Confined until further notice" Administration Key still missing after thorough search. 1023 remains prime suspect- no confirmation yet. No prisoners admitted. [[Entry 73]] [[Entry 99]] [[Entry 114]] [[Entry 115]] (if: $log73 and $log99 and $log113 and $log114 and $log115 is true)[[Close the Logbook]] (set: $log113 to true)

This entry is written in a shaky hand. "A beast was hiding among the prisoners. Complete lockdown of the prison. The Guard have driven the beast into the Interrogation Ward. A dozen men dead. The beast hates light. It changed with the full moon." [[Entry 73]] [[Entry 99]] [[Entry 113]] [[Entry 115]] (if: $log73 and $log99 and $log113 and $log114 and $log115 is true)[[Close the Logbook]] (set: $log114 to true)

This entry is scrawled across multiple margins. "Faith has abandoned us. They've locked us all inside. The beast killed the soldiers. Administration is completely locked down. This is a last testament. Pray for us, and may we have greater fortune in whatever comes next." [[Entry 73]] [[Entry 99]] [[Entry 113]] [[Entry 114]] (if: $log73 and $log99 and $log113 and $log114 and $log115 is true)[[Close the Logbook]] (set: $log115 to true)

This entry is written neatly and clearly. "8 New prisoners admitted. 1011 - Cell 102 1012 - Cell 102 1013 - Cell 102 1014 - Cell 102 1015 - Cell 103 1016 - Cell 103 1017 - Cell 103 1018 - Cell 103" [[Entry 99]] [[Entry 113]] [[Entry 114]] [[Entry 115]] (if: $log73 and $log99 and $log113 and $log114 and $log115 is true)[[Close the Logbook]] (set: $log73 to true)

This entry is written neatly and orderly. Notes lie in the margins. "Copy of Administration Key lost today. Suspected thievery by inmate- culprit not found. 4 New prisoners admitted" 1023 - Cell 104 1024 - Cell 104 1025 - Cell 207 1026 - Cell 208 Prisoner 1023 is a known thief. Prime suspect. [[Entry 73]] [[Entry 113]] [[Entry 114]] [[Entry 115]] (if: $log73 and $log99 and $log113 and $log114 and $log115 is true)[[Close the Logbook]] (set: $log99 to true)

''EQUIPMENT'': [[Return to INVENTORY]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[You have a ''SHARP STAKE''] (if: $hasSpike is true)[You have a ''METAL SPIKE''] (if: $hasTorch is true)[You have a ''TORCH''] (if: $hasBand is true)[(if: $bandKnown is true)[You have a ''BAND OF ARCANE'']] (if: $hasRing is true)[You have a ''BLOOD-RED RING''] (if: $hasUniform is true)[You have a ''GUARD UNIFORM''] (if: $hasShield is true)[You have an ''IRON ROUNDSHIELD''] (if: $hasBand is true)[(if: $bandKnown is true and $arcaneWisdom is false)[[(BAND OF ARCANE) Wear the Band]]] (if: $hasWeapon is true and $authorsBane is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Inspect the stake]] (if: $hasRing is true and $bloodHunger is false)[[(BLOOD-RED RING) Wear the ring]] (if: $hasUnform is true)[[(GUARD UNIFORM) Put on the uniform]]

(if: $endlessHunger is false)[You flee down the hall. Loud footsteps echo behind you. You spin around, and are face-to-face with a ''GUARD''- He's won't let you leave so easily! (if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERY VIAL) Throw the vial]](if: $hasSpike is true)[[(METAL SPIKE) Impale him]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Stand and fight!]] [[Run for it!]] [[Surrender]]] (if: $endlessHunger is true)[No. You cannot leave. There is something here that must still be consumed. [[Leave]]]

You get on your hands and knees and peer at every single stone individually. The entire floor is made of them. Some are half-cut stone, some are tiles in the center, and by God you see every single one of them. It takes you several hours. Your knees are scraped, your back hurts... But somehow, some way... one of the tiles has a seam. [[Lift the tile]]

You step back outside the cell. (if: $beastHere is false)[Where to now? (if: $cellsLeft is true)[ [[Search Cell 201]] [[Search Cell 202]] [[Search Cell 203]] [[Search Cell 204]] [[Go forward]]](if: $cellsRight is true)[ [[Search Cell 205]] [[Search Cell 206]] [[Search Cell 207]] [[Search Cell 208]] [[Go forward]]](if: $cellsDown is true)[ [[Search Cell 101]] [[Search Cell 102]] [[Search Cell 103]] [[Search Cell 104]] [[Explore the room]]] [[Retreat back toward Annex]]](if: $beastHere is true)[You hear a soft, slow rhythm. What is that sound? [[Brandish the light]] [[Run!]]]

You step through the barred doorway into the hall beyond. There are no guards. No footsteps. And no escape. You're deeper into this place than ever before... and you're going to have to work a lot harder to escape this place. [[So be it]] (set: $annex to true)

You walk a lap around the broad lower level with your torch held high. The illuminated space is clear except for broad and snaking trails of blood that all converge in the mawed doorway that leads further below. The metal walkways above that lead to the upper eight cells groan softly. You see another door at the far end opposite the path lower into the prison. Beside the door is a plaque that reads'' CHECKPOINT STATION''. [[Enter the Guard Checkpoint]] [[Follow the blood]]

The statue's grin splits its face open at the seams. //"I have long lingered in this abyss beyond the world. This is my lair, and within I am Sovereign... but I tire of this place." "I will allow you to leave through a passage known only to me. It will deposit you safely beyond the confines of this wretched place, safe in body and in mind. In exchange... I wish only a single thing." "To place my ''MARK'' upon you. It will be quick... and no ill effects shall befall you."// [[What's the catch?]] [[Mark your flesh]]

You turn to run and your legs root themselves with iron rods of force through your skin. //"Dear me, the first conversation I've had in a hundred years, and I have an ill-mannered partner. It's... ''unpleasant''."// You feel your bones twist in your body. Your brain fluctuates, a threat. This entity will kill you if you displease it further. [[I apologize. You frightened me]] [[Turn and run!]]

Path not completed. Use prompt below to continue your journey. [[Return to main room]]

(if: $hasCheckedBucket is false)[ You inch closer to the bucket. It's filled with a fluid that reeks terribly. There are small bugs within.] (if: $hasCheckedBucket is true)[You've already searched this bucket. There's no way you're going back in there again.] (if: $hasCheckedBucket is false)[[Search the bucket]] [[Inspect the moss]] [[Leave]]

You look closely at the wall-mounted torch. It's sturdily-built, to be sure. The wall bracket is rusted iron, bolted into the bricks. You're definitely not getting it out of there so easily. (if: $hasSpike is true)[[(METAL SPIKE) Leverage the bolts off the wall]] (if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERIOUS VIAL) Pour the vial on the bracket]] [[Back]]

You take a moment to gather yourself. You're in good health, if a little hungry. You have only your clothes and shoes, it's cold but not enough to pose an issue yet. The room is built of stone blocks; it's only barely bright enough to see, but there is a door at the far end and a bucket in the corner. A small chair is seated opposite the door; it's vacant. Nothing else stands out. [[Go to the door]] [[Investigate the chair]] [[Check the corner]] (if: $altAccess is true)[[Search the room]] (if: $darkPact is true)[(set: $pactCheck to false)] (if: $altAccess is true)[(set: $run1 to false)]

My God. You pick the tall, pale mushroom cap studded with eyeballs. They follow you curiously as you lift the fungus to your mouth and take a bite. It tastes..? It's a little difficult to describe. Maybe like oranges and liver? You feel a pain in your forehead. [[What's happening?]]

You come to another descending staircase. The echoing from below tells you this is the way to the bottom floor of the cell block. You descend the stone stairs in a tight spiral that puts you out into another space. Your feet //tap-tap// on the hard stone and above the metal platforms creak softly. The cells are much larger here, and the room is far more open without the cramped walkways. [[Search Cell 101]] [[Search Cell 102]] [[Search Cell 103]] [[Search Cell 104]] [[Explore the room]] [[Return upstairs]] (set: $cellsDown to true) (set: $cellsRight to false) (set: $cellsLeft to false)

You stumble a few steps before you happen across an unlit torch. You can just barely make out two separate ranks of cells. There's an abyss in front of you beyond a railing... you can't possibly see the bottom. Continuing in this darkness may spell your end. You must find light to explore further. (if: $hasTinder is true)[[(TINDERBOX) Light the torch]] [[Retreat back toward Annex]]

You walk up to the Chapel's Altar. There is a stone relief of a maiden holding aloft a blade. Around her head dance angels and at her feet are vanquished demons. Her stoic, brave face sets your mind at ease. [[Offer a prayer]] [[Close]]

You begin your trek toward the Chapel. The hallway goes on for a short duration further. The atmosphere here is calm and quiet. [[Continue to Chapel]] [[Return to Annex]]

The hallway is dim. There are heavy metal bars from the floor to the ceiling that are bent outward so far three people could walk through together. The door is nowhere to be seen. The atmosphere here is chilling. [[Continue to Corridors]] [[Return to Annex]]

You head to the heavy door set into the Annex wall. Above it is a plaque that reads ''"Administrative Block"'' The door is built so sturdily into the wall you're sure an explosion wouldn't dislodge it. [[Open the door]] [[Close]]

You call out a tentative greeting. Your arm is flickering with fiery pain. The statue's form is pensive. [[Are you listening?]] [[Retreat]]

"He was cursed. Upon the full moon... he changed." "We Priests tried to invervene and lift his curse, but it did little and less, and I fear my compatriots and I may have made things even worse." "The man is gone. He is a beast... permanently. The monster has made the Lower Cells its hunting grounds." "If you must go there, please... take care." (if: $adminQ is false)[[Why is the Administrative Block sealed?]] (if: $historyQ is false)[[What happened here?]] [[I must take my leave]] (set: $cellsQ to true)

You leave the Shrine behind. Your body is changing. //You// are changing. Your bones, your hands, your legs... everything is shifting into something new. Something greater. The door is open for you. You descend the stairs with rabid speed, chest heaving as a faraway scent drags you onward mindlessly. The corridor ends at a familiar hillock. Below, a village swarms with smells, some sweet, some savory. And every single one makes your mouth water. This was a path of hunger. You ''SURVIVED'' Ending: 'The Feast Begins (5)' Play again? [[Return to start]] (set: $ending5 to true)

The statue's grin splits its face open at the seams. //"I have long lingered in this abyss beyond the world. This is my lair, and within I am Sovereign... but I tire of this place." "I will allow you to leave this place through a passage known only to me. It will deposit you safely beyond the confines of this wretched place, safe in body and in mind. In exchange... I wish only a single thing." "To place my ''MARK'' upon you. It will be quick... and no ill effects shall befall you."// [[What's the catch?]] [[Mark your flesh]]

The abyssal beast descends from its pedestal, claws scraping the stone as it stands over you. //"A bargain well-struck. I am proud of you, my child."// Its long neck cranes as the splintering chasm of its mouth splits apart. //"Now... do what must be done."// [[Remove your eye]] (if: $bloodHunger is true)[[Consume the Sovereign]]

The statue before you shifts to amusement. "Frighten? Perhaps. But I do not wish to frighten you, child. Only to speak once again. Will you answer me now... little one? To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" The stony visage is placid. [[I must escape this place]] [[I cannot say]]

