{(track: 'end', 'play') (track: 'end', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'end', 'fadein', 5) (track: 'end', 'fadeout', 10) }It's just about finished... One more dab of viridian and //voilà//—your flat in abstract form, complete with dirty dishes in the sink, aaaaand a giant snake monster eating its way through the building's foundations. Pixel jumps up onto the table next to you, almost knocking your water and brushes. "Another demon, eh?" He starts licking his splotchy red, white and black fur as though he's already lost interest. You have done rather a lot of these... [[Not on purpose, it sort of just happens.->demonfearing]] [[On purpose! Demons are awesome.->demonlover]] { (track: 'drop', 'play') (track: 'drop', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 5) }You gaze at the canvas until your vision blurs, and you find yourself transported inside of your own sketch. You used a lot of charcoal. Most of the apartment is in shadow. The walls are also slightly askew, leaning in towards you and creating an air of claustrophia. It's not helped by the piles of mess everywhere. At least //this// mess is abstract. Broad paint strokes imply crumpled clothes, stacks of overdue library books, unopened mail... Only three objects are painted in detail. A [[tiny book->book]], a [[heart-shaped locket->locket]] and a [[dog whistle->whistle]].{(set: $visitedlocket to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } The heart-shaped locket opens like a clover to reveal four panels. There's a picture of your mother, your father, and you as a goofy looking baby. The fourth photo shows a drawing hanging in an art gallery. Your [[drawing]]. It was just a kid's competition, but it's still pretty cool. Your parents were so proud! It has to be said, they always did nurture your artistic talent, even if they would have preferred for you to become an accountant or a solicitor. (if: $vistedbook is false)[[Look at the book.|book]](if: $vistedbook is true)[[[Look at the book again.|book]]] (if: $visitedwhistle is false)[[[Look at the dog whistle.|whistle]]](if: $visitedwhistle is true)[[[Look at the dog whistle again.|whistle]]] (if: $visitedlocket and $visitedbook and $visitedwhistle)[ (text-style: "shudder")[[[Huh?|Huh?]]] ]{(set: $visitedwhistle to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } It's silver, about the length of your finger, and hanging on a blue lanyard. Weird, you don't own a dog, and you doubt it would have much effect on Pixel. (if: $visitedbook is false)[[Look at the book.|book]](if: $visitedbook is true)[[[Look at the book again.|book]]] (if: $visitedlocket is false)[[[Look at the locket.|locket]]](if: $visitedlocket is true)[[[Look at the locket again.|locket]]] (if: $visitedlocket and $visitedbook and $visitedwhistle)[ (text-style: "shudder")[[[Huh?|Huh?]]] ]{(set: $visitedbook to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } The cover is completely blank except for a title down the spine. It reads: The Shadow. [[Open the book.]] (if: $visitedlocket is false)[[[Look at the locket.|locket]]](if: $visitedlocket is true)[[[Look at the locket again.|locket]]] (if: $visitedwhistle is false)[[[Look at the dog whistle.|whistle]]](if: $visitedwhistle is true)[[[Look at the dog whistle again.|whistle]]] (if: $visitedlocket and $visitedbook and $visitedwhistle)[ (text-style: "shudder")[[[Huh?|Huh?]]] ]{(set: $visiteddrawing to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) }You drew your late cat, Vex. You miss Vex. Take another look at the [[locket]]. (if: $visitedbook is false)[[Look at the book.|book]](if: $visitedbook is true)[[[Look at the book again.|book]]] (if: $visitedwhistle is false)[[[Look at the dog whistle.|whistle]]](if: $visitedwhistle is true)[[[Look at the dog whistle again.|whistle]]] (if: $visitedlocket and $visitedbook and $visitedwhistle)[ (text-style: "shudder")[[[Huh?|Huh?]]] ] {(track: 'snake', 'play') (track: 'snake', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } You jump. The giant snake monster's head is poking through your window. It must have eaten its way through the other floors already. It hisses at you. [[Time to go.]]{(set: $openedbook to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } Someone has scribbled something onto the front flyleaf: <span style="font-family: 'Cedarville Cursive', cursive;">(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate. (C.G. Jung??)]</span> The rest of the pages are blank. (if: $visitedlocket is false)[[[Look at the locket.|locket]]](if: $visitedlocket is true)[[[Look at the locket again.|locket]]] (if: $visitedwhistle is false)[[[Look at the dog whistle.|whistle]]](if: $visitedwhistle is true)[[[Look at the dog whistle again.|whistle]]] (if: $visitedlocket and $visitedbook and $visitedwhistle)[ (text-style: "shudder")[[[Huh?|Huh?]]] ]{(track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } What keepsake will you take? [[Grab the tiny book.]] [[Grab the locket.]] [[Grab the dog whistle.]] (after: 4s, (cond: visits > 0, 200ms, 0))[= Hurry up! (after: time + 4s, (cond: visits > 0, 200ms, 0))[= Seriously!! (after: time + 4s, (cond: visits > 0, 200ms, 0))[= (text-style: "rumble") [That thing looks hungry!!!] {(set: $haslocket to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } You hang the heart-shaped locket around your neck, and look for the way out. There should be a picture of your apartment around here somewhere... Ah, yes. You spot an easel lying on its side. As you crouch to turn it over you sense the snake move closer. You need to [[hurry->flat]]!{(set: $hasbook to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } You put the tiny book in the pocket of your jeans, and look for the way out. There should be a picture of your apartment around here somewhere... Ah, yes. You spot an easel lying on its side. As you crouch to turn it over you sense the snake move closer. You need to [[hurry->flat]]! {(set: $haswhistle to true) (track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } You put the whistle around your neck, and look for the way out. There should be a picture of your apartment around here somewhere... Ah, yes. You spot an easel lying on its side. As you crouch to turn it over you sense the snake move closer. You need to [[hurry->flat]]! {(track: 'cave', 'loop', true) (track: 'cave', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'cave', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'cave', 'fadein', 2) } The sketch paper shows a smudged looking version of your flat. You focus on it the same way you focused on the one back in your //real// flat, although it's much harder with the giant snake monster... You can hear it slithering around back there... What would even happen if you got eaten by a monster// inside// one of your sketches? Would you just find yourself back in your real flat? Or... (text-style: "shudder")[FOCUS!!] You fix your gaze on the sketch again, ignoring the sounds of the giant snake, and even the cold sensation of its scales as it brushes past you. [[Your vision blurs.]] {(track: 'cave', 'stop') (track: 'hop', 'play') (track: 'hop', 'volume', 0.5) (live: 9s)[(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2)] }You sigh in relief as your own flat comes back into view. "Close call, huh?" Pixel asks. //Too close. // You try to shrug it off. I mean, it probably wouldn't have hurt you. Probably. "You should eat something," Pixel says. "You were in there a while." You look towards the kitchenette. It's full of dirty dishes. "What did you bring back, anyway?" Pixel asks. {(if: $hasbook is true)[ "Oh, just a little light reading," you say, flicking through the book. "Emphasis on light, most of the pages are blank." You show Pixel. <p>"//Boring//!" he says, and goes back to licking himself.</p>] (if: $haslocket is true)[ You point to the locket on your neck. <p>"Ooh, fancy," Pixel says with a purr.</p>] (if: $haswhistle is true)[ You raise the dog whistle to your lips. "Don't even think about it," he warns. <p>"Oh, //fine//."</p>] }Wait, what's that ringing? [[Em, probably your phone??]] [[Just ignore it.]]{(track: 'phone', 'stop')}You check the notifications on your phone. "Shit! The client messaged me yesterday afternoon. How did I miss that?!" "Because you never look at your phone," Pixel says matter-of-factly. You stare in horror at the screen. "He wants to meet Tuesday morning for the handover." "That's tomorrow," Pixel says. "//Tomorrow//?" You gape. "Shit. Shit, shit, shit..." You snap the sketchbook closed and scramble to get a canvas on the easel. "Okay, it's okay, it's okay... I can do this..." Pixel kneads your hoodie with his front paws and nestles in. "Acrylics... not too many layers or it'll never dry..." "Just don't do another demon..." Pixel mutters, closing his eyes. [["I'm a human, I'll do what I want."->touché]] [[Ignore Pixel and check the commission form.->Commission form]]You open the DecadentArt App on your phone and laugh. "What?" Pixel asks. You clear your throat. "Dear ShadowSketch6, I would like to commission a medium-sized painting of a demon, in whatever style and paint mediums you deem appropriate. Much obliged, Nervo. P.s Make sure to put the demon on a leash." Pixel makes a low, grumbling noise. You smile. "I guess it's a good thing I have so much practice sketching demons, huh?" Pixel makes no comment as you squeeze some paint on your palette. "Okay, I've got some black for my base colour, I just need an accent colour and something for highlights..." [[Use crimson and white.]] [[Use green and grey.]]{(set: $crimsonwhite to true)}Okay great. Let's do a quick outline... You lift your brush to the canvas and pause. "What kind of demon will I paint?" Pixel doesn't answer. He's either sleeping, or pretending to be. [[Demon crimsonwhite<-Just go classic..]] [[Wraith crimsonwhite<-Just do a wraith...]] [[Spider crimsonwhite<-Just let the brush guide you...]]{(set: $greengrey to true)}Okay great. Let's do a quick outline... You lift your brush to the canvas and pause. "What kind of demon will I paint?" Pixel doesn't answer. He's either sleeping, or pretending to be. [[Demon greengrey<-Just go classic..]] [[Wraith greengrey<-Just do a wraith...]] [[Spider greengrey<-Just let the brush guide you...]] {(set: $greenspider to true)}You start by drybrushing the background in light grey, adding little pockets of black for shadowy areas. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some subtle fluorescent green highlights for an eerie glow. Next, you sketch the outline of... whatever it is you're painting. You try not to overthink it, allowing your hand to glide across the canvas freely. A shape starts to emerge. You layer black and grey, creating sharp, defined edges. Once you feel it's ready, you add a grey collar with a thin leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint some fluorescent green eyes, softening the edges to make them gleam. There are rather a lot of eyes... [[Finished Spider<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]]{(set: $greendemon to true)}Wings, horns, tail... you know the drill. You start by drybrushing the background in light grey, adding little pockets of black for shadowy areas. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some subtle fluorescent green highlights for an eerie glow. Next, you sketch the outline of the demon itself. You give them massive wings and long, curled horns, before layering with grey to create sharp, defined edges. You add a black collar around the demon's neck, with a thin grey leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint the eyes with fluorescent green, softening the edges to make them look like they're burning with ethereal light. [[Finished Demon<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]]{(set: $greenwraith to true)}It shouldn't require that much detail... You start by drybrushing the background in light grey, adding little pockets of black for shadowy areas. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some glowy highlights. Next, you sketch the outline of the wraith itself. You opt for a skeletal look, layering with grey and blending the edges to give it a ghostly aura. You add a black collar around the wraith's neck, with a thin greay leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint the eyes with fluorescent green, blurring the edges to make them look like they're glowing. [[Finished Wraith<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]] Pixel snarls. "Oh great, a dog. What did you do //that // for?" You stare at the canvas in surprise. You hadn't meant to paint a dog. "It sort of just... happened." "//Sure// it did. At least it's not staying." You start. "Shit, I forgot to text the client back..." You look about for your phone. Where did you put it? Oh right, under the palette. You send Nervo a message agreeing to meet at a café in a posh part of town. You could get a bus, but it's cheaper to walk. "If you're taking a keepsake, please let it be the teeth. ALL of the teeth." Oh, right. You'd best get it now; you might not have time in the morning. [[[Enter the painting.->Enter painting #2]]]Pixel trills. "Oh, a //she// demon. Cool." You stare at the canvas in surprise. "Yeah... Totally meant to do that." "//Sure// you did." You start. "Shit, I forgot to text the client back..." You look about for your phone. Where did you put it? Oh right, under the palette. You send Nervo a message agreeing to meet at a café in a posh part of town. You could get a bus, but it's cheaper to walk. "If you're taking a keepsake, please let it be the tail—it looks fun to swipe at." Oh, right. You'd best get it now; you might not have time in the morning. [[[Enter the painting.->Enter painting #2]]]Pixel hisses. "A spider? What did you do //that // for?" You stare at the canvas in surprise. You hadn't meant to paint a spider. {(if: $greengrey is true)[A woman in a green dress hangs beneath its body, suspended on silk strings like a puppet.]}{(if: $crimsonwhite is true)[A woman in a crimson dress hangs beneath its body, suspended on silk strings like a puppet.]} "It sort of just... happened." "//Sure// it did. At least it's not staying." You start. "Shit, I forgot to text the client back..." You look about for your phone. Where did you put it? Oh right, under the palette. You send Nervo a message agreeing to meet at a café in a posh part of town. You could get a bus, but it's cheaper to walk. "If you're taking a keepsake, please let it be the teeth. ALL of the teeth." Oh, right. You'd best get it now; you might not have time in the morning. [[[Enter the painting.->Enter painting #2]]]{(set: $crimsonspider to true)}You start by drybrushing the background in white, adding little pockets of black for shadowy areas. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some subtle crimson highlights for an eerie glow. Next, you sketch the outline of... whatever it is you're painting. You try not to overthink it, allowing your hand to glide across the canvas freely. A dark shape starts to emerge. You layer it in black and crimson, creating sharp, defined edges. Once you feel it's ready, you add a white collar with a thin leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint some crimson eyes, softening the edges to make them gleam. There are rather a lot of eyes... [[Finished Spider<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]]{(set: $crimsondemon to true)}Wings, horns, tail... you know the drill. You start by drybrushing the background in white, adding little pockets of black for shadowy areas. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some subtle crimson highlights for an eerie glow. Next, you sketch the outline of the demon itself. You give them massive wings and long, curled horns, before layering with black and crimson to create sharp, defined edges. You add a white collar around the demon's neck, with a thin leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint some crimson eyes, softening the edges to make them look like they're burning with ethereal light. [[Finished Demon<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]]{(set: $crimsonwraith to true)}It shouldn't require that much detail... You start by drybrushing the background in black, adding little pockets of white mist. Then you blend it all together with a sponge and add some subtle crimson highlights for an eerie glow. Next, you sketch the outline of the wraith itself. You opt for a skeletal look, layering with white and crimson before blending the edges to give it a ghostly aura. You add a crimson collar around the wraith's neck, with a thin leash trailing out of the frame. Finally, you carefully paint the eyes crimson, blurring the edges to make them look like they're glowing. [[Finished Wraith<-You lower your brush, exhausted.]]{(track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) }You find yourself surrounded by familiar looking {(if: $greenspider is true or $greendemon is true or $greenwraith is true)[grey clouds with an eerie green glow.](if: $crimsonspider is true or $crimsondemon is true)[white clouds with an eerie crimson glow.](if: $crimsonwraith is true)[white mist with an eerie crimson glow.]} You look around for something you can bring back with you, but you really didn't put much detail into this landscape... {(if: $greenspider is true or $greendemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonspider is true or $crimsondemon is true)[it's just clouds. Lots and lots of them.](if: $crimsonwraith is true)[it's just mist. Lots and lots of it..]} And... lightning? You don't remember painting lightning... Something {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[skitters](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[flutters]} past you. Something big. You'd want to find a keepsake fast and {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[[get out of here...->Exit spider painting]](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[[get out of here...->Exit demon painting]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[get out of here...->Exit wraith painting]]} { (track: 'laugh', 'play') (track: 'laugh', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) }You jump near out of your skin. The woman is dangling in the air before you, long dark hair obscuring her face. You can't see the spider through the dense cloud, but you see the silk strings. This is bad. Her arm lifts toward you, fingers outstrecthed. You step back instinctively, but she grabs a hold of your wrist. You cry out as her acrylic nails bite into your skin. So you CAN get hurt inside a painting.// Great//... You tug, to no avail, and then try to pry her fingers off of you. They feel cold and lifeless like something from the meat aisle. She raises her gaze, and... {(text-style: "shadow") [She has no face.]} You can't look away, and yet... you painted this picture, you know what she's dangling from. You slowly glance up, and see eight glowing {(if: $greenspider is true)[green](if: $crimsonspider is true)[crimson]} eyes hovering above you. "Shit!" You close your eyes and [[try to picture your flat.]] {(track: 'thunder', 'stop') (track: 'hop', 'play') (track: 'hop', 'volume', 0.5) }You peep one eye open, and breathe a sigh of relief. You're back. Pixel is perched on the table again. He probably saw the whole thing. "That was close," you admit. "//Too// close," he says ... You slump. "I didn't even get a keepsake..." "You sure about that?" Pixel asks. You look down. {(if: $greenspider is true)[You look at your wrist. There's a neon green acrylic nail digging into the flesh.]\ (if: $crimsonspider is true)[You look at your wrist. There's a red acrylic nail digging into the flesh.]\ (if: $greendemon is true)[You look at your wrist. There's a neon green talon digging into the flesh.] (if: $crimsondemon is true)[You look at your wrist. There's a red talon digging into your flesh.]\ (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[You look at your arm. There's a big dog tooth embedded in the flesh.]\ } [["Ew!"->Rag]] [["Awesome!"->Rag]]{ (track: 'laugh', 'play') (track: 'laugh', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) }You jump near out of your skin. A demon floats before you, framed by huge, outstretched wings. Her skin looks charred, and riddled with pulsing {(if: $greendemon is true)[fluorescent green](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red]} cracks. This is bad. Her hand lifts toward you, taloned fingers outstrecthed. You step back instinctively, but she grabs a hold of your wrist. You cry out as her talons bite into your skin. So you CAN get hurt inside a painting.// Great//... You tug, to no avail, and then try to pry her fingers off of you. They feel searing hot, like they'll leave a burn. She fixes you with her smoldering {(if: $greendemon is true)[green](if: $crimsondemon is true)[crimson]} eyes and opens her mouth {(text-style: "shadow")[far]} wider than you would have thought possible, and, yep there sure are a lot of teeth in there. "Shit!" You close your eyes and [[try to picture your flat.]] { (track: 'growl', 'play') (track: 'growl', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) }You jump near out of your skin. A skeletal dog stands before you, shrouded in a swirling cloak of mist. It is //big//. "That's a good boy... or girl! A good boy or girl... Or neither?" Yeah, that didn't help. It looks down at you, fixes you with its glowing {(if: $greenwraith is true)[green](if: $crimsonwraith is true)[crimson]} eyes, and snorts. You feel hot steam on your face and step back instinctively, but the wraith lunges, snapping its jaws around your left arm. You cry out as teeth bite into your skin. So you (text-style: "shadow")[can] get hurt inside a painting.// Great//... Luckily, you think that was just a warning bite. You stagger back. Your arm is bleeding. "Shit!" The skeleton dog growls again, and bends its back legs as though it's about to pounce. "Shit, shit, shit..." You close your eyes and [[try to picture your flat.]] You grab a rag from the table, and yank the {(if: ($greenspider is true) or ($crimsonspider) is true)[nail](if: ($greendemon is true) or ($crimsondemon is true))[claw](if: ($greenwraith is true) or ($crimsonwraith is true))[tooth]} out. "That is so disgusting..." { (if: $haswhistle is true)["Why didn't you use the dog whistle?" Pixel asks. <br /> Your hand goes to the lanyard around your neck and you curse. "I completely forgot."] <br /> }Pixel shakes his head and jumps down from the table. You blot the blood as best you can and go to put the keepsake on a shelf with the others. It's a bit of a jumble... seashells, pebbles, flowers that never fade or wilt, and, of course, Vex's collar. {(if: $visitedlocket is false)[Vex was your childhood cat. You drew a picture of her way back. It was the first one you ever went inside.](if: ($visitedlocket is true) and ($visiteddrawing is false))[Vex was your childhood cat. You drew a picture of her way back—the one in your locket. It was the first one you ever went inside.](if: $visiteddrawing is true)[The drawing of her you did was the first you ever went inside.]} You took the collar back as a keepsake. It's a little off looking, like it's made from squiggly lines of coloured pencil. You place the {(if: ($greenspider is true) or ($crimsonspider is true))[bloody, acrylic nail](if: ($greendemon is true) or ($crimsondemon is true))[bloody talon](if: ($greenwraith is true) or ($crimsonwraith is true))[bloody tooth]} next to it. "You really should eat something," Pixel says. [["Stop telling me what to do!"]] [["Alright, alright..."]]{(track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.7) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) } {(if: $crimsonwraith is true)[(text-style: "blurrier") + (css: "font-size: 22px; text-align: center; white-space: nowrap;")[[[You dream of shadows and mist...->wake]]]] } {(else-if: ($greenspider is true ) or ($crimsonspider is true) or ($greendemon is true) or ($crimsondemon is true) or ($greenwraith is true))[(text-style: "blurrier") + (css: "font-size: 22px; text-align: center; white-space: nowrap;")[[[You dream of clouds and shadows...->wake]]]](else:)[(text-style: "smear") + (css: "font-size: 22px; text-align: center; white-space: nowrap;")[[[You dream of clouds and shadows...->wake]]]]}{(track: 'thunder', 'stop') (track: 'gasp', 'play') (track: 'gasp', 'volume', 0.5) } You sit bolt upright, panting. Pixel is lying on the armrest by your feet. "Bad dream?" You wipe the sweat off your brow, nodding. "Let me guess, demons." You swing your feet to the floor. "I warned you not to paint them. What if one comes out, like I did?" "I //brought// you out." "True, but I would have figured it out myself eventually." [["Sure..."->rudetopixel]] (text-style: 'sway')+(colour: #9c36b5)[ [["Of course you would have! Who's such a clever cat..."->coddlepixel]] ] You grab your keys and your wallet and run for the door. "Shoes!" Pixel calls after you. You look down. You're wearing mismatched socks with paint splotches. "Oh, right..." You find one shoe under the sofa, and the other over by the window. You realise you'd better text Nervo really quickly so he knows you're coming. You try to text and put your shoes on at the same time. Your message isn't entirely intelligible, but it will have to do. You take a quick peek in the mirror by the door. You're a mess. [[Who cares, just go!]] [[You can't go out like this... Take a second to smooth down your hair.->folly]] {(if: $scoffed is true)[Yeah, you ''totally'' forgot. ] }You give it a quick spray with a clear sealer—as //if// it's going to have a chance to dry, and then tuck it under an arm, not even bothering to bubble wrap it. "Kay, see you later—" Pixel darts between your feet. "I'll come with you." You stare down at him. "You... //what//?" He looks almost sheepish. "I just... I have a bad feeling. There's something about that painting, about this handover... It all just feels off, somehow." [["Off?"->Don't go]] [["Pixel, you're being weird. Stop being weird.->Don't go]]" Pixel flattens his ears. "You were talking in your sleep... and I thought I heard..." He opens and closes his mouth, as though struggling to find the right words. Eventually he just sits. "I'm coming with you, end of story." You roll your eyes. [["Oh, //fine//..."->pixelbag1]] [["We're meeting at a café. People don't bring cats to cafés."->pixelbag2]] Pixel purrs happily and rubs against your leg. "But we're meeting at a café... I don't know if you'll be allowed in. Besides, you look a little... //you know//." "Like a 3D oil painting?" He almost smiles. "Exactly! I mean I think I did a pretty good job, but you still stand out." "I'd stand out anyway. Awesome people always do." He puffs out his chest and you can't help but laugh. "Just say I'm a specialist breed or something. People will buy it. It's not like they're gonna be like 'OH MY GOD AN ARTIFEX!'" You shift from one foot to another. [["I don't know..."->PixelBag]] [["Okay fine, but stay close and make sure not to speak."->PixelNoBag]]"Besides, you look a little... //you know//." "Like a 3D oil painting?" Pixel asks, voice flat. "Exactly! A //stunning// painting, my best work hands down, but you still stand out." "I'd stand out anyway. Awesome people always do." He puffs out his chest and you can't help but laugh. "Just say I'm a specialist breed or something. People will buy it. It's not like they're gonna be like 'OH MY GOD AN ARTIFEX!'" You shift from one foot to another. [["I don't know..."->PixelBag]] [["Okay fine, but stay close and make sure not to speak."->PixelNoBag]] {(set: $pixellovesyou to true)(set: $pixelfree to true)(set: $extralate to false) }"It's a deal!" he says, smiling. You fight the urge to pet him. "Right..." you mutter, looking at your phone. Nervo's written back: //20 mins, then I'm out of here.// He sent another message a minute later: //This painting better be worth it.// The café is about 27mins away if you walk quickly. There's no direct bus and you don't have money for a taxi. You'll have to run. You carreen down the corridor, and jump the stairs to the lobby several steps at a time. Pixel prances after you. "This is fun!" "This is not fun!" you say, bursting out of the complex onto the street. You look at the clock on your lock screen. You have 26 mins. [[Run!->RunPixelFree]] [[Walk.->WalkPixelFree]]{(set: $extralate to true)}"Alright..." Pixel says with a sigh. "Wait here." He disappears into a large heap of clothing and boxes shoved behind the sofa bed. You look at your phone anxiously. Nervo's written back: //20 mins, then I'm out of here.// He sent another message a minute later: //This painting better be worth it.// The café is about 27mins away if you walk quickly. There's no direct bus and you don't have money for a taxi. If Pixel takes much longer you'll have to run the whole way. [["What are you even looking for?"->Pixelbag2]] {(set: $pixellovesyou to true)}"The best in the whole world?" he asks as you shoulder the backback and get moving. [["The best in the whole world."]] [["Don't push it!"->"The best in the whole world."]] {(set: $pixellovesyou to true)}"Best cat in the whole world..." Pixel whispers to himself contentedly as you rush down the corridor. He sounds a lot less content as you jump the stairs to the lobby several steps at a time. "Was the lift not working?!" he yowls. "No time!" you say, bursting out of the complex onto the street. Indeed, Pixel's insistence on coming along has delayed you. You look at the clock on your lock screen. You have 23 mins. [[Run!]] [[Walk.]] Pixel yowls unhappily as you shoulder the backpack and rush down the corridor. And he yowls even //louder// as you jump the stairs to the lobby several steps at a time. "Was the lift not working?!" "No time!" you say, bursting out of the complex onto the street. "Besides, this was your idea, remember?" Pixel grumbles. His insistence on coming along has definitely delayed you. You look at the clock on your lock screen. You have 23 mins. [[Run!]] [[Walk.]] "Best cat in the whole world..." Pixel whispers to himself contentedly as you rush down the corridor. He sounds a lot less content as you jump the stairs to the lobby several steps at a time. "Was the lift not working?!" he yowls. "No time!" you say, bursting out of the complex onto the street. Indeed, Pixel's insistence on coming along has delayed you. You look at the clock on your lock screen. You have 23 mins. [[Run!]] [[Walk.]] {(track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }God you hate to run. Having a painting shoved awkwardly under one arm and a howling cat on your back isn't helping, either. By the time you get to the Toast & Roast you're panting and sweaty. More sweaty, that is. When //did// you last shower? "Are we there?" Pixel asks. "Where's the buyer? What does he look like? Does he look //normal//? I can't see, let me out. Out, out, out, out—" [["Shh, Pixel! Cats aren't supposed to speak, remember?"->Pixel Shh]] [["Pixel, if you don't shut up, I'll leave this carrier bag out on the street."->Pixel Shut Up]] {(set: $extralate to true) (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }God you hate to run. Having a painting shoved awkwardly under one arm and a howling cat on your back would only make it worse. You walk quickly, but not too quickly, humming to yourself as traffic streams passed. You're actually feeling pretty zen by the time you get to the Toast & Roast. I mean Nervo's already waited an hour and a half, what's another five to ten minutes? "Are we there?" Pixel asks. "Where's the buyer? What does he look like? Does he look //normal//? I can't see, let me out. Out, out, out, out—" [["Shh, Pixel! Cats aren't supposed to speak, remember?"->Pixel Shh]] [["Pixel, if you don't shut up, I'll leave this carrier bag out on the street."->Pixel Shut Up]]{(track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }Pixel shushes. "Right, my bad. Can you please let me out, though? I won't say a word, I promise." You look about the café. It's pretty busy... maybe they wouldn't notice if he sat quietly on your lap? [[Let Pixel out.]] [["Forget about it."]] {(set: $pixelfree to true)(set: $pixellovesyou to true) (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }You sigh and place the backpack on the ground, careful not to drop the painting in the process. Pixel jumps out the second you unzip it. He rubs up against your leg affectionately and then looks into the café. "I still can't see, I'm too short..." Pixel dashes ahead and disappears beneath a table. [["God damn it, Pixel."