Masquerade

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<h1>[[Masquerade->beginning]]</h1>

You find yourself in the dining room. Dark, wood-paneled walls decorated with floral motifs painstakingly rendered in gold leaf leave little room for a long table, populated with 8 chairs. On the table sits a carafe of wine, glittering slightly in the light of the silver chandelier that crouches over the table. The party assembled around you mills about, a mask covering each face. Some chat amongst themselves, some sit alone. Feel free to talk with the guests. You don't have much time so stay sharp. Most importantly, however... Do not remove your mask. [[Look around]] (set: $time= 10) (set: $victim=0) (set: $ringleader=0) (set: $loverI=0) (set: $seeker=0) (set: $hero=0)

(if: $time > 0)[ Amongst the gathering, six figures stand out to you: <ul> <li>[[Sundial Mask ->Artemisia]]</li> <li>[[Black Velvet Mask ->Brandon]]</li> <li>[[Owl Mask ->Irene]]</li> <li>[[Rabbit Mask->Eros]]</li> <li>[[Laughing Mask->Dionysus]]</li> </ul> ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[Time seems to have gotten away from you ->Time]] ]

An imposing figure stands in the far corner of the room. Their brass armor shines in the light of the chandelier. A thick cape drapes from a fur ruff at their shoulders to the floor. Their arms are crossed and their star-adorned mask is obscured mostly by a fancy cavalier hat, plume and all. (if: !$A)[ [[Attempt to make conversation -> A-2]] [[Look around]] ] (if: $A != "")[ [[She has nothing more to say to you.]] ]

A young, thin person with broad shoulders stands by the window. Their short dark brown bangs fall over the top of their black velvet half-mask. They wear a black overcoat with bright silver buttons. Through their mask their expression seems vexed. They keep bringing a gloved hand to their face. [[Approach them -> B-2]] [[Look around]]

Sitting dignified at the middle of the table is a person wearing an owl mask and an understated blue dress. Short silver hair is slicked back behind their head. They seem to be contentedly listening to the conversations around them. [[Try to catch their eye -> I-2]] [[Look around]]

This person sits with their arms crossed, relaxed but stoic. Their short, stocky build is accentuated by a tight emerald tunic with embroidered flower embellishments. Their eyes are covered by a wide leather strap with small perforations for sight. Their hair is noticeably gleaming white, even though what you can see of their face is younger. [[Stare at them -> C-2]]

This person, sitting at the table, didn't seem to get the point of a masquerade. Their face is fully covered by a ceramic rabbit mask but the rest of their outfit leaves very little to the imagination. Their robe is made of translucent silk, gathered at the shoulders and waist. They chat amiably with their neighbors. [[Join in conversation -> E-2]] [[Look around]]

Sitting close to the head of the table is an imposing person. They wear a twisted commedia dell'arte half-mask, with the top of the mask forming the tips of a crown. They're dressed in a rich purple doublet with gold accents. Wavy onyx hair flows from their head down to their shoulders. They've clearly relaxed into their chair, taking substantial sips every so often out of a large wine glass that never seems to go empty. Every so often they loudly proclaim an obscene truism to the glee of their surrounding peers. They don't seem to be actively participating in conversation however. [[Make small talk -> D-2]] [[Look around]]

The clock chimes three times, ringing out over the chatter. Everyone falls silent. You had almost forgotten the time. (if: $hero >=5)[ Anticipation tingles at the tips of your fingers. You've formulated a plan but there are so many unknowns. The dagger concealed in your outfit could not feel heavier. [[You will stop this Feast]] ] (if: $ringleader >=5)[ The stage is set, the players ready to do their jobs. You've scouted them perfectly. Dionysus allowed you to organize this Feast, you will not let him down. [[This surely, will be a night to remember]] ] (if: $victim >=5)[ [[The entire room turns to look at you.]] ] (if: $hero <5 and $ringleader <5 and $victim <5)[ As the last chime stops ringing in your ears, everyone begins to look around at each other. Your roving gaze lands on the awkward guest near the wall. Others seem to have their eyes trained on him as well. [[Everyone has made their choice]] ]

(if: !$D3)[Standing in front of them now, you can smell a thick scent of alcohol, mixed with something you can't quite place. They look up at you, through the eye holes in the mask, gold pinpricks shine out. They put on a courteous smile that reveals large, sharp canine teeth, and motion for you to sit down. "Please join me, dear" [[Sit ->D-3]]] (if: $D3 is "done")[ The elegant stranger sits relaxed in their seat, amiable grin on their face. (if: !$D4)[[["You seem quite at home here" ->D-4]]] (if: !$D5)[[["What's up with that wine glass?" ->D-5]]] (if: $D4 is "done" and $D5 is "done")[ [[You have nothing new to say. ->Look around]] ] (if: $ringleader >=5 and !$D6)[ [["I simply cannot wait anymore Dionysus" ->D-6]] ] ]

(if: !$B3 and !$B4 and !$B5)[As you walk up to them, they immediately focus on you. ]They stare through their mask with intense brown eyes. (if: !$B3)[ [["What do you want with me?" they ask, prickly. -> B-3]] ] (if: $B3 is "done")[ (if: !$B4)[[["You seem a little tense" -> B-4]]] (if: !$B5)[[["Why are you here?" -> B-5]]] (if: !$B6 and $victim >=4)[[["Can you tell me what's going on?"-> B-6]]] (if: $B4 is "done" and $B5 is "done")[ [[They have nothing more to say to you ->Look around]] ] ]

You approach the person, they look you in the eyes. You can see their full mask now. It's made of shiny brass with etched in star motif details. A few garnets are inlaid into it, making a magnificent display. You figure it must be pretty heavy. (if: !$A3)[ [["What's a knight doing here?" -> A-3]] ] (if: !$A4)[ [["I like your mask" -> A-4]] ] (if: !$A5)[ [["Quite a motley assortment of guests, no?"-> A-5]] ] (if: $hero >= 4 and !$A6)[ [["What are you doing here Ferro? I thought you hated vampires." -> A-6]] ] (if: $A3 is "done" and $A4 is "done" and $A5 is "done")[ [[You can think of nothing to say at the moment ->Look around]] ]

(if: !$E3)[As you get close to their seat, they wave you over. ]They sit up straight in their chair with their legs crossed. You cannot see their eyes through the mask. As far as you know there are no eye-holes. They fidget with the rings on their fingers as they look at you. (if: !$E3)[ "Welcome child," they drawl, their voice is rough but medium-pitched. "Pleased to make your acquaintance," you say. [[You offer a handshake ->E-3]] ] (if: $E3 is "done")[ (if: !$E4)[ [["What's up with your outfit?"->E-4]] ] (if: !$E5)[ [["There seems to be something on your mind..." ->E-5]] ] (if: $seeker >=3 and !$E6)[ [["I have an idea," they say, "let's play a game"->Seeker]] ] ] (if: $E4 is "done" and $E5 is "done")[ [[You can think of nothing to say at the moment->Look around]] ]

(if: !$I3 and !$I4 and !$I5) [You pull up a chair and sit down next to them. The people around them don't pay you much mind and continue to talk.]They look over to you and give you a demure wave. From beneath the mask their eyes faintly glow white. (if: !$I3)[[["Good evening, stranger" -> I-3]]] (if: $I3 is "done")[ (if: !$I4)[ [["An owl!" -> I-4]] ] (if: !$I5)[ [[They look like they have something to say-> I-5]] ] ] (if: $loverI >= 3)[ [[You stand in front of her and offer your hand -> lover (Irene)]] ] (if: $I3 is "done" and $I4 is "done" and $I5 is "done")[ [[There is nothing to be said at the moment ->Look around]] ]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] > "What's a knight doing here?" The person scoffs under their mask and says nothing. (set: $A3 = "done") [["Aren't you worried you'll stand out?" -> A-3-1]] [["I'm a fan of the look, actually" -> A-3-2]]

> "I like your mask" You can see it up close now, the designs remind you somewhat of a compass rose. (set: $A4="done") [[They notice you staring and nod appreciatively. -> A-2]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] > "Quite a motley assortment of guests, no?" "Yeah I guess you could say that," they reply, "but the Count has never been one for homogeny." [["Yes, everyone brings their own flavor to the Feast" -> A-5-1]] [["The... Count?" -> A-5-2]] (set: $A5="done")

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $hero to 5) (set: $A6 to "done") > "What are you doing here Ferro? I thought you hated vampires." Beneath the mask Artemisia sighs, "I guess I'm not that subtle, huh." She shifts her position against the wall. [["You've never been subtle in your life" -> A-6-1]] [[Wait for her to answer -> A-6-2]]

> "You've never been subtle in your life" Artemisia lets out a loud cackle, "You're damn right, I'm only ashamed they made me leave my weapon at the door. I don't know why they let me in." She sighs again, growing more somber, "I dread what's to come, that poor soul doesn't know what he's in for." She nods to the nervous person in the half-mask. "In truth I aim to stop this, though something tells me I won't have an easy time of it." [["Like a lamb to the slaughter..." -> A-6-1-1]] [["I'll do what I can" -> A-6-1-2]]

> Wait for her to answer Artemisia returns your silence with silence of her own. "I don't like what's going on here, I'm here to stop it" she huffs. [["Completely unarmed?" -> A-6-2-1]] [["Don't get in my way." -> A-6-2-2]]

> "Like a lamb to the slaughter..." You can almost see the wry grin on her mouth. Rumors had spread recently about her affairs with a powerful vampire. You wonder whether this stunt was an attempt to try to improve her name or if it was motivated by her own convictions. (if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] [[If nothing else, she had her convictions ->She has nothing more to say to you.]]