Ghosts. You can see ghosts. You're also pretty sure that one of those four was deadly, but another one of them was a cure-all which counteracted one another perfectly at the same time. Convenient! Gained the status ''GRAVESIGHT''! [[Whew! What a rush!]] (set: $blueShroom to false) (set: $pinkShroom to false) (set: $greenShroom to false) (set: $eyesShroom to false) (set: $shroomPatch to false) (set: $hasGravesight to true)

No. You can't. A paralytic seeps into your body from the fresh wound upon your shoulder and you can already feel your control fading. You're staring into the brutalized face of a wolven beast and barely gasp out a word before it lifts up a human-like clawed arm and drives it through your stomach. This is not the path to freedom. ''You Died''! [[Return to start]]

The statue is once again amused. //"A mystery. How... unsatisfactory. Tell me, child, what do you think your secrecy will buy from me? Here in this place I am Sovereign. My word is rule and my reach is unending.."// [[Then help me escape]] [[I must keep my secrets]]

You crouch down to enter the grate. It's a tight fit. Your arms are pressed tight against your torso. The air is still, and as you begin to crawl forward it feels like the walls are pressing closer with each inch you travel. Just as your breath begins to catch, you feel the tunnel's edge with your fingers and you extricate yourself from the tight corridor. [[Peer into the room beyond]] (if: $hasTorch is true)[[(TORCH) Light up the darkness]] (set: $enteredShrine to true)

You step back. Probably a wise decision- the blackness beyond the grate somehow seems... //wrong//. Now what? [[Investigate the chair]] [[Leave]]

"Indeed?" "Well, I wish that I could help further, but..." "I have no knowledge of your arrival. Perhaps this is a sign? Of change, or of salvation..?" The Priest's form clasps its hands before himself. "Lord Willing..." [[What do you mean?]]

You haven't moved in so long that your stomach hardly hurts anymore. You have to do something. [[Call out for help]] [[No. This is where I die]]

You speak a few words before you realize your mouth is full of spiders. Your blood seeps from your eyes and you collapse into a twisted heap, writhing before the statue with its fangs bared and a twisted, gnarled head climbing on a long-necked beast from its pedestal. The entity looks down upon you and your mind erupts from your skull. This is not the path to freedom. You ''DIED''! [[Return to start]]

The Ghost nods. "Very well. What would you like to know" (if: $adminQ is false)[[Why is the Administrative Block sealed?]](if: $routesQ is true)[[Where do I even start?]] (if: $cellsQ is false)[[Why are there warnings about the Lower Cells?]] (if: $historyQ is false)[[What happened here?]] [[I must take my leave]]

The statue is split apart into a maw of teeth and eyes. Spittle drips from the gaping jaw, and wings blacker than the night canopy over your head. The Sovereign towers over you. //"My intrepid partner, you return to me... as I had hoped. Are you ready now, for what must be done?"// [[I am ready]] [[I need more time]]

The Priest nods in understanding. "As true a goal as any of us may hope for." "This Chapel may be a safe haven for you, no matter what happens. The Path to Freedom will not be an easy one" "Please... if I can help you further, simply ask." [[I have questions...]] [[I must take my leave]]

You scrape the solid lumps at the bottom of the bucket. Your fingers close around something metal. You gained a ''FILTHY LOCKET'' I hope this was worth it. (if: $authorsBane is true)[[Search even further!]] [[Leave]] (set: $hasFilthyLocket to true) (set: $hasCheckedBucket to true) (set: $hasCloth to false)

The statue contorts into a broad grin. //"You must escape from the bowels of this accursed place, yes... must fly freely again upon the surface. As any bird must."// //"To that end I have a deal to offer you. A ''bargain''."// [[I am listening]] [[I seek no bargain]]

The iron rods remove themselves from your soul. The entity is pleased. //"A heart of steel. Admirable. You have awarded me the gift of conversation, child, after so many years down in this silent darkness. For that... you may leave with my blessing."// Your eyes are dragged down to the dagger with unknown power. It's echoing through the air like a distant cry. //"A gift, for a pleasant conversation."// [[Accept the knife]] [[Refuse the knife]]

The ghostly form gives a silent blessing with his hands. "May the Lord keep you." He returns to his candle-lit repose, silent and still. [[Go to the Altar]] [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

There's nobody coming. You have to get up. [[Get your bearings]] [[No. This is where I die]]

The statue's dissatisfaction is plain. It folds its ebony wings and rests. //"Very well, my friend. But do not keep me waiting long."// [[Retreat]]

The statue is amused. Its form is growing every time you blink. //"No bargain? Shame. I cannot help but express my disappointment, child. But tell me- how do you plan to escape without my help? The ''VIAL'' is gone. The ''KEY'' is lost to you." "You will go nowhere unless I allow it."// (if: $arcaneWisdom is true)[[I will complete the Wizard's Portal]] [[Fine. I will listen]] [[I'll take my chances]] [[Turn and run!]]

Your stomach churns. You are not yet satiated. You must fulfill this endless craving. You cannot escape yet. [[Leave]] (set: $endlessHunger to true)

You wanna search the rocks? Fine. But I'm gonna come up with like, a million more ways to kill you now. Seriously. You just unlocked a ton of new deaths for this. Exclusive to this dialogue option. Because I hate you. Still want to search every rock? [[Every. Single. One.]] [[Leave]] (set: $authorsBane to true)

A grating sound emanates from every corner of your mind. The entity is laughing. //"Ah, so that fool never completed his works, did he? True, you could indeed make an escape using what he has left behind." // The statue is satisfied. //"Very well. Return to me in a different life, little one. Perhaps then we may find common cause. Enjoy your freedom, while it lasts..."// [[I have further questions]] [[Retreat]] (set: $dealRefused to true)

The statue is unimpressed. //"I am certain you will. To what end..? Who can say?" "Return to me in another life, little one. Perhaps then you will be more... ''agreeable''."// The stone visage is formless once more. Your mind is silent. [[I have further questions]] [[Retreat]] (set: $dealRefused to true)

What? Why? You know what- go for it. I want to see if your luck runs out. (if: $pinkShroom is true)[[Polka-dots are my jam]] (if: $greenShroom is true)[[Angry and green, baby!]] (if: $blueShroom is true)[[Blue looks yummy]]

Actually? You're not joking or anything? You //really// want to do this right now? [[Yeah man I'm hungry]] [[Okay I won't eat them]]

You take a deep breath. You feel the forest loam beneath your fingers, the crunch of leaves on the ground. Far above, the night sky is smiling down on you. You may not know where you are... but you are free. This was the correct path. You ''SURVIVED'' Ending: 'Arcane Completion (2)' Play again? [[Return to start]] (set: $ending2 to true)

Are you serious? This room is easily 15x15 meters. That's a lot of flooring. It will take you literally forever. [[Every. Single. One.]] [[Okay fine I'll stop]]

You get even closer to the pile of human bones. Upon closer examination, you see that this particular corpse must have had a fondness for accessories. There's a band on its arm studded with blue gems. [[Take the band]] [[Back]] (set: $seenBand to true)

You prod through the piles of cloth. They're bedsheets, stacked high in a hoarding mountain. They smell of musty air and stale, damp stones. Also, they are nowhere near clean. Digging through far enough you feel a rough shape beneath another layer. You pull up the last sheet to unveil a golden cylinder. Gained a ''BRASS PUZZLE KEY''! [[Exit the cell]] (set: $hasPuzzleKey to true) (set: $searched203 to true)

You walk to the framed paper. It's a map! Gained a ''Prison Map''! According to the page, you're currently in the ''Annex''. From your quick scan, you see three points of interest: ''Chapel -> <- Prison Corridor Warden's Office'' [[Close]]

You kneel down beside the chest and test the steel padlock. Yup. Super locked. Really, really locked. (if: $hasIronKey is true)[[(IRON KEY) Unlock the Chest] (if: $hasUniform is false[[Search the boxes]] (if: $hasHammer is false or $hasTinder is false)[[Check the shelves]] [[Close]]

You peer into the mossy corner. (if: $poolEmpty is true)[The pool is empty. You drank it, remember?](if: $poolEmpty is false)[There's a small pool of water in the stones.] (if: $poolFilthy is true)[The water is filthy now] (if: $poolEmpty is false)[[Drink]] (if: $hasFilthyLocket is true and $poolEmpty is false)[[Clean the FILTHY LOCKET]] [[Leave]]

(if: $shroomPatch is true)[You crouch down beside one of the planters. It's full of mushrooms, some spotted and colorful, some plain grays. You can see four varieties of them, but you have no idea if they're safe or useful. [[I'm eating one]]](if: $shroomPatch is false)[You return to the site of the mushroom massacre. You ate them all. Every. Single. One of them. You fungi murderer.] [[Close]]

You crouch down beside the skeleton. It's so old that its flesh and sinew are long gone. Pale yellow-white bones are illuminated eerily by the torchlight. There's something in the skeleton's hand. [[Open the hand]] [[Back]]

You walk a slow lap around the Chapel. It is no larger than your own Cell, and not half the height of the Annex. The display cases house books, yellowed but well-kept, and nothing stands out. The cases are unlocked. The incense calms your spirit. (if: $hasGravesight is true)[You see a hazy figure praying at one of the candle-lit nooks. [[Speak with the Ghost]]] [[Go to the Altar]]

You peek into the side room and slowly open the door on crying hinges. It's a storage room. Maybe you can find supplies here- [[Search the supply room]] [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

(if: $hasCheckedChair is false)[You go to the chair. It's a plain wooden stool, barely able to stand.] (if: $hasCheckedChair is true)[The chair is splintered to pieces. You broke it, remember?] (if: $hasCheckedChair is false)[[Sit on the chair]] (if: $hasSeenGrate is false and $altAccess is true)[[Look around]] [[Leave]]

You peer closely at the stones of the floor. They're stones. Cold ones, too. What do you think you'll find, again? [[Don't know. But I'm still looking]] [[Leave]]

You run your hand over the mortar between the stones, investigating as closely as you can. The walls are solid, yes, but as you continue your lap around the room the softest breeze can be felt at the edge of your fingers. There's a draft from a crack between the stones. Something is behind this wall. [[Test the wall]] [[Leave]]

You walk down the final corridor into a pink-hued sunset. The sun is falling over the mountains. Behind you the door has vanished without trace. You stand atop a small hill far above a gargling brook. Far below, a village is nested in stony arms... if you make good time, you will reach it before nightfall. The ''MARK'' has faded to nothing. In only a few moments, you forget that it was ever there. This was the correct path. You ''SURVIVED'' Ending: 'The Dark Path (3)' Play again? [[Return to start]] (set: $ending3 to true)

''ITEMS'': [[Return to INVENTORY]] (if: $hasCloth is true)[You have a ''STRIP OF CLOTH''](if: $hasFilthyLocket is true)[You have a ''FILTHY LOCKET''](if: $hasSilverLocket is true)[You have a ''SILVER LOCKET''](if: $hasVial is true)[You have a ''MYSTERY VIAL''] (if: $hasOtherBag is true)[You have a ''WORN BAG''](if: $hasCameo is true)[You have a ''DARK CAMEO''] (if: $hasBand is true and $bandKnown is false)[You have an ''UNKNOWN BAND''] (if: $hasChalk is true)[You have a stub of ''CHALK''] (if: $hasBag is true)[You have a ''SMALL BAG''] (if: $hasTinder is true)[You have ''TINDERBOXES''] (if: $hasFigure is true)[You have a small ''CARVED FIGURINE''] (if: $hasSilverLocket is true)[[(SILVER LOCKET) Open the Locket]](if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERY VIAL) Drink the vial]] (if: $hasBag is true)[[(SMALL BAG) Open the bag]] (if: $hasOtherBag is true)[[(WORN BAG) Open the bag]] (if: $hasFigure is true)[[(SMALL FIGURINE) Inspect the Figurine]]

You sprint through the labyrinthine pillars of brick. Behind you snarling can be heard. A scrape rips apart a pillar beside you and you are struck with inhuman force. Your body tumbles through the air and strikes another red pillar. Your arm is broken. Your leg is shattered. And the beast is staring directly at you. Your eyes are darkening as a powerful paralytic seeps into your system. [[What is that thing?!]]