->café]] [["It's fine... this is fine..."->café]]{(track: 'street', 'stop') (track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 3) }{(set: $pixelfree to false)}Pixel grumbles a bit, but a least he stops speaking. You walk into the café. It has an industrial vibe, with walls of exposed brick, bare light bulbs, polished countertops and uncomfortable-looking stools. It's crowded, and it occurs to you that you have no idea what Nervo looks like. You drum your fingers nervously against your painting and edge between the tables, scanning faces. Most people aren't paying any attention to you. One or two catch your eye but quickly go back to their laptops or phones. Then you spot someone at the very back. A man, with dirty blonde hair that reaches just below his ears. He's wearing a flashy, white silk shirt and... A dog collar... He was serious about that, then. He catches your gaze and gives a slow clap. [[Apologise for being late.]] [[Just sit down and get to business.]] {(track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }God you hate to run. Having a painting shoved awkwardly under one arm isn't helping, either. Pixel runs alongside you. He gets a few second looks from passersby, but most people are glued to their phones and don't notice him. By the time you get to the Toast & Roast you're panting and sweaty. More sweaty, that is. When //did// you last shower? "Is this it?" Pixel asks, looking about. "Where's Nervo? What does he look like? Does he look //normal//? I can't see, I'm too short..." Pixel runs ahead and disappears beneath a table. [["God damn it, Pixel."->café]] [["It's fine... this is fine..."->café]]{(set: $extralate to true) (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }God you hate to run. Having a painting shoved awkwardly under one arm would only make it worse. You walk quickly, but not too quickly, humming to yourself as traffic streams passed. Pixel trots peacefully alongside you. He gets a few second looks from passersby, but most people are glued to their phones and don't notice him. You're actually feeling pretty zen by the time you get to Roasted. I mean when you think about it, Nervo's already waited an hour and a half, what's another five to ten minutes? "Is this it?" Pixel asks, looking about. "Where's Nervo? What does he look like? Does he look //normal//? I can't see, I'm too short..." Pixel runs ahead and disappears beneath a table. [["God damn it, Pixel."->café]] [["It's fine... this is fine..."->café]]{(track: 'street', 'stop') (track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) } The café has an industrial vibe, with walls of exposed brick, bare light bulbs, polished countertops and uncomfortable-looking stools. It's crowded, and it occurs to you that you have no idea what Nervo looks like. You drum your fingers nervously against your painting and edge between the tables, scanning faces. Most people aren't paying any attention to you. One or two catch your eye but quickly go back to their laptops or phones. Then you spot someone at the very back. A man, with dirty blonde hair that reaches just below his ears. He's wearing a flashy, white silk shirt and... A dog collar... He was serious about that, then. He catches your gaze and gives a slow clap. [[Apologise for being late.]] [[Just sit down and get to business.]]{(track: 'street', 'stop') (track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 3) }Pixel shuts up and you walk into the café. It has an industrial vibe, with walls of exposed brick, bare light bulbs, polished countertops and uncomfortable-looking stools. It's crowded, and it occurs to you that you have no idea what Nervo looks like. You drum your fingersnervously against your painting and edge between the tables, scanning faces. Most people aren't paying any attention to you. One or two catch your eye but go back to their laptops or phones. Then you spot someone at the very back. A man, with dirty blonde hair that reaches just below his ears. He's wearing a flashy, white silk shirt and... You narrow your eyes. Is that a //dog collar//? He catches your gaze and gives a slow clap. [[Apologise for being late.]] [[Just sit down and get to business.]]{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $pixelfree is false)[You take the stool across from Nervo, placing the backpack on the one next to it. Pixel's face appears in the bubble, eyes wide. He looks pretty unhappy. <p>"What an unusual looking cat," Nervo comments.</p> <p>You let out an anxious laugh. "I know, right? It's a.. you know um, that breed..."</p> <p>Nervo narrows his eyes at you and your laughter goes up a notch. "He's why I'm late, actually! Long story... sorry, anyways."</p> <p>"Sorry, anyways? Seriously?"</p>](if: $pixelfree is true)[You take the stool across from Nervo. <p>"So sorry about being late, by the way."</p>] }Nervo glares at you. "I've been here almost two hours!" "I know, like I said, really sorry..." He snorts. {(if: $extralate is true)["This is completely unprofessional! I expect a discount for the inconvenience. Otherwise, I'm leaving you a bad review."](if: $extralate is false)["This is completely unprofessional! I mean, just //look// at you!" <p>You catch your reflection in a mirror hanging on the back wall. You do look pretty dishevelled.</p> <p>Nervo shakes his head. "I expect a price deduction for the inconvenience. Otherwise I'm leaving you a bad review."</p>] }<p>You slide the painting across the table. [["Take a look. I think you'll see it's worth the original price I set, if not more."->Examines painting]] [["Not gonna happen."->Examines painting]]{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $pixelfree is false)[You take the stool across from Nervo, placing the backpack on the one next to it. Pixel's face appears in the bubble, eyes wide. He looks pretty unhappy. <p>Nervo smirks. "What an unusual looking cat."</p> <p>You sigh. "Let's just get to business."</p>](if: $pixelfree is true)[You take the stool across from Nervo. <p>"Let's get to business."</p>] }"What, no apology?" Nervo asks. "I've been here almost two hours!" "Because you really want the painting," you say flatly. He snorts.{(if: $extralate is true)["This is completely unprofessional! I expect a discount for the inconvenience. Otherwise, I'm leaving you a bad review."](if: $extralate is false)["This is completely unprofessional! I mean, just //look// at you!" <p>You catch your reflection in a mirror hanging on the back wall. You do look pretty disshevelled. </p> <p>Nervo shakes his head. "I expect a price deduction for the inconvenience. Otherwise I'm leaving you a bad review."</p>] }<p>You slide the painting across the table. [["Take a look. I think you'll see it's worth the original price I set, if not more."->Examines painting]] [["Not gonna happen."->Examines painting]]{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }Nervo runs a finger along the frame, and you notice dried paint under his nails. Could he be an artist himself? You clench your teeth together as the idea hits you—he'd better not try to pass the painting off as one of his own... {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>"A spider... how //terrifying//," he says, voice dripping with condescension.</p>] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[<p>He furrows his brow. "A little generic, don't you think?"</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[<p>He furrows his brow. "I asked for a demon, not a //dog//."</p>] }You blink. "You... you don't like it?" He flashes a wide grin. "It's not that I don't like it, dear, it's that I hate it." {(if: $pixelfree is false)[Pixel hisses from his bubble. <p>"Aw, poor little kitty," Nervo sneers.</p> You place a protective arm around the cat carrier.](if: $pixelfree is true)[Suddenly, Pixel is on the table—ears flat, back arched, and tail bristling. He hisses at Nervo, who visibly recoils.</p> "Where did //he// come from? Are cats even allowed in this establishment?" Nervo looks around, as though trying to get the attention of a staff member, but they're all busy elsewhere.] } <p>[["I'm sorry to hear you're unhappy with the painting," you say through gritted teeth.->nervohumble]] [["It's a shame you don't like the painting. I guess there's no accounting for taste."->nervotaunt]] He emerges with a backpack trailing behind him, its strap between his teeth. The backpack has a clear, plastic bubble on the front. It's a cat carrier. "Did I really buy that?" you ask, scratching your head. Pixel spits the strap out. "Yup, but like most of your impulse buys, it ended up lost and forgotten behind the sofa. For the record I absolutely hate it, but I'll put up with it just this one time." You set the backpack upright and he hops inside. "Now's the part where you acknowledge how awesome I am." Pixel is looking up at you expectantly. [["You're the best!"->compliment1]] [["You're the best cat in the whole world!"->compliment2]] [[You're not playing these games. Just close him in and get going.->failtocompliment]]{(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2) (live: 5s)[(track: 'phone', 'stop')] }Right! But where did you leave it? You cast about, checking the usual places—the pockets of a hoodie you left on the floor, beneath some books and unopened bills on the table... By the time you find your phone, the call's already gone to missed. "Who was it?" Pixel asks. "Wait, let me guess. MOTHER. It's always mother." "It's not// always //mother." "Yes, it is." You fix Pixel with a stare before looking back at your phone. The call was, indeed, mother. You know you should ring her back, but she'll probably ask how the whole "artist" thing is going, and you don't want to have to lie and pretend everything's fine, when the truth is the rent's overdue and you're drowning in bills. The only commissions you get are... [[... for insultingly low pay. They're not worth stressing over.->Check notifications]] [[... well, they pay the bills. Or at least they will, if you can do enough of them.->Check notifications]]{(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2) (live: 5s)[(track: 'phone', 'stop')] }You try really hard, but it just keeps ringing. You cast about, checking the usual places—the pockets of a hoodie you left on the floor, beneath some books and unopened bills on the table... By the time you find your phone, the call's already gone to missed. "Who was it?" Pixel asks. "Wait, let me guess. MOTHER. It's always mother." "It's not// always //mother." "Yes, it is." You fix Pixel with a stare before looking back at your phone. The call was, indeed, mother. You know you should ring her back, but she'll probably ask how the whole "artist" thing is going, and you don't want to have to lie and pretend everything's fine, when the truth is the rent's overdue and you're drowning in bills. The only comissions you get are... [[... for insultingly low pay. They're not worth stressing over.->Check notifications]] [[... well, they pay the bills. Or at least they will, if you can do enough of them.->Check notifications]] "Touché," Pixel says, not opening his eyes. You suppose you'd better check the commission form anyway. While you are indeed a human, and can indeed do what you want, if your client doesn't like what you do, they're unlikely to pay. You open the DecadentArt App on your phone. "Dear ShadowSketch6, I would like to commission a medium-sized painting of a demon, in whatever style and paint mediums you deem appropriate. Much obliged, Nervo. P.s Make sure to put the demon on a leash." You laugh. "I guess it's a good thing I have so much practice sketching demons, huh?" Pixel makes no comment as you squeeze some paint on your palette. "Okay, I've got some black for my base colour, I just need an accent colour and something for highlights..." [[Use crimson and white.]] [[Use green and grey.]] Honestly, Pixel was insufferable sometimes, but you //are// hungry... And tired. You stifle a yawn. "How long was I in there?" Pixel settles into a coat you left on a chair. "Usual." You pull back a curtain. It's dark out. "Eat!" Pixel says again. "Oh, alright already!" You drag yourself over to the kitchenette and rummage through some cabinets. You find a tin of beans, but no can opener. You don't have a clean plate for it anyhow. [[You should really do something about that...]] [[You're too tired to deal with it.]]You //are// hungry... And tired. You stifle a yawn. "How long was I in there?" Pixel settles into a coat you left on a chair. "Usual." You pull back a curtain. It's dark out. "Eat!" Pixel says again. "I said alright!" You drag yourself over to the kitchenette and rummage through some cabinets. You find a tin of beans, but no can opener. You don't have a clean plate for it anyhow. [[You should really do something about that...]] [[You're too tired to deal with it.]]You start emptying the sink of dirty dishes, but there's nowhere to put them—the countertop is stacked with... you guessed it, more dirty dishes! You sigh, feeling defeated, and go back to rummaging through the cabinets for something to eat. You find a pot of instant noodles and devour it. You look to see if there are any more tucked away somewhere, but alas, that must have been the last one. "When did I last do a shop?" Pixel is napping and doesn't answer. That's okay, you should probably just go to bed anyway. You could do with a shower though. You sniff yourself. "When did I last shower?" Pixel still doesn't answer. "Forget it." You don't even bother unfolding the sofa bed. (Let's be honest, you never bother unfolding the sofa bed). You just curl up, pull a blanket over you, and [[sleep.]]Tomorrow, for sure... You find a pot of instant noodles and devour it. You look to see if there are any more tucked away somewhere, but alas, that must have been the last one. "When did I last do a shop?" Pixel is napping and doesn't answer. That's okay, you should probably just go to bed anyway. You could do with a shower though. You sniff yourself. "When did I last shower?" Pixel still doesn't answer. "Forget it." You don't even bother unfolding the sofa bed. (Let's be honest, you never bother unfolding the sofa bed). You just curl up, pull a blanket over you, and [[sleep.]]"Would have!" Pixel says, giving you a look. "Sure!" you repeat chirpily, and stand up and stretch. "What time is it?" "I wouldn't know, I'm not clever enough to read clocks..." Pixel says pointedly. You stick your tongue out at him, and he grins before arching his back, relocating to the warm spot your just left on the sofa, and curling up into a ball. You don't actually own a clock. You yawn, and look about for your phone instead. It has to be around here somewhere... [[Check the sofa bed.->sofa]] [[Check the kitchenette.->kitchenette]] [[Check the table.->table]] "Don't patronise me..." Pixel says, but you can tell he likes it. He looks a lot more relaxed than he did a second ago. You stand up and stretch. "What time is it?" "I'm a clever cat, like you say, but I'm not a clock." Pixel arches his back, relocates to the warm spot your just left on the sofa, and curls up into a ball. You don't actually own a clock. You yawn, and look about for your phone instead. It has to be around here somewhere... [[Check the sofa bed.->sofa]] [[Check the kitchenette.->kitchenette]] [[Check the table.->table]] {(set: $visitedsofa to true)}Nope, nothing but socks, receipts, loose change, and something that might have been edible once. Ew. {<p>(if: $visitedkitchenette is false) [[Try the kitchenette.->kitchenette]]</p> <p>(if: $visitedtable is false)[[Try the table.->table]]</p> (if: $visitedsofa and $visitedkitchenette and $visitedtable)[[Erm... check them all again?]]} {(set: $visitedkitchenette to true)}Oh right... the dishes. You'll get to them. First, the phone. It's not jumping out at you. {<p>(if: $visitedsofa is false) [[Try the sofa.->sofa]]</p> <p>(if: $visitedtable is false) [[Try the table.->table]]</p> (if: $visitedsofa and $visitedkitchenette and $visitedtable)[[Erm... check them all again?]]}{(set: $visitedtable to true)}Yeah... it's covered in stuff. Paints, brushes, half-eaten food... unopened bills... You really should check some of those, but first, the phone. You move things around but you don't see it anywhere. {<p>(if: $visitedsofa is false) [[Try the sofa.->sofa]]</p> <p>(if: $visitedkitchenette is false) [[Try the kitchenette.->kitchenette]]</p> (if: $visitedsofa and $visitedkitchenette and $visitedtable)[[Erm... check them all again?]]}Oh! It was in the kitchenette the whole time. You didn't notice it because it's hard to see against the black countertop. You should probably get like a neon case or something... Oh, who are we kidding, you'll still misplace it constantly. It's 11:56. You have several DecadentArt notifications. //Hi, Nervo here. I have a table at the back. You'll know me by my red dog collar.// "Dog collar?" you mutter to yourself, clicking into the next message. //Hi. Nervo here again. Just to confirm we're meeting at Roasted, on Arundel Way. I'm waiting...// "Oh shit..." you say, clicking into the next one. //Me again. We DID say 10:30 right? I've been waiting over half an hour!// Your breath catches in your throat as you click into the last message. //Wow, just wow.// [[Shit!->Grab keys]] [[SHIT!!->Grab keys]] (text-style: 'shudder')[[[SHIT!!!->Grab keys]]]Trying to fix your hair would be a waste of time, anyway. Any time you try to smooth it down, it just pops right back up again a second later. You do grab a coat, though. It's a little wrinkled, but at least it covers the paint-spattered, slept-in tee. "Forgetting something?" Pixel asks. You give him a blank stare. [["Oh shit, the painting!"->spray]] {(set: $scoffed to true)}[[["Like I'd forget the //painting//!"->spray]]]{(set: $extralate to true)}It's a waste of time. You try to smooth it down, but it just pops right back up again a second later. Oh well. You grab a coat. It's a little wrinkled, but at least it covers the paint-spattered, slept-in tee. "Forgetting something?" Pixel asks. You give him a blank stare. [[["Oh shit, the painting!"->spray]]] {(set: $scoffed to true)}[[["Like I'd forget the //painting//!"->spray]]]angrycat: audio/angrycat.mp3 belly: audio/belly.mp3 café: audio/cafe.mp3 cave: audio/cave.mp3 drop: audio/drop.mp3 end: audio/end.mp3 fainted: audio/fainted.mp3 gasp: audio/gasp.mp3 growl: audio/growl.mp3 heart: audio/heart.mp3 hop: audio/hop.mp3 laugh: audio/laugh.mp3 phone: audio/phone.mp3 purr: audio/purr.mp3 shriek: audio/shriek.mp3 snake: audio/snake.mp3 splat: audio/splat.mp3 street: audio/street.mp3 text: audio/text.mp3 thunder: audio/thunder.mp3{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $pixelfree is true)["You'll be sorry if you don't get that //cat// of yours away from me," Nervo cries. <p>You roll your eyes and pull Pixel onto your lap. "Better?"<p/> Nervo relaxes a little, though he keeps a wary eye on Pixel.](if: $pixelfree is false)["Sorry... Yes..." Nervo drums his fingers against the table absently.]} "I'd be happy to make minor alterations," you force yourself to say. You were counting on income from the sale. You were counting on a good review too... No one has ever been unhappy with your work before. Nervo shakes his head and pushes the canvas back to your side of the table. "No, I'm afraid it's just not up to standard." Pixel hisses again. {(if: $pixelfree is true)[You hold him tight, just in case he tries to pounce.](if: $pixelfree is false)[You open the carrier just enough to slide your hand in and gently rub his head in reassurance.]} "So protective," Nervo says, smirking. [[You bite your tongue.]] [[You tell Nervo where to go.]]{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $pixelfree is true)["//Tell// me about it," Nervo says, looking at Pixel with distaste. "Keep him away from me!" <p>You roll your eyes and pull Pixel onto your lap. "Better?"</p> Nervo relaxes a little, though he keeps a wary eye on Pixel.](if: $pixelfree is false)[Nervo lets out a derisive laugh. "That's rich coming from someone who carries their cat around like it's some kind of zoo exhibit." <p>You feel your cheeks flush.</p> "No, no," Nervo continues, "It's not me, it's the painting."]} "I'd be happy to make minor alterations," you force yourself to say. You were counting on income from the sale. You were counting on a good review too... No one has ever been unhappy with your work before. Nervo shakes his head and pushes the canvas back to your side of the table. "No, I'm afraid it's just not up to standard." Pixel hisses again. {(if: $pixelfree is true)[You hold him tight, just in case he tries to pounce.](if: $pixelfree is false)[You open the carrier just enough to slide your hand in and gently rub his head in reassurance.]} "So protective," Nervo says, smirking. [[You bite your tongue.]] [[You tell Nervo where to go.]]{(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }"You make an interesting duo," Nervo says. "Almost like a witch and her familiar." He pauses and leans forward, dropping his voice to a whisper. "They would have burned you at the stake." {(if: $pixelfree is true)[Pixel twists from your grip and launches himself at Nervo, claws extended.](if: $pixelfree is false)[You curse as Pixel bursts from the carrier, which you'd forgotten to rezip. He hops up onto the table, and before you have a chance to react, he launches at Nervo, claws extended.] } Blood spatters across the painting, and Nervo gives a pained cry. There's a bright red gash across his cheek. Someone screams, and suddenly all eyes are on your table. Pixel quickly jumps to the floor and weaves between legs in the direction of the exit. "He //cut // me!" Nervo exclaims, cradling his bloodied cheek. His eyes are wide with shock. "He's very protective," you say in a mocking tone. Nervo scowls. "You'll pay for this!" {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[[Calmly take the painting and the cat carrier, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]] (else-if: $pixelfree is true)[[[Calmly take the painting, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]] (else:)[[[Calmly take the painting, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]]} {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting and the cat carrier.->exitcafé2]]] (else-if: $pixelfree is true)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting.->exitcafé2]]] (else:)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting.->exitcafé2]]]} {(track: 'café', 'loop', true) (track: 'café', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'café', 'volume', 0.8) (track: 'café', 'fadein', 2) }He just laughs. "You make an interesting duo. Almost like a witch and her familiar." He pauses and leans forward, dropping his voice to a whisper. "They would have burned you at the stake." {(if: $pixelfree is true)[Pixel twists from your grip and launches himself at Nervo, claws extended.](if: $pixelfree is false)[You curse as Pixel bursts from the carrier, which you'd forgotten to rezip. He hops up onto the table, and before you have a chance to react, he launches at Nervo, claws extended.] } Blood spatters across the painting, and Nervo gives a pained cry. There's a bright red gash across his cheek. Someone screams, and suddenly all eyes are on your table. Pixel quickly jumps to the floor and weaves between legs in the direction of the exit. "He //cut // me!" Nervo exclaims, cradling his bloodied cheek. His eyes are wide with shock. "He's very protective," you say in a mocking tone. Nervo scowls. "You'll pay for this!" {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[[Calmly take the painting and the cat carrier, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]] (else-if: $pixelfree is true)[[[Calmly take the painting, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]] (else:)[[[Calmly take the painting, not giving him the satisfaction of a response.->exitcafé1]]]} {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting and the cat carrier.->exitcafé2]]] (else-if: $pixelfree is true)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting.->exitcafé2]]] (else:)[[["Eat shit!" you say, grabbing the painting.->exitcafé2]]]}{(track: 'café', 'stop') (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }You find Pixel waiting outside your block of flats. He looks up at you, and then hangs his head. "Sorry I caused a scene." {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[["I //told// you to stay in the carrier!"->scoldpixel]]](if: $pixelfree is true)[[["I knew it was a bad idea bringing you along..."->scoldpixel]]]} [["It was worth it to see the look on that guy's face.->praisepixel]]{(set: $nervohatesyou to true)}{(track: 'café', 'stop') (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }You find Pixel waiting outside your block of flats. He looks up at you, and then hangs his head. "Sorry I caused a scene." {(if: $pixelfree is false)[[["I //told// you to stay in the carrier!"->scoldpixel]]](if: $pixelfree is true)[[["I knew it was a bad idea bringing you along..."->scoldpixel]]]} [["It was worth it to see the look on that guy's face.->praisepixel]]{(track: 'street', 'stop') (track: 'angrycat', 'play') (track: 'angrycat', 'volume', 0.6) } Pixel lets out an unhappy sounding meow and trails behind as you make your way upstairs. "I'll relist the painting..." you say with a sigh. "I'll price it low. We need a quick sale to make the rent." Pixel growls. "Don't worry," you tell him. "Everything's gonna be fine." He dashes past you into the flat... The door's been forced open. [["Fuck!"->brokenin]] [["FUCK!"->brokenin]](track: 'street', 'stop') Pixel purrs happily and trots after you as you make your way upstairs. "I'll relist the painting..." you say with a sigh. "I'll price it low. We need a quick sale to make the rent." Pixel growls. "Don't worry," you tell him. "Everything's gonna be fine." He dashes past you into the flat... The door's been forced open. [["Fuck!"->brokenin]] [["FUCK!"->brokenin]](masteraudio: 'stopall') You stand in the doorway, open-mouthed. The place has been ransacked. You cautiously step inside, only to be hit by a stench like rotting meat. You cover your nose and try to find the source. Dishes and crockery have been broken and scattered about, but you don't see anything that could explain the smell. You sigh... Your easel is on its side, your paints have been knocked to the floor and trampled into the carpet. You can't see your sketchbook anywhere, and your keepsakes... "No!" you scream, running over to the shelf where you kept them. It's bare. [["This can't be happening..."]] [["This was Nervo's doing..."]]You crouch, hold your head in your hands and shut your eyes against reality. Your heart is beating too fast. You can't breathe. And suddenly, Pixel is at your side. You pet him reflexively and he starts purring. Your breathing slows and the pounding feeling in your chest starts to ease off. "Don't worry," Pixel says. "We'll get them back." Your eyes sting. "How? We don't even know who took them..." "Oh yes, we do," Pixel says, ears flat. "It was that Nervo. He must have known where you lived, known exactly how long it'd take you to get to that café and back. His accomplices were probably waiting for us to leave so they could clear the place out." "But why?" you ask. "Just for the keepsakes? They're not even worth anything..." "They're not worth anything if you don't know what they //are//..." You want to press Pixel on this further, but your landlord, Maud, appears in the doorway with a cigarette hanging from her mouth. She crinkles her nose at the smell before eyeing the splintered wood and bent strike plate. "They really did a number on the frame, huh?" She shakes her head. "That's gonna cost ya." [["Cost //me//?"->Maud]] [["Surely you have insurance?"]]He //said // you'd pay. And there was definitely something off about him, something off about the whole handover. "You tried to warn me," you groan. "I should have listened!" Pixel rubs against you affectionately. "Well, yeah... but he was two steps ahead. He knew where you lived, which means he knew exactly how long it'd take you to get to that café and back. His accomplices were probably waiting for us to leave so they could clear the place out." You shudder. "But why would he want the keepsakes? They're not worth anything." "They're not worth anything if you don't know what they //are//..." You want to press Pixel on this further, but your landlord, Maud, appears in the doorway with a cigarette hanging from her mouth. She crinkles her nose at the smell before eyeing the splintered wood and bent strike plate. "They really did a number on the frame, huh?" She shakes her head. "That's gonna cost ya." [["Cost //me//?"->Maud]] [["Surely you have insurance?"]]"Check your tenancy agreement, honey—it's in the fine print. Any damage to the property is the tenant's responsibility." "But surely—" Maud cuts you off with a hand gesture. "There's a clause in there on rent arrears too. Don't think you can fob me off because of this little set back," she says, fixing you with a look and pointing at the cracked doorframe. Pixel hisses, but Maud just narrows her eyes at him and takes a long drag of her cigarette. "End of the week, honey, or //I'll// be the one changing the locks." [["God damn it."->locks]] [["Fuck you too, Maud!"->locksm]]Maud barks a laugh. "There's a reason this place is cheap, honey. If I paid for insurance, I'd have to bump up my prices, and what would be the point? Rarely need to make a claim, and when you do, the company finds some loophole to get out of paying." "But I thought a landlord—" Maud cuts you off with a hand gesture. "Check your tenancy agreement, honey—it's in the fine print. Any damage to the property is the tenant's responsibility." Pixel hisses, but Maud just narrows her eyes at him and takes a long drag of her cigarette. "There's a clause in there on rent arrears too," she continues a moment later. "Don't think you can fob me off because of this little set back," she says, fixing you with a look and pointing at the cracked doorframe. "End of the week, honey, or //I'll// be the one changing the locks." [["God damn it."->locks]] [["Fuck you too, Maud!"->locks]]It's a few days before you can get someone to come along and make the repairs. In the meantime, you list the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting on Decadent Art. You set the opening bid low and go about tidying up. Where do you start? [[The table.]] [[The floor.]] [[The kitchenette.]] {(set: $visiteddishes to true)}The kitchenette is a disaster. I mean, an even bigger disaster than it already was... The sink is full of dirty dishes, the countertop is full of dirty dishes, the floor is covered in //broken// dirty dishes... You can't get to the cabinets without standing on them. You should really sweep them up, but honestly, it's overwhelming. Maybe you should {(if: $visitedsofa1 is false)[[[take a break...->sofa1]]](if: $visitedsofa1 is true)[[[take another break...->sofa2]]]}{(set: $visitedsofa1 to true)}You pick up one or two cushions from the floor and collapse onto the sofa bed with them. "Tidying up sucks..." you tell Pixel. "You've barely even started!" he exclaims. You groan and get to your feet. {(if: $visiteddishes is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could do the dishes...->The kitchenette.]] ](if: $visitedtable is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could tidy the table...->The table.]] ](if: $visitedfloor is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could clear some stuff from the floor...->The floor.]] ](if: $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visiteddishes is true and $visitedflooragain is false)[<p>[[You really need to do something about the floor...->floor2]] ](if: $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visiteddishes is true and $visitedtableagain is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could do something about the table...