> "I'll do what I can" Through the holes in the mask you can see her eyes widen. You sense she didn't expect a friend in the company of beasts. (if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $A = "like") [["When the time comes, follow my lead," she says in a steady voice. ->She has nothing more to say to you.]]

> "Aren't you worried you'll stand out?" "I'm not really afraid of much anymore," they say, "I'm here after all, standing out isn't the scary part." [["What's so scary?" -> A-3-1-1]] [["Sounds like you've seen some shit." -> A-3-1-2]]

> "I'm a fan of the look, actually" They take a slight bow. You can see now with their outstretched arm, the ruff around their neck attaches to a cape made of crimson velvet. Now exposed to the light, the color reflects off their armor, making a golden sunset. "I'm here to please" they say. [[Clap -> A-3-2-1]] [["Where'd you get an outfit like that?" -> A-3-2-2]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $A = "dislike") > "Completely unarmed?" [[Artemisia scoffs behind her mask. "Truly your opinion of me can't be so low that you'd think I'd come here unprepared." ->She has nothing more to say to you.]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $A = "dislike") > "Don't get in my way." [["Be my fucking guest then." She snarls. ->She has nothing more to say to you.]]

(if: $time >0)[She has nothing more to say to you. [[Look around<-go back to the rest of the party]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "What's so scary?" They sigh. The eyes behind their mask stare right into yours. When they speak their voice is full of concern: "You'll find out soon enough" [[After a long pause, they break away their gaze. -> She looks to you]]

(set: $hero to $hero+1) > "Sounds like you've seen some shit." "You could say that" they say, slight pride echoing in their voice, "I've done a lot, perhaps too much." They pause, their eyes cloud over with melancholy, "or perhaps I... haven't done enough." [[You nod, not knowing what to say -> She looks to you]]

(if: $time >0)[[[Continue talking -> A-2]] [[Speak with others ->Look around]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

> Clap They chuckle. "You flatter me, if this were not a masquerade I would introduce myself, but..." they shake their head coyly. You get a closer look at their armor. It's clearly been used before. You can smell the glamours used to make it spotless. Even those cannot hide the unmistakable feeling of magic residue. By your calculation, they aren't just dressing up like a knight, they're the real deal. [[The eyes behind the mask are smiling -> She looks to you]]

> "Where'd you get an outfit like that?" "I earned it of course!" they say, almost indignant, "the armor, for example, is from a small shop in this mountain town of a blight-stained continent. The entire town was being controlled by a devil in human form before my group and I liberated it... I wonder if they still remember me there." You're not especially inclined to believe the story, but something about their tone gives an edge of veracity to their claim. Regardless the armor looks expensive, you can practically see the enchantments wafting off of it. Their hat seemed the most odd out of the entire getup. Is that... a disguise spell? [[They reminisce as you wonder -> She looks to you]]

> "Yes, everyone brings their own flavor to the Feast" The knight looks at you warily for a moment. They command their silence, making it difficult for you to speak. Finally they reply, "What do you seek to gain from the Feast?" (set: $ringleader to $ringleader + 1) [["A show would be lovely" -> A-5-1-1]] [["I'm more interested in what you seek" -> A-5-1-2]]

> "The... Count?" "Count Dionysus organized the event. You'll find out what he is in due time," they reply, "for now just know that he runs the show." (set: $victim to $victim +1) [["Event? Like the party?" -> A-5-2-1]] [["What do you mean, 'what he is?'" -> A-5-2-2]]

> "A show would be lovely" They bristle at your statement, saying nothing. For a moment, defiant eyes flash through the mask, only to be replaced with rocky stoicism. [[You seem to have broken their guise, if only for a second -> She looks to you]]

> "I'm more interested in what you seek" They lean their head back, their eyes smiling. "Justice." [[Well that's certainly cryptic -> She looks to you]]

> "Event? Like the party?" The knight winces behind their mask. They look you in the eyes with a pained stare. [[They don't seem to know what to say -> She looks to you]]

> "What do you mean, 'what he is?'" They sigh, "let's just say this, there are not many beings on this world I'd call creatures, but those who do flock to him." [[Creatures? -> She looks to you]]

(set: $I3 to "done") (if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] > "Good evening, stranger" "Good evening," they reply, their voice clear and bright as a bell chiming in cold winter air, "how are you enjoying the masquerade?" You're a little surprised at their directness. [["I find myself in charming company" -> I-3-1]] [["So far it's been nothing particularly extraordinary" -> I-3-2]] [["Everything around me gleams, I can't help but feel like an archetype in a play of someone else's design" -> I-3-3]]

(set: $loverI to $loverI + 1) > "I find myself in charming company" "Yes this room is... filled with characters," they look to the person near the other end of the table wearing a bunny mask and gesticulating loudly. You glance where they look but train your gaze on them. They return to you only to meet your stare. Their eyes widen but otherwise they don't react. [["One hopes to perhaps make aquaintances at such an occasion" -> I-3-1-1]] [["Sometimes I think the room could be more empty" -> I-3-1-2]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "So far it's been nothing particularly extraordinary" "Well this is merely the beginning," they reply, "the hors d'oeuvre before the Feast. Nothing interesting usually happens until later." Something about her frank tone makes you uneasy. [[You decide to change the subject: "I noticed there's no food on the table" -> I-3-2-1]] [["Usually..?" -> I-3-2-2]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader +1) > "Everything around me gleams, I can't help but feel like an archetype in a play of someone else's design" They sit in silence for a moment, contemplating what you've said. They clasp their gloved hands together, having formulated a reply, "The eye-catching glow is not the lights of the stage, but rather a beacon of our own fate." It's your turn now. [["But is fate so washed in starlight as to cloud our own ambitions?" -> I-3-3-1]] [["All around me I see walls and I wonder, did I create these? Or was it the forces of other wills themselves influenced by others that guided my hands?" -> I-3-3-2]]

> "One hopes to perhaps make aquaintances at such an occasion" They turn their head coyly away from you, keeping their eyes on you, "Aquaintances or friends, yes. I've met many here." [[Not the response you'd hoped for but it looks like she picked up your hints. -> she will talk]]

> "Sometimes I think the room could be more empty" They cock their head ever-so slightly. "So that I could see you alone without the distractions of others," you continue. They laugh, softly rapping the back of your hand as it rests on the table. [[They seem unperturbed by your flirting, but you can sense an openness that wasn't there before -> she will talk]]

(if: $time >0)[[[Continue talking -> I-2]] [[Go back to the others ->Look around]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

> "But is fate so washed in starlight as to cloud our own ambitions?" They cross their arms, "fate will carry out its plans regardless of our ambitions, so it should be given note, don't you think?" [[They're not wrong -> she will talk]]

> "All around me I see walls and I wonder, did I create these? Or was it the forces of other wills themselves influenced by others that guided my hands?" They reply immediately: "Denying your own participation in your existence discredits yourself. It is only right to accept what you have done both good and bad." [[You can't think of a good response -> she will talk]]

> You decide to change the subject: "I noticed there's no food on the table" "Ah-well," they seem a little put-off, "The -ah... food... comes later. If you're hungry, maybe this will help?" They grab the half-full carafe and delicately pour you a glass. They swirl it about a few times before holding out the glass, "this isn't really my thing so I don't know how good it is, but at least it's something?" You accept the glass, the red liquid inside illuminates a beautiful ruby when held up to the light. You take a sip. [[Fruity and full... It's wine all right. -> she will talk]]

> "Usually..?" "Well, sometimes there are those who try to break the rules of the game," they reply, "people try to break the masquerade and guess who is behind each mask which... has led to some heated arguments in the past. Now mostly people seem to realize the fun is not knowing who you're talking to." [[Their tone doesn't suggest they're having fun. -> she will talk]]