You don't give up so easily. Your fingers close around a sharp piece of the remains of your beloved chair. It'll serve fine as a weapon in a pinch. You gained a ''SHARP STAKE'' [[Leave]] (set: $hasWeapon to true) (set: $hasCheckedChair to true)

''KEYS'': [[Return to INVENTORY]] (if: $hasKey is true)[You have a ''KEY''] (if: $hasSmallKey is true)[You have a ''SMALL KEY''] (if: $hasPuzzleKey is true)[You have a ''BRASS PUZZLE KEY''] (if: $hasIronKey is true)[You have an ''IRON KEY''] (if: $hasAdminKey is true)[You have an ''ADMINISTRATION KEY''] (if: $courtyardKey is true)[You have a ''COURTYARD KEY'']

You return to the center of the room. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? (if: $annex is false)[[Go to the door]](if: $annex is true)[[Return to Annex]] [[Investigate the chair]] [[Check the corner]] (if: $altAccess is true)[(if: $foundWall is false or $foundTile is false)[[Search the room]] (if: $hasSeenGrate is true and $enteredShrine is false)[[Return to grate]](if: $enteredShrine is true)[[Crawl back through the grate]] (if: $foundWall is true and $altRoom is false)[[Return to suspicious wall]] (if: $altRoom is true)[[Enter the adjoining room]] (if: $foundTile is true and $searchedFloor is false)[[Back to searching the floor]]] (if: $sigilReady is true and $portalOpen is false)[[Create the Teleportation Sigil]](if: $portalOpen is true)[[Use the Portal]] (set: $room1 to true) (set: $room2 to false) (set: $room3 to false)

You walk down the corridor towards the light. Sunlight hits your face and you take in the sight of the outdoors once again. Trees whistle with the wind, and you take a deep breath. This was the correct path. You ''SURVIVED'' Ending: 'Path to Freedom (1)' Play again? [[Return to start]] (set: $altAccess to true) (set: $ending1 to true)

You dig your fingers into the tiny seam and leverage the tile upright. It hurts, and your fingers are sore, but you manage to pick up the tile and shift it to the side. Underneath, there's a small hollow dug into the greater stone below. A small bag, no larger than your hand, rests inside. You got a ''SMALL BAG'' [[Leave]] (set: $hasBag to true) (set: $searchedFloor to true)

You peer behind the chair. This section of the wall is less lit than much of the rest of the room. Your eyes struggle to catch any clear sign- There's a glint in the dark. A metal grate is built into the wall, just big enough that you may be able to slip through if it were open. (if: $hungerCheck is true)[(if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERIOUS VIAL) Pour the vial on the grate]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Try to pry the grate open]] [[Test the grate]]] (if: $bloodHunger is true)[[Tear the bars apart]] (set: $hasSeenGrate to true)

You lift up the wrap and a glint of metal catches your eye for the briefest second. You overturn the cloth and a gilded key falls into your hand. You gained the ''Administration Key''! Behind you a rasping scrape draws across the stone. [[Exit the cell]] [[Stay completely still]] (set: $beastHere to true) (set: $hasAdminKey to true)

You hold the knife firmly in your hand. The statue is drooling. Its teeth are eyes. You place the tip of the blade against the meat of your palm and the symbol draws itself, your hand compelled in gentle but unbalanced form. When the knife is pulled away, the entity's mark has been engraved into your flesh. It told the truth... there was little pain at all. You gained the status ''MARKED''! [[Return the knife]] (set: $darkPact to true) (set: $hasMark to true)

They're stones. Rocks. The floor is made of tiles and flat-cut rocks. They could be granite? I don't know, I'm not a Geologist or an Interior Designer. I cannot spell this out any clearer if I tried. Are we done yet? [[I'm searching every single one of them]]

You waste away in silence and solitude. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

The Priest bows his head. He is understanding. "Maybe so. A foolish hope- but hope nonetheless." "Please... if I can help you further, simply ask." [[I have questions...]] [[I must take my leave]]

''NOTES'': [[Return to INVENTORY]] (if: $hasNotebook is true) [You have a ''WORN NOTEBOOK''] (if: $hasDiagram is true) [You have a'' SIGIL DIAGRAM''] (if: $hasNotebook is true and $bandKnown is false)[[(WORN NOTEBOOK) Read notes]] (if: $arcaneWisdom is true and $hasDiagram is true and $sigilReady is false)[[Prepare Sigil]]

You put your hands together and bow your head. You don't know the words. Your chest swells with comforting heat. Above, the maiden's sword looks to defend you from all evils. [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

I can't believe I'm having to talk you down from stuff like this, but I'm glad you saw reason for once. Please don't make me have this conversation with you again. [[Close]]

Thank you. I'm so glad I don't have to describe all of that to you. You're a real lifesaver. Now let's go focus on something actually important... [[Leave]] [[I was joking. I'm still searching them]]

You kneel down beside the chest and lift open its dust-covered lid. Inside is a set of jars that contain some kind of blackened liquid. You won't touch them. Tucked beside them is a slip of parchment paper. [[Read the paper]] [[Retreat]]

You attempt to turn the door handle. It won't budge. Through the netted glass you see a written note. It reads: //"Key lost in lower cells. Do not retrieve. It will hear you."// (if: $hasAdminKey is true)[[Unlock the Administrative Block]] [[Close]]

You move the pale fingers of the skeleton's hand. Within its ancient clutch is what looks to be a small key. This one likely doesn't go to a door... Gained a'' SMALL KEY''! (if: $deskFound is false)[But where?](if: $deskFound is true)[Maybe to the desk?] [[Inspect the bones further]] (set: $hasSmallKey to true)

You squint your eyes and search the darkness with your gaze. Yeah. Its real dark, man. Pitch black. I can't describe it any other way. Just... utterly black in every direction except the way you came. Maybe finding a light source would be a good idea? [[Press onward]] [[Leave]]

You reach down in the blackness and grasp the unknown object. It's cold to the touch, and damp from condensation. Whatever it is, it seems to be made of solid metal, and it's quite heavy. As you run your fingers over it, you don't notice any futher details. It's a solid piece of metal, narrowed to a point. You gained a ''METAL SPIKE''! The room is still far too dark to continue exploring... [[Leave]] (set: $hasSpike to true)

You pick the polka-dot mushroom. It smells like cotton candy. You shove the whole thing in your mouth and chew. It's delicious. You cry tears of joy and elation at the delectable flavor before you. Unfortunately, you're crying blood. [[That's not normal]]

You compare notes between the ''NOTEBOOK'' and ''DIAGRAMS''. You measure the distances, chart courses through the tides of magical energy, and determine the necessary vectors. The entire time, the ''BAND'' on your arm humms and provides the necessary information to keep going. You have everything you need. (if: $room2 is true)[The last step is to go somewhere with more space. The main room should work.] [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $sigilReady to true)

Okay, I guess. You step out of the tunnel and into the void beyond. The air is colder here, and there's a presence in the air that you can feel on your skin. You feel around in the darkness, but nothing can really be seen except a narrow sliver of light from where you came. That tiny sliver falls over a piece of barren stone... but you can't see any other details. You can't go further without light. Your foot bumps something on the ground and it scrapes loudly on the rough stone floor. [[Pick up the object]]

You put your fingers around the edge of the grate and pull. Unbelievably... there's no resistance at all! You pull with such force that the grate flies out of its place and falls onto you, crushing your lungs. You suffocate over the next hour as your lungs fill with blood and your breaths become more laboured by the second. Pissing off the Author is DEFINITELY not the path to freedom. You ''DIED'' [[Return to start]]

Genius! You pull at the stones with your full strength. Just like you thought... they can move. The stones collapse towards you, smothering you completely in mortar dust and heavy rubble. With a painful //snap!// your foot is shattered by a block. You're trapped. If only you could //push// the blocks off of yourself... but you have no idea how! You only know how to //pull//, and that won't save you. You die of dehydration under the rubble after excruciating days. Pissing off the Author is DEFINITELY not the path to freedom. You ''DIED'' [[Return to start]]

Your free fist connects with the bleached skull. To you credit, your fist shatters the skeleton's orbital socket with a fairly strong blow. The skeleton doesn't care whatsoever. It drives its fingers into your stomach and clean out the other side. You collapse into a pool of your own blood. The glowing gems on its arm almost seem to laugh at you. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You push the stones with all your might. They give way and fall forwards into the space beyond. Light shines through in interrupted splashes as the wall collapses with a loud clatter. There's a room connected to this one- not quite as large, but well-lit by a tall, guttering torch in a wall sconce. [[Enter the adjoining room]] [[Leave]] (set: $altRoom to true)

You plunge your entire arm into this bucket. Your stomach lurches and you begin vomiting uncontrollably all over the place. On the floor, on your shirt, on the ceiling- it's like a firehose. Somewhere along the way you vomit out your own organs. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You open the dust-covered logbook. A quill sits beside a spilled inkwell. The book is filled with entries. [[Entry 73]] [[Entry 99]] [[Entry 113]] [[Entry 114]] [[Entry 115]] [[Return to main room]]

You unfurl the slip of paper. It's dotted with ancient brown blood. //"If it speaks, listen." "If it asks, answer." "Tell no whole truths." "Be courteous but firm." "Accept nothing. Agree to nothing." "It is not your friend."// //"Do. Not. Run."// [[Search the Shrine]] [[Retreat]]

You glance over the short note. "Claws below. Eyes above. Curse this place and everyone in it. I'm done." These are the final words of the bones lying beside you. [[Exit the cell]] (set: $prisonerNote to true)

You refuse the blade. The statue is snarling. //"Ah... is that it? Do you think yourself too good for me?" // Your skull feels like it is cracking. Splitting like a rotten pumpkin and spilling you all over the floor. //"You awaken me... you seek me... and you refute me at every turn."// The hold ceases as quickly as it began. //"Now begone. If you return, child... I will sleep within your craven skin."// [[Retreat]] [[I have further questions]] (set: $dealRefused to true)

You don't move a muscle. Your stomach aching. You're starving. You need to get up. [[Call out for help]] [[Get your bearings]] [[I don't want to move]]

You dare not move, even as this unknown creature slips through the broad door of the cell and the rhythmic padding comes to a stop. You must not move. Maybe then, you will live. A growl that sounds strangely like a human chuckle leaves the throat of this beast. A sharp slash finds your shoulder and you stumble forward. The torch falls from your hands and you come face-to-face with black and scarred eyes. [[I can still run!]]