->table2]] ](if: $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visiteddishes is true and $visiteddishesagain is false)[<p>[["Let me just get a drink of water..."->The kitchenette2.]] ](if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedflooragain is true and $visitedtableagain is true)[<p>[[On second thought, Pixel is not the boss of you. Sit back down.->sofa2]]]} {(set: $visitedtable to true)}Its been upturned, and the many, many things that shouldn't have been on there to begin with are now on the floor. You sigh. {(if: $visitedfloor is false)[<p>Maybe [[the floor->The floor.]] would be a better place to start...](if: $visitedfloor is true and $visitedflooragain is false)[<p>[[Oh right, the floor...->floor2]]</p>] (if: $visitedflooragain is true and $visiteddishes is false)[<p>[[Aaaand, the floor is covered in paint. Great. Maybe you can find something to clean it up in the kitchen.->The kitchenette.]]</p>] (if: $visitedflooragain is true and $visiteddishes is true and $visitedthedishesagain is false)[<p>[[Aaaand, the floor is covered in paint. Great. Maybe you can find something to clean it up in the kitchen.->The kitchenette2.]]</p>] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedflooragain is true and $visitedsofa1 is false)[<p>[[Maybe you should take a break...->sofa1]]</p>] (if:$visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedflooragain is true and $visitedsofa1 is true)[<p>[["You know what? I think that's enough for the night."->sofa2]]</p>]} {(set: $visitedfloor to true)}There's a lot of stuff on the floor... but it's the paint that's going to be a problem. Some of the tubes have burst open, and there are two sets of colourful footprints where the paint's been tracked across the carpet. The police photographed everything, but they didn't seem too hopeful they'd catch whoever broke in. You wanted to tell them about Nervo, but every time you tried, the words died on your lips. I mean, you'd sound crazy. Especially if you started talking about the keepsakes... "Once that dries it'll be a bitch to get out..." Pixel says, pointing a paw at the footprints and paint splotches. {(if: $visiteddishes is false)[<p>You sigh. Maybe there's something in [[the kitchenette->The kitchenette.]] that could clean it up...] (if: $visiteddishes is true and $visiteddishesagain is false)[<p>There has to be something in the [[kitchenette->The kitchenette2.]] you can use to clean it up...] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is false)[<p>[[Maybe there's something on the table you could use...->The table.]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is false)[<p>[["Maybe you should take a break"->sofa1]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is true)[<p>[["You know what? I think that's enough for the night."->sofa2]]]} {(live: 9s)[(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2)]} "Sure you will..." Pixel says with unmistakable skepticism. Your phone starts ringing. You lift some sofa cushions trying to find it, but no joy. "It's probably Mother again," Pixel says. "You didn't pick up earlier." [["I didn't pick up because I didn't //want// to pick up."->nicermother]] [["I didn't pick up because I didn't get to my phone on time."->lessmessy]] Pixel watches you with an air of silent judgement. {[[["Oh //bite// me!"->pixelbites]] <br/> [["I'll do the rest tomorrow..."->pixeldubious]]]} {(live: 9s)[(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2)]} Pixel lowers his face to the ground and waggles his butt in the air, tail swaying back and forth. "Don't you dare!" you cry, whipping your toes out of harms way just as he pounces for them. Your phone is ringing. "What //now//..." You lift some sofa cushions trying to find it, but no joy. "It's probably Mother again," Pixel says. "You didn't pick up earlier." [["I didn't pick up because I didn't //want// to pick up."->nicermother]] [["I didn't pick up because I didn't get to my phone on time."->lessmessy]] {(set: $visiteddishesagain to true)}Oh, right... the dishes. You stand there for a second or two, assessing the mess, and then slump against the counter with a defeated sigh. "Seriously..." Pixel says, giving you a look. {(if: $visitedtable is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could do something about the table...->The table.]]] (if: $visitedfloor is false)[<p>[[Maybe you could tidy some of the stuff from the floor...->The floor.]]] (if: $visiteddishes is true and $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is false)[<p>[["Maybe you should take a break..."->sofa1]]] (if: $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is true)[<p>"Know what?" you ask, collapsing back onto the [[sofa.->sofa2]] "I think that's enough for one night."]}{(set: $visitedflooragain to true)}Yep, the footprints and paint splotches are definitely going to be a problem. {(if: $visiteddishes is false)[<p>You sigh. Maybe there's something in [[the kitchenette->The kitchenette.]]that can get it out of the carpet...] (if: $visiteddishes is true and $visiteddishesagain is false)[<p>You sigh. There must be something in [[the kitchenette->The kitchenette2.]] that could get it out of the carpet...] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is false)[<p>[[Maybe there was something on the table you could use to get it out of the carpet...->The table.]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is false)[<p>[[Maybe you should take a break...->sofa1]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is true)[<p>"Know what?" you ask, collapsing back onto the [[sofa.->sofa2]] "I think that's enough for one night."]}{(set: $visitedtableagain to true)}Maybe you can find some rubbing alcohol or paint thinner... You right the table and start picking stuff up from the floor, but you don't see anything useful. {(if: $visiteddishes is false)[<p>Maybe there's some in [[the kitchenette that will get the stains out of the carpet.->The kitchenette.]]] (if: $visiteddishes is true and $visiteddishesagain is false)[<p>You sigh. There has to be something in [[the kitchenette->The kitchenette2.]] that will get the stains out of the carpet.] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedfloor is false)[<p>[[But there has to be //something// you can use to get the stains out of the carpet...->The floor.]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedfloor is true and $visitedsofa1 is false)[<p>[[Maybe you should take a break...->sofa1]]] (if: $visiteddishesagain is true and $visitedfloor is true and $visitedtable is true and $visitedsofa1 is true)[<p>"Know what?" you ask, collapsing back onto the [[sofa.->sofa2]] "I think that's enough for one night."]}{(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2) (live: 7s)[(track: 'phone', 'stop')]} "You should be nicer to Mother," Pixel says as you work your way around the flat, careful not to step on—or in— anything. "I'm perfectly nice! When I talk to her." "Which is hardly ever. And we almost //never //get to see her." You gesture at the all-encompassing mess. "Yes, you should tidy up," Pixel says, enunciating each word slowly as though he were talking to a toddler. "Tidy up, and Mother can visit!" He grins happily at the idea before adding: "Mother always brings treats." [["You don't even have tastebuds!"->offendpixel]] [["I give you treats too..."->treatpixel]]{(track: 'phone', 'loop', true) (track: 'phone', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'phone', 'volume', 0.2) (live: 7s)[(track: 'phone', 'stop')]} "Yes, you should tidy up," Pixel says, enunciating each word slowly as though he were talking to a toddler. "Tidy up, and Mother can visit!" He grins happily at the idea before adding: "Mother always brings treats." [["You don't even have tastebuds!"->offendpixel]] [["I give you treats too..."->treatpixel]]{(track: 'phone', 'stop') }"Of course I do! You painted them, you should remember." Pixel sticks his tongue out to show you. You find your phone in your coat pocket. You've another missed call from Mother, but there's also a Decadent Art notification. Someone's bid on the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting. Your breath catches in excitement as you open the app, but you quickly let it out in a disappointed sigh. Nervo. He's bid on the painting. The painting he said he didn't even want. You block him. 'I don't suppose //you// have any treats for me?' Pixel asks. [["Not now Pixel."->notreats]] [["Em... maybe? Let me see what I can find."->treats]]{(track: 'phone', 'stop') }"You could give me more..." You find your phone in your coat pocket. You've another missed call from Mother, but there's also a Decadent Art notification. Someone's bid on the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting. Your breath catches in excitement as you open the app, but you quickly let it out in a disappointed sigh. Nervo. He's bid on the painting. The painting he said he didn't even want. You block him. Pixel clears his throat loudly, and when that doesn't work, he howls: {(text-style: "shudder")["TREATS."]} [["Not now, Pixel."->treats]] [["Okay, okay! Let me see what I can find."->treats]]{(track: 'purr', 'stop')}The second you go to type, a notification pops up on your phone. There's been another bid on the painting. You try not to get too excited. I mean it could be Nervo again, fucking with you. You bite your lip as you examine the bidder's profile. "What is it?" Pixel asks between bites of meaty stick. "New bidder. Just want to make sure they're not another time-waster in a dog collar... or, you know, the //same// time-waster in a dog collar." Pixel opens his eyes wide. "Prudence! I didn't think you had it in you." [[Stick your tongue out.]] [[Just ignore him.]]{(track: 'purr', 'stop')}The second you go to dial her a notification pops up on your phone. There's been another bid on the painting. You try not to get too excited. I mean it could be Nervo again, fucking with you. You bite your lip as you examine the bidder's profile. "What is it?" Pixel asks between bites of meaty stick. "New bidder. Just want to make sure they're not another time-waster in a dog collar... or, you know, the //same// time-waster in a dog collar." Pixel opens his eyes wide. "Prudence! I didn't think you had it in you." [[Stick your tongue out.]] [[Just ignore him.]] "Mine's better. It's all sandpapery, see?" Pixel sticks out his tongue. "Good for you," you say, returning your attention to the bidder's profile. It's pretty bare. All it has is their handle—Fetter259—and the address of a gallery called // Voracious Artscapes//. On the plus side, the purchase history goes back a few years. "Seems legit," you tell Pixel. "Great! End the auction early and set up the handover." You hesitate. "Their bid is so low, though..." Pixel has gone back to munching his meaty stick. You can wait for the auction to end and see if you get any more bids, but the sooner you sell the painting, the sooner you can pay your rent. [[Pixel is right, you can't afford to wait.->accept offer]] [[Pixel is probably right, but you don't want to admit it.->sleeponit]] The bidder's profile is pretty bare. All it has is their handle—Fetter259—and the address of a gallery called // Voracious Artscapes//. On the plus side, the purchase history goes back a few years. "Seems legit," you tell Pixel. "Great! End the auction early and set up the handover." You hesitate. "Their bid is so low, though..." Pixel has gone back to munching his meaty stick. You can wait for the auction to end and see if you get any more bids, but the sooner you sell the painting, the sooner you can pay your rent. [[Pixel is right, you can't afford to wait.->accept offer]] [[Pixel is probably right, but you don't want to admit it.->sleeponit]]"Let's sleep on it," you say, putting your phone away. Pixel finishes off his meaty stick as you take your blanket from the floor and curl up on the sofa. "Goodnight Pixel." He hops up beside you. "I'll keep watch. Just in case..." {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepspider]](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepdemon]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepwraith]]} {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepspider]](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepdemon]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepwraith]]} You end the auction and send Fetter a quick DM asking where he'd like to meet. You'd normally ask //when// too, but you don't want to leave it too open this time... You need the money asap, so you suggest the handover take place tomorrow, if that suits. You check the app a few times, hoping for an instant reply, but there's nothing. You'll just have to wait until morning. You yawn. "Goodnight Pixel," you say, taking your blanket from the floor and curling up on the sofa. He finishes off his meaty stick and hops up beside you. "I'll keep watch. Just in case..." {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepspider]](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepdemon]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[["Thanks," you say, drifting off to sleep.->sleepwraith]]} {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepspider]](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepdemon]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[["Stop creeping me out," you say, turning your back to him and drifting off to sleep.->sleepwraith]]} {(set: $treatedpixel to true)}{(track: 'purr', 'play') (track: 'purr', 'volume', 1.2) (track: 'purr', 'fadeout', 13) (live: 6s)[(track: 'text', 'play') (track: 'text', 'volume', 0.3)] } You carefully sidestep the broken dishes on the floor of the kitchenette and root out a //Chonkers Meaty Stick// from one of the cupboards. Pixel purrs in gratitude before running off with it. Your phone beeps. It's a text message from Mother. //Hey you! I was just calling to see how you're doing. Any exhibitions coming up? We'd love to see what you've been working on! // [[You should write back.->writeback]] [[You should call back.->callback]]{(track: 'text', 'play') (track: 'text', 'volume', 0.3) }{(set: $treatedpixel to false)} Your phone beeps. It's a text message from Mother. //Hey you! I was just calling to see how you're doing. Any exhibitions coming up? We'd love to see what you've been working on! // [[You should write back.->writebackbite]] [[You should call back.->callbackbite]]The second you go to type, a notification pops up on your phone. There's been another bid on the painting. You try not to get too excited. I mean it could be Nervo again, fucking with you. You take a look at the bidder's profile. They— "Ouch!" you cry. Pixel has bitten your ankle. {(text-style: "shudder")["''TREATS''!!"]} You carefully sidestep the broken dishes on the floor of the kitchenette and root out a //Chonkers Meaty Stick// from one of the cupboards. Pixel snatches it from your hand and runs off without so much as a 'thank you.' [["You're welcome!"->pixelignoresyou]] [["You're such a little shit!"->pixelignoresyou]]The second you go to dial her a notification pops up on your phone. There's been another bid on the painting. You try not to get too excited. I mean it could be Nervo again, fucking with you. You take a look at the bidder's profile. They— "Ouch!" you cry. Pixel has bitten your ankle. {(text-style: "shudder")["''TREATS''!!"]} You carefully sidestep the broken dishes on the floor of the kitchenette and root out a //Chonkers Meaty Stick// from one of the cupboards. Pixel snatches it from your hand and runs off without so much as a 'thank you.' [["You're welcome!"->pixelignoresyou]] [["You're such a little shit!"->pixelignoresyou]] Pixel ignores you and you go back to your phone. The bidder's profile is pretty bare. All it has is their handle—Fetter259—and the address of a gallery called // Voracious Artscapes//. On the plus side, the purchase history goes back a few years. "I think it's legit!" you say to Pixel, who's busy munching his meaty stick. "It's a pity their offer is so low, though..." You can wait for the auction to end and see if you get any more bids, but the sooner you sell the painting, the sooner you can pay your rent. [[Pixel is right, you can't afford to wait.->accept offer]] [[Pixel is probably right, but you don't want to admit it.->sleeponit]] {(track: 'thunder', 'stop') (track: 'gasp', 'play') (track: 'gasp', 'volume', 0.4) (track: 'gasp', 'fadeout', 3) } Pixel is sleeping. So much for keeping watch... You throw the blanket back and go to get a glass of water. That's when you notice the footprints. The// new// footprints. They start at the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting and come right up to the sofa bed, and they're shaped like {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[women's feet...](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[women's feet... only clawed.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[skeletal paws.]} "It can't be..." you whisper. Pixel blinks his eyes open and yawns before following your gaze. When he sees the footprints, he jumps. "I told you the demons could get out!" he cries, arching his back and flatteing his ears. You shake your head. [["It has to be a trick..."->trick]] [["I didn't want to believe it..."->notrick]] { (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) (set: $laughPlaying to true) (live: 4s)[ (if: $laughPlaying)[(track: 'laugh', 'play')] ] (track: 'laugh', 'volume', 0.3) (live: 6s)[ (track: 'laugh', 'fadeout', 5) ] (live: 11s)[ (track: 'laugh', 'stop') (set: $laughPlaying to false) ] }{|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You walk in shadow-laced (if: $crimsonspider is true)[ mist.] (if: $greenspider is true)[ clouds of grey.] ] </span> ]} |sample2)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[A woman's laugh echoes from afar...]</span>] {|sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ And you spot eight (if: $crimsonspider is true)[ crimson] (if: $greenspider is true)[ green] eyes, gleaming in the distance. ] </span> ]} |sample4)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[They follow you for a time....]</span>] |sample5)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[And then they're gone.]</span>] |sample6)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Between the cracks of thunder...]</span>] |sample7)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[You hear the word 'sacrifice' whispered on the wind...]</span>] |sample8)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Over and over...]</span>] |sample9)[|center>[Until you (text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[[[wake.->Wakeagain]]]]</span>] { (live: 1s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 17s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample9)] }{ (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) (set: $laughPlaying to true) (live: 4s)[ (if: $laughPlaying)[(track: 'laugh', 'play')] ] (track: 'laugh', 'volume', 0.3) (live: 6s)[ (track: 'laugh', 'fadeout', 5) ] (live: 11s)[ (track: 'laugh', 'stop') (set: $laughPlaying to false) ] }{|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You walk in shadow-laced (if: $crimsondemon is true)[ mist.] (if: $greendemon is true)[ clouds of grey.] ] </span> ]} |sample2)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[A woman's laugh echoes from afar...]</span>] {|sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ And you spot a pair of blazing (if: $crimsondemon is true)[ crimson] (if: $greendemon is true)[ green] eyes in the distance. ] </span> ]} |sample4)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[They follow you for a time....]</span>] |sample5)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[And then they're gone.]</span>] |sample6)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Between the cracks of thunder...]</span>] |sample7)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[You hear the word 'sacrifice' whispered on the wind...]</span>] |sample8)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Over and over...]</span>] |sample9)[|center>[Until you (text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[[[wake.->Wakeagain]]]]</span>] { (live: 1s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 17s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample9)] }{ (track: 'thunder', 'loop', true) (track: 'thunder', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'thunder', 'fadein', 1) (set: $growlPlaying to true) (live: 4s)[ (if: $growlPlaying)[(track: 'growl', 'play')] ] (track: 'growl', 'volume', 0.3) (live: 6s)[ (track: 'growl', 'fadeout', 5) ] (live: 11s)[ (track: 'growl', 'stop') (set: $growlPlaying to false) ] } {|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You walk in shadow-laced (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[ mist.] (if: $greenwraith is true)[ clouds of grey.] ] </span> ]} |sample2)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[A growl echoes from afar...]</span>] {|sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ And you spot a pair of glowing (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[ crimson] (if: $greenwraith is true)[ green] eyes in the distance. ] </span> ]} |sample4)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[They follow you for a time....]</span>] |sample5)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[And then they're gone.]</span>] |sample6)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Between the cracks of thunder...]</span>] |sample7)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[You hear the word 'sacrifice' whispered on the wind...]</span>] |sample8)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[Over and over...]</span>] |sample9)[|center>[Until you (text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[[[wake.->Wakeagain]]]]</span>] { (live: 1s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 17s)[(text-style: "blur")(show: ?sample9)] }"A trick... seriously? You think someone came in here and faked these footprints?" "It's not like the door is locked..." you mumble halfheartedly. You stacked chairs in front of it the day before to stop it from swinging open, and it doesn't look like any of them have been moved. "But how could the demon get out?" you ask, scracthing your head. Pixel hops down from the sofa. "Artifexes are pretty smart, I thought that would have been obvious." You sigh and pick up the painting. Is it just your imagination, or has the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} moved? "You should destroy it," Pixel says. "Preferably with fire." You stare down at him in horror. "I'm not setting fire to one of my paintings! Besides, we need to sell this one, remember?" Pixel grimaces. "So the witch doesn't evict us, right..." [["She's not a witch, Pixel..."->notawitch]] [[She's a //bit// of a witch...->witch]] But it's best not to encourage Pixel. You ignore him and set the painting back down before checking your phone. There's a DM from Fetter259. "The buyer agreed to meet this afternoon!" you say, smiling. "So you can offload this thing?" Pixel asks, eyeing the painting warily. "Yeah, it's good to go, I just need to clean the blood off. I //probably// should have done that sooner..." you say, swabbing the little specks gently with some rubbing alcohol and cotton wool. It doesn't come off as easily as you expect—you'd almost swear it was paint and not blood. "//You// should probably clean up a little too," Pixel says. You're not sure when you last showered, and you did sweat a lot in your sleep. [[Still, Pixel shouldn't be so rude...]] [[Pixel's just trying to help.]]"She's probably just trying to make ends meet herself," you say, setting the painting back down. "What, has the price of newt eyes skyrocketed or something?" You give Pixel a look and check your phone. There's a DM from Fetter259. "The buyer agreed to meet this afternoon!" you say, smiling. "So you can offload this thing?" Pixel asks, eyeing the painting warily. "Yes! It's good to go, I just need to clean the blood off. I //probably// should have done that sooner..." you say, swabbing the little specks gently with some rubbing alcohol and cotton wool. It doesn't come off as easily as you expect—you'd almost swear it was paint and not blood. "//You// should probably clean up a little too," Pixel says. You're not sure when you last showered, and you did sweat a lot in your sleep. [[Still, Pixel shouldn't be so rude...]] [[Pixel's just trying to help.]] The door isn't locked, but you stacked chairs in front of it the day before to stop it from swinging open, and it doesn't look like any of the chairs have been moved. "It should be impossible for the demon to get out!" you say, scracthing your head. Pixel hops down from the sofa. "Artifexes are pretty smart, I thought that would have been obvious." You sigh and pick up the painting. Is it just your imagination, or has the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} moved? Pixel hops down from the sofa. "I'd gloat but I'm too freaked out! You should destroy that thing, preferably with fire." You stare down at him in horror. "I'm not setting fire to one of my paintings! Besides, we need to sell this one, remember?" Pixel grimaces. "So the witch doesn't evict us, right..." [["Right."->witch]] [["She's not a witch, Pixel..."->notawitch]] {(track: 'end', 'stop') }There's probably some psychological reason, but whatever it is, you're not going to dwell on it. These are just morning sketches, after all—a quick, twenty minute warm-up before you start working on commissions. Or at least they're //supposed// to take twenty minutes... You've been working on this one for two hours. You couldn't resist adding a little colour to the charcoal outline. Happens every time. "You're not meant to be up on the table," you tell Pixel. He stops preening and fixes you with a stare. "I'm an artifex, I'll do what I want." You sigh. "So, what are you going to steal this time?" he asks. "I'm not //stealing// anything. It's my artwork, I'm just taking a keepsake." "Ah-hah." Pixel goes back to licking himself. There's really no point arguing with him. [[Enter the sketch.]] {(track: 'end', 'stop') }{(set: $demonlover to true)}And, they're great drawing practice. You get to experiment with texture, shape, //shadow//... You don't always get it right, but that's okay; these are just morning sketches, after all—a quick, twenty-minute warm-up before you start working on commissions. Or at least they're //supposed// to take twenty minutes... You've been working on this one for two hours. You couldn't resist adding a little colour to the charcoal outline. Happens every time. "You're not meant to be up on the table," you tell Pixel. He stops preening and fixes you with a stare. "I'm an artifex, I'll do what I want." You sigh. "So, what are you going to steal this time?" he asks. "I'm not //stealing// anything. It's my artwork, I'm just taking a keepsake." "Ah-hah." Pixel goes back to licking himself. There's really no point arguing with him. [[Enter the sketch.]] "I look fine," you say, scowling at Pixel. "You don't //smell// fine..." "I smell—" You sniff an armpit and then scrunch your nose. "Damn, that's pretty bad..." "Yup!" Pixel says cheerfully. He can be so smug sometimes. "Fine," you say with a defeated sigh. "I'll shower, you keep an eye on the painting." "Scratch my ears first," Pixel says, tilting his head up expectantly. [[You roll your eyes and scratch his ears.->pixelhappy]] [[You tell him to stop being so needy.->pixelunhappy]] {(live: 5s)[ (track: 'purr', 'volume', 1) (track: 'purr', 'play') (live: 5s)[(track: 'purr', 'fadeto', 4, 0)] ]}How bad is it?" you ask. "Pretty bad." You sniff an armpit and then scrunch your nose. "Damn, you're right!" "I'm an artifex, I'm always right." You scratch behind Pixel's ears and he purrs contentedly. "Right. I'll shower, you keep an eye on the painting." "Oh I intend to," Pixel says, settling down in front of it. [["You really are the best cat!"->pixelhappy]] [["Making yourself useful for a change. How //about //that!"->pixelunhappy]] {(if: (track: 'purr', 'isplaying'))[(track: 'purr', 'stop') ] (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }Pixel watched the painting like you asked, and there were no more footprints when you came out of the shower, so at least you don't have to worry about the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}—it's on the canvas exactly where it's supposed to be. Well maybe not exactly. You can't shake the feeling it's moved ever so slightly... Like it's coming closer to the foreground? You'd rather not think about it. You'll be handing it over to this Fetter person soon and then it'll be out of your hands and you can go back to... Back to a flat that doesn't feel like home anymore. The door can be replaced and the furniture can be set right, but the keepsakes... They were what made the place feel //yours//. They were what made you feel //you//! You stand outside the gallery, heart heavy. Pixel sits on the pavement beside you. "I'll wait here," he says. "First sign of trouble and I'm coming in after you." [[Just get the handover over with.]] [[Try to make a good impression.]]{(set: $pixelupset to true) (if: (track: 'purr', 'isplaying'))[(track: 'purr', 'stop') ] (track: 'street', 'loop', true) (track: 'street', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'street', 'volume', 1) (track: 'street', 'fadein', 2) }Pixel watched the painting like you asked, and there were no more footprints when you came out of the shower, so at least you don't have to worry about the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}—it's on the canvas exactly where it's supposed to be. Well maybe not exactly. You can't shake the feeling it's moved ever so slightly... Like it's coming closer to the foreground? You'd rather not think about it. You'll be handing it over to this Fetter person soon and then it'll be out of your hands and you can go back to... Back to a flat that doesn't feel like home anymore. The door can be replaced and the furniture can be set right, but the keepsakes... They were what made the place feel //yours//. They were what made you feel //you//! You stand outside the gallery, heart heavy. Pixel sits on the pavement beside you. "I'll wait here," he says, voice impassive. [[Just get the handover over with.]] [[Try to make a good impression.]]{(track: 'street', 'stop')}You can start over. Make new paintings. Collect new keepsakes. You just have to offload this {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} one first. Looking at it only reminds you of everything you've lost. You walk into the gallery with grim determination, your footsteps echoing on the bare concrete floor. The walls are a minimalist white and there's a small welcome desk with a sign-in book by the entrance, but Fetter is nowhere to be seen. You inspect the artwork on display and a shiver runs down your spine. Sucubi, furies, trolls, oni, wendigos, banshees... Every single piece depicts a demon. "Ah, you've arrived. At //last//..." You jump, spinning around to find a figure standing on the stairs. They're wearing oxford leather sneakers, beige chinos, and a plain, long-sleeved top. The ensemble would be understated, if not for the gaudy belt with a buckle shaped like a large eye, and the dog collar fastened around their neck. "Welcome to //Voracious Artscapes//! I'm Fetter. And you must be Shadow Sketch." [[Get out of there!]] [[You need to know what this is all about.]]