(set: $I4 to "done") (if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] >An Owl! They nod, "Yes, I've always found them compelling." [["They're well-known as a symbol of wisdom..." -> I-4-1]] [["Silent hunters..." -> I-4-2]] [["The night's vanguard..." -> I-4-3]]

She smiles fully for the first time, flashing long fangs. Before she didn't seem to keen on revealing them but something about your demeanor has made her at ease. She takes your hand and stands up. You can see she's actually a few inches taller than you are. "Let's get somewhere more quiet," she says, leading you out of the door you came in. As you leave the threshold, the provocative guest yells something at the two of you in a language you don't recognize. The lady at your side stops, bristling. You feel her hand tense as if she were about to crush yours in an iron grip, but she hesitates, saving her anger. She stands there for a second, looking at the ground, thinking. Finally she looks at you, a mischievious glint in her eye. A word slips from her lips in the same language. The guest screams as she runs down dark halls, holding your hand. [[You can't see]]

You can't see but she doesn't seem to notice your hesitation. You've decided it would be best to trust her. You hurry down stairs and stop at a landing. Your eyes have adjusted to the darkness enough to make out a pair of double doors decorated with wrought iron flowers. You gasp for air while she stands perfectly fine. "I had to get away from there, it's just too depressing," she says, letting out a hollow laugh, "to be honest I don't even know why I'm here." You're beginning to catch your breath, "Well I can appreciate that fate has brought us together at least for tonight." You catch the faintest glimpse of her smile, "I have somewhere I'd like to show you," she says, leaning her hand on the door's handle. [["I would go anywhere with you"]]

She grabs your upper arm and holds you close as she opens the door behind her. You're greeted with a billowing gust of fresh air. She guides you into a greenhouse, illuminated with the blue light of the full moon. The floor is stepping stones in a bed of lush moss. Tables hold pots of delicate-looking orchids, but the majority of the greenery in the room sprouts from the ground, including a large tree with branches that reach up through the room's open windows and sizeable clusters of flowers. At the base of it is a stone bench, with white lilies planted at the edges. She brings you to sit down on the bench. Sitting down next to you, she leans over, touching your mask with gloved hands. She slips a finger under one end and stops. You bring your hand up on top of hers... [[and take off your mask with her help]] [[and brush her hand away]]

She seems enraptured with your face. You run your fingers over her mask, causing her to pause and close her eyes while you slip it off. The moon reflects off the lilies around and onto the face in front of you. It's soft, round. She opens her eyes and looks down at you --kinder now that they aren't obscured by her mask, and glowing like the moon that watches over you both. This close you can smell a slight flowery perfume come off her dress. She leans down for a kiss. [[Her lips taste like citrus. -> Irene-end]]

It was a reflex but you don't regret doing it. The low bubbling fear you've been hiding begins to surface. The truth is you don't feel anything for her, or anybody else for that matter. You want companionship, not romance, but you fear you may have led her down the wrong path. She lets down her hand slowly, dawning horror emanating from behind the mask, and sits up. You can feel a hurt coming off of her as she sits, half-illuminated by moonlight. You sit up too, next to her. "I-I'm sorry," she says, "I must have misread this. I... I didn't mean to." You put a hand on hers and lean on her tense shoulder, "You didn't do anything wrong, I... I don't do that. I can't feel that way. But that doesn't mean I don't find you charming and intriguing," you sigh, dreading her response, "I just don't do that... romantic stuff." She sits for a while, the tension easing out of her shoulder. You continue, "I'm sorry if you were looking for something else." "No, don't apologize. I'm just sorry I put you in this situation." You chuckle, "Actually I should be the one saying that, I did make the first move." She smiles briefly before frowning again, "I don't want to go back there. I don't want to see what's going to happen." The statement troubles you but you ignore it, "Let's just stay here for a bit then." She looks to you finally. "Irene Ravencraft..." With one hand she slips the mask off her face, "if I can't share a kiss I can at least share my name." You sit up and remove your mask too. [[The night is spent admiring the complexities of life-> Irene-end]]

You wake up to the rustling of leaves. Something soft lands on your face. You open your eyes to a bright morning, a flower slides off your cheek. Your back aches as you lay curled up on the stone seat. Sometime in the night someone draped a blanket over you. You remember the beautiful lady from last night and smile. When you feel awake enough you sit up, letting the blanket fall to your lap. On the bench next to you is your mask, sitting adjacent is a round owl mask. IRENE ROUTE-END

(set: $loverI to $loverI + 1) > "They're well-known as a symbol of wisdom..." you finish your statement: "... a suitable image for one such as yourself." Here they can't help but look at you, slightly exasperated, "you say that but you don't really know me." Well, now seems like a good time... [["Okay then, what brings you to a party like this?" -> I-4-1-1]] [["Well, what do you like to do?" -> I-4-1-2]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "Silent hunters..." You continue: "their prey never even see them coming." Saying the sentence out loud feels like a bit of a mistake. You feel a little more morbid. They stare at you, slightly perturbed, "well, I guess so." [[You've even managed to creep yourself out -> she will talk]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "The night's vanguard..." You continue: "denizens of shadow." They chuckle, "all the owls I've met are fairly ambivalent to the light. They seem more habitual shadow-dwellers and obligate." "Maybe this is true but they are the most brilliant at night," you reply. "To be perfectly honest, I just think they're cute," they laugh. [[To be perfectly honest, they're cute. -> she will talk]]

> "Okay then, what brings you to a party like this?" They sigh, "well to be honest I wanted to meet people. I don't get out all that much." [[They wear a weary smile. -> she will talk]]

> "Well, what do you like to do?" Their expression becomes even more exasperated, "well, in my spare time I enjoy watching paint dry." Their tone is sarcastic but playful, they seem amused. [[A hit or a miss? You can't tell. -> she will talk]]

(set: $I5 to "done") (if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] > They look like they have something to say You nod in acknowledgement. "I must ask, while, granted I haven't seen returning masks that often, I've never seen you here before. How did you find yourself here?" [["You presume I couldn't have been here before?" -> I-5-1]] [["Invitation, same as everyone else" -> I-5-2]] [["I've come to see the sights" -> I-5-3]] [[Say nothing -> I-5-4]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader +1) > "You presume I couldn't have been here before?" They're taken aback, "I-I mean, I've never seen your mask around here." They pause, "though I guess there aren't any rules about glamours, huh." [[They seem a little embarrassed but they handled it well. -> she will talk]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "Invitation, same as everyone else" They sigh and sit back in their chair, "same as everyone else... yeah." [[They seem like they regret asking -> she will talk]]

(set: $loverI to $loverI + 1) > "I've come to see the sights" "Not much sightseeing here," they respond, a little confused. "Well I see something beautiful right in front of me," you say, wearing a grin. [[For the first time they seem amused by your pickup line. -> she will talk]]

(set: $hero to $hero + 1) > Say nothing They wait for you to reply, getting more and more uncomfortable as your silence goes on. You sit there staring them down. [[You will not budge -> she will talk]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $B3 to "done") > "What do you want with me?" they ask, prickly. You take a step back, not prepared for their level of discomfort. [["Why don't you just calm down" -> B-3-1]] [["Is there something the matter?" -> B-3-2]] [["Nothing, I'll just stand here" -> B-3-3]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "Why don't you just calm down" Their eyes are daggers but they say nothing for a while. Finally they just can't hold it in anymore- "There's something off about this party." Their voice is quiet as they say it, as if trying to act like they'd never said it. "And I feel underdressed," they say louder, without looking at you, "didn't get the memo about full-face masks." They try to act like they've made a joke but only exacerbate their anxiety. [[They're not looking in your eyes anymore ->B-Node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader +1) > "Is there something the matter?" "...I trust you've been properly attended to," you continue. They shift their weight and put a hand to their face, they won't meet your eyes. Until they do, "I want some fucking food." they say petulantly. "It will come in time," you reassure. [[You can't help but grin ->B-Node]]

(set: $hero to $hero +1) > "Nothing, I'll just stand here" They look puzzled as you lean against the wall next to them, keeping a respectable distance and laying your eyes on the rest of the party. You can see from your periphere their eyes glancing at you every so often. Finally they sigh, a little bit more relaxed than they were. [[They seem to appreciate your tacit company ->B-Node]]

(if: $time >0)[ [[Continue talking -> B-2]] [[Go back to the others ->Look around]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