You take the band from the animated arm. The bones fall away lifelessly and crumble to nothingness. Evidently, this armband was the source of the animation. You gained ''UNKNOWN BAND''! [[Back]] (set: $hasBand to true)

You take up the misty-silver knife and slide the point into your eye. The carving is easier than breathing and your vision halves as the severed eye falls into the half-moon basin before you. The Sovereign wraps its claws about your face and lifts you in its crooked arms. //"My child. I will accompany you always... and together we shall leave this wretched place behind."// The Sovereign dips its finger into your empty socket and erupts into an inky void that fills your wound like water. You blink your returned eye as if nothing had ever happened. The door at the end of the room has opened. The darkness beckons. [[Enter the void]]

Resetting progress will lock all alternate paths until next play session. (Doing this also disables DEV MODE) You will need to acquire 'Path to Freedom (1)' again in order to access alternate paths. Are you sure you want to reset? [[Yes. Reset]] [[Return to start]]

You retreat back towards the tunnel. The feeling of creeping danger subsides, if only for a moment. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where next? (if: $smallDoorOpen is true)[[Descend]](if: $smallDoorOpen is false)[[Try the door]] (if: $seenShrine is true)[[Return to the Shrine]](if: $seenShrine is false)[[Walk down the corridor]] (if: $hasMark is false)[[Leave]](if: $hasMark is true)[[Attempt to leave]]

You turn on your heels and rush back to the stairs. Every shadow is a threat of your imagination. You sprint up the steps towards the light. There are muted noises behind you, but you're unsure if it was your own echo. You arrive safely in the upper hallway. [[Return to Annex]] [[Descend the stairs]]

You set the knife down on the Shrine altar. A drop of the statue's salivating dribble touches your palm and your arm shoots with a strange sensation. //"To a friendship forged, my intrepid partner. Enjoy your freedom... ...I will see you again, in the next life."// The statue goes silent. [[Retreat]]

You return to the Annex's center. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? (if: $adminUnlocked is false)[[Go to the Warden's Office]](if: $adminUnlocked is true)[[Enter the Administrative Areas]] [[Go to the Chapel]] [[Go to the Lower Prison Corridors]] [[Return to your Cell]]

''INVENTORY:'' [[Close INVENTORY]] [[Equipment]] [[Keys]] [[Items]] [[Notes]]

You return to the metal grate. (if: $openedGrate is false)[It's deeply embedded in the wall. You can't see anything through the bars. No air is coming from beyond. (if: $hungerCheck is true)[(if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERIOUS VIAL) Pour the vial on the grate]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Try to pry the grate open]] [[Test the grate]]] (if: $bloodHunger is true)[[Tear the bars apart]]] (if: $openedGrate is true)[It's wide open. There's no draft from the yawning black hole. Do you dare enter yet? [[I dare]] [[I do not dare]]]

You're back on the bottom floor of the lower cells. [[Search Cell 101]] [[Search Cell 102]] [[Search Cell 103]] [[Search Cell 104]] (if: $guardCheckpoint is false)[[Explore the room]](if: $guardCheckpoint is true)[[Enter the Guard Checkpoint]] [[Follow the blood]] [[Return upstairs]] (set: $cellsDown to true) (set: $cellsRight to false) (set: $cellsLeft to false)

(align:"===><==")[//''The Escape''//] (if: $altAccess is true)[*Alternative Paths Unlocked*] (if: $authorsBane is true)[*The Author is upset with you*] (if: $darkPact is true)[*A sinister deal opens new doors*] (align:"===><==")[[Start Game]](if: $altAccess is true)[(align:"===><==")[[Unlocks]]](align:"===><==")[[Reset Game]](align:"===><==")[[(DEV) Initiate Dev Mode]](align:"===><==")[[About]]

You return to the wall. The stones here aren't adhered to one another like the rest of the structure. You think that with a little force, they might move... (if: $authorsBane is true)[[Pull the weak stones]] [[Push the weak stones]] [[Leave]]

(if: $dealRefused is false)[You return to the Shrine. The statue stares uncaringly through your soul. Your whole body is tingling with fear. (if: $hasCameo is true)[[(DARK CAMEO) Speak to the Statue]] [[Search the Shrine]] [[Open the Chest]]] (if: $dealRefused is true)[You cannot return to the formless statue above that abhorrent Shrine. If you do, you're certain that you will die.] [[Retreat]]

You walk back to the entrance to your Cell. Maybe there are still some valuable items here? [[Check INVENTORY]] (if: $annex is false)[[Go to the door]](if: $annex is true)[[Return to Annex]] [[Investigate the chair]] [[Check the corner]] (if: $altAccess is true)[(if: $foundWall is false or $foundTile is false)[[Search the room]] (if: $hasSeenGrate is true and $enteredShrine is false)[[Return to grate]](if: $enteredShrine is true)[[Crawl back through the grate]] (if: $foundWall is true and $altRoom is false)[[Return to suspicious wall]] (if: $altRoom is true)[[Enter the adjoining room]] (if: $foundTile is true and $searchedFloor is false)[[Back to searching the floor]]] (if: $sigilReady is true and $portalOpen is false)[[Create the Teleportation Sigil]](if: $portalOpen is true)[[Use the Portal]] (set: $room1 to true) (set: $room2 to false) (set: $room3 to false)

You rush toward the awning maw leading deeper into the dungeon. The stairs are broad and shallow, and make running terribly difficult. Behind you the rhythmic padding of what is undoubtedly footfalls creeps closer. You spill out into a broad area below, with low ceilings supported by arches of red brick. You don't know where you are, or where to go. [[Just keep running!]]

You run as fast as you can. Footsteps gain on you, thumping faster and faster. He's right behind you! You try as hard as you can, but you're hungry and exhausted, and the GUARD catches up to you. His club swings down at your head. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You launch yourself up the stairs. A ravenous snarl rips through the silence and sparks grate from the stones just behind you. You spill out onto the upper level. There's a crash of weight and a black shape collides with the hanging platform ahead of you. A blood-chilling sound emanates from the creature's fanged maw. (if: $found201 is true)[[Rush to Cell 201]] (if: $found206 is true)[[Rush to Cell 206]] [[Sprint for the Annex]]

You take off as fast as your feet can carry you. Your heart pounds. Behind you, the scraping draws closer. One wrong move and you're dead. [[Run upstairs]] [[Run deeper below]]

You dive into the cell and seal the door. The beast, wolven in shape, crashes into the bars and rips at the bars with claws like swords. It's a massive beast, twice the size of a grown man, and as its jaws clamp down on the metal the entire frame shakes before the beast abates and skulks away from the cell's bars. The door has held. The wolven beast strikes fear in the core of your soul with a howl that reverberates off of every stone in this hellish gaol, far in the distance. It has gone. [[Unseal the door]] (set: $beastHere to false)

You bolt the door firmly shut and step back from the bars. [[Unseal the door]]

You swing open the door to the broad group cell. It's barren, with old cots on the floor and a few discarded bowls. There's nothing else in sight. (if: $hasFigure is false)[[Search thoroughly]] [[Exit the cell]]

Cell 102 is a bloody ruin. No corpses remain, but striped trails of blood have been dragged forth from the mangled frame of the door and converge down the far staircase to whatever abyssal levels lay below this prison. Your body shudders. [[Exit the cell]]

Cell 103 has been torn open from the inside and splattered with gore. Nothing is within sight. The blood leads to a blackened stain in the cell's center. A convergence that was undoubtedly made by a pile of now-removed bodies. [[Exit the cell]]

You enter Cell 104. (if: $searched104 is true)[You've already searched this cell](if: $searched104 is false)[In the corner there's a heavy iron lockbox. (if: $hasIronKey is false)[You try the lock. It won't open- the box is bolted to the cell floor.] (if: $hasIronKey is true)[[(IRON KEY) Unlock the Lockbox]]] [[Exit the cell]]

Cell 201 opens without protest and you step inside. There's a skeleton against the wall, and a splash of old blood across a sparse cot. There doesn't seem to be anything here, but it's safe and empty. The door is solid and uncompromised. [[Seal the door]] [[Exit the cell]] (set: $found201 to true)

You reach for the handle to cell 202 and notice a heavy chain looping through the bars. Within, you can faintly see a glimmering metal shape. There's no way you're getting through this. [[Search Cell 201]] [[Search Cell 203]] [[Search Cell 204]] [[Go forward]]

You step into Cell 203's already open door. A quick inspection of the door tells you that it's bolt has been broken and it cannot be sealed. (if: $searched203 is true)[You've already searched this cell.](if: $searched203 is false)[The cot is covered in piles of cloth. [[Inspect the cloth piles]]] [[Exit the cell]]

(if: $searched204 is false)[You try to enter Cell 204. It's locked tight by the door padlock. (if: $hasIronKey is true)[You reach for the solid metal key. [[Unlock the padlock (''Iron Key'')]]]](if: $searched204 is true)[You've already searched Cell 204.] [[Search Cell 201]] [[Search Cell 203]] [[Search Cell 204]] [[Go forward]]

The door to cell 205 has been brutally beaten inward by a savage force, the metal scarred deeply by what looks like clawmarks. The latch is broken. The shredded remains of a long-dead corpse lay in the far corner. Old blood coats the brick walls. From here you can see that this body has the old uniform of a guard. [[Search the remains]] [[Exit the cell]]

You enter Cell 206. It's empty, but the door is sturdy and the bolt is intact. You could seal it if necessary. [[Seal the door]] [[Exit the cell]] (set: $found206 to true)

You peer inside Cell 207. It's barren and empty. The latch is broken. There's a skeleton lying below what remains of a bedsheet noose. A slip of paper lies on the bare cot. [[Read the paper scrap]]

You try to open the door to Cell 208 and see that the bolt has been deformed by an immense impact. There's little likelihood of getting this open. You peer inside, but nothing catches your eye. [[Search Cell 205]] [[Search Cell 206]] [[Search Cell 207]] [[Go forward]]

You're not satisfied finding something at the obvious bottom of this bucket. You jump off of your feet and dive into the bucket face-first, just //so// excited to see what's at the bottom! Your head submerges in the refuse and you swallow a massive gulp of it. Your entire body shuts down and even after you pull your head from the bucket, you cannot breathe... You suffocate while covered in poop. Pissing off the Author is DEFINITELY not the path to freedom. You ''DIED'' [[Leave]]

You walk up to the Shrine and inspect the offerings. (if: $triedKnife is true)[The knife remains. You cannot touch it. The leering statue will not allow it. Your whole body stitches with pain.] (if: $hasChalk is false and $triedKnife is false)[Trying to ignore the statue, you see a small drawstring bag sitting in a stonework bowl. There is also a stub of chalk, a broad half-moon basin, and a sheathed knife whose hilt is curled like smoke. Your bones ache. (if: $hasChalk is false)[[Take the chalk]] (if: $hasOtherBag is false)[[Take the bag]] (if: $triedKnife is false)[[Take the knife]]] [[Retreat]]