{(track: 'street', 'stop')}If Fetter likes you, maybe they'll commission more paintings. More paintings means more money, but more importantly, it means more keepsakes. You can start over. You can feel like //you// again. A faint smile forms on your lips, despite everything, and you walk into the gallery with your head held high. The walls are a minimalist white, the floor bare concrete. There's a small welcome desk with a sign in book by the entrance, but Fetter is nowhere to be seen. You inspect the artwork on display and a shiver runs down your spine. Sucubi, furies, trolls, oni, wendigos, banshees... Every single piece depicts a demon. "Ah, you've arrived. At //last//..." You jump, spinning around to find a figure standing on the stairs. They're wearing oxford leather sneakers, beige chinos, and a plain, long-sleeved top. The ensemble would be understated, if not for the gaudy belt with a buckle shaped like a large eye, and the dog collar fastened around their neck. "Welcome to //Voracious Artscapes//! I'm Fetter. And you must be Shadow Sketch." [[Get out of there!]] [[You need to know what this is all about.]]You make for the door, but find it barred by... a troll?? It looms over you, piercing you with beady amber eyes set in a grizzled, leathery face. You recognise it from one of the paintings, but you hadn't noticed the dog collar around its neck until just now. What was it with those? "Oh, you simply //can't// leave. We have business to conduct!" Fetter says. "Come on upstairs, let me see this painting of yours!" The troll advances toward you. [[Follow Fetter.]] [[Try to make a run for it.]] "What's with the dog collar?" you ask. Fetter smiles and tugs on it. "Oh, isn't it fetching?" You grind your teeth. "Just answer the question!" "Patience, patience!" Fetter says, tut-tutting. "All will be revealed. Why don't you come upstairs, let me see this painting of yours! The rest can wait." You glance at the door and your breath catches in your throat. It's barred by... a troll?? The creature stands tall, piercing you with beady amber eyes set in a grizzled, leathery face. You recognise it from one of the paintings. It's wearing a dog collar like Fetter's. You stare, rooted to the spot as the creature advances toward you. [[Follow Fetter.]] [[Try to make a run for it.]]Yeah, you are //not// messing with that troll... You take the stairs two at a time, but it follows close behind, each step creaking under its weight. Once you're on the upper floor you try to put as much distance between the two of you as possible. Luckily, the space opens out into a large exhibit. There's a long wooden table in the centre. A huge glass vase sits on top, filled with trinkets. You move closer, transfixed. "Ah, I thought you might like those," Fetter says, taking the painting from you and laying it out on the table beside the vase. You think there must be hundreds of items in there... Coins, buttons, key chains, glasses, unusually-shaped rocks... You see something familiar—{(if: $hasbook is true)[a tiny book...](if: $haslocket is true)[a locket...](if: $haswhistle is true)[a dog whistle...]} "Interesting..." Fetter muses. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["A spider! With a woman for a lure... How inspired. This is just wonderful."](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["A demon! I suppose that is what I asked for. Your rendition is a little uninspiring, but I suppose it'll have to do."](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["I asked for a demon, not a dog! Though, I will admit, it is artfully done... Yes, this will do just fine."]} "My keepsakes..." you say, eyes still fixed on the contents of the glass vase. [[You're relieved. You thought you'd lost them forever.]] [[You're furious. Fetter was working with Nervo all along...]]A spike of adrenaline hits you, and you dash around the troll. Just as you reach for the door, you're seized firmly, lifted off of the ground, and placed on the bottom stair. You look over your shoulder and find the troll standing right behind you. It grunts and nudges you forward. Once you're on the upper floor you try to put as much distance between the two of you as possible. Luckily, the space opens out into a large exhibit. There's a long wooden table in the centre. A huge glass vase sits on top, filled with trinkets. You move closer, transfixed. "Ah, I thought you might like those," Fetter says, taking the painting from you and laying it out on the table beside the vase. You think there must be hundreds of items in there... Coins, buttons, key chains, glasses, unusually-shaped rocks... You see something familiar—{(if: $hasbook is true)[a tiny book...](if: $haslocket is true)[a locket...](if: $haswhistle is true)[a dog whistle...]} "Interesting..." Fetter muses. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["A spider! With a woman for a lure... How inspired. This is just wonderful."](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["A demon! I suppose that is what I asked for. Your rendition is a little uninspiring, butI suppose it'll have to do."](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["I asked for a demon, not a dog! Though, I will admit, it is artfully done... Yes, this will do just fine."]} "My keepsakes..." you say, eyes still fixed on the contents of the glass vase. [[You're relieved. You thought you'd lost them forever.]] [[You're furious. Fetter was working with Nervo all along...]] Paintings are hard to part with. You pour yourself into them, and while you genuinely want to share them with the world once they're done, you always feel like you're losing a part of yourself when you sell one. That's what makes the keepsakes so important. They help you maintain a sense of connection with the paintings you've been forced to part with. You never for a moment thought you might be parted from them too. Why would you? To the unsuspecting eye, they should look like nothing more than a random assortment of knick-knacks. You don't know what Fetter and Nervo could possibly want with them, but having them here, within arm's reach, fills you with relief. You feel your stomach unknot, and an invisible weight lift from your shoulders. Then, you feel the troll's breath on the back of your neck—hot and acrid. It reeks of rotting meat. The closeness and the stench make you want to gag. And then it hits you... that's what your flat smelled like after the break-in. The troll must have been there, must have handled your things! [[The thought makes you sick to your stomach.->sick]] [[The thought makes your blood boil.->bloodboil]] Paintings are hard to part with. You pour yourself into them, and while you genuinely want to share them with the world once they're done, you always feel like you're losing a part of yourself when you sell one. That's what makes the keepsakes so important. They help you maintain a sense of connection with the paintings you've been forced to part with. You never for a moment thought you might be parted from them too. Why would you? To the unsuspecting eye, they should look like nothing more than a random assortment of knick-knacks. You don't know what Fetter and Nervo could possibly want with them. You clench your fists, on the verge of losing control, when you feel the troll's breath on the back of your neck—hot and acrid. It reeks of rotting meat. The closeness and the stench make you want to gag. And then it hits you... that's what your flat smelled like after the break-in. The troll must have been there, must have handled your things! [[The thought makes you sick to your stomach.->sick]] [[The thought makes your blood boil.->bloodboil]]{(track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'heart', 'fadeout', 5)}He jumps up into your arms and you hug him tightly. "//Told// you I'd come at the first sign of trouble," he says, pressing his head against your cheek in a show of affection. You pet him, and gradually, your heart slows. The pounding in your ears begins to fade, your vision clears. You can breathe again. But that stench! You cover your nose. "Well now, what do we have here?" Fetter asks. "A talking cat! Nervo did mention a familiar..." The troll steps so close you feel its drool drip onto your shoulder. You whirl round, and see its beady little eyes are fixed on Pixel. [[Tell it to back off.->angrywithpixel]] [[Calmly instruct Fetter to have it give you some space.->calmwithpixel]] "Now why would I do that..." Fetter muses. Pixel hops down to the floor and hisses at the troll, but it only grins and pulls a collar from a grimy trouser pocket. The collar is red, just like the others. "Don't you dare!" you cry, but Pixel is already gone. You glimpse his tail as he darts further into the gallery. Fetter sighs loudly. "No matter. It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixin]] [[Run!->fctablepixin]] The troll doesn't stop until Pixel hops down to the floor and hisses at it. "Now, now," Fetter says. "That simply won't do. Put a collar on it," they instruct the troll, and to your horror the creature produces one from a grimy trouser pocket. It's red, just like the others. "Don't you dare!" you cry, but Pixel is already gone. You glimpse his tail as he darts further into the gallery. Fetter sighs loudly. "No matter. It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixin]] [[Run!->fctablepixin]]{(track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'heart', 'fadeout', 5)}Pixel jumps up into your arms and you hug him tightly. "They have my keepsakes, and a fucking //troll//!" Your breaths come too fast, and too shallow. You feel dizzy, like you're about to pass out. Pixel presses his head against your cheek. "Focus on what you can touch," he whispers. "You feel my fur?" You nod. "My whiskers?" he asks, rubbing them across your skin. "They tickle..." you say, and smile despite yourself. You pet Pixel, and feel your heart gradually slow. The pounding in your ears fades, your vision clears. You can breathe again. "Well would you look at that," Fetter says. "An emotional support cat that can //talk//. Nervo mentioned you had a familiar, but this is something else." The troll steps so close you feel its drool drip onto your shoulder. Pixel gives a loud hiss. [[Stand your ground and tell it to back off.->angrywithpixel]] [[Calmly instruct Fetter to have it give you some space.->calmwithpixel]]{(track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'heart', 'fadeout', 5)}You do love him. He can just be so... So... Well so //lots// of things, really. But he's always had your back—until now. Your breaths come too fast, and too shallow. You feel dizzy, like you're about to pass out. "Everything alright?" Fetter asks. Their voice sounds far away, and muffled, almost as if it's underwater. Fetter sighs and clicks their fingers. Next thing you know, the troll is peering down at you from the ceiling. How did it even get up there? Oh, right, the troll's not on the ceiling; //you've// collapsed on the [[floor->fainted]]. {(track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'heart', 'fadeout', 5)}For the longest time now, it's just been you and Pixel. Well, you, Pixel and your paintings. You do love him. He can just be so... So... Well so //lots// of things, really. But he's always had your back. You've come to depend on that. And now? Now you're on your own. Your breaths come too fast, and too shallow. You feel dizzy, like you're about to pass out. "Everything alright?" Fetter asks. Their voice sounds far away, and muffled, almost as if it's underwater. Fetter sighs and clicks their fingers. Next thing you know, the troll is peering down at you from the ceiling. How did it even get up there? Oh, right, the troll's not on the ceiling; //you've// collapsed on the [[floor->fainted]].{(track: 'fainted', 'loop', true) (track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'fainted', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'fainted', 'fadein', 3)} <div class="centered-container"> |sample1)[<div class="fade-line">[What was that bang?]</div>] |sample2)[<div class="fade-line">[And why does your head hurt?]</div>] |sample3)[<div class="fade-line">[Did you just faint?]</div>] |sample4)[<div class="fade-line">[Fuck...]</div>] |sample5)[<div class="fade-line">[You try to move your limbs, but they feel so heavy...]</div>] |sample6)[<div class="fade-line">[You hear voices, but you can't make out what they're saying...]</div>] |sample7)[<div class="fade-line">[Where were you just now?]</div>] |sample8)[<div class="fade-line">[The flat?]</div>] |sample9)[<div class="fade-line">[No...]</div>] |sample10)[<div class="fade-line">[//Voracious Artscapes//!]</div>] |sample11)[<div class="fade-line">[It's all coming back to you...]</div>] |sample12)[<div class="fade-line">[What a shitshow. You have to get out of here, but how?]</div>] |sample13)[<div class="fade-line">[...]</div>] |sample14)[<div class="fade-line" id="sample14">[[[You wish Pixel was here.->pixelreturn]]<br/> [[You can manage without Pixel...->noneedpixel]]</div>]] </div> { (live: 1s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 14s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 16s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample9)] (live: 18s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample10)] (live: 19s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample11)] (live: 20s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample12)] (live: 22s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample13)] (live: 24s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample14)] }{(track: 'fainted', 'loop', true) (track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'fainted', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'fainted', 'fadein', 2)} <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> {|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ Something is licking your face... ] </span> ]} {|sample2)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ It feels rough, like sandpaper. ] </span> ]} {|sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ "Pixel," you hear yourself mumble...<br/> ] </span> ]} {|sample4)[ |center>[ <span class="fade-line">(text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[<br/>[[Try to open your eyes->wakepixellick]] <br/> <br/> [[Maybe you could just lie here a little longer...->wakepixelbite]]]]</span>]} (live: 1s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample4)] {(track: 'fainted', 'loop', true) (track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'fainted', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'fainted', 'fadein', 3)} <br/> <br/> {|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You're a grown up... ] </span> ]} {|sample2)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ Yes, your flat gets a little messy sometimes... ] </span> ]} {|sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ And //yes//, you might not always pay your bills on time... ] </span> ]} {|sample4)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ But you get by... ] </span> ]} {|sample5)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ With no help whatsoever from Pixel... ] </span> ]} {|sample6)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ (Apart from the occasional cuddle...) ] </span> ]} {|sample7)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You can do this.... ] </span> ]} {|sample8)[ |center>[ <span class="fade-line">(text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[You just need to [[open your eyes->wakenopixel]]. <br/> ] </span>] ]} {|sample9)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You're still feeling pretty rough, though... <br/> ] </span> ]} {|sample10)[ |center>[ <span class="fade-line">(text-style: "none") + (css: "filter: none; color: rgba(129, 174, 157, 0.20);")[ Maybe you could just [[lie here->wakenopixelkick]] a //little// longer...]]</span>]} (live: 1s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 17s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample9)] (live: 19s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample10)] {(track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'fainted', 'fadeout', 5)}Pixel is sitting on your chest, licking your face. He stops when you wrap your arms around him. "Thank you..." you whisper. Pixel gives a low grumble, and you loosen your grip. "Just making myself useful... How //about// that," he says, hopping down to the floor. You wince at hearing your own words thrown back at you. "Well now, what do we have here?" Fetter asks. "A talking cat! Nervo did mention a familiar..." Pixel hisses. "Put a collar on it," Fetter instructs the troll, and to your horror the creature produces one from a filthy trouser pocket. [["Don't you dare!" you cry.->pagebreak1]] [[Snatch the collar.->pagebreak2]] {(track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'fainted', 'fadeout', 5)} You feel a sudden stinging sensation on your earlobe and snap your eyes open. Pixel is sitting on your chest. "Did you just //bite// me?" "You're welcome," he says, hopping off of you. "Well now, what do we have here?" Fetter asks. "A talking cat! Nervo did mention a familiar..." Pixel hisses. "Put a collar on it," Fetter instructs the troll, and to your horror the creature produces one from a filthy trouser pocket. [["Don't you dare!" you cry.->pagebreak1]] [[Snatch the collar.->pagebreak2]]{(track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'fainted', 'fadeout', 5)}You blink a few times, trying to bring everything into focus. You're lstill on the floor. The troll is grinning down at you, its mouth a mess of rotting stumps and toothless gaps. "Back with us?" Nervo asks, not waiting for an answer. "Nervo mentioned a cat. Pity you didn't bring it with you... It sounded //most// unusual!" You stand up, leaning against the table for support, and the troll pulls a collar from a grimy trouser pocket. "No matter," Fetter says absently. "It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixout]] [["Hell, no!"->fctablepixout]] {(track: 'fainted', 'volume', 0.3)(track: 'fainted', 'fadeout', 5)}{(set: $crackedrib to true)}Someone—or some //thing//—kicks you in the side, hard. You think one of your ribs might be cracked. You curse and curl into a ball, before opening one of your eyes. The troll is grinning down at you. "Back with us?" Nervo asks, not waiting for an answer. "Nervo mentioned a cat. Pity you didn't bring it with you... It sounded //most// unusual!" You stand up, leaning against the table for support, and the troll pulls a collar from a grimy trouser pocket. "No matter," Fetter says absently. "It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixout]] [["Hell, no!"->fctablepixout]] The troll's grin widens even further. You turn and run, forgetting about the table. You slam into it, and it topples. You topple. The //vase// topples... And shatters. Keepsakes fly out in all directions. You see the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]} not far from you and grab it before scrambling to your feet and dashing further into the gallery, the same way Pixel went. There's a room back there, with a single painting. It's a big one—it wouldn't surprise you if it spanned the length of your flat. What was it even meant to depict? You're trying to make sense of the rows upon rows of teeth when someone intercepts you. [[Fucking Nervo... You are so going to kick his ass.->Nervowanker]] [[Nervo? Where did //he// come from?->paintingyes]] {(set: $pixeloutside to true)}The troll's grin widens even further. You turn and run, forgetting about the table. You slam into it, and it topples. You topple. The //vase// topples... And shatters. Keepsakes fly out in all directions. You see the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]} not far from you and grab it {(if: $crackedrib is false)[before scrambling to your feet and dashing deeper into the gallery.](if: $crackedrib is true)[before pushing yourself to your feet with a wince, and clutching your side as you stumble deeper into the gallery.]} There's a room back there, with a single painting. It's a big one—it wouldn't surprise you if it spanned the length of your flat. What was it even meant to depict? You're trying to make sense of the rows upon rows of teeth when someone intercepts you. [[Fucking Nervo... You are so going to kick his ass.->Nervowanker]] [[Nervo? Where did //he// come from?->paintingyes]] You lunge, but the troll raises it above its head and grins. "Just try it!" you cry, but Pixel is already gone. You glimpse his tail as he darts further into the gallery. Fetter sighs loudly. "No matter. It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixin]] [["Hell, no!"->fctablepixin]] The troll just grins at you. Its mouth a mess of rotting stumps and toothless gaps. "I mean it!" you cry, but Pixel is already gone. You glimpse his tail as he darts further into the gallery. Fetter sighs loudly. "No matter. It's you it wants." "//It//?" you ask, but Fetter doesn't answer. Instead, they carry your {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting to an empty spot on the wall, and hang it carefully. They make several small readjustments to its position before stepping back to appraise it. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Excellent," they say, nodding in appreciation.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes, like I said, uninspriring," they say, shaking their head.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes, you know I do like this one, even if it isn't exactly what I asked for," they say, tapping their chin.]} You remain silent, and they abruptly turn on their heel and clap their hands together. "Right, then. Let's get that collar on." [["Excuse me?"->fctablepixin]] [["Hell, no!"->fctablepixin]] His eyes widen in surprise as you push you him backwards. He trips, and falls... into a painting. It's a painting of a block of flats. //Your //block of flats. "What the fuck?" you mutter, walking over to take a closer look. Nervo's in there, brushing himself off, and there's someone with him. You squint and raise both hands to the canvas. It's slightly warm to the touch, and spongey like it could give way at any moment. It's just how your own paintings feel when you're about to climb inside. "Come on then!" Nervo growls, grabbing the other person by the wrist and yanking them forward. You gasp in recognition—it's ''you''! [[Reach out.->CuriousPaintingNervoInside]] [[Round on Nervo.->AngryNervoinside]] You scan the wall behind him and see no doors, only paintings. Demon paintings, mostly. There's one that doesn't quite fit, though. It's a painting of a block of flats. //Your //block of flats. "What the fuck?" you mutter, walking over to take a closer look. Something is moving in there. Some//one,// rather. You squint and raise both hands to the canvas. It's slightly warm to the touch, and spongey like it could give way at any moment. It's just how your own paintings feel when you're about to climb inside. "Out you come, don't be shy!" Nervo calls, and the figure in the painting moves closer. You gasp in recognition—it's ''you''! [[Reach inside the painting.->CuriousPaintingNervoOutside]] [[Round on Nervo.->AngryNervoOutside]] {(set: $maudhatesyou to true)}It's a few days before you can get someone to come along and make the repairs. In the meantime, you list the {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} painting on Decadent Art. You set the opening bid low and go about tidying up. Where do you start? [[The table.]] [[The floor.]] [[The kitchenette.]] "What the fuck is this?!" you ask as he climbs through the canvas, dragging the other you after him. "You made a painting of my flat?" you ask, taking a step back. "Why? What—" You inhale sharply. "The keepsakes! You used the painting to get in and take them!" "Not me personally," Nervo says. "It was the troll. Damn thing got the wrong floor, so it had to break the door down. I heard the landlady was //most //displeased..." Nervo flashes you a wicked grin. "Look, I don't know what your game is, but—" you jump as the other you steps closer, and goes to touch your hair. Nervo puts a firm hand on their shoulder, and they let their hand fall. "But what?" he asks, a hint of irritation in his voice. You open your mouth to respond, but before you can get a word out, Fetter cries: "Enough! It's time." [["Time?"->fetterplan]] [[Run deeper into the gallery.->escapefetterplan]]"What the fuck is this?!" you ask, taking a step back. "Is that how you got into my flat?" "Not me personally," Nervo says. "It was the troll. Damn thing got the wrong floor, so it had to break the door down. I heard the landlady was //most //displeased..." Nervo flashes you a wicked grin. "Look, I don't know what your game is, but—" you jump as the other you brushes past to stand beside Nervo. "But?" Nervo asks, a smile playing on his lips. You open your mouth to respond, but before you can get a word out, Fetter cries: "Enough! It's time." [["Time?"->fetterplan]] [[Run deeper into the gallery.->escapefetterplan]]The other you freezes as your hand presses through the canvas and brushes their hair. It feels stiff and textured, like dried paint. Nervo slaps your hand away and climbs out of the painting, dragging your doppelgänger after him. "Is that how you got into my flat?" you ask. "Not me personally," Nervo says. "It was the troll. Damn thing got the wrong floor, so it had to break the door down. I heard the landlady was //most //displeased..." Nervo flashes you a wicked grin. "Look, I don't know what your game is, but—" you jump as the other you reaches out as if to touch// your// hair. Nervo puts a firm hand on their shoulder, and their arm falls back to their side. "But what?" he asks, a hint of irritation in his voice. You open your mouth to respond, but before you can get a word out, Fetter cries: "Enough! It's time." [["Time?"->fetterplan]] [[Run deeper into the gallery.->escapefetterplan]]The other you freezes as your hand presses through the canvas and brushes their hair. It feels stiff and textured, like dried paint. Nervo pulls you back and your doppelgänger climbs out of the painting. "Is that how you got into my flat?" you ask. "Not me personally," Nervo says. "It was the troll. Damn thing got the wrong floor, so it had to break the door down. I heard the landlady was //most //displeased..." Nervo flashes you a wicked grin. "Look, I don't know what your game is, but—" you jump as the other you reaches out as if to touch// your// hair. Nervo puts a firm hand on their shoulder, and their arm falls back to their side. "But what?" he asks, a hint of irritation in his voice. You open your mouth to respond, but before you can get a word out, Fetter cries: "Enough! It's time." [["Time?"->fetterplan]] [[Run deeper into the gallery.->escapefetterplan]]Fetter clears their throat. "If you'll do the honours..." they say to the {(if: $pixeloutside is true)[troll.](if: $pixeloutside is false)[troll, and then scowl. "Don't let this one get away like that accursed //cat//!"]} It walks toward you, collar in hand. You try to run, but Nervo seizes your arm. He's a lot stronger than you would have expected. Fetter laughs as you struggle to free yourself. "Don't worry," they say. "The collar's not for you." You blink in surprise as the troll fastens it around the neck of your doppelgänger. "No, we have something else in mind for //you//," Fetter says, clicking their fingers. Nervo wheels you around, and pushes you deeper into the gallery. {(if: $pixeloutside is true)[It's mostly just more demon paintings. Your gaze is drawn back to the big one you spotted earlier—the one with all those teeth...](if: $pixeloutside is false)[You look around for Pixel but don't see him anywhere. Eventually, your gaze is drawn back to the painting you spotted earlier—the big one, with all those teeth...]} It's moving. Or at least, whatever's // inside// it is moving... The teeth disappear from view, only to be replaced by a giant, red eye. It blinks, and suddenly the canvas bulges, as though the hideous creature is trying to squeeze its way out. [[Scream!]] [[Elbow Nervo in the face!]]You turn to run, but Nervo seizes your arm. He's a lot stronger than you would have expected. Fetter clears their throat. "If you'll do the honours..." they say to the {(if: $pixeloutside is true)[troll.](if: $pixeloutside is false)[troll, and then scowl. "Don't let this one get away like that accursed //cat//!"]} It walks toward you, collar in hand. Fetter laughs as you struggle to free yourself from Nervo's grip. "Don't worry," they say. "The collar's not for you." You blink in surprise as the troll fastens it around the neck of your doppelgänger. "No, we have something else in mind for //you//," Fetter says, clicking their fingers. Nervo wheels you around, and pushes you deeper into the gallery. {(if: $pixeloutside is true)[It's mostly just more demon paintings. Your gaze is drawn back to the big one you spotted earlier—the one with all those teeth...](if: $pixeloutside is false)[You look around for Pixel but don't see him anywhere. Eventually, your gaze is drawn back to the painting you spotted earlier—the big one, with all those teeth...]} It's moving. Or at least, whatever's // inside// it is moving... The teeth disappear from view, only to be replaced by a giant, red eye. It blinks, and suddenly the canvas bulges, as though the hideous creature is trying to squeeze its way out. [[Scream!]] [[Elbow Nervo in the face!]]{(track: 'heart', 'loop', true) (track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'heart', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'heart', 'fadein', 3)}{|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>A bad taste fills your mouth. ] </span> ] |sample2)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[<br/>You break out in a cold sweat.]</span>] |sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>The room begins to spin. ] </span> ]} {|sample4)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ You breathe heavily... ] </span> ] |sample5)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>Trying not to vomit... ] </span> ] |sample6)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[ <br/>Something brushes against your leg. ]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[ <br/>It's a familiar feeling... ]] </span> ] |sample7)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[<br/>You cry out in alarm, but it's only Pixel.]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[<br/>You often feel nauseous when you get this worked up...]]</span>] |sample8)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[<br/>He looks up at you, eyes wide. "Everything okay, boss?"]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[<br/>But Pixel's normally there to comfort you...]]</span>] |sample9)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[ [<p>[["No, everything is// not// okay!"->freakedoutwithpixel]]<p/> [["Pixel!" you cry, unable to hide the relief from your voice.->relievedseepixel]] ]]] [(if: $pixelupset is true)[ [<p>[[You wish you hadn't been so mean to him.->nopixelregret]]<p/> [[You've become far too dependent on him.->nopixeldependant]] ]]] </span> ]} (live: 1s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 10s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "none")(show: ?sample9)] {(track: 'heart', 'loop', true) (track: 'heart', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'heart', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'heart', 'fadein', 3)}{|sample1)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>Your face feels hot. ] </span> ] |sample2)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[<br/>Blood rushes in your ears.]</span>] |sample3)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>Everything around you falls away. ] </span> ]} {|sample4)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ Your vision narrows. ] </span> ] |sample5)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[ <br/>You can't breathe. ] </span> ] |sample6)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[ <br/>Something brushes against your leg. ]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[ <br/>It's a panic attack. ]] </span> ] |sample7)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[<br/>You cry out in alarm, but it's only Pixel.]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[<br/>You get these sometimes...]]</span>] |sample8)[<span class="fade-line">|center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[<br/>He looks up at you, eyes wide. "Everything okay, boss?"]][(if: $pixelupset is true)[<br/>But Pixel's normally there to help calm you down...]]</span>] |sample9)[ <span class="fade-line"> |center>[(if: $pixelupset is false)[ [<p>[["No, everything is// not// okay!"->freakedoutwithpixel]]</p> [["Pixel!" you cry, unable to hide the relief from your voice.->relievedseepixel]] ]]] [(if: $pixelupset is true)[ [<p>[[You wish you hadn't been so mean to him.