All eyes turn to Brandon, the man standing by the wall. You knew how this was going to go. He didn't know the pain in store for him when he accepted the Count's invitation. Dionysus, with his despicable distorted mask, stands up and gestures to a curtain right next to him at the front of the room. The curtain draws back to reveal a doorway, covered by a thin gauzey veil. The guests, without being prompted, stand up and follow him through the doorway. You make your way over to stand in front of Brandon.(if: $A is "like")[ Artemisia, who takes position behind Brandon catches your eye as you pass her. You trust her plan.](if: $A is "dislike")[ Artemisia gives you a steely gaze as you pass her to take position in front of Brandon. You don't need her help anyways.] You follow the line into a shadowy room. You can't see much aside from the glowing pinpricks of light emanating from the other guests' eyes. They form a circle around the edges of the room. In the center is the vague shape of a table. As the final guests file in, Dionysus steps out of the circle to address the crowd. "I'm sure everyone here is just as excited as I am to share this moment together," his eyes seem to brighten with anticipation, "let us begin." His eyes find Brandon right next to you. You can't see his face but you hear him suddenly sigh. His anxious energy dissipates. In the low light you can see his form slump over, limbs going slack. You resist the urge to hold him back as he straightens up again and walks to the center of the room. You touch the dagger concealed in your sleeve. [[Poised to act]]

All eyes turn to the man standing by the wall. Everyone can smell his freshness through his ugly black overcoat. You picked the perfect target. You stand up and gesture to the curtain right next to your seat. Behind it lies the Feast room. You checked it earlier to make sure it was just right. At your gentle suggestion, the curtain draws back to reveal a doorway, covered by a thin gauzey veil. The guests, without being prompted, stand up and follow you through the doorway. You lead the line into the shadowy room. The walls are hung with black velvet and the floor covered with a tightly-woven rug. The faint metallic smell of old blood trots into your nose. You can't help but smile in anticipation. The guests form a circle around the edges of the room. In the center sits a table, spellbound to prolong the life of whatever lays on it. As the final guests file in, you step out of the circle to address the crowd. "I'm sure everyone here is just as excited as I am to share this moment together," your mouth twists into a wicked grin, "let us begin." You train your gaze on the victim. He, ignorant, looks into your eyes. You feel a slight resistance as you push your will into his mind. He's no match for you, though. You wind your will around his consciousness. He lets out a sigh and relinquishes control to you, slumping over. You extend a hand, pulling your marionnette strings taught. [[Now Walk]]

You squirm under their gaze. What's going on? The host, with his commedia de l'arte mask, stands up and gestures to a curtain right next to him at the front of the room. The curtain draws back to reveal a doorway, covered by a thin gauzey veil. The other guests, without being prompted, stand up and begin follow him through. You stand up with them and follow the person in front of you. You notice as the line slowly filters out, other guests sneaking more looks at you. Some of them smile at you, as if to mock you. The guest in the black overcoat meets your roving eye. Their eyes are wide and they can't stifle a shocked frown. You attempt a smile back at them but they look away. You feel cold. A stone begins to form in your gut. Something is wrong. You follow the line into a shadowy room. You can't see much aside from the glowing pinpricks of light emanating from the other guests' eyes. They form a circle around the edges of the room. In the center is the vague shape of a table. As the final guests file in, the guest from before, who you assume is the leader, steps out of the circle to address the crowd. "I'm sure everyone here is just as excited as I am to share this moment together," his eyes brighten to a sunset orange, "let us begin." He looks to you. The other eyes in the room seem to draw to you as well. What do they want from you? "Greetings, blooded one," the voice of the one who addressed the crowd echoes in your mind. Before you can respond, you feel a jolt of energy pass through your head. You can't feel your body anymore. Your vision swims and fades to black. [[...]]

They seem to squirm under the combined weight of the party's gaze. Everyone has made their decision. The guest does seem the most out of place. The host, with their commedia de l'arte mask, stands up and gestures to a curtain right next to him at the front of the room. The curtain draws back to reveal a doorway, covered by a thin gauzey veil. The other guests, without being prompted, stand up and begin follow him through. You stand up with them and follow the person in front of you. You follow the line into a shadowy room. The faint metallic smell of old blood trots into your nose but you can't quite see what's in the room. Guests stop moving after finding a place standing at the edges of the room. In the center you can make out the outline of a humble table. The curtain closes behind the final guests as they file in. For a moment the room is silent, charged with anticipation for the next moment. All you can really see is the pinpricks of light emanating from the guests' eyes. The host, a slightly larger shape than the rest, steps out of the circle and into the center of the room. "I'm sure everyone here is just as excited as I am to share this moment together," they say excitement coloring their voice, "let us begin." Your eyes begin to adjust to the light now. You can make out the faint shape of the host and some small shadows that indicate spaces between guests. The host holds out his hand towards the wall he faces. You hear a loud sigh as a shape groggily steps out of the circle towards the host. [[Watch the scene unfold]]

Dionysus, his eyes now glowing brightly enough to illuminate a significant amount of space, draws Brandon closer. Brandon reaches an unsteady halt directly in front of Dionysus. The Count, easily a foot taller than Brandon, puts a hand on either side of Brandon's face. Now you can see his wicked grin, showing long, pointed teeth. He pulls the man into an engulfing embrace before putting a hand on the table. Brandon complies, laying down on his back. The parlaiment of vampires watches silently. As Dionysus reaches into his robe and takes out a glinting gold dagger. You clench your fists. You must wait for the right moment lest you risk death. Dionysus makes to raise the dagger to strike. (if: $A is not "like")[ [[NOW]]] (if: $A is "like")[ He's about to do it! You're running out of time. Suddenly the warrior at your side whispers something. [[You make out the words "close your eyes"]]]

Just in time you snap your eyes shut. Artemisia roars "Let light penetrate the highest bowers of the mortal tree-". From behind closed eyelids you see a flash of light that dims to a bright glow within a second. You open your eyes again to a bright room, the guests around the edges cower from the light, which has a coldness to it. Dionysus flinches, dropping the knife to the floor. "Let unflinching truth illuminate degradation-" Brandon stirrs from the table. You begin to recognize the words, laced with powerful intent. "Be not wary of the path that lies in front of you-" Something rings in your body-- potential. Yes! It's an ancient poem. "For it is yours alone to walk upon." You run toward the center of the room, ripping the dagger out of its sheathed position in your sleeve. You hold it in front of you and sink it into Dionysus' chest. He's knocked back slightly but regains his balance quickly. You look up to his face and see he's smiling. Suddenly you feel a sickening pain in your stomach. The wind is knocked out of you as you feel your flesh rip. You look down to see his hand lodged solidly in your torso. You feel a chill pass through you. You can't catch your breath. You fall to the floor. Looking up you watch as a glowing executioner's sword comes down on the Count. A spray of cold blood dots your face and chest. Dionysus's head falls, landing next to you. Above you stands Ferro, her armor glowing bright. [[You can't keep your eyes open through the pain]]

You run up to the Count, ripping your dagger out of its sheath. A swirl of heavy robes greets you as you get within striking distance. Suddenly your feet aren't on the ground anymore. Dionysus holds you up by the neck with one hand. With the other he disarms you, flinging your pitiful dagger skittering away. "Nice try," he says, looking you right in the eyes. Your will to struggle drains at his gaze. It is replaced by cold terror. [[You have a feeling this will not end well -gore warning-]] [[Tears prick at your eyes -no gore-]]

You don't know how long you were out. Feverish, you find yourself in a small cot. You grip the sheets but find little strength in your hands. You gasp as pain shoots up your abdomen. You steady your breath and it slowly subsides enough for you to take in the room around you. Its wooden walls are decorated with a collection of relics --paintings, tapestries, and some ordinary items that emanated a powerful energy. Beside you, in a chair, sits a woman you don't recognize. She can't be younger than fourty years old, yet her deep brown eyes evoke a sense of youth and exuberance. "You're awake!" her voice rings like clear birdsong, "Artemisia, they're awake!" You hear rustling come from another room as Ferro peeks her head through the doorway. She spots you and smiles. Without her mask on you can see she's in her sixties, with grey streaks in her hair and a hard face. Its as if she never changed at all. She walks over to you and puts a hand on the woman's shoulder, who smiles at the sentiment. "I'm glad to see you're okay," Artemisia says, "I'd hoped you wouldn't get hurt in that exchange but you just went and bolted out there. Now that takes some guts." You try to respond but pain keeps you quiet. "Don't try it. Dionysus is dead. Brandon is safe. Actually he intends to pay you his respects. But" she pauses, "right now the most important thing is to rest. We'll debrief when you're better." You lay back in the bed, supported by soft pillows. You did it. HERO-GOOD END