You open the supply boxes. Inside there is a set of guardsmen's clothes and equipment. [[Take the uniform]] (if: $hasHammer is false or $hasTinder is false)[[Check the shelves]] [[Inspect the locked chest]]

You get as close as your nose will allow. Your stomach turns. The bucket is overflowing with refuse and living things. You have never smelled something so disgusting in your life. You can't get any closer no matter how hard you try. (if: $hasCloth is false)[[Don't tell me what to do]] (if: $hasCloth is true)[[(CLOTH) Reach inside]] [[Inspect the moss]] [[Leave]]

You go to the desk against the wall. It's made of carved wood. There's a few papers strewn across the surface, and a single drawer handle poking out from the edge. It's also //covered// in dust. (if: $hasDiagram is false)[[Sort through the papers]] (if: $hasNotebook is false)[[Try the drawer]] [[Back]]

You sift through the papers in the desk drawer. At the very back is a worn, leatherbound notebook. Its cover is stained with a few dots of ink... it's clearly as old as the skeleton in the corner. Fortunately, being kept in the drawer ensured that it was well-preserved. Gained ''WORN NOTEBOOK''! [[Back]] (set: $hasNotebook to true)

You peer around the building and search for anything useful. This is truly a hand-crafted, traditional building right in the middle of this carved cavern. Stone is above your head and around you, but the Chapel stands defiantly in its midst. There are no windows, and the tiled grounds around the Chapel are dotted with meticulously cared-for beds of subterranean plants. On the left is another room, door ajar. [[Inspect the plants]] [[Investigate side room]] [[Enter the Chapel]] [[Return to Annex]]

You step out into this great space and survey the area. There's a framed paper on the wall. Three new offshoot hallways splinter away. There are no windows, and light comes only from a single large chandelier at the vaulted ceiling's apex. [[Inspect the frame]]

You take the left path. As you walk along the rank of cells, you can see the illuminated floor a level below you. Metal creaks and sighs, and the broad ceiling conducts every noise to great effect. You come upon the first cells. [[Search Cell 201]] [[Search Cell 202]] [[Search Cell 203]] (if: $searched204 is false)[[Search Cell 204]] [[Go forward]] (set: $cellsLeft to true) (set: $cellsRight to false) (set: $cellsDown to false)

You kneel down beside the body and check what remains of its pockets. The long-dead corpse has a stale and unpleasant smell. You find a solid metal key in the remains of the corpses vest. Gained an ''Iron Key''! [[Exit the cell]] (set: $hasIronKey to true)

You take the right path. As you walk along the rank of cells, you can see the illuminated floor a level below you. Metal creaks and sighs, and the broad ceiling conducts every noise to great effect. You come upon the first cells. [[Search Cell 205]] [[Search Cell 206]] [[Search Cell 207]] [[Search Cell 208]] [[Go forward]] (set: $cellsRight to true) (set: $cellsLeft to false) (set: $cellsDown to false)

You take your time and survey the edges of the room. The walls are cool, dewy stone blocks, held tight together. You see the stool, the corner with the bucket, the door... Nothing seems out of the ordinary. (if: $foundWall is false)[[Investigate the walls]] (if: $foundTile is false)[[Investigate the floors]] [[Leave]]

You search all the broken pieces. It's dark, but you barely have enough light to see by. You sift through them, and find nothing of value. You miss your chair. [[Keep searching]]

You step into the supply room and begin your search. There are stacks of boxes against one wall and a shelf on the other. A visibly padlocked chest sits against the far side. One wavering torch gutters near the door. (if: $hasUniform is false)[[Search the boxes]] (if: $hasHammer is false or $hasTinder is false)[[Check the shelves]] [[Inspect the locked chest]]

You turn over the cots and search along the edges of the walls. After a long search your fingers find purchase in a stone ddetached from the surrounding mortar. It's been meticulously replaced and hidden. [[Pull the suspicious brick]]

You rattle the door with all your strength. It won't budge. You're going to have to find that key. But wait! There's a wrap of cloth around the bars. Take it? [[Take the CLOTH]] [[Leave]]

You sit on the chair. It's uncomfortable. What was the point of this? [[Break the chair]] [[Leave]]

You smash the lock with your metal ''STAKE''. The lock breaks and falls to the ground with a clatter. You open the heavy chest's lid and peer inside. There's ?????? [[Search the boxes]] [[Check the shelves]] [[Continue to Chapel]]

You walk down the hall. Your echoing footsteps cease their rebounding off of close stone walls as the hallway spills out in a cavernous space beyond. There are multiple paths here, all combined together in this large room. [[Search the large room]] (set: $room4 to true) (set: $room1 to false)

You look over the papers strewn across the desk. They're a gathering of notes on different subjects, ranging from composition of the human body to alchemical formulae. A few off to the side catch your eye... They're detailing a diagram drawn onto a page of yellowed paper. (if: $arcaneWisdom is false)[You can't decipher them](if: $arcaneWisdom is true)[This is the diagram for a Teleportation Sigil! You gained'' SIGIL DIAGRAM''!] [[Back]] (if: $arcaneWisdom is true)[(set: $hasDiagram to true)]

(if: $priestMet is false)[You walk beside the Ghost. It's form vaguely resembles a robed man. [[Can you hear me?]]](if: $priestMet is true)[You return to the Priest's shady form. [[I have questions...]]]

You hold your torch tightly and run as fast as you can past the shadowy beast. A snag catches your torso and you trip forward before catching yourself and continuing to scramble toward the stairs. Just beyond is the Annex- and your chance at safety. You stumble again, vision failing. [[Why can't I see?]]

You peer down at the dying guard. His blood pools in an eye-catching fashion. A few final heartbeats can be heard in your ears. Such a beautiful sight. (if: $bloodHunger is true)[[Consume him]] (if: $hungerCheck is true)[[Leave this place]]

You look down at the melting flesh. The guard's skull softens and caves in on itself. Its eyes liquefy and drip in a pleasing manner. You take a satisfied breath. It smells wonderful. (if: $bloodHunger is true)[Tragically, the meat is spoiled. Your stomach churns with disappointment.] [[Leave this place]]

You awaken in an unfamiliar place, on a cold stone floor. You are disoriented, and have no memory of how you arrived here. [[Get your bearings]] [[Call out for help]] [[Curl up and stay on the floor]]  (set: $pactCheck to true) (set: $hungerCheck to true) (set: $run1 to true)  (set: $hasKey to false) (set: $hasWeapon to false) (set: $hasFilthyLocket to false) (set: $hasSilverLocket to false) (set: $hasCloth to false) (set: $poolEmpty to false) (set: $poolFilthy to false) (set: $hasCheckedChair to false) (set: $hasCheckedDoor to false) (set: $hasVial to false) (set: $hasCheckedBucket to false) (set: $hasOpenedDoor to false) (set: $bloodHunger to false) (set: $endlessHunger to false) (set: $searchedFloor to false) (set: $altRoom to false) (set: $room1 to true) (set: $foundTile to false) (set: $foundWall to false)  (set: $room2 to false) (set: $hasSmallKey to false) (set: $hasTorch to false) (set: $seenBand to false) (set: $hasBand to false) (set: $bandKnown to false) (set: $hasNotebook to false) (set: $hasDiagram to false) (set: $arcaneWisdom to false) (set: $sigilReady to false) (set: $portalOpen to false) (set: $room2 to false)  (set: $room3 to false) (set: $enteredShrine to false) (set: $hasSpike to false) (set: $seenShrine to false) (set: $hasSeenGrate to false) (set: $openedGrate to false) (set: $hasBag to false) (set: $hasRing to false) (set: $smallDoorOpen to false) (set: $hasChalk to false) (set: $triedKnife to false) (set: $hasOtherBag to false) (set: $hasCameo to false) (set: $hasMark to false) (set: $dealRefused to false)  (set: $annex to false) (set: $adminUnlocked to false)  (set: $hasHammer to false) (set: $hasTinder to false) (set: $hasUniform to false) (set: $blueShroom to true) (set: $pinkShroom to true) (set: $greenShroom to true) (set: $eyesShroom to true) (set: $shroomPatch to true) (set: $priestMet to false) (set: $historyQ to false) (set: $cellsQ to false) (set: $adminQ to false) (set: $routesQ to false) (set: $wearingUniform to false)  (set: $found201 to false) (set: $found206 to false) (set: $beastHere to false) (set: $hasIronKey to false) (set: $searched104 to false) (set: $searched203 to false) (set: $searched204 to false) (set: $hasPuzzleKey to false) (set: $hasShield to false) (set: $guardCheckpoint to false) (set: $log73 to false)(set: $log99 to false)(set: $log113 to false)(set: $log114 to false)(set: $log115 to false)(set: $prisonLog to false) (set: $hasFigure to false)   (set: $foundFiles to false)(set: $fileO to false)(set: $fileW to false)(set: $fileC to false) (set: $courtyardKey to false) (set: $hasGrimyStone to false) (set: $hasAppt to false)

You seize every muscle in your body and slow the very beat of your heart. The sound draws closer. A hollow tap on the metal bars of the cell just behind you. Fear claws its way up your throat as a low snarl gutters from outside the bars. [[Brandish the light]] [[Remain still]]

If you say so, bro. Your new-found ESP abilities will likely open up a whole bunch of new opportunties, though. Just a guess. (if: $shroomPatch is true)[[I'm eating another one]] [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

You throw up your hands in surrender. The ''GUARD'' doesn't stop. He swings his club at your head, and you can't stop him in time. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED'' [[Return to start]]

You unwrap the cloth. It's not clean, but it'll do if necessary. Gained ''CLOTH'' [[Leave]] (set: $hasCloth to true) (set: $hasCheckedDoor to true)

You take the iron-capped hammer. Gained a ''HAMMER''! (if: $hasTinder is false)[[Take the Tinderboxes]] (if: $hasUniform is false)[[Search the boxes]] [[Close]] (set: $hasHammer to true)

You lift the cold metal and peer into the clock's face. It is marred by a long scratch, like a knife had been drawn across the glass. The time is stopped at 3:13 AM. You gained an ''Old Timepiece''! The wrapped item catches your eye. [[Look under the wraps]] (set: $hasTimepiece to true)

You take the tinderboxes. Gained ''TINDERBOXES''! (if: $hasHammer is false)[[Take the Hammer]] (if: $hasUniform is false)[[Search the boxes]] [[Close]] (set: $hasTinder to true)

You take the drawstring bag from beside the statue's base. The bag is worn, but you feel that something is still inside. You gained a ''WORN BAG''! The statue is grinning down at you. It's smile is so wide that its stony cheeks are appearing to tear at the corners. (if: $hasChalk is false)[[Take the chalk]] (if: $triedKnife is false)[[Take the knife]] [[Retreat]] (set: $hasOtherBag to true)

You reach down to take the band from the fallen bones. Before your fingers touch the metal the gems glow brightly for a moment The bones animate! The skeleton grabs your arm roughly, its joints clacking and rattling into place. In moments, it is a fully-standing creature once more, animated by this bracelet- (if: $hasTorch is true)[[(TORCH) Strike it with the torch]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Drive the Stake into it]] [[Punch it!]] (if: $hasSpike is true)[[(METAL SPIKE) Impale it]]