->nopixelregret]]</p> [[You've become far too dependent on him.->nopixeldependant]] ]]] </span> ]} (live: 1s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample1)] (live: 3s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample2)] (live: 5s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample3)] (live: 7s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample4)] (live: 9s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample5)] (live: 11s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample6)] (live: 12s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample7)] (live: 13s)[(text-style: "smear")(show: ?sample8)] (live: 15s)[(text-style: "none")(show: ?sample9)] {(set: $screamed to true)}{(if: $crackedrib is true)[You go to take a deep breath, but wince as a sharp, stabbing pain shoots across your ribs. <p>"Cat got your tongue?" Nervo whispers in your ear. "Screaming's pointless, anyhow."</p> <p>He shoves you forward, and you drop to your knees in front of the painting, barely supressing a whimper.</p>](if: $crackedrib is false)[You wail until your throat is raw. <p>"Are you done?" Nervo asks finally, and shoves you toward the painting. You drop to your knees in front of it and try to suppress a whimper.</p>] } You can hear the creature squelching against the fabric of the canvas as it tries to free itself. You can't quite bring yourself to look—the sound alone is enough to make your skin crawl—so instead, you force yourself to focus on the caption beneath the painting. It reads: (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[<span style="font-size: 0.8em;">Fetter Gullick (b. 1996)</span> <span style="font-size: 0.8em;">''//Artistivore,//'' 2024</span> <span style="font-size: 0.6em;">Acrylic on canvas</span>] [["You painted this, Fetter?"->artist]] [["Artistovore, as in 'artist-devourer'?"->artistovore]] {(if: $crackedrib is true)[You try to jab him as hard as you can, but the pain in your ribs stops you short. You gasp in agony, your elbow having barely brushed Nervo's cheek. <p>"Is that really all you've got? This will be even easier than I thought," he says, shoving you forward.</p> <p>You drop to your knees in front of the painting, barely supressing a whimper.</p>](if: $crackedrib is false)[You jab him as hard as you can, landing a hit square on his nose. You expect to hear a crack, but there's nothing—Nervo doesn't even flinch. <p>"Is that really all you've got? This will be even easier than I thought," he says, shoving you toward the painting.</p> <p>You drop to your knees in front of it, at a complete loss for words.</p>] }You can hear the creature squelching against the fabric of the canvas as it tries to free itself. You can't quite bring yourself to look—the sound alone is enough to make your skin crawl—so instead, you force yourself to focus on the caption beneath the painting. It reads: (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[<span style="font-size: 0.8em;">Fetter Gullick (b. 1996)</span> <span style="font-size: 0.8em;">''//Artistivore,//'' 2024</span> <span style="font-size: 0.6em;">Acrylic on canvas</span>] [["You painted this, Fetter?"->artist]] [["Artistovore, as in 'artist-devourer'?"->artistovore]] "A little on the nose, I know..." Before Fetter can say any more, there's a loud thud as a pockmarked foot hits the floor beside you. This is quickly followed by three more thuds. How many feet does this 'Artistivore' have, you wonder, and glance upward—an action you immediately come to regret. The creature has far too many legs, far too many eyes, and far, {(text-style: 'shudder')[far]} too many teeth. {(if: $screamed is true)[[[Scream again!!->scream]]](if: $screamed is false)[[[Okay, //now// scream!->scream]]]} [[Get out of there!->run]]"Not exactly..." Before Fetter can say any more, there's a loud thud as a pockmarked foot hits the floor beside you. This is quickly followed by three more thuds. How many feet does this 'Artistivore' have, you wonder, and glance upward—an action you immediately come to regret. The creature has far too many legs, far too many eyes, and far, {(text-style: 'shudder')[far]} too many teeth. {(if: $screamed is true)[[[Scream again!!->scream]]](if: $screamed is false)[[[Okay, //now// scream!->scream]]]} [[Get out of there!->run]]{(if: $screamed is true and $crackedrib is true)[You go to scream, but once again, waves of pain radiate across your ribs, leaving you gasping for breath. <p>"You just don't learn, do you?" Nervo taunts.</p> ] (else-if: $screamed is true and $crackedrib is false)[You scream so hard you feel lightheaded and see dots dancing before your eyes. <p>"You just don't learn, do you?" Nervo taunts.</p> ] (else-if: $screamed is false and $crackedrib is true)[You go to take a deep breath, but wince as a sharp, stabbing pain shoots across your ribs. <p>"Cat got your tongue?" Nervo taunts.</p> ] (else:)[You scream so hard you feel lightheaded and see dots dancing before your eyes. <p>Nervo looks down at you. "Stop that, it's irritating."</p> ]}You turn over and crawl out from beneath the artistivore, and he grabs you. "Let me go!" you cry, panic rising. { (if: $nervohatesyou is false)[<p>"Now, why would I do that?" he asks, flashing you a grin.</p>](if: $nervohatesyou is true)[<p>"Eat shit!" he says, flashing you a grin.</p> <p>Right... it probably wasn't the best idea to taunt him at the café. Then again, you were assuming you'd never, ever see him again.</p>] }"Enough," Fetter says. "It's time." Nervo's grin widens. "You can't feed me to that thing!!" you cry, desperately squirming in his grip. "But we must," Fetter says, voice impassive. "Great art requires sacrifice." Nervo spins you around and hoists you up above his head with ease, despite your frantic kicking. [["Pixel, if you're here somewhere, I could really use your help right about now!"->pixelpleading]] [["Pixel, I know you're out there! If you don't help me out here, I'm never feeding you again!"->pixelthreat]] You turn over and crawl out from beneath the artistivore, but Nervo grabs your arm as you try to sprint past him. You squirm against his grip, glancing back over your shoulder at the artistivore. You're not sure there's enough room for it to fully emerge from the painting, but its head is out—and that's the part you have to worry about. "Let me go!" you cry, panic rising. { (if: $nervohatesyou is false)[<p>"Now, why would I do that?" he asks, flashing you a grin.</p>](if: $nervohatesyou is true)[<p>"Eat shit!" he says, flashing you a grin.</p> <p>Right... it probably wasn't the best idea to taunt him at the café. Then again, you were assuming you'd never, ever see him again.</p>] }"Enough," Fetter says. "It's time." Nervo's grin widens. "You can't feed me to that thing!!" you cry in desperation. "But we must," Fetter says, voice impassive. "Great art requires sacrifice." Nervo spins you around and hoists you up above his head with ease, despite your frantic kicking. [["Pixel, if you're here somewhere, I could really use your help right about now!"->pixelpleading]] [["Pixel, I know you're out there! If you don't help me out here, I'm never feeding you again!"->pixelthreat]] The artistivore's nostrils twitch, and it stops squeezing momentarily to sniff in your direction. Its pale skin glistens, slick with moisture, and its face resembles that of a large, bulbous toad, but with dozens of red eyes that blink erratically. One eye is missing, leaving a gaping, fleshy hole. It opens its mouth impossibly wide, revealing a gullet lined with hundreds of tiny, needle-like teeth. You close your eyes... And hear Nervo scream. The artistivore snaps its mouth closed just as Nervo drops you to the floor. Your heart is pounding. That was close. Too close. Nervo is covering his face with his palms as Pixel stands on his shoulders, scratching with abandon. "Pixel!" you cry. "You came!" {(if: $pixelupset is false and $treatedpixel is true)["I can't just let you //die//," he says between swipes. "Who'd give me cat treats?" ] (else-if: $pixelupset is false)["Of course I came," he says between swipes. "I'm not just gonna let you //die//. I mean, sure, you can be a bit of an asshole, but you put food in the bowl... Sometimes that's as good as a cat can hope for." ] (else:)["Yeah, well," he says between swipes, clearly still mad at you. ]} Nervo drops a hand to bat Pixel's paws away, and you see blood dripping down his cheek in thick, straight rivulets. [["Is that... paint?"->weartifex]] [[Forget Nervo, focus on the giant monster that's about to eat you!->artistivore]]{(set: $threatenedpixel to true)}The artistivore's nostrils twitch, and it stops squeezing momentarily to sniff in your direction. Its pale skin glistens, slick with moisture, and its face resembles that of a large, bulbous toad, but with dozens of red eyes that blink erratically. One eye is missing, leaving a gaping, fleshy hole. It opens its mouth impossibly wide, revealing a gullet lined with hundreds of tiny, needle-like teeth. You close your eyes... And hear Nervo scream. The artistivore snaps its mouth closed just as Nervo drops you to the floor. That was //close//. Nervo is covering his face with his palms as Pixel stands on his shoulders, scratching with abandon. "Pixel!" you cry. "You came!" "Yeah, well... you didn't exactly give me a choice!" he says between swipes. Nervo drops a hand to bat Pixel's paws away, and you see blood dripping down his cheek in thick, straight rivulets. [["Is that... paint?"->weartifex]] [[Forget Nervo, focus on the giant monster that's about to eat you!->artistivore]] Nervo growls. "Of course it's paint! Get your demon familiar off of me!" You inhale sharply. "You're an artifex!" "We're //all// artifexes..." Fetter says impatiently. "All but you, which is why //you //are about to be sacrificed. This one will take your place," they add, indicating your doppelgänger. "They'll work here at the gallery, helping us find more talented artists for the artistivore to eat... No one will suspect a thing. Indeed, if your family and friends are anything like Nervo's, they'll probably be delighted to hear you've finally gotten regular, paid work, and in your chosen field to boot!" Fetter scratches their chin. "Yes, I do believe they'll be willing to overlook any minor discrepancies." "Minor discrpencies like bleeding paint instead of blood?" you ask, and Fetter just shrugs. [["Why demons?"]] [["Why me?"]]Right! It's sniffing the air where Nervo had been holding you up a second ago. It seems //very// interested in your scent... "Someone get this demon familiar off of me!" Nervo cries, and your doppelgänger scoops Pixel off of his shoulders. "What the...?" Pixel asks, looking from them to you and back again. "It's an artifex," you say, sidestepping Nervo as he wipes the blood—or whatever it is—from his cheek. The artistivore's head swivels to follow you, its nostrils flaring. "We're //all// artifexes..." Fetter says impatiently. "All but you, which is why //you //are about to be sacrificed. This one will take your place," they add, indicating your doppelgänger. "They'll work here at the gallery, helping us find more talented artists for the artistivore to eat... No one will suspect a thing. Indeed, if your family and friends are anything like Nervo's, they'll probably be delighted to hear you've finally gotten regular, paid work, and in your chosen field to boot!" Fetter scratches their chin. "Yes, I do believe they'll be willing to overlook any minor discrepancies." "Minor discrpencies like bleeding paint instead of blood?" you ask, and Fetter just shrugs. [["Why demons?"]] [["Why me?"]] {(live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"They sell!" Fetter says simply, before adding: "And the artistivore seems to like them. I suppose being surrounded by smaller, lesser demons, makes it feel big and powerful. I saw from your Decadent Art profile that you have a penchant for demons yourself! That, along with your innate abilities, made you the ideal candidate for this little endeavour of ours." "I //told// you you painted too many demons!" Pixel cries. The artistivore lets out an ear-splitting shriek. "I think we've kept it waiting long enough, don't you?" Fetter asks. They snap their fingers, and the troll steps forward, pinning your arms to your sides and lifting you high over its head. You hear the artistivore sniffing at your back, and in your mind's eye, you picture it opening its massive maw. Pixel bites the other you's hand, causing them to yelp and drop him. Just when you think he's about to come to your rescue, he scampers into one of the paintings. "Not exactly steadfast, is he?" Fetter chuckles. Nervo actually laughs. "Oh, this is too good, he's gone into a Nervo original." [[Kick the troll in the face!->pixeltiger]] [[Fart, so you're less appetizing.->farted]] {(live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"The artistivore has a sophisticated palate. It also likes demons. I suppose being surrounded by smaller, lesser ones, makes it feel big and powerful. I saw from your Decadent Art profile that you have a penchant for demons yourself! That, along with your innate abilities, made you the ideal candidate for this little endeavour of ours." "I //told// you you painted too many demons!" Pixel cries. The artistivore lets out an ear-splitting shriek. "I think we've kept it waiting long enough, don't you?" Fetter asks. They snap their fingers, and the troll steps forward, pinning your arms to your sides and lifting you high over its head. You hear the artistivore sniffing at your back, and in your mind's eye, you picture it opening its massive maw. Pixel bites the other you's hand, causing them to yelp and drop him. Just when you think he's about to come to your rescue, he scampers into one of the paintings. "Not exactly steadfast, is he?" Fetter chuckles. Nervo actually laughs. "Oh, this is too good, he's gone into a Nervo original." [[Kick the troll in the face!->pixeltiger]] [[Fart, so you're less appetizing.->farted]] Just as you raise your leg, Pixel bursts out of the painting, flying through the air, claws extended. He's being chased by a fire-breathing, winged tiger. The artistivore howls as it gets inadvertantly blasted. It takes a few steps back, blinking in confusion, then its many eyes focus on you. "RUN!" Pixel cries, jumping into another painting. The troll still grips you tightly. [[NOW, kick it in the face!]] [[Pull its hair.]]There's a small squeak as you break wind. Nervo narrows his eyes at you. "Did you just—" Pixel bursts out of the painting, flying through the air, claws extended. He's being chased by a fire-breathing, winged tiger. Fetter ducks to avoid a wave of flame, and the artistivore howls as it's blasted instead. You glance over your shoulder, and watch as it stumbles backward, blinking in confusion. Angry blisters bubble across its face, and several of its eyes cloud over, but the rest of them snap into focus. It's looking at //you//. "RUN!" Pixel cries, jumping into another painting. The troll still grips you tightly. [[NOW, kick it in the face!]] [[Pull its hair.]]You feel a satisfying crunch as you land your foot right between the troll's eyes. It drops you, clutching its nose and blubbering incoherently. {(if: $crackedrib is true)[You quickly shuffle past, holding a hand to your side and gritting your teeth against the ache in your ribs.](if: $crackedrib is false)[You make a run for it.]} Fetter moves to intercept you, but is knocked off their feet by a cyclopean squid monster flopping after Pixel, its tentacles writhing and flailing in all directions. Pixel scampers into yet another painting to evade the squid. It follows him in, only to come lurching out just as quickly, a shadow demon snipping at its tentacles with claws of black smoke. Fetter, Nervo and other you cower in various corners of the gallery, but the artistivore still has you in its sights. It's trying harder than ever to squeeze free from the canvas. It's time to run. Clearly, Pixel has the same idea. You see a flash of fur as he flies past you, heading for the stairs. You're right behind him, rounding the upturned table, when a horribly familiar sight stops you in your tracks. {(if: $greenspider is true)[A faceless woman, dangling from a giant spider with glowing green eyes.](if: $crimsonspider is true)[A faceless woman, dangling from a giant spider with glowing red eyes.](if: $greendemon is true)[A horned she-demon, with burning green eyes and skin like scorched earth.](if: $crimsondemon is true)[A horned she-demon, with burning red eyes and skin like scorched earth.](if: $greenwraith is true)[A massive, skeletal dog with glowing green eyes, shrouded in a cloak of swirling mist.](if: $crimsonwraith is true)[A massive, skeletal dog with glowing red eyes, shrouded in a cloak of swirling mist.]} {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasonspider]]] (elseif: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasondemon]]] (elseif: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasonwraith]]] } {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderwhistle]]]] (elseif: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonwhistle]]]] (elseif: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithwhistle]]]]}You grab a handful growing out of the things nostrils, and tug. The troll drops you, clutching its nose and blubbering incoherently. {(if: $crackedrib is true)[You quickly shuffle past, holding a hand to your side and gritting your teeth against the ache in your ribs.](if: $crackedrib is false)[You make a run for it.]} Fetter moves to intercept you, but is knocked off their feet by a cyclopean squid monster flopping after Pixel, its tentacles writhing and flailing in all directions. Pixel scampers into yet another painting to evade the squid. It follows him in, only to come lurching out just as quickly, a shadow demon snipping at its tentacles with claws of black smoke. Fetter, Nervo and other you cower in various corners of the gallery, but the artistivore still has you in its sights. It's trying harder than ever to squeeze free from the canvas. It's time to run. Clearly, Pixel has the same idea. You see a flash of fur as he flies past you, heading for the stairs. You're right behind him, rounding the upturned table, when a horribly familiar sight stops you in your tracks. {(if: $greenspider is true)[A faceless woman, dangling from a giant spider with glowing green eyes.](if: $crimsonspider is true)[A faceless woman, dangling from a giant spider with glowing red eyes.](if: $greendemon is true)[A horned she-demon, with burning green eyes and skin like scorched earth.](if: $crimsondemon is true)[A horned she-demon, with burning red eyes and skin like scorched earth.](if: $greenwraith is true)[A massive, skeletal dog with glowing green eyes, shrouded in a cloak of swirling mist.](if: $crimsonwraith is true)[A massive, skeletal dog with glowing red eyes, shrouded in a cloak of swirling mist.]} {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasonspider]]] (elseif: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasondemon]]] (elseif: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[[Try to reason with it.->reasonwraith]]] } {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->spiderwhistle]]]] (elseif: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->demonwhistle]]]] (elseif: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[(if: $hasbook is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithbook]]](elseif: $haslocket is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithlocket]]](elseif: $haswhistle is true)[[[Try using your keepsake.->wraithwhistle]]]]} You raise your hands. "Hey there, Mr., Ms. or Mx. Spider! How's she hanging?" You ask, poking the dangling woman. "Is she, like... alive? Or more of a flesh puppet?" The silk strings quiver as the spider raises its front legs. You're no spider expert, but it seems like you just pissed it off... Wonderful. "Um... What's it like being super scary and stuff? I mean, you're probably the scariest thing in here. //Way// scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, for example..." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The spider chitters, making the dangling woman jiggle. It's deeply unsettling. [[Remind it who created it.->createdspider]] [[Remind it Pixel has your back.->pixelspider]] You raise your hands. "Hey there, smoking demon!" You quickly clear your throat. "I mean smoking literally, not figuratively, because, you know, your skin's veined with lava, or, like, some sort of glowy stuff anyway..." The demon glares at you. "Not that you're not figuratively smoking too!" you add hurriedly. "You're super smoking. The smokingest demon I ever saw. Way cooler than the fire-breathing tiger." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty cool right up until that point—even if it //was// painted by Nervo." The demon screeches, flapping her wings. [[Remind her who created her.->createddemon]] [[Remind her Pixel has your back.->pixeldemon]] You raise your hands. "Hey there, doggy-woggy! Who's a good boy?" You quickly clear your throat. "Or girl! Or neither! You can be whatever kind of skeleton dog you want to be..." It's hard to know if dogs can glare, and even harder when it comes to skeleton dogs, but it definitely //feels// like this one is glaring... "Or maybe you don't see yourself as a doggy-woggy. Maybe you see yourself as the Big Dog! I mean you do have the super cool, glowy mist and all that. And then there's the general aura of scariness you've got going on as a wraith... I mean, you're way scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, just saying." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The wraith growls. [[Remind it who created it.->createdwraith]] [[Remind it Pixel has your back.->pixelwraith]] {(if: $pixelupset is true)[At least, you //hope// he has... <br/>] }"Remember that cat that lives with me? Well, he likes to eat birds, and you're //pretty// bird-like, with the talons, wings, and what not. He'd have torn you to shreds already if not for his loyalty to me—his creator, //both// of your creators, in fact. If you don't show me the respect I'm due..." You snap your fingers. "He'll be on you like a cat out of hell." "//Cat //out of hell?" The demon gives a low, seductive laugh. "Please." She lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" [[God dammit... Try the stupid keepsake.->demonA]] [[There has to be something about them that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]"Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. The demon lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" [[God dammit... Try the stupid keepsake.->demonA]] [[There has to be something about them that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]{(set: $legbitten to true)}""Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. The wraith lunges for you, biting into your lower leg. You cry out in pain as its teeth pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the teeth! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" [[God dammit... Try the stupid keepsake.->wraithA]] [[There has to be something about them that you're missing...->wraithkeepsakes]]{(set: $legbitten to true)}"{(if: $pixelupset is true)[At least, you //hope// he has... <br/>] }"Remember that cat that lives with me? Well, he doesn't like dogs, at all, and you're //clearly// a dog. Honestly I have no idea why I did that, but the point is, Pixel would have torn you to shreds already if not for his loyalty to me—his creator, //both// of your creators, in fact. If you don't show me the respect I'm due..." You snap your fingers. "He'll be on you like a cat out of hell." "//Cat //out of hell?" The wraith asks in a low, raspy voice. It shakes its head. "I think you mean bat. //Bat// out of hell." You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith lunges, sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the teeth! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" [[God dammit... Try the stupid keepsake.->wraithA]] [[There has to be something about them that you're missing...->wraithkeepsakes]] "Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" [[Try tickling the woman.->spidertickleA]] [[There has to be something to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]{(if: $pixelupset is true)[At least, you //hope// he has... <br/>] }"Remember that cat that lives with me? Well, he likes to eat spiders. Gross, I know, but here's the thing: he'd have torn you to shreds already if not for his loyalty to me—his creator, //both// of your creators, in fact. If you don't show me the respect I'm due..." You snap your fingers. "He'll be on you like a cat out of hell." There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" [[Try tickling the woman.->spidertickleA]] [[There has to be something to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]You take the tiny book from your pocket. "Hey there, Mr., Ms. or Mx. Spider! How's she hanging?" You ask, poking the dangling woman. "Is she, like... alive? Or more of a flesh puppet?" The silk strings quiver as the spider raises its front legs. You're no spider expert, but it seems like you just pissed it off... Wonderful. "Um... What's it like being super scary and stuff? I mean, you're probably the scariest thing in here. //Way// scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, for example..." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The spider chitters, making the dangling woman jiggle. It's deeply unsettling. [[Throw the book at it!->throwbookspider]] [[Read the book aloud.->readbookspider]] "Okay, here goes nothing," you say, dangling the locket in front of you and swaying it back and forth. "Mr., Ms. or Mx. Spider, I bring your attention to this lovely locket. As you watch it swing, you start to feel tired... So tired, that when I count to three, you'll curl up and go to sleep." You clear your throat. "One.... Two... //Three//!" The silk strings quiver as the spider raises its front legs. You're no spider expert, but it's definitely not asleep. In fact, it seems like you just pissed it off. "Um—well, if you're not gonna sleep, maybe you could go attack one of the other demons? Like... I don't know, maybe that fire-breathing tiger?" You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Oh, actually it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime... That's a shame, I would have loved to see you take down Nervo's demon." You lean forward and whisper, "//I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The spider chitters, making the dangling woman jiggle. It's deeply unsettling. [[Put the locket on the woman.->givelocketspider]] [[Remind the spider who's boss.->createdspiderlocket]] You take the dog whistle from your pocket. "Hey there, Mr., Ms. or Mx. Spider! How's she hanging?" You ask, poking the dangling woman. "Is she, like... alive? Or more of a flesh puppet?" The silk strings quiver as the spider raises its front legs. You're no spider expert, but it seems like you just pissed it off... Wonderful. "Um... What's it like being super scary and stuff? I mean, you're probably the scariest thing in here. //Way// scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, for example..." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The spider chitters, making the dangling woman jiggle. It's deeply unsettling. [[Throw the whistle at it!->throwwhistlespider]] (text-style: "rumble")[[[Why would you throw the whistle when you could just blow it??->usewhistlespider]]] You take the tiny book from your pocket. "Hey there, doggy-woggy! Who's a good boy?" You quickly clear your throat. "Or girl! Or neither! You can be whatever kind of skeleton dog you want to be..." The wraith just stares at you. Is it your imagination, or is its eye mist glowing more intensely than before? More of a glare than a stare then... "Or maybe you don't see yourself as a doggy-woggy. Maybe you see yourself as the Big Dog! I mean you do have the super cool, glowy mist and all that. And then there's the general aura of scariness you've got going on as a wraith... I mean, you're way scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, just saying." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The wraith growls. [[Throw the book at it!->throwbookwraith]] [[Read the book aloud.->readbookwraith]] "Hey there, doggy-woggy!" you say, dangling the locket in front of you and swaying it back and forth. "You're feeling very sleepy... By the time I count to three, you'll lie down and go to sleep, like a good boy, or girl... Or neither! You can be whatever kind of skeleton dog you want to be... obviously. Just, you know, go to sleep, on the count of three." You clear your throat. "One.... Two... //Three//!" The wraith just stares at you. Is it your imagination, or is its eye mist glowing more intensely than before? One thing's for sure: the wraith isn't sleeping. "Um—well, if you don't want to sleep, maybe you could go attack one of the other demons? Like... I don't know, maybe that fire-breathing tiger?" You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Oh actually it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime... That's a shame, I would have loved to see you take down Nervo's demon." You lean forward and whisper, "//I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The wraith growls. [[Throw the locket at it!->throwlocketwraith]] [[Throwing the locket is a stupid idea. Just remind the wraith who's boss.->createdwraithlocket]] You take the whistle from your pocket. "Hey there, doggy-woggy! Who's a good boy?" You quickly clear your throat. "Or girl! Or neither! You can be whatever kind of skeleton dog you want to be..." The wraith just stares at you. Is it your imagination, or is its eye mist glowing more intensely than before? More of a glare than a stare then... "Or maybe you don't see yourself as a doggy-woggy. Maybe you see yourself as the Big Dog! I mean you do have the super cool, glowy mist and all that. And then there's the general aura of scariness you've got going on as a wraith... I mean, you're way scarier than the fire-breathing tiger, just saying." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Okay so it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime, but it was pretty scary right up until that point—although I'm loathe to admit it." You lean forward and whisper, "It was painted by Nervo. //I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The wraith growls. [[Throw the whistle at it!->throwwhistlewraith]] (text-style: "rumble")[[[Why would you throw the whistle when you could just blow it??->usewhistlewraith]]] You take the tiny book from your pocket. "Hey there, smoking demon!" You quickly clear your throat. "I mean smoking literally, not figuratively, because, you know, your skin's veined with lava, or, like, some sort of glowy stuff anyway..." The demon glares at you. "Not that you're not figuratively smoking too!" you add hurriedly. "You're super smoking. The smokingest demon I ever saw. Way cooler than the fire-breathing tiger." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Oh, actually it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime... That's a shame, I would have loved to see you take down Nervo's demon." You lean forward and whisper, "//I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The demon screeches, flapping her wings. [[Throw the book at her!->throwbooksdemon]] [[Read the book aloud.->readbookdemon]] "Look at this shiny thing!" You say, dangling the locket in front of you. "Birds like shiny things, right? And you're bird-//like//, with the talons, and the wings, and what not..." The demon glares at you. You give a nervous cough and start swaying the locket back and forth. "You're feeling very sleepy... By the time I count to three, you'll curl up and go to sleep." You clear your throat. "One.... Two... //Three//!" The demon whips her tail back and forth. "Shit," you say. "Well, if you're not gonna sleep, maybe you could attack one of the other demons? Like... I don't know, maybe that fire-breathing tiger?" You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Oh, actually it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime... That's a shame, I would have loved to see you take down Nervo's demon." You lean forward and whisper, "//I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The demon screeches, flapping her wings. [[Give her the locket.