Dionysus laughs, "Looks like tonight we will have another treat." (if: $A is not "dislike")[ The knight in the corner starts, but pauses, frozen. ](if: $A is "dislike")[You find Artemisia standing next to the wall, watching you with cold eyes. She doesn't move. ]Everyone stares at you, eyes like fireflies in twilight. You feel the hand tighten around your neck, just enough to make you wheeze. You grit your teeth. Dionysus picks up the dagger from before and plunges it into your side. Pain sends fireworks through your head. You gasp for air but can barely breathe. As he pulls out the knife you can hear the ominous hiss of air escaping your lung. The Count pulls you in close, holding you up now by one arm. You take a breath now that he's not holding your neck but instead of relief all you feel is dull pain from your wound. Your vision swims. You feel an impact in your stomach that travels up to your neck. You feel cold inside as consciousness slips away from you. The last words you hear are "let the first course begin." HERO- BAD END

You can't help but cry. Fear swallows confidence, and everything you defined yourself by before this moment. You choke through sobs. Dionysus frowns, as if someone spit in his food, "pathetic." You feel yourself sail across the room and hit the floor. Pain rings through your skull. Your vision fades to black. HERO- BAD END

The man takes a few unsteady steps towards the center of the room. You can see the knight clench her fists in retaliation. Yes, the entertainment must take the stage, too. Your charge reaches an unsteady halt directly in front of you. He's smaller than you'd expected. You draw a hand over his jawline, examining his face. You find it difficult to wait. In a fit of demonic glee you wrap him in a quick embrace before showing him the table. He complies, laying down on his back. The parlaiment of star-eyed guests watches silently. You savor the tension as you slowly pull the golden dagger from your robe. You had it sharpened last night just for this occasion. With a fluid movement, you draw up your arms to make the first slice. [[Strike the mortal!]]

You make to bring down your dagger but are inturrupted by a flash of light. Sunlight! You can't see! Your dagger clatters to the floor. You can hear that damned knight run towards you. You close your eyes for a second. The sunlight spell behind you wears on your strength. You concentrate on the sound of the knight's footfalls until- A blade strikes your chest. You grab it before it sinks deep. With your other hand you grab the knight's wielding hand. You hear her gasp before you constrict your grip. Under your fingers you feel her bones snap. She lets go of the dagger and grunts. The light behind you extinguishes as you straighten up to full height. You hold the knight by her broken hand, suspended above the floor, and smile as she wimpers in pain. She does not look you in the eyes, smart one, did her research. You can hear her chanting something under her breath. She twists around to kick the dagger inwards. You don't have enough time to stop it as it sinks deeper into your chest. This time it seems to have hit something. You can taste your own putrid blood in your mouth as you can't help but cough. You let go of her hand and she drops to the floor. She, tenacious, makes for another attack. This time you see it coming. You grab her by the head and yank her upwards. You can't hold in your anger, and rip her mask off her face. For an instant she meets your eyes. Then it's too late. You grab her psyche, letting go of the man for an impassioned moment. Her body goes limp. You let her keep her eyes. "Foolish." You break out into smile once again and drop the knight at your feet. "You failed, Iron Knight, now watch what you have wrought." You kick her over to the other side of the room. The smell of her blood sends your senses into a frenzy. You pick up the dagger from the floor and turn to the man, who stands on the other side of the table, terrified. "Now, let us Feast" RINGLEADER ROUTE -END

A metallic smell greets you as you wake up. You open your eyes to all-encompassing void. You're on your back and you cannot move. As your senses come back to you you feel the wetness underneath you. It's warm and viscous and comes up to the tips of your ears. You hear static from one side and turn to face it. The void around you begins to lighten around a shape. It looks like a squatting gargoyle almost, except made out of darkness. It stands up on two legs and walks over to you. In the low light it seems to have physical afterimages of itself. "Welcome," the voice comes from all around you, echoing in a thousand different dialects. The tone seems almost... motherly. You attempt to speak but when you make to say a word your lips only twitch. The being squats down in front of your face. Closer now the void takes three-dimensional shape, defined by oily black vines. It puts a wet, lukewarm finger on your lips, "this will come again in time. They really did a number on you, didn't they." You feel the weight of your limbs again and an overwhelming tiredness. The figure picks you up in an awkward embrace. You feel warm, the closest approximation to love in this unnatural space. "I am Dracula, but you may call me Mother." VICTIM ROUTE-END

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $B4 to "done") > "You seem a little tense" "I don't know what I've done to give you that impression," they say, dripping with sarcasm, "I mean, I don't even know anyone here." The second statement seems genuine. [["Isn't the point of a masquerade to not know who you're talking to?" -> B-4-1]] [["I know that's not true." -> B-4-2]] [["Well, maybe it's time to make friends?" -> B-4-3]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $B5 to "done") > "Why are you here?" "I don't know why are YOU here?" they respond. [["I got an invitation!" -> B-5-1]] [["Because I wish to be" -> B-5-2]] [["I wanted to see what this party was all about" -> B-5-3]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "Isn't the point of a masquerade to not know who you're talking to?" They sigh, "you notice how they all talk with each other? They're very friendly." You look over to the table and watch a few guests make avid conversations with each other. They do seem to be friendlier than your average strangers. "I fucking hate being left out," they continue. [[Is there something you're missing? ->B-Node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "I know that's not true." They stare at you, trying to parse what you've just said. Their eyes narrow behind the mask, "I think I would know who my friends are." [[That should give them something to think about ->B-Node]]

> "Well, maybe it's time to make friends?" They scoff, "yeah, well, I guess." You haven't met someone here yet quite like this one. Of all the guests they seem the most out of place. Even you fit in more than they do. You decide to make the first move. You offer a hand, "If it were anywhere else, I would introduce myself with my name, but..." They shake your hand and a small smile creeps up their cheeks, "yeah..." [[Maybe they're a friend? ->B-Node]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "I got an invitation!" Their eyes widen behind the mask, "an invitation, huh..." "I mean, didn't you get one too?" you ask. "Yeah, yes I did." [["I don't get it, what's the big deal" ->B-5-1-1]] [["That's the way parties normally go, right?" ->B-5-1-2]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader +1) > "Because I wish to be" "Well you're clearly having fun," they reply. "It's a party isn't it?" "I'm not sure what this is except a mistake." They sure do like it here don't they. [["Would you like to know what this is?" ->B-5-2-1]] [["Nothing is a mistake, mortal" ->B-5-2-2]]

(set: $hero to $hero +1) > "I wanted to see what this party was all about" "Wait, what? You just walked in?" their surprise is tempered by their attitude. "Nobody stopped me," your statement sounds like an excuse even though it's true. "Am I the only one who got an invitation?" [["Sounds like it" -> B-5-3-1]] [["What kind of invitation?" -> B-5-3-2]]

> "I don't get it, what's the big deal" "Not everyone gets here the same way, this you should know," they say, a hint of sadness in their voice, "It's not something these people wave around." "I don't understand, what are you saying?" "Look, there's nothing wrong with your invitation, I just wouldn't... advertise it if I were you." [[What does this mean? ->B-Node]]

> "That's the way parties normally go, right?" "Yeah generally," they say, putting a hand to their face, "But know this, this isn't a normal party." [[You feel uneasy ->B-Node]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $victim to 5) (set: $B6 to "done") > "Can you tell me what's going on?" "You really don't know, do you?" their voice has a forlorn tone to it. Their attitude dissipates. "Listen it's... Maybe it's better if you don't know." they continue. [["What do you mean?" -> B-6-1]] [["Please!" -> B-6-2]]

> "Would you like to know what this is?" "By all means, enlighten me," they cross their arms. You draw close to them, they put a hand to your shoulder to push you away but you stand your ground, bringing your mouth to their ear. "It's a Feast," you whisper before drawing back to a reasonable distance. Their mouth sets in a frown. They don't respond. [[You can't stifle a laugh ->B-Node]]

> "Nothing is a mistake, mortal" They're at a loss for words. For the moment you seem to have quelled their attitude. [[But did you reveal too much? ->B-Node]]

> "Sounds like it" They bring their hand to their face again, puzzled, "hold on, how did you learn about it without being invited?" "They're not difficult to find out about," you struggle to come up with the right words, "...if you look in the right circles." They sigh, "Damn I guess I really am the only one here who doesn't know anything." [[That's the way they like it. ->B-Node]]

> "What kind of invitation?" "A courier showed up at my door a week ago with this letter," they say, pulling a folded piece of paper from their pocket, "it seemed interesting so now I'm here. What a mistake." You take the paper from them and look it over. The script is flowing, immaculate, and written in a shimmery maroon ink. In many extravagant words it is a simple invitation to a masquerade. It provides a date and time and a few words on dress but otherwise nothing particularly interesting. It's addressed to a Brandon. You hand it back to Brandon. He shoves it back into his pocket. [[So this is he. ->B-Node]]