You take the stub of chalk quickly. Your teeth are chattering. The statue is smiling down at you. Was it always smiling? You gained a stub of ''CHALK''! (if: $hasOtherBag is false)[[Take the bag]] (if: $triedKnife is false)[[Take the knife]] [[Retreat]] (set: $hasChalk to true)

You reach for the sheathed knife. Its masterful scrollwork across the handle makes your stomach churn. Before your fingers make contact your entire body breaks out into a cold sweat. Your muscles contract, burning, tensing. Your fingers claw into an involuntary grip on the air. The force releases you. The knife is off-limits. The statue is snarling down at you. Its teeth are fangs. (if: $hasChalk is false)[[Take the chalk]] (if: $hasOtherBag is false)[[Take the bag]] [[Retreat]] (set: $triedKnife to true)

You lift the metal roundshield and strap it to your arm. The shield is scratched and dirty, but it is undamaged and could easily save your life. Gained a ''Roundshield''! [[Exit the cell]] (set: $hasShield to true) (set: $searched204 to true)

You take the uniform within. Gained ''GUARD UNIFORM''! (if: $hasHammer is false or $hasTinder is false)[[Check the shelves]] [[Inspect the locked chest]] [[Continue to Chapel]] (set: $hasUniform to true)

You wrench apart the bars with greater strength than you knew you possessed. The solid metal creaks and tears, and the deformed grating is torn from the wall by your immense power. You fling the grate away. The opening yawns before you. Do dare enter? [[What's that smell?]] (set: $openedGrate to true)

You grab the grate with your hands and push and pull as hard as you can. It won't budge. (if: $authorsBane is true)[[Pull it harder]] (if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERIOUS VIAL) Pour the vial on the grate]] (if: $hasWeapon is true)[[(SHARP STAKE) Try to pry the grate open]] [[Leave]]

You put your weight against the wall. The stones move ever so slightly... You can move this. You're sure of it. But what's beyond? (if: $authorsBane is true)[[Pull the weak stones]] [[Push the weak stones]] [[Leave]] (set: $foundWall to true)

The Priest's Ghost bows his head. "It is a rare pleasure. Please- ask any questions you may have. I will do my best to answer." [[I have questions...]] [[I must take my leave]] (set: $priestMet to true)

Correct. Your eyes pour blood and your nose explodes like a geyser of crimson. It's gnarly stuff, man. Predictably, you stumble a few feet and collapse stone-cold dead. You ''DIED''! This is not the path to freedom. [[Return to start]]

The statue contorts into a broad grin. //"Now you understand. Good. You seek aid in escaping from the bowels of this accursed place, yes... must fly freely again upon the surface. As any bird must."// //"Very well. I offer you a ''bargain''."// [[I am listening]] [[I seek no bargain]]

(If: $hasMark is true)[You approach the door. It's wide open. A blackened maw yawns from beyond. A staircase descends into infinite darkness that even your torch cannot penetrate. You must leave everything behind, including the guttering flames. Are you prepared? [[Descend]] [[Retreat]]] (if: $hasMark is false)[You shake the door handle. It won't open, but it doesn't seem locked... the door won't move at all, no matter how hard you push or pull. It's as if some entity is holding it firmly in place. [[Retreat]] ]

You pull at the drawer handle. It's locked. (if: $hasWeapon is true and $hasNotebook is false)[[(SHARP STAKE) Pry it open]] (if: $hasSmallKey is true and $hasNotebook is false)[[(SMALL KEY) Unlock the drawer]] [[Back]]

You take two steps and break into a run, tossing the cameo as you sprint. The presence is clawing at you, but the tunnel is so close, now. You'll find another way out, a different path than this- You take two more steps before you realize that you left your skin behind. This is not the path to freedom. You ''DIED''! [[Return to start]]

You turn the solid key within the lock. It clicks open and falls to the ground with a clatter. Within the cell lies a metal roundshield. It's still in good condition. [[Take the shield]]

Endings: (if: $ending1 is true)[Path to Freedom (1)- You escaped by using either the key or the vial.](if: $ending1 is false)[???] (if:$ending2 is true)[Arcane Completion (2)- You escaped by completing the Wizard's Teleportation Sigil.](if: $ending2 is false)[???] (if:$ending3 is true)[The Dark Path (3)- You escaped by bargaining with something Greater.](if: $ending3 is false)[???] (if:$ending4 is true)[Servant of Evil (4)- You freed the Sovereign and became its Vessel.](if: $ending4 is false)[???] (if:$ending5 is true)[The Feast Begins (5)- You consumed the Sovereign and lost yourself to Hunger.](if: $ending5 is false)[???] Special World States: (if: $authorsBane is true)[Author's Bane- You've angered the Author. New deaths are available in multiple scenarios.](if: $authorsBane is false)[???] (if: $darkPact is true)[Dark Pact- You've sold your soul to Malevolent Forces. New interactions are available in multiple scenarios.](if: $darkPact is false)[???] [[Return to start]]

You pull back the door bolt. It squeaks softly and the door opens once again. [[Seal the door]] [[Exit the cell]]

With no way to draw, you have no choice. You slice open your hand on a floor tile and use your own crimson essence to paint every painstaking line. It's not ideal, but you make do. [[(WORN NOTEBOOK) Consult the text]]

You step into the Portal and are whisked away to blackness. It's dark, so dark that you can hardly see in front of your face. You panic, fear stakes your heart as the thought crosses your mind that you miscalculated. Perhaps a vector was wrong, or a single line was smudged. Are you underground? Trapped in another cell? Your chest heaves and you look up to the sky in horror... And you see stars shining through the trees. [[I'm free..?]]

You hold your torch before you and walk down the long room's length. It's a surprisingly long while before your torchlight illuminates the end of the tunnel. What your flames reveal is a stony figure- a bust perched above a table laden with wavering shapes above a half-circle basin. A chest sits beside it. The statue's form is an uncertain thing. Your skin crawls. [[Search the Shrine]] [[Open the Chest]] [[Retreat]] (set: $seenShrine to true)

"Maybe..." "...there's a deeper reason for you coming here. This cursed place has been in stalemate for untold centuries. Those guards who remain are inhuman, puppeted by one party or another." "Perhaps you are the one who will finally break this curse." [[Where do I even start?]] [[No. Whoever you're looking for, it's not me]] [[I just want my Freedom]] (set: $routesQ to true)

The Ghost almost seems to shudder. "I fear that's a more complicated tale than you may expect." His form takes a deep breath. "A series of misfortunes, with no clear beginning or end. There is something about this place that draws evil like flies. That is why my Order traveled here centuries past and established ourselves within." (if: $adminQ is false)[[Why is the Administrative Block sealed?]] (if: $cellsQ is false)[[Why are there warnings about the Lower Cells?]] [[I must take my leave]] (set: $historyQ to true)

A wolven creature, with matted fur and black eyes ringed with scars. There are broken arrows and spears in its back and a blade straight through where its heart should be. It gently closes a jaw of razor teeth about your throat and pulls it free. This is not the path to freedom. ''You Died''! [[Return to start]]

A sharp pain erupts from the front of your skull and your vision swims. When the brutal feeling clears, you blink ghosts away from your eyes. Yup. Literal ghosts. You can see ghosts. Gained the status ''GRAVESIGHT''! [[Super cool]] (set: $hasGravesight to true) (set: $eyesShroom to false)

Your nose burns with an alluring smell. A rat races past. Its smell is intoxicating. [[Consume it]]

//"The catch?" "There is none. In this life you will go unharmed and free, save for the small marking upon your flesh. In the next... perhaps we will help one another, no?" // The statue's form has grown twice the size it once was. Your mind is beginning to fray at the seams. //"I offer this only once. What shall it be?"// [[Mark your flesh]] [[I'll take my chances]]

"I will tell you all I know-" "The Wizard was toiling away on a form of teleportation- an escape, selfish but likely reliable." "The means of natural escape have been blocked by the rituals performed by the Warden and the other officers. The Administration Block must be accessed first." "There is... an ancient evil here. What my Order and I came here to fight. Do not seek it out... it will avail nothing but death and malice." "That is all I know. Please... stay safe." [[I must take my leave]] (set: $routesQ to true)

Yes, gambling with mystery fungi is so much fun. What is wrong with you? [[Back to Chapel Grounds]]

The Priest's ghost mutters a silent prayer. "There was a prisoner... confined shortly before this place fell to catastrophe. He was kept in the Lower Cells, with the common criminals." "It was less than a month before he escaped, and savagely killed every living thing down there." [[How is that possible?]]

You take another stumble forward and hot blood splashes down your torso. There's a sensation in your veins, a numbness that is spreading. A wound you didn't see has split your side, and your entire body is shutting down. A powerful paralytic agent snuffs the energy from your body, but you're just aware enough to feel the creature's claws punch through your flesh and begin to drag you back into the abyss. This is not the path to freedom. ''You DIED''! [[Return to start]]

"After the Warden's death, the staff on hand attempted an evacuation and sealed the external prison wings-" "To my understanding, a ritual was conducted in the Administrative Block that was intended to fully conceal this place from outside eyes. The hope was that the evil in this place would be forgotten. "And yet... here you are." [[I don't remember how I got here]] (set: $adminQ to true)

Uh... okay? Well there are four different kinds. There's a soft blue with a short stalk and a broad base, a pink polka-dot one, a very angry green kind with spikes, and the fourth one has... eyes? Yup. Those are eyes. So... which one are you eating? (if: $blueShroom is true)[[Blue looks yummy]] (if: $pinkShroom is true)[[Polka-dots are my jam]] (if: $greenShroom is true)[[Angry and green, baby!]] (if: $eyesShroom is true)[[Gimme the EYES!]] [[All of them]]

You drink the mystery water. Interesting choice... But it pays off! There's something shiny at the bottom of the pool. It's... the ''KEY'' Gained ''KEY'' (set: $hasKey to true) (set: $poolEmpty to true) [[Leave]]

Your save progress has been successfully reset. You may begin again with a clean slate. [[Return to start]] (set: $altAccess to false) (set: $authorsBane to false) (set: $darkPact to false) (set: $ending1 to false) (set: $ending2 to false) (set: $ending3 to false) (set: $ending4 to false) (set: $ending5 to false)

The Ghost stands, hands folded before himself. "Well of course. I am the last of the Priests who once lived here. Faith is built in solitude and silence just as powerfully as with others. I show my faith by keeping this sanctuary tidy." "It isn't much, but it makes me happy." [[Thank you for the shelter]]

The gilded key slidesinto the lock and turns with a //click!// The reinforced door swings open. The Administrative Block awaits. [[Enter the Administrative Areas]] [[Return to Annex]] (set: $adminUnlocked to true)

You enter the hallway beyond the reinforced door. The hall is narrow. There's a somewhat strange sensation in the air. You step into an office room filled with desks and files. There are sets of personal offices on one side, and a windowed door with only darkness beyond them across. A hanging sign marks this as ''CENTRAL ADMIN''. The silence is deafening. [[Look around the room]] [[Inspect the offices]] [[Go toward the door]]

You take your time looking around the room. It's devoid of any and all signs of life save for scattered belongings and discarded papers. A few desks are overturned, one has a massive bloodsplatter across its wooden surface. (if: $foundFiles is false)[[Search for relevant files]](if: $foundFiles is true)[[Return to files]] (if: $courtyardKey is false)[[Look through the desks]]