->givelocketdemon]] [[Remind her who's boss.->createddemonlocket]] You take the dog whistle from your pocket. "Hey there, smoking demon!" You quickly clear your throat. "I mean smoking literally, not figuratively, because, you know, your skin's veined with lava, or, like, some sort of glowy stuff anyway..." The demon glares at you. "Not that you're not figuratively smoking too!" you add hurriedly. "You're super smoking. The smokingest demon I ever saw. Way cooler than the fire-breathing tiger." You steal a glance over your shoulder. Pixel must have jumped into every painting in here, because the gallery is //crawling //with demons. Fetter is shouting for order, but they're all too busy fighting one another to pay any attention. The artistivore has gotten a few more feet out of its painting and is now taking up most of the back room. "Oh, actually it looks like the tiger's been partially ingested by a giant slime... That's a shame, I would have loved to see you take down Nervo's demon." You lean forward and whisper, "//I hate// that guy. Don't you just hate that guy?" The demon screeches, flapping her wings. [[Throw the dog whistle at her!->throwwhsitledemon]] (text-style: "rumble")[[[Why would you throw the whistle when you could just blow it??->usewhistledemon]]] {(set: $legbitten to true)}The wraith doesn't even blink as the tiny book bounces off its head and falls to the floor. "Um—" Before you can say any more, the wraith lunges at you, biting into your lower leg. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//!" You reach down for the tiny book with your other hand, and read the stupid message on the flyleaf. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." The wraith cocks a misty ear, but doesn't let go. [["Yeah, I'm not sure what I was expecting that to accomplish..."->wraithbonk]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->wraithkeepsakes]]You open the tiny book and clear your throat. "Um—" Right, you forgot most of the pages were blank... "Once upon a time, there was a cute little doggy-woggy—" The wraith lunges at you, biting your lower leg. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//!" You're still holding the tiny book in your other hand, so you read the stupid message on the flyleaf. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." The wraith cocks a misty ear, but doesn't let go. [["Yeah, I'm not sure what I was expecting that to accomplish..."->wraithbonk]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->wraithkeepsakes]]{(set: $figureditout to true)}You bonk the wraith on the head several times with the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]}, which does nothing whatsoever. You look at the other keepsakes scattered about your feet, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly running headlong into the wraith, who spits your arm free and starts barking. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" Pixel says, climbing up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The wraith tries to bite him, but he dodges expertly and swipes at its nose instead. The wraith pulls back, whimpering. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the wraith, which was lowering its hind legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //wraith// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: ($haswhistle is true) or ($hasbook is true) or ($haslocket and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ]} {(set: $figureditout to true)}Fetter wouldn't have collected them otherwise. You look at the ones scattered about, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly running headlong into the wraith, who spits your arm free and starts barking. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" Pixel says, climbing up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The wraith tries to bite him, but he dodges expertly and swipes at its nose instead. The wraith pulls back, whimpering. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the wraith, which was lowering its hind legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //wraith// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: ($haswhistle is true) or ($hasbook is true) or ($haslocket and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ]} You hold up the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]}. "Yo, Snakey-Boo! Attack the damned dog!" It just blinks at you some more. "You should have put a collar on it," the wraith says, charging at you. The snake crashes into its side, and you hear bones crunch under the weight of the blow. The wraith lets out a yelp and quickly scrambles to its feet. As the snake rears back, fangs bared, the wraith turns tail and runs, with the snake slithering after it at a terrifying speed. "See?" Pixel asks. {(if: $pixelupset is true)["We don't need collars to come to your defense, even if you are an ass sometimes..."](else-if: $pixelupset is false)["We don't need collars to come to your defense."]} Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Nervo crouched next to the upturned table, gathering as many keepsakes as he can. The two of you lock eyes, and you scramble over, determined not to let him get them all. Nervo picks up a small, mossy stone, and a leash materializes in his hands. He tugs it, and the troll staggers, raising a hand to its collar. It had been busy bludgeoning the slime with its bare hands and seems pretty annoyed at the interruption, but when Nervo holds up the stone, it grunts and stands at attention. Nervo points at you, and it comes lumbering over. "Not the fucking troll again..." you mutter, and scan the keepsakes in reach. There's a piece of green-blue sea glass, a ceramic tile decorated with blobs of goo, and a pink, plastic hairbrush with the word 'Princess' written in gold down the handle. Surely //one// of them is linked to a demon in here? [[Grab the sea glass.->squid]] [[Grab the tile.->slime]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->tiger]] {(set: $legbitten to true)}The wraith doesn't even blink as the locket bounces off its head and falls to the floor. "Um—" Before you can say any more, the wraith lunges at you, biting into your lower leg. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//!" You reach down for the locket with your other hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->wraithkeepsakes]]{(set: $legbitten to true)}"Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. The wraith lunges for you, biting into your lower leg. You cry out in pain as its teeth pierce the skin. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//!" You reach down for the locket with your other hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->wraithkeepsakes]]"You know, this would look //so// pretty on you..." you say, and go to hang it around her neck. The demon grabs your wrist, and you cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" The locket still dangles from your hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]"Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. The demon lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" The locket still dangles from your hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]"You know, this would look //so// pretty on your... meat puppet, or whatever she is." You go to hang it around her neck, but she grabs a hold of your wrist. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" The locket still dangles from your hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->spiderkeepsakes]]"Wow, wow! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" You wince, thinking of all the times you ignored your mother's phone calls and pretended to be busy when she offered to come visit. You're being a hypocrite, and you know it. There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" The locket still dangles from your hand. [[You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside..->vex]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->spiderkeepsakes]]{(track: 'drop', 'play') (track: 'drop', 'volume', 0.5)}{(set: $foundvex to true)}You've never climbed into a photo of a painting before... Let alone such a small one. You weren't even sure it was possible, but here you are, standing in a vast open white space. {(if: $choked is true)["The blank... page," you mutter, rubbing your bruised larynx.](if: $choked is false)["The blank page..." you mutter to yourself.]} "Yeah, you always were lazy with backgrounds," a voice croaks from behind you. "Vex!" you cry, spinning around to find her pawing the open locket. She doesn't look //quite// like your late cat. You got the overall shape right—stocky, with short legs and a long body—but the hair is over the top. This version's a walking furball, with a striped silver-gray coat and fluffy ears. She still looks badass, though, with that scarred nose and singular pistachio-green eye. You can't remember how the real Vex lost the other one... A cat fight, probably. "I was //wondering// when you'd finally come to visit," she says, leaving the locket to rub up against your leg. She starts to purr, but then pauses, tilting her head up. {(if: $choked is true)["What's with your voice?". <br/> "Oh," you grimace. "I got... chased in here... by a crazed she-demon." <br/> Vex sniffs the air. "Is //that// what that smell is..."](else:)["What's that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[//chittering//](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[//smell//](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[//sniffing//]}?" <br/> "Oh, I got chased in here by a {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[giant spider.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[skeleton dog. It's probably sniffing the locket... trying to find my scent, you know?]}" <br/> Vex narrows her eyes. "A {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[giant spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[skeleton dog]}?"]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)["With a creepy, faceless woman dangling from it on silk strings. My own fault, really. I mean, //I// painted it...](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["Yeah, my own fault, really. I mean, //I// painted her...](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yeah, my own fault, really. I mean //I// painted it...]} Long story." Vex sits. "Give me the short version," she says, oozing authority. [[Tell her about the demon painting.->vexdig]] [[Tell her //everything//.->gushvex]] You tell her about Nervo and the painting he commissioned, but skip over the part about your flat getting broken into and your keepsakes being stolen. The important thing was the demons—the demons and the big, fat, artist-devourer you were about to be sacrificed to. "I came in here to hide..." you say, looking around at the blank landscape. To think Vex had been in here all this time, alone. When you'd entered the picture as a kid, it hadn't even occurred to you to try to take her out instead of just the collar. Hadn't occured to you to come back, either. By rights, this version of Vex should hate you. You hang your head, unable to think of anything you could say that could make up for all of that. Vex stretches, her back arching high in the air. Then she yawns so wide you can see every one of her teeth. "Right, then," she says, climbing up onto your shoulders. "Let's go deal with this {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[//giant spider//](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[//she-demon//](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[//skeleton dog//]} of yours." You punch the air. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some arachnid butt!"](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some she-demon butt!"](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some bony wraith butt!"]} You pet her on the head. "Good to have you back, Vex." The locket lies open on the ground, the drawing of Vex now replaced with a still of the gallery. "Here goes nothing," you say, hovering a foot in front of you. {(if: $figureditout is false)[[[Step through.->meetsnakeyboo]]](if: $figureditout is true)[[[Step through.->snakeyboostillthere]]]} It all comes gushing out. You tell her about Nervo and the demon painting he comissioned, about the break-in, about your keepsakes and how they were stolen... only to be put on display here at //Voracious Artscapes//—the gallery in which you were about to be sacrificed to some 'Artistivore.' "It's been a long time since a painting of mine was in a gallery," you say finally, and give Vex a sad smile. She doesn't say anything at first, she just stares out at what passes for a horizon in this place. To think she'd been in here all this time, alone. When you'd entered the picture as a kid, it hadn't even occurred to you to try to take her out instead of just the collar. Hadn't occured to you to come back, either. By rights, this version of Vex should hate you. You hang your head, unable to think of anything you could say that could make up for all of that. Vex stretches, her back arching high in the air. Then she yawns so wide you can see every one of her teeth. "Right, then," she says, climbing up onto your shoulders. "Let's go deal with this {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[//giant spider//](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[//she-demon//](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[//skeleton dog//]} of yours." You punch the air. {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some arachnid butt!"](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some she-demon butt!"](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Yes!! Let's go kick some bony wraith butt!"]} You pet her on the head. "Good to have you back, Vex." The locket lies open on the ground, the drawing of Vex now replaced with a still of the gallery. "Here goes nothing," you say, hovering a foot in front of you. {(if: $figureditout is false)[[[Step through.->meetsnakeyboo]]](if: $figureditout is true)[[[Step through.->snakeyboostillthere]]]} The spider doesn't even blink as the tiny book bounces off its head and falls to the floor. "Um—" There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" You grasp for the tiny book with your other hand, but it's out of reach. [[Tickle the woman.->spiderbooktickle]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]You open the tiny book and clear your throat. "Um—" Right, you forgot most of the pages were blank... "Once upon a time, there was a cute little spider with this weird kind of //flesh// puppet—" There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" You reach for the tiny book with your other hand, but it's out of reach. [[Tickle the woman.->spiderbooktickle]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]{(set: $figureditout to true)}Fetter wouldn't have collected them otherwise. You look at the ones scattered about the place, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of the page, and runs up the dangling woman's back. She's so surprised, she drops you. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" he says, hopping down onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The woman lowers to the ground, but before she has a chance to do anything, Pixel swipes at her. She raises her arms protectively, and you take the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the spider, which was rising on its back legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //spider// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: ($haswhistle is true) or ($hasbook is true) or ($haslocket and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever holds the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever holds the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ]}{(set: $figureditout to true)}The woman giggles and drops you. You pick up the tiny book and read the stupid message on the flyleaf. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." "Deep..." the spider says, and then tries to spear you with one of its massive legs. You roll out of the way, eyeing the other keepsakes scattered about. You're surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of the page, nearly running headlong into the spider. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" he says, leaping up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The woman lowers to the ground, but before she has a chance to do anything, Pixel swipes at her. She raises her arms protectively, and you take the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the spider, which was rising on its back legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //spider// sure as hell didn't... [[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]] [[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]You hold up the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]}. "Yo, Snakey-Boo! Attack the stupid spider!" It just blinks at you some more. "You should have put a collar on it," the spider says, charging at you. You're frozen with fear, unable to move until the snake crashes into the spider's side, toppling it. The dangling woman is caught in the string, and the spider has to cut her loose so it can scramble to its feet. The snake rears and the spider flees, leaving the woman behind. The snake slithers over her prone form, pursuing it with terrifying speed. "See?" Pixel asks. {(if: $pixelupset is true)["We don't need collars to come to your defense, even if you are an ass sometimes..."](else-if: $pixelupset is false)["We don't need collars to come to your defense."]} Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Nervo crouched next to the upturned table, gathering as many keepsakes as he can. The two of you lock eyes, and you scramble over, determined not to let him get them all. Nervo picks up a small, mossy stone, and a leash materializes in his hands. He tugs it, and the troll staggers, raising a hand to its collar. It had been busy bludgeoning the slime with its bare hands and seems pretty annoyed at the interruption, but when Nervo holds up the stone, it grunts and stands at attention. Nervo points at you, and it comes lumbering over. "Not the fucking troll again..." you mutter, and scan the keepsakes in reach. There's a piece of green-blue sea glass, a ceramic tile decorated with blobs of goo, and a pink, plastic hairbrush with the word 'Princess' written in gold down the handle. Surely //one// of them is linked to a demon in here? [[Grab the sea glass.->squid]] [[Grab the tile.->slime]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->tiger]] The demon doesn't even blink as the tiny book bounces off her head and falls to the floor. "Um—" Before you can say any more, she lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" You're still holding the tiny book in your other hand, so you read the stupid message on the flyleaf. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." The demon tilts her head, as if conceding the point, but doesn't let go. [["Yeah, I'm not sure what I was expecting that to accomplish..."->demonbonk]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]You open the tiny book and clear your throat. "Um—" Right, you forgot most of the pages were blank... "Once upon a time, there was a super smoking demon—" The demon lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" You're still holding the tiny book in your other hand, so you read the stupid message on the flyleaf. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." The demon tilts her head, as if conceding the point, but doesn't let go. [["Yeah, I'm not sure what I was expecting that to accomplish..."->demonbonk]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]{(set: $figureditout to true)}You bonk the demon on the head several times with the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]}, which does nothing whatsoever. You look at the other keepsakes scattered about, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly runs headlong into the demon. She releases you in surprise, and glowers as he climbs up onto your shoulders. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" {(if: $choked is true)["Sure... could..." you wheeze](else-if: $choked is false)["Sure could," you say]}, rubbing your face against Pixel's. The demon tries to claw him, but he dodges expertly, and scratches her instead. She steps back, startled. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the demon, who's flapping her wings as if she's about to dive at you. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //she-demon// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Forget //that//...->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: $hasbook is true or $haswhistle is true or ($haslocket is true and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ]}{(set: $figureditout to true)}Fetter wouldn't have collected them otherwise. You look at the ones scattered about, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly running headlong into the demon. She releases you in surprise, and glowers as he climbs up onto your shoulders. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" {(if: $choked is true)["Sure... could..." you wheeze](else-if: $choked is false)["Sure could," you say]}, rubbing your face against Pixel's. The demon tries to claw him, but he dodges expertly, and scratches her instead. She steps back, startled. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the demon, who's flapping her wings as if she's about to dive at you. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //she-demon// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Forget //that//...->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: $hasbook is true or $haswhistle is true or ($haslocket is true and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ]}{(set: $lashedcheek to true)}You look from the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]} in your hand to the snake monster. {(if: $choked is true)["Yo... Snakey-Boo!" you say, rubbing your bruised larynx. "Attack the... she-demon!"](else-if: $choked is false)["Yo, Snakey-Boo! Attack the she-demon!"]} It just blinks at you some more. The demon laughs. "You should have put a collar on it," she says, and lashes you across the cheek with her tail. The snake rears back, but to your surprise, it strikes at the demon, and not you. She jumps to the side, and the snake's jaws snap shut where she'd been standing just moments earlier. She beats her wings and tries to fly out of range, but the snake follows her, launching itself upward again and again, its fangs bared. "See?" Pixel asks. {(if: $pixelupset is true)["We don't need collars to come to your defense, even if you are an ass sometimes..."](else-if: $pixelupset is false)["We don't need collars to come to your defense."]} Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Nervo crouched next to the upturned table, gathering as many keepsakes as he can. The two of you lock eyes, and you scramble over, determined not to let him get them all. Nervo picks up a small, mossy stone, and a leash materializes in his hands. He tugs it, and the troll staggers, raising a hand to its collar. It had been busy bludgeoning the slime with its bare hands and seems pretty annoyed at the interruption, but when Nervo holds up the stone, it grunts and stands at attention. Nervo points at you, and it comes lumbering over. "Not the fucking troll again..." you mutter, and scan the keepsakes in reach. There's a piece of green-blue sea glass, a ceramic tile decorated with blobs of goo, and a pink, plastic hairbrush with the word 'Princess' written in gold down the handle. Surely //one// of them is linked to a demon in here? [[Grab the sea glass.->squid]] [[Grab the tile.->slime]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->tiger]] {(set: $legbitten to true)}The wraith doesn't even blink as the whistle bounces off its head and falls to the floor. "Um—" Before you can say any more, the wraith lunges at you, biting into your lower leg. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//!" You reach down for the whistle with your other hand, and blow it as hard as you can. The wraith releases you from its grip, sits, and looks at you as if waiting for instructions. "Good boy! Or girl! I mean DOG! Good dog!" The wraith wags its tail for a second, then shakes its head, as if coming out of a daze. It bites your leg again. [["God dammit..."->wraithbonk]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->wraithkeepsakes]]{(set: $legbitten to true)}Right... You raise the whistle to your lips and blow it. The wraith sits, and looks at you as if awaiting instructions. "Good boy! Or girl! I mean DOG! Good dog!" The wraith wags its tail for a second, then shakes its head, as if coming out of a daze. It suddenly lunges at you, biting into your lower leg. "Ouch!" You cry. "Note to self: Don't paint the teeth so sharp next time..." The wraith lets go. "Next time?" it asks in a low, raspy voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The wraith snaps at you again, this time sinking its teeth into your wrist. You cry out in pain as they pierce the skin. The wraith growls and starts to tug. You're seized with terror as the pressure on your wrist increases, and you realize it might actually rip your hand off. "Stop! //Please//! I painted you, that counts for something, right? I mean, I gave you life! You owe me!" The wraith just tugs harder. [[Hit it on the head.->wraithbonk]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->wraithkeepsakes]] Right... You blow the whistle as hard as you can. The spider freezes for a second, then starts to do a little dance. The dangling woman mirrors its movements. "Hey, it works!" you cry. There's a high-pitched laugh as the woman suddenly grips your wrist tightly. "We're just fucking with you!" a low, rumbling voice says. You cry out in pain as the woman's {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time? There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare at the spider in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" [[Try tickling the woman.->spiderbooktickle]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]The spider doesn't even blink as the whistle bounces off its head and falls to the floor. "Um—" There's a high-pitched laugh as the dangling woman springs to life, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greenspider is true)[neon green acrylic nails](if: $crimsonspider is true)[red acrylic nails]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the nails! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time. Or maybe just... don't give her nails at all." "Next time?" the spider asks, in a low, rumbling voice. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" You stare in surprise. "You can talk?" "Of course! Unless my mouth is otherwise occupied..." The woman wraps her free hand around your waist, and you feel yourself being lifted into the air as the spider pulls you both towards its mouth. "Stop! //Please//!" You grasp for the whistle with your other hand, but it's out of reach. [[Tickle the woman.->spiderticklewhistle]] [[There has to be //something //to the keepsakes...->spiderkeepsakes]]{(set: $figureditout to true)}The woman giggles and drops you to the floor. You grab the whistle and blow as hard as you can. The spider freezes for a second, then starts to do a little dance. The dangling woman mirrors its movements. "Hey, it works!" you cry. "No, we're just fucking with you," the spider says, and goes to spear you with one of its massive legs. You roll out of the way, eyeing the other keepsakes scattered about. You're surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of the page, nearly running headlong into the spider. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" he says, leaping up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The woman lowers to the ground, but before she has a chance to do anything, Pixel swipes at her. She raises her arms protectively, and you take the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the spider, which was rising on its back legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //spider// sure as hell didn't... [[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]] [[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]] {(set: $choked to true)}The demon doesn't even blink as the whistle bounces off her head and falls to the floor. "Um—" Before you can say any more, she lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" You reach down for the whistle with your other hand, and blow it as hard as you can. The demon releases you from her grip and covers her ears. "Hey, it works!" you cry. "No, it doesn't, it's just really fucking loud!" She grabs you by the throat this time. [[God dammit...->demonbonk]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]Right... You blow the whistle as hard as you can. The demon winces, covering her ears. "Hey, it works!" you cry. "No, it doesn't, it's just really fucking loud!" she snaps. "Oh, my bad—" Before you can say any more, she lunges for you, gripping your wrist tightly. You cry out in pain as her {(if: $greendemon is true)[neon green talons](if: $crimsondemon is true)[red talons]} pierce the skin. "Ouch, again with the talons! Note to self: Don't paint those so sharp next time..." "Next time?" the demon asks, her voice low and seductive, crackling like flame. "There will be no next time. I'm one of a kind, and I intend to keep it that way!" The pressure on your wrist increases and your seized with terror as you realise she might actually rip your hands off. "Stop! I-I won't ever paint another one of you, I promise!" [[God dammit...->demonbonk]] [[There has to be something about these keepsakes that you're missing...->demonkeepsakes]]{(set: $hashairbrush to true)}Nervo roars as you pick it up. "That one's //mine//!" You look down at the brush in surprise. "This one? Really?" Nervo drops most of the keepsakes he's gathered as he tries to snatch it from you. A gold leash materialises in your hand as you hold the brush just out of reach. "Give it here!" Nervo demands. "Or else!" He still has the mossy stone clutched tightly in the palm of his hand. He holds it up as a warning. You yank the gold leash as hard as you can. There's a loud squelch as the tiger is pulled out of the giant slime—or, //mostly //out, anyway. Its hind legs are still trapped somewhere in the slime's entrails, while the rest of its body lies motionless in a puddle of goo on the floor. It appears to be unconscious. "Shit..." you mutter, and look up to find the troll grinning down at you once more. [[Grab the sea glass.->toolate]] [[Grab the tile.->toolate]] {(set: $hastile to true)}The moment you touch it, a green leash materializes in your hand. "Oh, no you dont!" Nervo drops most of the keepsakes he's gathered as he tries to snatch the tile from you. You hold it just out of reach. "I mean it!" Nervo warns. "Give that here, or else!" He still has the mossy stone clutched tightly in his hand, and raises it as a warning. "Eat shit, Nervo!" you say through gritted teeth, and yank the leash as hard as you can. There's a loud squelch as the slime is pulled toward you. It seems to have doubled in size, and you can make out Nervo's tiger and the squid monster jiggling inside of it. "Third demon's the charm, get the troll!" you cry. Nervo curses as the slime stretches to make room. [[Grab the sea glass.