> "What do you mean?" "You'll feel better not knowing..." they trail off, caught up in their own thoughts, "something... terrible happens at the end of the masquerade." "W-what?" you begin to feel uneasy again. "It's better if you don't know. It's too late anyway." they sigh and look around the room. The hair raises on the back of your neck. You feel your fingertips freeze. Your gut clenches into a fist. [["You're joking, right?" -> B-6-1-1]] [["What am I supposed to do?" -> B-6-1-2]]

> "Please!" You're desperate, the creeping dread you've been feeling all evening comes back. "Something's wrong here I need to know why," you continue. "You need to calm down," they say in a low voice. [["How can I calm down? I feel like something terrible's going to happen" ->B-6-2-1]] [[Take a deep breath ->B-6-2-2]]

> "You're joking, right?" They smile large, showing all their teeth, they seem sharper than normal, "haha gotcha! don't worry about it!" [[It's not convincing ->B-Node]]

> "What am I supposed to do?" "There's nothing you can do," they say, flippant, "so just... try to forget I told you anything." Your head spins. You close your eyes to try to stem the tide of terrible thoughts that present themselves to you. You feel a hand on your shoulder. You open your eyes again and see the guest in front of you, looking at you. Up close their deep brown eyes remind you of sparrow's feathers. "You'll be okay in the end" they say. For the first time their tone seems genuine. [[You don't know if you should trust them or not ->B-Node]]

> "How can I calm down? I feel like something terrible's going to happen" "Listen!" they grab your shoulders, "don't make a scene. They like fear." An icy cold hand slides down your spine, you bite your tongue. They sigh, "You're right. Your intuition is right. But freaking out about it is just about the worst thing you could do." "What are they going to do?" you barely have the courage to ask. "Knowing doesn't help you. Just... try not to think about it," their hands slide off your shoulders. [[You wish you could, but suddenly the thought won't leave your mind. ->B-Node]]

> Take a deep breath You let it out, unsteadily. You can't shake the feeling from before. From deep within your psyche an old fear emerges --one that would have been more appropriate if you were surrounded by wolves. "You're right, this isn't some ordinary party. The masquerade is an overture to something much darker." You feel a small amount of joy from the beginnings of a straightforward answer. "They call it the Feast," they continue, "I know you probably don't trust me but please understand when I say you're better off not knowing what it is." You sigh. [[You'll have to wait and see ->B-Node]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $D3 to "done") > Sit The chair next to them is empty. You pull it out and sit down. "Make yourself comfortable, friend." they say taking another sip from their glass, "How are you enjoying the evening thusfar?" [["Well enough" -> D-3-1]] [["I've yet to be impressed" ->D-3-2]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $D4 to "done") > "You seem quite at home here" "I've been to my fair share of parties, friend," they take another large sip from their cup, "It's one of the few chances I get to feel... alive." Here they grin again. [["For what is life without fest?" ->D-4-1]] [["Dreary existence, huh?" ->D-4-2]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $D5 to "done") > "What's up with that wine glass?" "Oh this?" they say, holding it up. They drain the glass into their mouth and set it back down on the table. You glance away for a second to see his face. When you look back at the glass it's half-full again with wine. "Nothing, nothing at all," they finish, grinning. [["Neat enchantment" ->D-5-1]] [["May I try?" ->D-5-2]]

> "Well enough" They smile, "Ah I'm glad to hear that! A lot of preparation went into this Masquerade, you know." [["And what company we have!..."->D-3-1-1]] [["Did you organize this?..." -> D-3-1-2]]

> "I've yet to be impressed" They frown, the absurd lines of their mask turn their face into a moving caricature. "Now, whatever is the matter?" [["There's not enough excitement" ->D-3-2-1]] [[Say Nothing ->D-3-2-2]]

> "And what company we have!..." "... A room full of beautiful people." Their eyes sparkle, "You have good taste, friend. I'll let you know that two of these lovely individuals are- shall we say- seeking?" As if on cue, the guest in the rabbit mask turns to your conversation, "did someone say seeking? Why yes, I am." The guest next to them laughs and holds their arm, bringing them back to their side of the table. The elegant stranger then points to a guest on the other side of the table. They sit tacitly, watching the room through the guise of their owl mask. [[You feel more informed ->D-node]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "Did you organize this?..." "... Were you the one who sent me me the invitation?" The stranger grins but doesn't say anything for a few moments. When they finally speak their tone is changed, just a hint lower, "To answer your question would break the rules of the Masquerade, you see." [["Oh... okay" ->D-node]]

(if: $time >0)[[[Continue talking -> D-2]] [[Speak with others ->Look around]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "There's not enough excitement" "Oh ho ho, wait and see, my friend, things will get very exciting soon enough," they grin again, wagging a finger at you. You smile too. [[You can't wait for time to pass. ->D-node]]

(set: $hero to $hero +1) > Say Nothing The stranger's demonic comportment doesn't let up with your silence. You won't give them the satisfaction of thinking that you're amused. "Such a stick in the mud we are tonight, hmm?" they finally say, their voice dripping with sing-song disdain. [[At least you two seem to be on the same page. ->D-node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "For what is life without fest?" "Or a Feast," the stranger quips, "Barren, truly barren." "Not life at all I dare say," you roll the conversation back to him. "But what measure do we define life by? Is it the persistence of flesh or persistence of soul?" You grin. You knew you'd get here eventually. [["By most definitions, life is dignity of the flesh alone..." ->D-4-1-1]] [["We must live by our souls. If life is relegated to the persistence of the flesh, what then are we to call existence after?" ->D-4-1-2]]

> "Dreary existence, huh?" They pause, "I wouldn't say that, no. But one does get bored on one's own." [["It's difficult to be alone though" ->D-4-2-1]] [["You truly have nothing better to do" ->D-4-2-2]]

> "By most definitions, life is dignity of the flesh alone..." "... and therefore ends when death comes upon it." you finish, triumphantly waiting for a response. "Are we to relegate ourselves to Mortal definitions of existence?" their response is disappointingly quick. "Do you suggest we alter our definition for the lucky minority?" They pause, seeking what must only be another question. You continue, "Who may truly own the concept of life? Should the definition not be awarded to those who may experience its entirity?" "Surely the definition belongs to the ones who experienced it first! But Mortal or Immortal, who may say..." You look around at your company and scoff, no immortal being who existed before mortality would accept the assemblage. [[By mortal standards, the Gods would not approve. ->D-node]]

> "We must live by our souls. If life is relegated to the persistence of the flesh, what then are we to call existence after?" "Most would call it the After-Life," the stranger grins wider, "Though I think we'll agree the term is ghastly to begin with, no?" "It's a contradiction! If life of the flesh is simply life, but life of the soul is also considered life, then neither can be true, right?" "The word is misleading, friend." the stranger says, looking you in the eyes, "'after' could be used as an adjective, merely a modifier--an asterisk- on the description of post-flesh existance as you say. But it might also be used as a way to denote place. The afterlife would simply be a temoral descriptor for for post-flesh existence. In the former case you are correct in your measure of its contradiction, but in the latter you are not." You pause, thinking. Alas, it seems you have nothing to respond. [[They've beaten you this time ->D-node]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > "It's difficult to be alone though" They cock their head, "how so?" "Well if there's nobody living with you, at least you can go outside," you explain, "And if there's nobody out there, there's probably at least animals to watch. It's no party for sure but you're never truly alone." They chuckle, "I'll accept that." [[Their tone is jolly but they look at you strangely ->D-node]]

(set: $hero to $hero+1) > "You truly have nothing better to do" You edge your voice with a hint of petulence. Their eyes narrow but their smile stays, "Absolutely nothing, valued guest." [[You hate their guts ->D-node]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $D6 to "done") > "I simply cannot wait anymore Dionysus" They look to you. Their eyes open the slightest bit wider. "You must wait, it's not yet time," he says, serious. [["Should I go check the room to see we have everything?" ->D-6-1]] [["What about our Guest?" ->D-6-2]]

> "Neat enchantment" "Isn't it? I had an artificer craft it for me," they chuckle, "It's vital I take good care of it, I don't know what would happen if it tipped over." "What sort of enchantment is it? Does it generate the wine or siphon it from another place?" you ask, curious. "It would be in poor taste to reveal all my secrets, hmm?" They pause for a second, swirling the liquid in their cup. "Though you must know, nothing is ever simply created," they continue, "only recycled-- born anew. Neither can something be truly obliterated. That's a small comfort in this pitiable existence, no?" [[Yes... ->D-5-1-1]] [[No... ->D-5-1-2]]

> "May I try?" You're fascinated by this cup, you've never seen anything quite like it. Naturally you'd like to see if you can replicate the stranger's results. Their grin fades into a slight grimace, "isn't that a bit forward? There are other glasses on the table and the carafe works the same way." [[Investigate the carafe -> D-5-2-1]] [["But I'd like some of what you're drinking" ->D-5-2-2]]