There are a few closed offices. Office 1 is locked tightly, but through the reinforced glass you can see a black sigil across the wall. (if: $hasGravesight is true)[Office 2 has a ghostly apparition within it. There's another door past the apparition.](if: $hasGravesight is false)[Office 2 appears entirely empty. There's another door within.] Office 3 has no windows and you can't see inside. [[Enter Office 1]] [[Enter Office 2]] [[Enter Office 3]]

As you near the doors a pervasive coldness bites at your skin. Through the dark windows you can spy another hallway that spills out into an open space. You smell fresh air. Above the door is a plaque marked ''COURTYARD''. (if: $courtyardKey is true)[[Open the doors]] [[Return to Central Admin]]

You feel fresh air hit your face. The Courtyard is dark and cold, and the sky above is so dark and starless that if not for the breeze you’d be certain that it was another underground cavern. The space is so broad you can’t see the other wall in the dim light. A stony visage is barely visible in the distance, along with the sound of gargling water. [[Go to the statue]]

You return to the desk-filled room. [[Check INVENTORY]] There are papers everywhere, and a multitude of paths lay before you. (if: $foundFiles is false or $courtyardKey is false)[[Look around the room]] [[Inspect the offices]] [[Go toward the door]]

There are likely a million papers in this room, so you look sparingly for anything that catches your eye. Carefully, you rearrange any still-legible documents together on a single desk. It takes longer than you'd like, but after a small eternity you look down at a collection of documents before you. [["Report on the Order"]] [["Potential Contraband Investigation"]] [["The Wizard"]] (set: $filesFound to true)

You open the single drawers in desks as you go by them. Most are empty, or contain mundane supplies for paperwork. One has a key inside. Gained the ''COURTYARD KEY''! [[Inspect the offices]] [[Go toward the door]] [[Search for relevant files]] (set: $courtyardKey to true)

This report is ancient, but very legible. "Our partnership with this Priestly Order has been beneficial for morale across the complex. Inmates are led in prayer during allotted hours, and even those in the Lower Cells are permitted to join the others in confession and holy studies. Regarding their other purpose: the Priests say they have made little headway on locating the source of magical malignance initially under investigation. The Wizard is skeptical of their presence here." [["The Wizard"]] [["Potential Contraband Investigation"]] (if: $fileW and $fileO and $fileC is true)[[Leave the files]] (set: $fileO to true)

A report written by an Officer of the Prison. "Thievery and unexplainable disappearance of items of value have been on the rise in the past few weeks. Initially we believed it to be the work of Prisoner 1023, a renowned thief before his capture, but investigations have turned up little. The Warden was irate about a set of missing gems. I don't see how he expects me to find them without giving me any more information than that." [["Report on the Order"]] [["The Wizard"]] (if: $fileW and $fileO and $fileC is true)[[Leave the files]] (set: $fileC to true)

This one is written more like a journal entry. "The Wizard's research within the Astrarium has become cause for concern among the guard. The Warden spends more of his time locked away learning whatever arcane secrets he is seeking than he does managing the Prison. There have been reports of otherworldy sounds and smells, and accounts of staff feeling "watched" while performing their duties within the Library have grown. What in God's name is going on here?" [["Report on the Order"]] [["Potential Contraband Investigation"]] (if: $fileW and $fileO and $fileC is true)[[Leave the files]] (set: $fileW to true)

You step back from the stack of files. (if: $foundFiles is false or $courtyardKey is false)[[Look around the room]] [[Inspect the offices]] [[Go toward the door]]

You return to the stack of files on the desk. [["Report on the Order"]] [["Potential Contraband Investigation"]] [["The Wizard"]] [[Leave the files]]

$foundFiles $courtyardKey $hasGrimyStone $fileW, O, C

You open the door to the first office. Your skin tingles with the subtle magic in the air. The far wall is covered in a black charcoal sigil. Your instinct tells you that whoever drew this did so as a ward of protection. Judging by the stillness of the Admin Wing, you assume it was a failure. [[Exit the office]]

You enter the middle office. This is clearly a reception area, with a curved desk in one corner and another door beyond it. (if: $hasGravesight is true)[The ghostly apparition sits very calmly at the reception desk.](if: $hasGravesight is false)[You don't see anything of importance, but a subtle chill cools your skin.] Above the far door is a plaque that reads ''WARDEN'S OFFICE''. [[Go through reception]] [[Exit the office]]

You open the windowless wooden door to the third office. There's not much here, but everything is in flawless order. (if: $truePath is true)[A very neatly handwritten note lies perfectly centered on the desk. The quill and ink are meticulously spaced apart. [[Read the neatly-penned memo]]] [[Exit the office]]]

You approach the statue. It depicts an armored knight, with a spear in one hand and a pitcher of water in the other. The water flows into a broad fountain at the base. [[Search the water]]

You peer into the water. In the dim light it looks black and glassy. You submerge your hand and are struck by an icy shock. Your fingers skim the stony bottom, finding nothing. You brush against a solid object. [[Grab the object]]

You wrap your fingers about it and lift the object from the water. It’s a stone- covered in a thin layer of slime. Wiping the sludge away reveals a green-flecked ore beneath, polished to smoothness. You gained a ''GRIMY STONE''! [[Inspect the statue]] [[Back to Courtyard center]] (set: $hasGrimyStone to true)

You look more closely at the statue. The knight is stoic and of course silent- upon his armor is emblazoned an emblem of a holy and radiant blade. He is clearly a depiction of a knightly Order. (if: $hasGrimyStone is false)[[Search the water]] [[Back to Courtyard center]]

You return to the center of the dark and chill Courtyard. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? [[Go to the statue]] [[Search the Courtyard]] [[Return to Central Admin]]

Farther from the doors to the Admin wing, the light fades. You can barely make out the statue in the distance, and as you walk further from it you realize this courtyard is larger than it originally seemed. A round roof breaks the dim. It's a gazebo. [[Enter the Gazebo]]

You take shelter in the small round structure. There are benches. The wood is aged and rotting. [[Take a seat]] [[Back to Courtyard center]]

You sit on the mildewed bench. It's surprisingly comfortable. [[Stay here a while]] [[Back to Courtyard center]]

Nothing wrong with a little rest. You take a deep breath and exhale your worries. The air is cool on your skin, almost uncomfortably so, but the wind is strangely calming. [[Think on what you've learned]] [[Back to Courtyard center]]

You gather your thoughts... (if: $prisonLog is true or $prisonerNote is true)[[Think on the Lower Cells]] (if: $priestMet is true)[[Think on the Ghostly Priest]] (if: $filesFound is true)[[Think on the files you've found in Admin]] (if: $darkPact is true)[[Think on your Pact]] [[End your reverie]]

You think on what you've learned about the Lower Cells. You think of your encounter with the Beast. Your spine shudders at the thought of that dagger-toothed maw snapping down around your throat. (if: $prisonLog is true)[You think back on the Logbook. The beast was once a normal prisoner who changed with the full moon. The Administrators abandoned everyone in the Lower Cells to a massacre.] (if: $prisonerNote is true)[You think on that prisoner's last words in his note. Claws below, Eyes above. You don't blame him for taking the easy way out.] [[Think on what you've learned]]

You've met the Ghostly priest. (if: $routesQ is true)[The Priest told you of the Ritual the Warden conducted somewhere in the Administration Wing, and of a demonic entity enshrined in the walls. He also spoke of a teleportation method of some kind, if you can find it...] (if: $historyQ is true)[He told you about his Order, who traveled here to vanquish an unknown evil. You wonder about what that could mean...] (if: $cellsQ is true)[He told you about the cursed inmate in the Lower Cells, and how his Order may have made the affliction even worse with their intervention.] (if: $adminQ is true)[He told you more of the Ritual. It was intended as a shield to obscure this place to all prying eyes. Was it to stop things from getting out, or to prevent other forces from coming in..?] [[Think on what you've learned]]

You think back over the files you found in the Admin Offices. You think on the Wizard and the Warden's research. Did the Wizard inspire the Warden to attempt the Ritual? You consider the Order's involvement in all of this. What were they hunting? (if: $darkPact is true)[The Sovereign?] You also think about the thievery rampant in the prison. Three stones stolen from the Warden. What's their significance? [[Think on what you've learned]]

You think of teh Mark within your flesh. It gently stings from time to time, like a reminder of its presence. A gentle warning that you've made a deal not so easily broken. What consequences may this Infernal Pact have? [[Think on what you've learned]]

You stand once more and dispel those thoughts from your mind. You have a mission to achieve. You must find the path to freedom. [[Back to Courtyard center]]

You ascend the steps once more. The metal walkways groan softly. Which way? [[Search the left cells]] [[Search the right cells]] [[Retreat back toward Annex]] (set: $cellsDown to false)

You withdraw the brick. It's completely hollowed out. Inside is a small nook that was undoubtedly used to store contraband by a prisoner long ago. Within is a tiny carved effigy. It depicts a young girl. Gained a ''SMALL FIGURINE''! [[Exit the cell]] (set: $hasFigure to true)

You inspect the small figurine closely. It's a young girl, clutching something tightly. The face is too worn and rough to yield any more detail. Somehow, holding this small carved figurine makes you feel safe. [[Return to INVENTORY]]

The precision-measured handwriting of the note belies belief. Whoever wrote this was //suuuperrr// neat. "I fear the situation is no longer within our control. The Warden has given himself away to a malignant force and has sealed the Library with a magical lock. The creature of many eyes guards its prize with fervent jealousy. In the lower cells, that moonlit beast prowls still. We've given up any attempts to harm the thing; I watched a spear go clean through its heart, and it hardly broke its stride. The Order found a demonic entity within the walls. The Sovereign, they call it, but that thing is not the cause of our woes, but a symptom. I know in my heart the true source of this evil. I'm so sorry, my little love." The last line is scrawled with a trembling hand. [[Exit the office]]

You go back outside the offices. [[Check INVENTORY]] [[Enter Office 1]] [[Enter Office 2]] [[Enter Office 3]] [[Return to Central Admin]]

You cross the room and put your hand on the far door. (if: $hasAppt is false)[ (if: $hasGravesight is true)["Excuse me. Do you have an appointment?" You turn to look at the ghostly receptionist. He's looking at you expectantly. [[(LIE) I do]] [[I do not]]] (if: $hasGravesight is false)[The door won't budge no matter what you do. The gentle chill on your skin is stronger. There's something here you can't see. [[Exit the office]]]] (if: $hasAppt is true)[The Receptionist looks up and sees you. "Welcome back. Go ahead through." [[Thank you]]]

(if: $wearingUniform is false)[The apparition of the receptionist frowns and looks you up and down. "I'm sorry, but no visitors have been logged in the book. You'll have to leave- Prison Personnel only today." [[Exit the office]]](if: $wearingUnform is true)[The receptionist looks over your guard's attire with a spectrally raised eyebrow. "Uniform maintenance is paramount to upholding the image of the institution. Why is yours so visibly ragged, soldier?" [[(LIE) Apologies. I must report a... leak.]] [[I took it from supply storage]]

The Ghostly Receptionist waves you away with a transparent hand. "The Warden is terribly busy today. Appointments only. Goodbye." He turns away to file papers. He won't even look at you. Maybe you should try a different tactic. [[Exit the office]]