->toolate]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->toolate]] {(set: $hasseaglass to true)}The moment you touch it, a purple leash materializes in your hand. "Oh, no you dont!" Nervo drops most of the keepsakes he's gathered as he tries to snatch the sea glass from you. You hold it just out of reach. "I mean it!" Nervo warns. "Give that here, or else!" He still has the mossy stone clutched tightly in his hand, and raises it as a warning. "Eat shit, Nervo!" you say through gritted teeth, and yank the leash as hard as you can. There's a loud squelch as the cyclops squid is pulled out of the giant slime—or, //mostly //out, anyway. Some of its tentacles are trapped in the slime's entrails, while the rest of its body lies motionless in a puddle of goo on the floor. It appears to be unconscious. "Shit... how many demons did that slime eat?" you mutter, and look up to find the troll grinning down at you once more. [[Grab the tile.->toolate]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->toolate]] {(set: $figureditout to true)}The woman giggles and drops you. Out of options, you take out the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book and read the message on the flyleaf aloud. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." <br> "Deep..."](else-if: $haslocket is true)[locket. <p>"You know, this would look //so// pretty on your... meat puppet, or whatever she is," you say to the spider. "How about we strike a deal? My life for the locket."<p/> "She's made of silk. And no,"](else-if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle and blow as hard as you can. The spider freezes for a second, then starts to do a little dance. The dangling woman mirrors its movements. <p>"Hey, it works!" you cry.<p/> "Nah, we're just fucking with you,"]} the spider says, and goes to spear you with one of its massive legs. You curse, rolling out of the way, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside you. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of the page, nearly running headlong into the spider. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" he says, leaping up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The woman lowers to the ground, but before she has a chance to do anything, Pixel swipes at her. She raises her arms protectively, and you take the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the spider, which was rising on its back legs, as if to pounce. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //spider// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: ($haswhistle is true) or ($hasbook is true) or ($haslocket and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever holds the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->spiderfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever holds the keepsake from their painting!->spiderfinal]]</p> ]}{(set: $figureditout to true)}Out of options, you take out the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book with your free hand and read the message on the flyleaf aloud. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." <br> The demon tilts her head, as if conceding the point, but doesn't let go.](else-if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle with your free hand and blow as hard as you can. The demon winces, covering her ears. <p>"It works!" you cry.</p> <p>"No, it doesn't, it's just really fucking loud!" she snaps.</p> "Oh, my bad..."](else-if: $haslocket is true)[locket. "You know, this would look //so// pretty on you..." you say, dangling it from your free hand. "How about we strike a deal? My life for the locket." <br/> The demon narrows her eyes. "It// is// pretty... but no."]} You look at the other keepsakes scattered about, and are surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly runs headlong into the demon. She releases you in surprise, and glowers as he climbs up onto your shoulders. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" {(if: $choked is true)["Sure... could..." you wheeze](else-if: $choked is false)["Sure could," you say]}, rubbing your face against Pixel's. The demon tries to claw him, but he dodges expertly, and scratches her instead. She steps back, startled. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the demon, who's flapping her wings as if she's about to dive at you. "Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //she-demon// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: $hasbook is true or $haswhistle is true or ($haslocket is true and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->demonfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->demonfinal]]</p> ]}{(set: $figureditout to true)}Out of options, you take out the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book with your free hand and read the message on the flyleaf aloud. "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." <p>The wraith cocks a misty ear, but doesn't let go.</p> You look at the other keepsakes scattered about, and are](else-if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle with your free hand and blow as hard as you can. The wraith starts wagging its tail. <p>"Good boy! Or girl! I mean DOG! Good dog! Now let go..."</p> <p>The wraith continues to wag its tail a moment longer before glaring at you, as if snapping out of a daze.</p> "It was worth a shot..." you say, looking at the other keepsakes scattered about. You're](else-if: $haslocket is true)[locket. "You know, this would look //so// pretty on you..." you say, dangling it from your free hand. "How about we strike a deal? My life for the locket." <p>The wraith just growls.</p> You look at the other keepsakes scattered about, and are]} surprised to find your sketchbook lying open on the floor beside them. Pixel's face grows larger and larger on the page until he bursts out of it, nearly running headlong into the wraith, who spits your arm free and starts barking. "Hey boss, thought you could use some backup!" Pixel says, climbing up onto your shoulders. "Sure could," you say, rubbing your face against his. The wraith tries to bite him, but Pixel dodges expertly and swipes at its nose instead. The wraith pulls back, whimpering. You use the opportunity to cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. "One problem at a time," you whisper, turning your attention back to the wraith, which was lowering its hind legs, as if to pounce. There's an almighty hiss as your snake monster suddenly wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as it's master? Why? Your //wraith// sure as hell didn't... {(if: $haslocket is true and $foundvex is false)[ <p>[[You still have the locket. You could try to climb into the picture of Vex inside...->vex]]</p> <p>[[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else-if: ($haswhistle is true) or ($hasbook is true) or ($haslocket and $foundvex is true))[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>[[Wait a second...->wraithfinal]]</p> <p>[[The demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->wraithfinal]]</p> ]} {(track: 'hop', 'play') (track: 'hop', 'volume', 0.5)}As you bring your foot down, the picture of the gallery gets bigger and bigger, until you find yourself face-to-face with the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider again. It chitters at the sight of Vex on your shoulders.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon again. She growls at the sight of Vex on your shoulders.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith again. It barks at the sight of Vex on your shoulders, and she yowls in response.]} "Who the fuck is that?" Pixel asks. You look down to find him eyeing Vex suspiciously. Your sketchpad lies open at his feet. "Where did you find that?" you ask. "Where did you find //her//?" "Less talking, more scrapping," Vex says, leaping onto the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider's back. It twirls in circles, trying to shake Vex off, but she's dug in good, scratching with her hind legs.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[demon's back. She twirls in circles, trying to reach Vex, who's dug her teeth in and started scratching with her hind legs.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith's back. It twirls in circles, barking, as she starts knawing at one of its rib bones.]} Pixel whistles in appreciation. "And I thought //my// backup was good..." {(if: $figureditout is false)[You cast a quick look at the back room. It's completely taken up by the artistivore, and Fetter's now out in the mezzanine with the rest of you, having managed to leash several demons. ]}<p>[["Wait, //your //backup?"->meetsnakey2]]</p> [[This can't be good...->meetsnakey2]]{(track: 'hop', 'play') (track: 'hop', 'volume', 0.5)}As you bring your foot down, the picture of the gallery gets bigger and bigger, until you find yourself face-to-face with the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider again. It chitters at the sight of Vex on your shoulders.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon again. She growls at the sight of Vex on your shoulders.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith again. It barks at the sight of Vex on your shoulders, and she yowls in response.]} "Who the fuck is that?" Pixel asks, eyeing Vex suspiciously. "Less talking, more scrapping," she says, leaping onto the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider's back. It twirls in circles, trying to shake Vex off, but she's dug in good, scratching with her hind legs.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[demon's back. She twirls in circles, trying to reach Vex, who's dug her teeth in and started scratching with her hind legs.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith's back. It twirls in circles, barking, as she starts knawing at one of its rib bones.]} Pixel whistles in appreciation. "And I thought //my// backup was good..." The snake is still there, flicking its tongue out every now and then. [[[Wait a second...->vexfinal]] [[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->vexfinal]]]"Aaaany second now," Pixel says, and there's an almighty hiss as your snake monster wriggles out of the sketchbook. You hold a hand up protectively, but the snake just blinks at you. Did it recognise you as its master? Why? Your {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[//spider//](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[//she-demon//](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[//wraith//]} sure as hell didn't... [[[Wait a second...->vexfinal]] [[Hold up, the demons obey whoever has the keepsake from their painting!->vexfinal]]] You hold up the {(if: $hasbook is true)[tiny book](if: $haslocket is true)[locket](if: $haswhistle is true)[dog whistle]}. "Yo, Snakey-Boo! Attack the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}!" It just blinks at you some more. "You should have... put a collar on it," the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider says distractedly, as Vex jumps onto the dangling woman's head and starts swiping at the silk strings she's suspended from.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[demon says distractedly as she flies this way and that in an effort to shake Vex from her.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith says distractedly as he rolls onto its back, trying to crush Vex."]} "Don't hurt her!" you cry, and the snake rears back as if to strike. You flinch, but to your suprise, it strikes at the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}, not you. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider scuttles sideways, dodging by a hair, but the snake strikes a second time, crashing into its side. Vex is thrown to the ground as the spider topples. The dangling woman is caught in her strings as they fall, and the spider has to cut her loose so it can scramble to its feet. The snake rears back as if to strike a second time, and the spider flees, leaving the woman behind. The snake slithers over her prone form, pursuing the spider with terrifying speed.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Vex tumbles to the ground as the she-demon swerves to the side, and the snake's jaws snap shut where she'd been hovering a moment earlier. She beats her wings, and tries to fly out of range, but the snake follows her, launching itself upward again and again, its fangs bared.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The snake crashes into its side, and you hear bones crunch under the weight of the blow. The wraith lets out a yelp and quickly scrambles to its feet. As the snake rears back, fangs bared, the wraith turns tail and runs, with the snake slithering after it at a terrifying speed.]} "See?" Pixel asks. {(if: $pixelupset is true)["We don't need collars to come to your defense, even if you are an ass sometimes..."](else:)["We don't need collars to come to your defense."]} [["I owe you one!"]] [["Maybe a collar wouldn't be a bad idea..."]] "One? You owe me //several//," Pixel counters. "And just to be clear, I'm talking //Chonkers Meaty Sticks//." "Several meat sticks, got it," you say, crouching down to check on Vex. "Not meat sticks, {(text-style: "emboss")[//Chonkers Meaty Sticks//]}. And several packets// each//—we put our lives on the line." You roll your eyes. "Chonkers Meaty Sticks. Several packets. Got it..." you say, stroking Vex's fur. "You okay, girl?" She slowly gets to her feet, yawning. "Sure! Might even have a few lives left..." "That's what I like to hear," you say. Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Nervo crouched next to the upturned table, gathering as many keepsakes as he can. The two of you lock eyes, and you scramble over, determined not to let him get them all. Nervo picks up a small, mossy stone, and a leash materializes in his hands. He tugs it, and the troll staggers, raising a hand to its collar. It had been busy bludgeoning the slime with its bare hands and seems pretty annoyed at the interruption, but when Nervo holds up the stone, it grunts and stands at attention. Nervo points at you, and it comes lumbering over. "Not the fucking troll again..." you mutter, and scan the keepsakes in reach. There's a piece of green-blue sea glass, a ceramic tile decorated with blobs of goo, and a pink, plastic hairbrush with the word 'Princess' written in gold down the handle. Surely //one// of them is linked to a demon in here? [[Grab the sea glass.->squid]] [[Grab the tile.->slime]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->tiger]]"Don't even joke about that," Pixel warns. "Maud //does// keep going on about a stray in the building..." you say, crouching down to check on Vex. "Maud goes on about a //lot// of things," Pixel retorts. You can't help but chuckle. "You okay, girl?" you ask Vex, stroking her fur. She slowly gets to her feet, yawning. "Sure! Might even have a few lives left..." "That's what I like to hear," you say, glancing from the artistivore, to the snake/{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]} skirmish. Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Nervo crouched next to the upturned table, gathering as many keepsakes as he can. The two of you lock eyes, and you scramble over, determined not to let him get them all. Nervo picks up a small, mossy stone, and a leash materializes in his hands. It's attached to the troll's collar. He tugs it, and the troll staggers. It had been busy bludgeoning the slime with its bare hands and seems pretty annoyed at the interruption, but when Nervo holds up the stone, it grunts and stands at attention. Nervo points at you, and it comes lumbering over. "Not the fucking troll again..." you mutter, and scan the keepsakes in reach. There's a piece of green-blue sea glass, a ceramic tile decorated with blobs of goo, and a pink, plastic hairbrush with the word 'Princess' written in gold down the handle. Surely //one// of them is linked to a demon in here? [[Grab the sea glass.->squid]] [[Grab the tile.->slime]] [[Grab the hairbrush.->tiger]]Just as you reach for it, you feel {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[a sharp pressure on either side of your neck as the spider's fangs clamp around it. The {(if: $hashairbrush is true)[hairbrush](if: $hastile is true)[tile](if: $hasseaglass is true)[sea glass]} falls from your hand and you're pushed to the floor, hairy legs pinning you in place. The spider loosens its grip on your neck, but your relief is short-lived as it starts to spin you, wrapping your legs and lower torso in silk. Finally, it flips you back onto your stomach, and you feel its fangs on your neck once more. You strain your head back despite the pain, and spot Snakey-Boo twitching in the corner. The poor thing's been partially cocooned as well, and is //riddled// with puncture wounds.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[taloned hands closing around your neck. The {(if: $hashairbrush is true)[hairbrush](if: $hastile is true)[tile](if: $hasseaglass is true)[sea glass]} falls from your hand as you desperately try to pry the she-demons fingers off. Just when you think you're going to pass out, she releases her grip and pushes you to the floor. You gasp for breath and try to crawl away, but she pins you in place with a bird-like foot. It, too, is taloned. You strain your head back, and spot Snakey-Boo twitching nearby. The poor thing is riddled with cuts and gouge marks.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[teeth closing around your neck. The {(if: $hashairbrush is true)[hairbrush](if: $hastile is true)[tile](if: $hasseaglass is true)[sea glass]} falls from your hand as the wraith pushes you to the floor, its heavy skeleton pinning you in place. You strain your head back, and spot Snakey-Boo twitching nearby. The poor thing is riddled with bite marks.]} Fetter's oxford leathers come into view. "Quite the commotion you've caused," they say, picking up the {(if: $hashairbrush is true)[hairbrush](if: $hastile is true)[tile](if: $hasseaglass is true)[sea glass]}. "What a mess! Your counterpart will be the one cleaning it up, you know." You try to speak, but {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider gives a warning pinch with its fangs.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon digs her foot talons into your shoulder.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth tighten around your neck like a vice.]} "Boss!" Pixel cries. You turn your head in his direction, and (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider clamps down harder with its fangs. Pain rips through you as they pierce the skin, and you feel blood trickle down your neck, but you don't think you've been poisoned. Not //yet// anyway.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon curls her foot talons. Pain rips through you as your flesh tears, and you feel a damp warmth seeping down your back.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith bites down. Pain rips through you as your flesh tears, and you feel blood trickle down your neck.] Pixel looks at you, eyes wide. Your doppelgänger's got a hold of him, and they've put one of those damn collars on. There's a leash attached to it, but your doppelgänger's not holding the other end of it—Fetter is. [["You better not hurt him!"->threatenfetter]] [["You want the cat? He's all yours! Just let me go... //please//!"->betraypixel]] sidebarStartClosed: false{ (set: $_version to "1.0") (set: $_autosave_slot to "autosave") (set: $_autosave_filename to "save v" + $_version) (set: $_start_passage to "First sketch") }{(set: $demonlover to false) (set: $thingdemon to false) (set: $beingdemon to false) (set: $alone to false) (set: $demonkiller to false) (set: $demonfree to false) (set: $demonflat to false) (set: $showedmercy to false) (set: $helpedfetter to false) (set: $helpedfetterbefore to false) (set: $spokeregallery to false) (set: $nervocrush to false) (set: $fettercrush to false) (set: $demoncrush to false) (set: $visitedlocket to false) (set: $visitedbook to false) (set: $visitedwhistle to false) (set: $visiteddrawing to false) (set: $openedbook to false) (set: $hasbook to false) (set: $haslocket to false) (set: $haswhistle to false) (set: $greengrey to false) (set: $crimsonwhite to false) (set: $crimsonwraith to false) (set: $crimsondemon to false) (set: $crimsonspider to false) (set: $greenwraith to false) (set: $greendemon to false) (set: $greenspider to false) (set: $visitedsofa to false) (set: $visitedkitchenette to false) (set: $visitedtable to false) (set: $visiteddishes to false) (set: $visitedfloor to false) (set: $visitedtable to false) (set: $visitedsofa1 to false) (set: $visiteddishesagain to false) (set: $visitedflooragain to false) (set: $visitedtableagain to false) (set: $visitedsofa2 to false) (set: $extralate to false) (set: $scoffed to false) (set: $hashairbrush to false) (set: $hastile to false) (set: $hasseaglass to false) (set: $maudhatesyou to false) (set: $nervohatesyou to false) (set: $nervoblind to false) (set: $pixellovesyou to false) (set: $pixelfree to false) (set: $treatedpixel to false) (set: $pixelupset to false) (set: $pixeloutside to false) (set: $threatenedpixel to false) (set: $betrayedpixel to false) (set: $pixelloyal to false) (set: $apologisedp to false) (set: $pixelswallowed to false) (set: $pixelpissed to false) (set: $pixelreunited to false) (set: $catScore to 0) (set: $foundvex to false) (set: $vexswallowed to false) (set: $vexdead to false) (set: $figureditout to false) (set: $threwkeepsake to false) (set: $crackedrib to false) (set: $legbitten to false) (set: $choked to false) (set: $lashedcheek to false) (set: $screamed to false) (set: $selfmade to false) (set: $artstarchild to false) (set: $simplelife to false) (set: $demonexplained to false) }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 5.5em; text-shadow: 0 05px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 35px;")[ Canvas ]<br/> <br/> <br/> (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 5.5em; text-shadow: 0 05px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block;")[ Keepsakes ] }<br/>(css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.2em; text-shadow: 0 03px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block;")[by](css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.5em; text-shadow: 0 03px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block;")[ C.T. O'Mahony] <br/> <br/> <br/> [[New Story->$_start_passage]]{ (if: (saved-games:) contains $_autosave_slot)[ (link: "Continue Story")[ (load-game: $_autosave_slot) ] ](else:)[ (css: "color: grey; text-decoration: line-through; pointer-events: none;")[(link: "Continue Story")[]] ] [[Credits]] }{ (unless: (passage:)'s tags contains "nosave")[ (save-game: $_autosave_slot, $_autosave_filename) ] }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 4em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 30px; line-height: 1.2;")[ Canvas Keepsakes ] } { (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.6em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 10px; line-height: 1.2;")[ Written by C.T. O'Mahony ] }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.35em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 25px; line-height: 1.2;")[ Artwork by Fahmisans ] }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.35em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 25px; line-height: 1.5")[ Special thanks to: ] }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size: 1.35em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 20px; line-height: 1.2;")[ Daniel O'Mahony<br>Fiach O'Mahony<br>Oisín Mac Fhearaí<br>Sam Nic Fhearaí ] }{ (css: "color:#1E1E24; font-weight:bold; font-size:1.3em; text-shadow: 0 0 5px #21A179; text-align:center; display:block; margin-top: 20px; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; line-height: 1.2;")[ And to Charlene Putney for encouraging me to try my hand at a Twine game as part of her awesome <i>Writing for Video Games</i> course with the Irish Writers Centre. ] } [[Back to Main Menu->Start Game]] Nervo slaps you so hard your ears ring. {(if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $nervoblind to true)(set: $vexdead to true)}There's a patter of paws on the polished concrete, and a blur of silver-gray fur as Vex launches herself at him, just like Pixel did earlier. She's bigger and meaner than Pixel, though. <p>Nervo gives a blood-curdling scream. "My eyes! She's scratched my eyes, I can't see!"</p> <p>Fetter sighs. "Honestly..."</p> <p>They click their fingers, and the troll lumbers over with a loud grunt. It grabs Vex by the back of the neck with both hands and twists. There's a sickening crack, and her body goes limp.</p> [["No..."->vexdead]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->vexdead]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->vexdead]]]} ](else:)[{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}"Hey!" Pixel yells. "Don't do that!" <p>"Or //what//?" Nervo asks testily.</p> <p>"Or I'll come over there and scratch your face some more!"</p> <p>Nervo laughs. "The only place //you're// going is down that thing's throat" he says, pointing at the artistivore.</p> <p>The creature must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that.</p> <p>"It //is //a shame you couldn't be swayed to our side," Fetter says as your doppelgänger hands Pixel over. "Ah well."</p> <p>Fetter flings Pixel into the artistivore's mouth.</p> [["No..."->pixelswallowed]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->pixelswallowed]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->pixelswallowed]]]} ]}A glob of saliva lands on his cheek, mingling with the paint-like blood from where Pixel clawed him earlier. Nervo sneers, then slaps you so hard your ears ring. {(if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $nervoblind to true)(set: $vexdead to true)}There's a patter of paws on the polished concrete, and a blur of silver-gray fur as Vex launches herself at him, just like Pixel did earlier. She's bigger and meaner than Pixel, though. <p>Nervo gives a blood-curdling scream. "My eyes! She's scratched my eyes, I can't see!"</p> <p>Fetter sighs. "Honestly..."</p> <p>They click their fingers, and the troll lumbers over with a loud grunt. It grabs Vex by the back of the neck with both hands and twists. There's a sickening crack, and her body goes limp.</p> [["No..."->vexdead]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->vexdead]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->vexdead]]]} ](else:)[{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}"Hey!" Pixel yells. "Don't do that!" <p>"Or //what//?" Nervo asks testily.</p> <p>"Or I'll come over there and scratch your face some more!"</p> <p>Nervo laughs. "The only place //you're// going is down that thing's throat" he says, pointing at the artistivore.</p> <p>The creature must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that.</p> <p>"It //is //a shame you couldn't be swayed to our side," Fetter says as your doppelgänger hands Pixel over. "Ah well."</p> <p>Fetter flings Pixel into the artistivore's mouth.</p> [["No..."->pixelswallowed]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->pixelswallowed]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->pixelswallowed]]]} ]}{(set: $apologisedp to true)}"Pixel, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean for this to happen..." you cry, words tumbling out in a desperate rush. "I take it all back, you're the bestest cat in the whole world!" (if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $vexswallowed to true)(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}Someone clears their throat loudly. You glance down and find Vex by your feet. "Right, um... second bestest cat in the whole world, she was here first." "Great!" Pixel says, voice oozing sarcasm. "About to be eaten alive //and// playing second fiddle. Thanks for that, boss!" Fetter sighs. "Toss both cats in." "Nooo!!" you cry, as Nervo scoops Vex up. She hisses and kicks with her back legs as he carries her over to the artistivore. It must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that. Nervo flings Vex into the mouth. The artistivore bites down, and just like that, Vex is gone. You stare in horror, utterly lost for words. Pixel has some choice ones though. "So help me, Nervo, I will rip you a new one!" Nervo takes him from your doppelgänger, and drop kicks him—yes—drop kicks him down the artistivore's gullet. [["This can't be happening..."->pixelandvexswallowed]] [["You fucking monsters!"->pixelandvexswallowedmonsters]] ](else:)[{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}"//Now //you tell me!" Pixel says, voice oozing sarcasm. {(if: $pixellovesyou is true)["I'm always telling you!" <p>Pixel flicks an ear dismissively, but he doesn't contradict you.<p/>](if: $pixellovesyou is false)["I'm always telling you!" But you trail off, suddenly unsure. "Aren't I always telling you?" <p>Pixel shakes his head, eyes narrowed.</p> <p>"Oh..." you mutter, dropping your gaze.</p>] }"This grows tiresome," Fetter sighs. "And the artistiovre grows hungry." Right, the artistivore. The thing's body was too big to fit through the door to the back room, so it had jammed its mouth up against the frame instead. It had sooooo many teeth... and a long pink tongue that stretched almost to your feet. "It //is //a shame you couldn't be swayed to our side," Fetter says as your doppelgänger hands Pixel over. "Ah well." Fetter drop kicks him—yes—drop kicks him down the artistivore's gullet. [["No..."->pixelswallowed]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->pixelswallowed]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->pixelswallowed]]]} ]{(set: $betrayedpixel to true)}{(if: $pixellovesyou is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $pixelfree is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $treatedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $pixelupset is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 1) ] (if: $threatenedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 1) ] (if: $betrayedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 2) ] }{(if: $catScore >= 1)[ (set: $pixelloyal to true) "You know I can't do that," Fetter says. "Nothing personal." <br/> <br/>Pixel wriggles free and bounds toward you, only to be violently yanked back by the leash. He gives a strangled yowl as your doppelgänger seizes him by the scruff and stuffs him under an arm. <br/> <br/>"Such loyalty, from a cat, no less! Even after you sold him out," Fetter says with a hint of amusement. "Hopefully, he'll be just as devoted to //us//." <br/> <br/>"You wish!" Pixel hisses, fur bristling. <br/> <br/>Fetter raises an eyebrow. "Well in that case, feed him to the artistivore," they say, signalling your doppelgänger. "He'll make a nice //appetizer//." <br/> <br/>"What the fuck?" you cry, struggling against {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[your bonds as the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon as she](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith as it] drags you toward the back room like a rag doll.} "I said you could have him, but I didn't mean you could kill him!" <p>The moment {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} releases you, Nervo grabs you by the hair and lifts you to your feet.</p> <br/> <br/>"Oh, this is happening," Nervo says, crouching down next to you and lifting your chin. "Just watch!" <br/> <br/>[[Spit.->spatpixeleaten]] <br/> [[Tell him to go fuck himself.->pixeleaten]] <br/> [[Tell Pixel you're sorry.->pixelapology]] ](else:)["You know I can't do that. Nothing personal," Fetter says, walking over to your doppelgänger. "At least we get to keep the cat!" They scratch Pixel behind the ears, and he starts purring contentedly. <p>"Turncoat!" you cry, and Pixel gives you a flat stare.</p> <p>"Seriously? After you just sold me out?"</p> <p>"I 'sold you out' because I don't want to //die//!"</p> <p>Pixel looks pained for a moment, but then his expression hardens. "Yeah, well, not much I can do about that. And since //you've// never looked out for me, I've decided to look out for myself from here on out."</p> <p>Fetter smiles approvingly and takes Pixel into his arms. "Welcome to the fold, little one."</p> <p>You let out a sharp tsk and turn your head away in disgust. There's no point in running—you couldn't even if you wanted to.</p> <p>It's over.</p> You struggle against {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[your bonds as the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon as she](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith as it] drags you toward the back room like a rag doll.