> Yes... "Even at the end of existence we can take pleasure in knowing we will be unmade and made again" you reply. "Exactly! As long as the universe stays in balance, life and death is cyclical, there's no harm in either," they say, taking another sip. [[That's not the way you'd put it... ->D-node]]

(set: $victim to $victim+1) > No... "There's nothing worse than the end of things!" you say, "What use is it to know our matter is being recycled if we cannot witness the end product. We cannot even know that we have succeeded in being recycled." You clench your fists, "it's useless!" The stranger frowns, "that's unfortunate..." [[What could they mean by that? ->D-node]]

(set: $victim to $victim +1) > Investigate the carafe You try to obtain the carafe in the middle of the table but struggle to reach it. In your efforts, you brush your hand against the bare arm of the guest next to you who wears the rabbit mask. Their skin is ice cold. You can't help but shiver a little bit. They're jerked out of their conversation and stare at you intently. They see your outstretched arm reaching for the carafe and grab it for you before turning back to their coterie. Well that was strange. You look carefully at the carafe, noting the level of wine inside it, and retrieve the glass sat at your seat. You carefully, slowly pour the wine into the glass. As it goes you note tiny bubbles forming and releasing at the base of the carafe. After you've poured out enough, you set the carafe down. Sure enough the wine level is the same. [[You drink the wine happily knowing that you've seen something neat this evening ->D-node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "But I'd like some of what you're drinking" "You've spiked your drink, I can smell it from here." you continue, "Isn't it a bit of a breach of protocol? Of course I could be persuaded to forgive you." The grin flits across their lips again and they let out a wry laugh, "you sly dog... fine." You take the glass from their outstretched hand and bring it to your face. Your inkling was on point. You take a deep sniff of the fragrant combo before downing a sizeable gulp. Just as you expected, it was laced with blood. As the drink goes down you feel an energetic tingle stir in the tips of your fingers. "I call it a bloody Mary," they say, a wicked smile spreading across their face. "Oh was that her name?" [[Neither of you can keep yourselves from laughing ->D-node]]

> "Should I go check the room to see we have everything?" Dionysus clears his throat, "no, we don't want guests to get the wrong impression. Be confident in your preparation." "But I'm not sure if I have everything right." "Please, I know you've got this. I had the room cleaned last week and I'll be damned if that table hasn't moved in at least a hundred years." [["But if he dies, the whole thing will be for naught" ->D-6-1-1]] [["What if one of the players fails to play to their role?" ->D-6-1-2]]

> "What about our Guest?" "What about him?" Dionysus intones. [["Are we sure we'll be safe from wannabe avengers?" ->D-6-2-1]] [["Are we sure the other guests will be satisfied?" ->D-6-2-2]]

> "But if he dies, the whole thing will be for naught" "If he dies, he dies," Dionysus shrugs, "we'll think of something on the fly." You're not especially comforted by the notion of improvising. He continues, "worst comes to worst we'll piss off Mother and you and I will have to go on the run." "Fuck," you whisper, "what if it goes wrong." "I've never been fond of that thing anyway..." Dionysus says, not meeting your eyes, "if anything it'd mean we could hold Feasts with no rules." He turns to look at you, his eyes are glowing bright and his smirk is back, "now isn't that a delicious idea." You imagine it for a moment, but can't seem to get as excited as your partner in crime. "Well anyway," you say, "I guess it is okay no matter what happens." [["Exactly," Dionysus says. ->D-node]]

> "What if one of the players fails to play to their role?" "Isn't that the exciting part?" he says, swirling the blood-wine in his cup. "Not if it means our upstart chickens out." "Ahh that's who you were referring to," he sighs, "I wouldn't worry, she's somewhat of a sentimentalist. It'll go fine." Dionysus takes a sip, "plus she hates my guts, and yours too. She'll bite, don't worry." A slight feeling of dread creeps over you as you look over to the knight in the corner. By all means she should be no problem for you to handle, but something about the way she carries herself makes it difficult for you to shake the feeling she's much more dangerous than she looks. No matter. [[What will come will come. ->D-node]]

> "Are we sure we'll be safe from wannabe avengers?" "Friend, you were the one who scouted him, why don't you tell me," Dionysus replies. You hum, remembering the long hours of research you did to pick a man who could disappear, "And you're sure the local Knight's Guild hasn't caught on yet." "Please, the only person here who has any connection to the Knights is bound to be dead by morning," Dionysus says, gesturing to the sour-looking knight standing by the wall. "Plus," he continues, "I would be surprised if any group of knights could take down the two of us together. I know I'm no pushover." [[You're not a pushover, either, you suppose. ->D-node]]

> "Are we sure the other guests will be satisfied?" "Well, there have been times I've left hungry," Dionysus muses, "but usually one body's enough, especially on that table." "I have the knife as well," you say, sliding your hand to the place where you've stashed it in your robe. "Oh the new one? Excellent" "I'm just worried-" Dionysus stops you by putting a hand on your shoulder, "Stop worrying, it's a disemboweling, not a vivisection. You can't go wrong with debauchery." The last statement is punctuated by his aggressively setting down his glass on the table. [[You suppose you'll have to see how it goes ->D-node]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $E3 to "done") > You offer a handshake They turn their head to your hand but don't move to reciprocate. Eventually you bring it down to your side again. They cock their head but say nothing, instead opting for a arm-sweeping gesture, "please, sit, talk with me." As they rest their hand on the table you notice their fingernails shine gold. You sit in the chair next to them. Something about their presence carries a heavy weight. You're drawn into their pull like a satellight around a star. [["Who... are you?" -> E-3-1]] [["How are you?" -> E-3-2]] [["Well aren't you eccentric" -> E-3-3]]

(set: $victim to $victim+1) (set: $seeker to $seeker+1) > "Who... are you?" They let out a laugh, the eyes on their mask seem to react too, contorting into somewhat of a grimace. "Why, foolish child, do you think I'm wearing a mask?" they crow, loud enough for the whole room to hear, "You may not know now." They survey you from head to toe. "But..." they continue, "perhaps you may know later." [[There's something both alluring and terrifying about them. ->E-node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "How are you?" They sit back in their chair and nod, "this Masquerade finds me in high spirits if, regrettably alone." "Quel dommage," you mumble, "You're in a room full of people how can you feel lonely?" "You misunderstand me, lonely is not 'alone' N'est-ce pas?" their voice contains just the slightest touch of malcontent. You roll your eyes. [[For someone wearing an eyeless mask they're quite easy to read. ->E-node]]

(set: $hero to $hero +1) > "Well aren't you eccentric" They cock their head again and stop fidgeting, "better that than boring." [[You've decided you hate their guts.->E-node]]

(if: $time >0)[[[Continue talking -> E-2]] [[Leave them ->Look around]] ] (if: $time is 0)[ [[How the time goes by ->Time]] ]

> "I have an idea," they say, "let's play a game" "A trade of sorts. You do something for me and in return I will do something for you." they say, sitting up in their chair and leaning over to you, "I'm so terribly lonely after all." Their flirtation has gone on long enough, you grab the bottom of their mask and pull it close, they don't flinch this time. "Name your price, stranger." you say. "Feisty aren't you?" they croon, "I have one favor to ask of you." They lean further in until they are close enough to brush the side of your face with their mask. "Let me drink your blood," they whisper. You grip the chair--the request caught you offguard. They seem to sense your apprehension and bring a hand to your face. Their icy-cold fingers brush your skin underneath the mask as they slowly draw their hand down to your chin. "You didn't think you could fool me, Mortal, I can smell fresh blood from a mile away," they whisper, an edge to their voice, "and you, oh you are not subtle." They linger there at your chin for a moment before releasing you and sitting back in their chair. "You're too eager--too knowledgeable about this little fête we have here to be the guest of honor," they continue, "but you're terribly out of place. So desperate." You take a deep breath and prepare yourself for the worst. [["I agree to it." ->Seeker-2]]

You hear a clock chime three times. On cue, everyone stops talking. All eyes seem to rest on the poor fellow in the corner with the black velvet mask. The stately patron with the wine glass stands up as one of the wall curtains draws back to reveal a darkened room. They disappear into the room. Guests get up and follow suit stepping almost in time with each other. Your companion grabs your arm with the strength of a panther. You both wait as the room clears. Eventually the last guest enters the room, the curtain closes behind them. You two are alone. They let go of your arm and face you head on. Slowly, they bring their hand up to their mask. At a touch it disappears, revealing a moderately attractive individual with glowing golden eyes and a thin, angular face. For someone so confident, their smile is modest. They play at your collar, loosening it to reveal skin. "Say you're willing," they murmur, looking you in the eyes. [["I am willing"]] [["..."]]