You change quickly into the old guard's uniform. It smells like mothballs. Maybe people will think you're a guard now... if there's anybody left. [[Return to INVENTORY]] (set: $wearingUniform to true)

The Receptionist looks you up and down. "A leak? Where?" [[(LIE) In the Annex]] [[(LIE) In the Upper Cells]]

The Receptionist appraises you. "I don't doubt that. What happened to your prior uniform, soldier?" [[(LIE) Prisoner threw food on it]] [[I didn't have one]]

"The Annex?" The Receptionist very calmly leans over and looks out the office window into the room beyond. "And we can't see any of it here? Right next to the Annex?" He waves you away dismissively. "People try all sorts of things to get past me. Unfortunately for them-" He taps his ghostly head. "I have a mind like a steep trap! Now get gone, and be lucky I don't report this." [[Exit the office]]

"The Upper Cells-" The Receptionist thinks for a moment, clearly considering something. "Hm. Okay, soldier- you can go on through. Please be aware that the Warden has a lot on his plate already. He may not enjoy this news." [[Thank you]]

The Receptionist waves you on. You try the door and it opens without issue. The short hallway ahead leads to the Warden's Office. [[Enter Warden's Office]] [[Exit the office]] (set: $hasAppt to true)

The Receptionist sighs heavily. "Unsurprising. Okay, soldier. You may pass. Be aware that the Warden has a lot on his mind. Do not disturb him with trobling news if possible." [[Thank you]]

"Didn't have one? You mean to tell me you're an escaped prisoner who broke out of your cell, made your way to the Chapel Storage Room, found a uniform, put it on, and tried to use it to sneak into the Warden's office?" [[Yes]] [[(LIE) No]]

The Receptionist stares at you for a moment with his ghostly eyes. He breaks down into laughter. "Wow! That's a good one, soldier-" He can't stop laughing. "An escape... //here//... that's amazing!" He calms himself. "Whew. Thanks for the laugh, soldier. You can go on through." [[Thank you]]

"No?" The Receptionist narrows his gaze. "I don't know what's true or what's not... but you I simply can't trust. I don't know what your problem is.. but you're no getting past me today." He taps the side of his head. "And don't even try sneaking past again. I have an iron-clad memory!" Well that didn't work. [[Exit the office]]

Path not completed. Use prompt below to continue your journey. [[Exit the office]]

You return to the Chapel Grounds. [[Check INVENTORY]] Where to next? [[Enter the Chapel]] [[Search the supply room]] [[Return to Annex]]

You go to the door. (if: $hasOpenedDoor is false)[It's old and rusted. There's a large lock on the door. (if: $hasKey is false)[ You don't have the key.] (if: $hasKey is true)[[(KEY)Unlock the door]] (if: $hasVial is true)[[(MYSTERY VIAL) Pour substance on lock]](if: $hasSpike is true)[[(METAL SPIKE) Smash the lock off]] (if: $hasCheckedDoor is false)[[Shake the door]]] (if: $hasOpenedDoor is true)[The door is wide open. Now's your chance. (if: $altAccess is true)[[Exit your Cell]](if: $run1 is true)[[Escape]]] [[Leave]]

This game was made fully in Twine between November and May of 2025-26. Initially begun as an in-class project for //Intro to Digital Humanities// at the University of New Hampshire, the project was expanded upon consistently until it took on a life of its own. I hope you enjoy. For more background on the game and a detailed analysis of the creative process, see below. [[Return to start]] [[Analysis]]

This is a deconstructed essay on the game as a whole. It covers my experiences making it, my inspirations and design philosophies, and more. Navigate through the parts using the same menuing as in-game. Return at any time by selecting the ‘Essay Navigation' option as it appears. [[Essay Navigation]]

I knew from the moment I started that I wanted a fully text-based way to explore a digital space. As the scope of the game began to grow, the mechanical complexity of the project of course had to grow at an equal rate. Certain core aspects, such as attaining items to progress, were necessary facets of the design from the very beginning. By using simple boolean variable storage I was able to completely avoid utilizing any complex arrays or more difficult coding- naturally, this became more of a hindrance than a help as the game continued to expand, but staying true to the core intention of the original experience warranted some sacrifices. The mechanical necessity of punishing or deadly decision-making was a choice that I landed on because it’s exactly how I prefer to play video games. I like there to be an ‘answer’ or a host of preferable scenarios that will facilitate victory or achievement; I also acknowledge that some people may find the repetition of brutal death to be somewhat offputting or even annoying at times, but in my experience the most necessary ingredient for catharsis is a seasoning of annoyance. The ‘unlocks’ system came about as part of needing to find an answer to continuing to expand the game. I decided to take a page out of a famous Flash game, //The Binding of Isaac//(1), which eventually migrated off of Flash and remains an active game to this day. By limiting initial routes the player is less overwhelmed, and by familiarizing themselves with certain core paths they can more comfortably expand and explore. [[Essay Navigation]] [[Works Cited]](1)

What would you like to learn more about? [[Work Process]] [[Mechanics]] [[Inspirations]] [[Expansions and Writing]] [[The Future]] [[Works Cited]] [[Return to start]] (Leave Essay)

The core of my inspiration came from the text-based freedom of choice present across Interactive Narratives. Modern games such as //Detroit: Become Human// or //Until Dawn //offer one extreme of writing baked into gameplay, while the Choose your own Adventure! Books of old mark the other front. I wanted to split the difference, where a purely writing-driven experience can still achieve a firmly “game-like” game (that being one of interactivity, back-tracking, puzzling, dialogue, etc) while firmly within the confines of my own words and occasional typos. It is impossible to talk about the inspirations for a text-based adventure without naming //Zork//(2) and //Colossal Cave Adventure//(3) among them. Navigating spaces through nothing more than your mind and a keyboard is to me the ultimate expression of imagination. You’re doing all of the heavy lifting in your own brain except for the sparse descriptions that the computer feeds back to you. While I aspire to be able to navigate like they do in Zork, that is well outside of my abilities as a designer. Maybe someday I can write a game like this, and someone far more talented on the technical side can parse my ramblings into a pretty cool game. Interactive Fiction (IF) is fundamentally rooted in the choice of the audience while within the confines of the story. Written novels follow the exact path of whatever the next word on the page could be, but your mind can run infinitely free. Video games possess infinite possibilities, but they’re firmly held to the boundaries of the program itself. IF is to me ideally able to negate, deny, or at the very least swindle the reader into forgetting that these boundaries exist at all. You could do anything! A million options, a thousand paths to take! Of course these limits remain; the magic trick lies in the misdirection IF uses to make you forget. Zork really does make you feel like you can go anywhere, even if a lot of those decisions are perhaps quite poor. I tried to emulate that, with an ever-growing list of destinations and outcomes that at first might feel infinite (I promise they’re not. I wrote them all.) but might become familiar or even comforting. [[Inspirations 2]] [[Works Cited]](2)(3)

The future of the game is at the time of writing this tenuous at best. I have concrete ideas for what I want to achieve, but school is ending soon and who knows what comes after that? For my part, I’d like to believe that whatever comes next, I’ll have time to return and dote on this project that gave me so much joy -and at times stress- during the cold winter into a warm and free summer. Thank you for staying to the end. I hope my stories have reminded you of your own adventures- and, if I’m being very selfish, that they’ve inspired you to share them. I’d certainly like to hear a few of them myself. -Tristan Alexander, May 4th, 2026 [[Essay Navigation]]

Game expansion was, of course, a necessity as the creative process went on. Since areas and exploration are at the core of the experience, I decided the easiest way to expand the game was to do just that: by adding new areas, I could continue to delve into new genres, ideas, and writing styles as the levels progressed. The Courtyard and Administration block are a very different style of writing from the Lower Cells, and certainly different from the Shrine. Using the Chapel as an example: when I spent some time in Eastern Europe this past winter, I had the amazing chance to be welcomed into a historic church outside of Belgrade. It was nestled in the corner of an ancient fort that had been turned into a museum, and wasn’t open to tourists. I was let in because my friend and I asked the right questions, I suppose, and as we walked through the space I felt a true sense of holiness and calm. There were murals all across the ceiling and reliefs on the walls, and it was lit by chandeliers made of bullet casings from the wars that had long plagued the city. It smelled like incense and there was a soft haze from censers in the air. I myself do not practice Christianity, but that warm sensation in my chest was undeniable. I try to draw from experiences like this when I write, a really palpable feeling that I can expand upon and fit into the plot. More humorous moments, such as the mushroom patch or the chair, are intentionally placed to blur the lines between the frightening elements and try and re-enter the experience. The entire game is at its heart a conversation between myself as a nameless and omnipotent Author, and the player who is taking on this role to try and escape. This conversation is also my own creative draw to the story. I want people to discover things, engage and converse with their own choices talking back to them. They tell me what they want, and I reply as to what happens next. It’s a slightly modernized form of choice-based storytelling like my friends and I would do when we wanted to play Dungeons and Dragons but had nothing but a single die between us. We’d just make up what happens next, and tell one another what terrible outcomes our dumb choices have wrought. [[Essay Navigation]]

I started this project on a whim when we began looking at Twine in Intro to Digital Humanities. Within moments of writing my first couple boxes, I knew exactly what I was going to make. In fact, the initial starting choices of "getting up”, “calling for help”, and “staying still” were the very first ones written. They have hardly been changed at all. From there, I completed the tutorial as is, also known as “Ending 1, Path to Freedom”. All the objects from that version are unchanged as well. As I kept expanding, I tried to dig further into my bag of genres that I wanted to incorporate. The Wizard’s room is a very classic medieval dungeon crawling aesthetic, while the Shrine and the entity within are true to my adoration for Lovecraftian* horror tropes. [[Essay Navigation]]

Works Cited Adams, Rick. “The Colossal Cave Adventure Page.” Rickadams.org, rickadams.org/adventure/. Accessed 4 May 26AD. Cyan. “Myst | Cyan.” Cyan.com, cyan.com/games/myst/. Accessed 4 May 2026. “The Binding of Isaac on Steam.” Steampowered.com, Edmund McMillen, 2011, store.steampowered.com/app/113200 Accessed 4 May 2026. “Zork I: The Great Underground Empire | PCjs Machines.” Www.pcjs.org, www.pcjs.org/software/pcx86/game/infocom/zork1/. “Howling Dogs.” Porpentine, 2012, xrafstar.monster/games/twine/howlingdogs Accessed 4 May. 2026. [[Essay Navigation]]

It goes without saying that //Myst//(4) was at the forefront of my inspiration. Where //Myst// has prerendered vignettes to show progression, I chose to opt for written blurbs. Much is similar, however, with individual snapshots of rooms, places, objects, or sequence fulfilling much the same task both in my small game and the legendary epic from 1993. //howling dogs//(5), a wildly famous IF piece by author Porpentine, served as the ultimate inspiration for the finalized aesthetic of the game. I’d initially intended to implement more design choices as I went on, but playing through //howling dogs// reminded me that nothing I could conjure up could ever defeat human imagination to fill in those gaps. For that reason, I chose to try and strip it down as much as I could and provide only the necessary tools to tell a story and stimulate imagination. [[Essay Navigation]] [[Works Cited]](4)(5)