You speak the words and their eyes begin to glow brighter. They bring their head to your neck and bite. You feel a slight bloom of pain before it fades to numbness. They put a hand on the other side of your head. Within a few seconds your vision begins to swim, the tips of your fingers freeze. You grab their arm. They pull away, a slight speck of red on their grinning lips. "Thank you for that, now what can I do for you?" they sing. It takes a moment for your vision to stable. They didn't take too long, why is it you're so dizzy. You dart a hand to the table to steady yourself. "Turn me," you manage to say. Their eyes widen, "ah, I should have known you were one of those types. Very well, a bargain is a bargain after all." They stand and pick you up out of your chair. You're too woozy to sit up, but your determination stays. [[You will have this.]]

You can't seem to form the words. They get caught in your mouth right behind your teeth. You thought you'd have the courage to go through with it when you walked through this mansion's entrance. You thought you'd be okay knowing the horrors going on in the room next to you. But sitting there with a vampire staring you in the face, the threat of the void looming over your shoulder. You can't do it. The guest looks intently into your eyes for a few moments as you stay silent. At last they sigh, "So not tonight then." They sit back in their chair and put their chin on their hand. They reach out with their other hand to snatch the mask off your face, tossing it onto the table. "You don't know what you've gotten yourself into, kid," they say. You flush red, "I wanted to become like you." They frown, "if you can't handle a little blood you'd never be able to deal with eternity. Besides, becoming a vampire is much more painful than giving a little snack." You sit back in your chair, "What will you do with me?" They stand up from their chair and move to walk out. "Nothing. Not if you're unwilling. There's immense power in a willing donor. Nothing else can satisfy me nowadays," they say, walking out the exit door. You sit in the chair and look forlornly at your mask. From behind the curtain you hear some muffled noises. You're truly out of your league. EROS ROUTE B-END

You open your eyes. You're in a thick four-poster bed in a room you do not recognize. You attempt to sit up but your body screams in protest. Settling back down you look around the room. It's lavishly decorated, with silver plates displayed on the walls and a full set of beautifully-carved drawers. The windows, if they truly were windows, are covered in their entirety by thick curtains that did not part in the middle. You turn your head to the side and see a nightstand. On which sits a glass half-full of red liquid and a note, folded neatly under the glass. It takes a few minutes before you have the courage to examine the glass. You try to sit up again and manage to prop yourself up on the pillows. You open your mouth with relief. A spray of blood drips down from your mouth. Surprised you close it again, only to bite down on your bottom lip with newfound fangs. You sit upright in bed and wait patiently until the pain dies down. Once again you fix your eyes on the glass and note. Taking a deep breath, you throw your weak arm over to the nightstand and grab the glass. Shaking you bring it to your lips. It is blood, of course. Your quickness to drink surprises you. You suppose its instinct. After the blood goes down you begin to feel better. You pick up the note and open it up. Simply written in scrawling print: "Enjoy your new life -Eros" A toothy smile washes over your face. You think you will. EROS ROUTE A-END

You have nothing real to gain from this so-called "Feast" you think as the victim arrives in the center of the room. The host caresses them before pointing them to the table where they lay themself down. You're a human in a room of hungry vampires but you simply had to know what this was. Your thoughts are inturrupted by a bright flash of light. You can't see. You put your hands to your eyes, trying to sooth the pain. You hear the voice of the armored guest chanting something. The chanting abruptly stops. The light vanishes. You hear some scuffling and a groan. You open your eyes but the darkness is too great. You hear a pained grunting from the middle of the room and finally a stabbing sound. You hear a low cry and the hiss of a pained breath. You hear blade against skin. The guests next to you move toward the center. You can't take this anymore. You back up to the velvet-covered wall and inch to where you remember the door is. You hear shuffling as all the guests move to the center. Carefully you feel the wall behind you as you sidestep. You hear wet ripping sounds. Behind your hand the wall gives way to the entrance. You run. ROLELESS ROUTE- END

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $E4 to "done") > "What's up with your outfit?" They cock their head, "is there something wrong with it?" "I mean for a masquerade you're really not hiding much." "Ah," they chuckle, "the rules may call for a mask, but they don't say much else about dress code." [[Look them over ->E-4-1]] [["You've certainly made yourself at home" -> E-4-2]]

(if: $time >0)[(set: $time to $time-1)] (set: $E5 to "done") > "There seems to be something on your mind..." "Now why would you say that?" they say, the bunny mask turning up an eyebrow. [["You've been messing with your hands the entire time we've been talking." -> E-5-1]] [["Everything you say has an edge to it" -> E-5-2]]

(set: $seeker to $seeker+1) > Look them over You take the opportunity to really check them out. Around their neck is a light scarf and a delicate, dangling gold chain from which hangs a small crystal. The fabric doesn't cover much. Underneath the folds you can see bare skin. It's tinted slightly grey and sticks close to their bones. You look down to see the rest of them and spot they've neglected to wear shoes. Around their ankles are some gold bangles. They lean over to you, "like what you see, kid?" [["Why yes" ->E-4-1-1]] [["Bold." ->E-4-1-2]]

> "Why yes" The mask twists itself into a smile. "But don't call me kid," you continue. They lean back and shake their head, "when you're as old as me, someone like you can be nothing more significant than a child." [[You frown, they seem like a candidate. ->E-node]]

> "You've certainly made yourself at home" "Would you prefer if I..." they lean back in their chair and bring a bare foot up to rest on the table. "Please, no." you close your eyes and put a hand to your temple, "what happened to polite company." When you open your eyes again they're sitting up in their chair as before. "Thank you." you mumble. "Now I have a question for you," they spout, "Why are you so uptight?" [["You're not the only guest here, you know" ->E-4-2-1]] [["I just don't like you" -> E-4-2-2]]

> "Bold." A smile forms on the rabbit's face, "I always am." You frown, puzzled, "isn't your mask a bit heavy though?" The smile persists, "why would you think that?" "It's made of clay, no?" "You'd think that wouldn't you." [[What do they mean? ->E-node]]

> "You've been messing with your hands the entire time we've been talking." You noticed it since you sat down with them. They can't seem to stop fidgeting. You wonder what their expression is underneath their mask. They don't reply at first. [["Is there something the matter?" -> E-5-1-1]] [["Spit it out" ->E-5-1-2]]

> "Everything you say has an edge to it" They act different from the other guests. It's clear they want to be here but their mind is definitely elsewhere. "That's just how I am, child." they say. "See I think you're thinking about something," you say... [["...I'm thinking about it too" ->E-5-2-1]] [["... something a little depraved" ->E-5-2-2]]

(set: $seeker to $seeker+1) > "...I'm thinking about it too" They stop fidgeting for a moment and lean back in their chair, "I sure hope you are, this party is getting dreadfully dull." You lean forward, "I believe we have mutual interests." They cock their head to the side, "perhaps we do..." [[They seem more interested in you now. ->E-node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "... something a little depraved" "Maybe even a little bloodthirsty, hmm?" you continue. They chuckle, "Alright, I would be lying if I said I weren't thinking partially about the Feast." "Soon, friend." you say. [[They still don't seem all that interested, but maybe you just can't get everyone excited. ->E-node]]

(set: $victim to $victim+1) > "Is there something the matter?" "My mind is simply elsewhere, child." they say, "there, are you satisfied?" "No need to get so prickly" you say. "What a waste of time," they mumble under their breath. [[What's going on in their head, you wonder. ->E-node]]

(set: $hero to $hero+1) > "Spit it out" They let out a tense sigh, "You're daring aren't you? I owe you nothing, Mortal." Even through their mask you can feel their eyes burrowing into your skin. [[Good, let them see what you're capable of ->E-node]]

(set: $ringleader to $ringleader+1) > "You're not the only guest here, you know" "Micromanaging the fun tonight, are we?" they yell, tilting their mask up as if to look down on you. Other guests stop their conversation and look at you two, at odds. You burn a little bit underneath the mask but say nothing. Eventually the eyes return to their own conversations. "You know what, feel free to make an ass of yourself on your own time." you say at last. [[The rabbit mask sticks its tongue out. ->E-node]]

(set: $hero to $hero+1) > "I just don't like you" "Well of course I know I'm not palatable for everyone" they croon. "Yeah murder generally isn't accepted." you spit. Their hands freeze and they uncross their legs. "That's... a hefty phrase, child," they growl, "what do you presume to know about me?" "More than you think," you bluff. The rabbit mask smiles, behind it you hear soft laughter. You guess they saw through your bluff. [[No matter, they're not the important one ->E-node]]