} The moment {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} releases you, Nervo grabs you by the hair and lifts you to your feet.</p> [[Spit.->spat]] <br/> [[Tell him to go fuck himself.->insulted]] <br/> [[Tell Pixel you're sorry.->apologised]] ] } {(if: $pixellovesyou is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $pixelfree is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $treatedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 1) ] (if: $pixelupset is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 1) ] (if: $threatenedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 1) ] (if: $betrayedpixel is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore - 2) ] } {(if: $catScore >= 1)[{(set: $pixelloyal to true)}"Or what?" Fetter sneers. <p>"Or I'll kick your ass!"</p> <p>Fetter laughs. "<i>Please</i>..."</p> <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider starts spinning you again, binding your arms to your sides. The silk is so tight you can barely breathe.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon puts her full weight onto your back, forcing the air from your lungs.](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith puts its full weight onto your back, forcing the air from your lungs.]</p> <p>Pixel wriggles free and bounds toward you, only to be violently yanked back by the leash. He gives a strangled yowl as your doppelgänger seizes him by the scruff.</p> <p>"Such loyalty, from a cat, no less!" Fetter says with a hint of amusement. "Hopefully, he'll be just as devoted to us, in time."</p> <p>"You wish!" Pixel hisses, fur bristling.</p> <p>Fetter raises an eyebrow. "Well in that case, feed him to the artistivore," they say, signalling your doppelgänger. "He'll make a nice <i>appetizer</i>."</p> <p>"What the fuck?" you wheeze, struggling against {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[your bonds as the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon as she](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith as it] drags you toward the back room like a rag doll.} "Don't you dare!"</p> <p>"Oh, this is happening," Nervo says, crouching down next to you and lifting your chin. "Just watch!"</p> <p>[[Spit.->spatpixeleaten]] <br/>[[Tell him to go fuck himself.->pixeleaten]] <br/>[[Tell Pixel you're sorry.->pixelapologynotbetrayed]] ](else:)["Or what?" Fetter sneers. <p>"Or I'll kick your ass!"</p> <p>Fetter laughs. "<i>Please</i>..."</p> <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider starts spinning you again, binding your arms to your sides. The silk is so tight you can barely breathe.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon puts her full weight onto your back, forcing the air from your lungs.](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith puts its full weight onto your back, forcing the air from your lungs.]</p> <p>"Don't worry," Fetter says, walking over to your doppelgänger. "He's in good hands." They scratch Pixel behind the ears, and he starts purring contentedly.</p> <p>"Turncoat!" you spit.</p> <p>Pixel stops purring, and his expression hardens. "Yeah, well, who could blame me? You've never looked out for me, so I've decided to look out for myself from here on out."</p> <p>Fetter smiles approvingly and takes Pixel into his arms. "Welcome to the fold, little one."</p> <p>You let out a sharp tsk and turn your head away in disgust. There's no point in running—you couldn't even if you wanted to.</p> <p>It's over. With a command from Fetter, you're dragged toward the back room like a rag doll. The moment (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] releases you, Nervo grabs you by the hair and lifts you to your feet.</p> [[Spit.->spat]]<br> [[Tell him to go fuck himself.->insulted]]<br> [[Tell Pixel you're sorry.->apologised]] ]}A glob of saliva lands on his cheek, mingling with the paint-like blood from where Pixel clawed him earlier. Nervo sneers, then slaps you so hard your ears ring. {(if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $nervoblind to true)(set: $vexdead to true)}There's a patter of paws on the polished concrete, and a blur of silver-gray fur as Vex launches herself at him, just like Pixel did earlier. She's bigger and meaner than Pixel, though. <p>Nervo gives a blood-curdling scream. "My eyes! She's scratched my eyes, I can't see!"</p> <p>Fetter sighs. "Honestly..."</p> <p>They click their fingers, and the troll lumbers over with a loud grunt. It grabs Vex by the back of the neck with both hands and twists. There's a sickening crack, and her body goes limp.</p> [["No..."->vexdeadpturned]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->vexdeadpturned]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->vexdeadpturned]]]} ](else:)[{(set:$alone to true)}Pixel makes a strangled cry and looks away, refusing to meet your eye. <p>"What, can't stomach me getting slapped, but //can// stomach me getting thrown down that thing's gullet?" you ask, indicating the artistivore.</p> <p>It must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that.</p> <p>Pixel seems to shrink in Fetter's arms, curling his tail in on himself tightly.</p> <p>"It's nothing personal," Fetter says, ushering the troll over.</p> [[Beg for your life.->beg]] [[Don't give them the satisfaction.->nobeg]] ]}Nervo slaps you so hard your ears ring. {(if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $nervoblind to true)(set: $vexdead to true)}There's a patter of paws on the polished concrete, and a blur of silver-gray fur as Vex launches herself at him, just like Pixel did earlier. She's bigger and meaner than Pixel, though. <p>Nervo gives a blood-curdling scream. "My eyes! She's scratched my eyes, I can't see!"</p> <p>Fetter sighs. "Honestly..."</p> <p>They click their fingers, and the troll lumbers over with a loud grunt. It grabs Vex by the back of the neck with both hands and twists. There's a sickening crack, and her body goes limp.</p> [["No..."->vexdeadpturned]]<br/> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->vexdeadpturned]]]}<br/> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->vexdeadpturned]]]} ](else:)[{(set:$alone to true)}Pixel makes a strangled cry and looks away, refusing to meet your eye. <p>"What, can't stomach me getting slapped, but //can// stomach me getting thrown down that thing's gullet?" you ask, indicating the artistivore.</p> <p>It must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that.</p> <p>Pixel seems to shrink in Fetter's arms, curling his tail in on himself tightly.</p> <p>"It's nothing personal," Fetter says, ushering the troll over.</p> [[Beg for your life.->beg]] [[Don't give them the satisfaction.->nobeg]] ]}{(set: $apologisedp to true)}"For what it's worth, I'm sorry," you say to Pixel. "I didn't mean to be shitty to you, I just can't help it sometimes." Pixel doesn't exactly look appeased, he looks... conflicted. Like you're not his favourite person in the world, but he doesn't want to see you get eaten either. That's probably as good as you could hope for at this stage. Nervo shoves you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[forward. Thanks to the spider silk, you fall flat on your face. You curse, as he prods you a few times with his foot, rolling you ]} toward the artistivore. It must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that. {(if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $nervoblind to true)(set: $vexswallowed to true)}There's a patter of paws on the polished concrete, and a blur of silver-gray fur as Vex launches herself at Nervo, just like Pixel did earlier. She's bigger and meaner than Pixel, though. <p>Nervo gives a blood-curdling scream. "My eyes! She's scratched my eyes, I can't see!"</p> <p>"Honestly..." Fetter sighs, ushering the troll over. It grunts and grabs Vex by the back of the neck. She hisses and kicks with her back legs, and the troll drop kicks her—yes—drop kicks her down the artistivore's gullet.</p> [["No..."->pixelswallowed]]<br> {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->pixelswallowed]]]}<br> {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->pixelswallowed]]]} ](else:)[{(set:$alone to true)}Fetter ushers the troll over. <br/> [[Beg for your life.->beg]] <br/> [[Don't give them the satisfaction.->nobeg]] ]}{(set: $apologisedp to true)}"Pixel, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean for this to happen..." you cry, words tumbling out in a desperate rush. "I should have listened when you warned me about these assholes... You're the bestest cat in the whole world!" (if: $foundvex is true)[{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)(set: $vexswallowed to true)}Someone clears their throat loudly. You glance down and find Vex by your feet. "Right, um... second bestest cat in the whole world, she was here first." "Great!" Pixel says, voice oozing sarcasm. "About to be eaten alive //and// playing second fiddle. Thanks for that, boss!" Fetter sighs. "Toss both cats in." "Nooo!!" you cry, as Nervo scoops Vex up. She hisses and kicks with her back legs as he carries her over to the artistivore. It must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that. Nervo flings her into the mouth. The artistivore bites down, and just like that, Vex is gone. You stare in horror, utterly lost for words. Pixel has some choice ones though. "So help me, Nervo, I will rip you a new one!" Nervo takes him from your doppelgänger, and drop kicks him—yes—drop kicks him down the artistivore's gullet. [["This can't be happening..."->pixelandvexswallowed]] [["You fucking monsters!"->pixelandvexswallowedmonsters]] ](else:)[{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}"//Now //you tell me!" Pixel says, voice oozing sarcasm. {(if: $pixellovesyou is true)["I'm always telling you!" <p>Pixel flicks an ear dismissively, but he doesn't contradict you.<p/>](if: $pixellovesyou is false)["I'm always telling you!" But you trail off, suddenly unsure. "Aren't I always telling you?" <p>Pixel shakes his head, eyes narrowed.<p/> <p/>"Oh..." you mutter, dropping your gaze.<p/>] }"This grows tiresome," Fetter sighs. "And the artistiovre grows hungry." Right, the artistivore. The thing's body was too big to fit through the door to the back room, so it had jammed its mouth up against the frame instead. It had sooooo many teeth... and a long pink tongue that stretched almost to your feet. "It //is //a shame you couldn't be swayed to our side," Fetter says as your doppelgänger hands Pixel over. "Ah well." Fetter drop kicks him—yes—drop kicks him down the artistivore's gullet. [["No..."->pixelswallowed]] {(text-style: "rumble")[[["NOOOO!"->pixelswallowed]]]} {(text-style: "shudder")[[["NOOOOOOOO!!"->pixelswallowed]]]} ]{(set: $pixelswallowed to true)}"You monsters!" Pixel screams. "Demons," Fetter corrects. "We prefer the term 'demons.' Unless, that is, you're referring to your fellow artifexes, and are simply being dramatic." "Dramatic? You're about to feed me to a damned goliath!" Shit. The artistivore. How could you forget? You tear your eyes away from Vex's lifeless form, focusing instead on the undulating gullet before you. The artistivore must have been too big to get out of the back room. All you can see is its open mouth, jammed up against the doorway. There are teeth—//lots// of teeth—and a long pink tongue that's stretched almost to your feet. There's nothing but blackness beyond that. "It //is //a shame you couldn't be swayed to our side," Fetter says as your doppelgänger hands Pixel over. {(if: $nervoblind is true)[ <p>"A shame?" Nervo cries. "His little shit of a cat friend blinded me! I want him //dead//."</p> Fetter shrugs, and flings Pixel into the artistivore's mouth.](else:)["Ah well." Fetter flings Pixel into the artistivore's mouth.]} Pixel howls, but the noise is cut-off as the artistivore smacks its lips together a few times. Then it roars so loudly you half-expect the gallery's windows to shatter. "Don't worry, there's more..." Fetter says, kicking Vex's body in. The artistivore smacks its lips again, and roars even louder than before. "It wants //you//," Fetter explains, ushering the troll over. [[Beg for your life.->beg]] [[Don't give them the satisfaction.->nobeg]]"Please... don't do this!" you wail as the troll lifts you over its head. "Nothing personal," Fetter says, giving a little wave as the troll sends you hurtling through the air. You land on the artistivore's tongue. Its mouth smacks shut, and you're [[swallowed]]. You clamp your mouth shut, determined to show no fear as the troll lifts you over its head. But deep down, you're terrified. "Nothing personal," Fetter says, giving a little wave as the troll sends you hurtling through the air. You land on the artistivore's tongue. Its mouth smacks shut, and you're [[swallowed]]. { (track: 'drop', 'play') (track: 'drop', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(set: $alone to ($pixelswallowed is false) and ($vexswallowed is false))}You're... not dead! That was a surprise. You// are //hurting, though. You landed in a heap of torn canvas and empty paint cans. Had someone been using the artistivore as a dumping ground? There was an entire island of rubbish here, floating in a sea of stomach acid. You wrinkle your nose at the smell and roll over. You spot a small, round opening in the ceiling above you. If you're ever getting out of here, it certainly won't be //that// way. {(if: $alone is true)[(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>You swivel your head around, but your range of movement is limited thanks to the stupid spider silk.</p> <p>There's nothing for it but to roll. </p> <p>You splash through puddles of paint and stomach acid. The latter starts to eat away at the silk, but it's a slow process, so you just keep rolling.</p> <p>Eventually, you roll right over a ledge and land in a new heap.</p> <p>[["A little help? Anyone?!"->spidergalleryalone]]</p> <p>[[No one is coming. This is the end. Just accept it.->spidergalleryalone]]</p> ](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[<p>You brush yourself off and start walking.</p> <p>//Everything// hurts, and you're starting to think you're doomed to wander endless rubbish heaps forever when something in the distance catches your eye. </p> <p>You squint. </p> <p>It's a wall of paint cans.</p> <p>[[Maybe there's another artist down here!->galleryalone]]</p> [[Maybe there's another demon down here...->galleryalone]] ]]}(else:)[Something rustles to your left. [["Hello?"->bellyrats]] [[There better not be rats down here...->bellyrats]] ]The artistivore smacks its lips together a few times. Then it roars so loudly you half-expect the gallery's windows to shatter. "Don't worry," Fetter says. "The main course is still to come." The troll lifts you over its head. You clamp your mouth shut, determined not to scream. Deep down, though, you're terrified. "Nothing personal," Fetter says, and gives a little wave. Next thing you know, you're hurtling through the air. You land on the artistivore's tongue. Its mouth smacks shut, and you're [[swallowed]].{(set: $alone to true)}"You monsters!" you scream. "Demons," Fetter corrects. "We prefer the term 'demons.' Unless, of course, you're referring to us //artifexes//." "I'm referring to// all //of you!" Fetter waves a hand. "Oh, don't be so dramatic." "Dramatic? You're about to feed me to—to—" You gulp. The artistivore's body was too big to fit through the door to the back room, so it had jammed its mouth up against the frame instead. It had sooooo many teeth... and a long pink tongue that stretched almost to your feet. "My fucking eyes..." Nervo whimpers. "We'll paint you some new ones. Stop whining," Fetter snaps, ushering the troll over. [[Beg for your life.->beg]] [[Don't give them the satisfaction.->nobeg]]"I'm afraid it is," Fetter says apologetically. The troll stomps forward and lifts you over its head. "Nothing personal," Fetter says, and gives a little wave as the troll sends you hurtling through the air. You land on the artistivore's tongue. Its mouth smacks shut, and you're [[swallowed]]."Demons," Fetter corrects. "We prefer the term 'demons.' Unless, of course, you're referring to us //artifexes//." "I'm referring to// all //of you!" Fetter waves a hand. "Oh, don't be so dramatic." "Dramatic? You're about to feed me to—to—" You gulp as the artistivore smacks its lips together. "Don't worry, the main course is still to come!" Fetter reassures it. The troll stomps forward and lifts you over its head. "Nothing personal," Fetter says, and gives a little wave. You clamp your mouth shut, determined not to scream. But deep down, you're terrified. The troll sends you hurtling through the air. You land on the artistivore's tongue. Its mouth smacks shut, and you're [[swallowed]]. {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }It's not an exit. It's an art gallery. Well, kind of. The artwork is torn and washed-out looking, the walls are made from stacked paint cans, and there's a rudimentary desk crafted from chewed-looking wooden beams. Fetter stands behind it. "Ah! I thought I saw someone fall from the esophagus!" they say, jumping up to greet you. {(if: $alone is true)[You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this?" <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, smile fading as they eye the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"I //know// who you are."</p> <p>Fetter looks at the ground. "Ah, I take it you've met my artifex?"</p> <p>"They're the one who threw me //down// here."</p>] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex hisses, ears pulled back. <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "What a... pretty looking cat you have there. What's her name?"</p> <p>"My name is Vex. Get too close and I'll claw your face off."</p> <p>"She can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "She's an artifex!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cat on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel hisses, ears pulled back. <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "What a... handsome looking cat you have there. What's his name?"</p> <p>"My name is Pixel. Get too close and I'll claw your face off."</p> <p>"He can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "He's an artifex!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cat on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel hisses, ears pulled back, and Vex gives a gutteral, angry "Meeeeeoooowwwwwwww". <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "Cats! Down here! Isn't that something... Good kitties!"</p> <p>"We are //not// good kitties," Pixel warns. "Get too close and we'll claw your face off."</p> <p>"They can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "They're artifexes!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cats on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }"Ah..." Fetter says again. "Why don't you take a seat? I believe I have some explaining to do." [[Take a seat.]] [[Stay standing.]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You look around, and Fetter points to a paint can with a piece of damaged wood balanced precariously on top. {(if: $alone is true)[You sit down on it cautiously, hoping no nails stick into you. You're uncomfortable enough already. Your shoulder's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} pinned you to the floor. You reach back to give it a good scratch. <p>"Well? Explain, then."<p/>] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[You sit down on it, and Vex takes a spot at your feet, her fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes her warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] pinned you to the floor earlier.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[You sit down on it, and Pixel takes a spot at your feet, his fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes him warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] pinned you to the floor earlier.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[You sit down on it, and Pixel and Vex take spots at your feet, their fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes them warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] pinned you to the floor earlier.<p/>]} Fetter leans forward. "I'm the //real// Fetter. See? No collar," they say, pointing to their neck. "I'm guessing my artifex commissioned you to do a painting for my real gallery, //Voracious Artscapes//?" You drum your fingers against the damaged wood. Fetter gives a nervous cough. "Yes, well. I was looking for artists with something really special—a gift, as it were." They lock eyes with you. "//Truly// gifted artists are hard to come by, and expensive. I could only afford a handful of paintings. Critics praised their quality, but they complained the gallery was too sparse, so I took matters into my own hands." "The artistivore..." you say. "Not at first... I painted my gallery. Not quite so well as I would have liked, but I was happy with it all the same. I'd even put myself behind the desk! As I held the canvas up, admiring it, the strangest feeling came over me. I felt I could walk right into the painting, and then I //did //walk right into it! [["Fascinating..."->exposition]] [[Drum your fingers louder.->exposition]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Fetter points to a paint can with a piece of damaged wood balanced precariously on top, but you ignore it. {(if: $alone is true)[<p>Your shoulder's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} pinned you to the floor. You reach back to give it a good scratch. "Well? Explain, then."</p>](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex takes a spot at your feet, her fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes her warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} pinned you to the floor earlier.</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel takes a spot at your feet, his fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes him warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} pinned you to the floor earlier.</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex take spots at your feet, their fur standing on end, ears flat. Fetter eyes them warily. <p>"So explain, then," you say, reaching back to scratch your shoulder. It's all itchy where {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]} pinned you to the floor earlier.</p>]} Fetter leans forward. "I'm the //real// Fetter. See? No collar," they say, pointing to their neck. "I'm guessing my artifex commissioned you to do a painting for my real gallery, //Voracious Artscapes//?" You tap your foot impatiently Fetter gives a nervous cough. "Yes, well. I was looking for artists with something really special—a gift, as it were." They lock eyes with you. "//Truly// gifted artists are hard to come by, and expensive. I could only afford a handful of paintings. Critics praised their quality, but they complained the gallery was too sparse, so I took matters into my own hands." "The artistivore..." you say. "Not at first... I painted my gallery. Not quite so well as I would have liked, but I was happy with it all the same. I'd even put myself behind the desk! As I held the canvas up, admiring it, the strangest feeling came over me. I felt I could walk right into the painting, and then I //did //walk right into it! [["Fascinating..."->exposition]] [[Tap your food louder.->exposition]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You lay there for a while, feeling sorry for yourself. Then you roll some more. Eventually you tumble into a wall of paint cans. "Hey, watch it!" someone cries. They round the corner, and your eyes go wide. "Fetter?" "Have we met?" they ask, bending down to inspect the spider silk. "Yes we've met! You're the asshole who threw me down here!" "Ah... I see you've met my //artifex//. Why don't we get you inside..." They drag you into an art gallery. Well, kind of an art gallery. The paintings are torn and washed-out looking, the furniture is made from chewed-looking bits of wood, and—as you've noticed—the walls are made from stacked paint cans. "There we go..." Fetter says, cutting the last few bits of spider silk away. You shake your arms out and stretch your legs. It feels sooooo good not to be cocooned anymore, but there's no way you're about to thank Fetter. Instead, you cross your arms and glower at them. "What is this place?" "//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter eyes the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. Why don't you take a seat? I believe I have some explaining to do." [[Take a seat.]] [[Stay standing.]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $alone is true)[<p>You're on your own.</p>] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Please tell me that's you Vex..."(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>You swivel your head around, but your range of movement is limited thanks to the stupid spider silk. "Please tell me that's you Vex..." </p> <p>She lands on your chest and rubs her face against yours."It's me!"</p> <p>"I thought you were dead!" you cry, wishing you could embrace her.</p> <p>She quickly sets about tearing the spider silk to shreds. "I thought we were //both// dead."</p> <p>Once freed, you shake your arms out and stretch your legs. It feels sooooo good not to be cocooned anymore, despite being battered and bruised all over.</p> <p>"Come on," Vex says. "I've got something to show you."</p> <p>You brush yourself off and get to your feet.</p> ](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Please tell me that's you Vex..." <p>She lands on your chest and you pull her into an embrace. "I thought you were dead!" you whisper into her fur.</p> <p>"I thought we were //both// dead," she admits. "They must have thrown us so deep, we fell straight down that thing's throat!"</p> <p>"Lucky. I mean, not// lucky// lucky... but, you know."</p> <p>She rubs her face against yours, then hops to the ground. "Come on. I've got something to show you."</p> <p>You brush yourself off and get to your feet.</p>]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[<p>"Boss?"</p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>You swivel your head around, but your range of movement is limited thanks to the stupid spider silk. "Pixel? Is that you?"</p> <p>He lands on your chest and rubs his face against yours. "I brought backup!" Vex appears at his side and winks.</p> <p>"I thought you were both dead!" you cry, wishing you could embrace them.</p> <p>"I thought we were //all //dead," Pixel admits, and he and Vex quickly set about tearing the spider silk to shreds. Once they're done, you shake your arms out and stretch your legs. It feels sooooo good not to be cocooned anymore, despite being battered and bruised all over.</p> <p>"There's something you should see," Vex says.</p> ](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[<p>"Pixel? Is that you?"</p> <p>He lands on your chest and you pull him into an embrace. </p> <p>"I thought you were dead!" you whisper into his fur.</p> <p>"I thought we were //all //dead," Pixel admits. "But then I found her!" He tilts his head to the side, and you see Vex stroll up beside you.</p> <p>You squeal and pull her onto your lap as well. The three of you stay like that for quite a while before Vex hops down.</p> <p>"There's something you should see," she says.</p>]] }{(if: ($pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false and $vexdead is false) or ($pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false))[</p>"Boss?"</p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>You swivel your head around, but your range of movement is limited thanks to the stupid spider silk. "Pixel? Is that you?" </p> <p>He lands on your chest and rubs his face against yours.</p> <p>"I thought you were dead!" you cry, wishing you could embrace him.</p> <p>He quickly sets about tearing the spider silk to shreds. "I thought we were //both// dead."</p> <p>Once freed, you shake your arms out and stretch your legs. It feels sooooo good not to be cocooned anymore, despite being battered and bruised all over.</p> <p>"Come on, boss. I've got something to show you."</p> <p>You brush yourself off and get to your feet.</p> ](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[<p>"Pixel? Is that you?" </p> <p>He lands on your chest and you pull him into an embrace. "I thought you were dead!" you whisper into his fur.</p> <p>"I thought we were //both// dead," he admits. "They must have thrown us so deep, we fell straight down that things throat!"</p> <p>"Lucky. I mean, not// lucky// lucky... but, you know."</p> <p>He rubs his face against yours, then hops to the ground.</p> <p>"Come on, boss. I've got something to show you."</p> <p>You brush yourself off and get to your feet.</p>]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true)[</p>"Boss?"</p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[<p>You swivel your head around, but your range of movement is limited thanks to the stupid spider silk. "Pixel? Is that you?" </p> <p>He lands on your chest and rubs his face against yours."I thought you were dead!" you cry, wishing you could embrace him. He quickly sets about tearing the spider silk to shreds. "They killed Vex!" you sob.</p> <p>Pixel freezes."I know, boss. I know..." He goes back to tearing the spider silk, not meeting your gaze. Once he's done, you shake your arms out and stretch your legs. It's nice to be able to move again—to be able to //breathe// again, but you feel hollow inside.](if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[<p>"Pixel? Is that you?" </p> <p>He lands on your chest and you pull him into an embrace. </p> <p>"I thought you were dead like Vex!" you cry into his fur.</p> <p>He stiffens, ears flat against his head. "I thought we were //all// dead..." he mutters.</p> <p>You sit in silence for quite a while before he hops to the ground.</p> <p>"Come on, boss. I've got something to show you."</p> <p>You sigh, pulling yourself to your feet.</p>]] }[["Lead the way!"->bellygallery]] [["Please tell me this 'something' is an exit..."->bellygallerynotexit]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Nestled among seemingly endless rubbish heaps was an art gallery. Well, kind of. The artwork is torn and washed-out looking, the walls are made from stacked paint cans, and there's a rudimentary desk crafted from chewed-looking wooden beams. Fetter stands behind it. "Ah! I thought I saw someone fall from the esophagus!" they say, jumping up to greet you. {(if: $alone is true)["Partially Digested Artscapes?" you ask, raising an eyebrow. <p>Fetter eyes the selection of paintings unhappily. They're all so torn, chewed, and washed-out looking, you're not even sure what they're supposed to depict. "Yes, well, resources are limited in here, I'm afraid... I'm Fetter." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"I //know// who you are."</p> <p>Fetter looks at the ground. "Ah, I take it you've met my artifex?"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "They're the one who threw me down here."</p>] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex hisses, ears pulled back. <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "What a... pretty looking cat you have there. What's her name?"</p> <p>"My name is Vex. Get too close and I'll claw your face off."<p/> <p>"She can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "She's an artifex!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cat on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel hisses, ears pulled back. <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "What a... handsome looking cat you have there. What's his name?"</p> <p>"My name is Pixel. Get too close and I'll claw your face off."</p> <p>"He can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "He's an artifex!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cat on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel hisses, ears pulled back, and Vex gives a gutteral, angry "Meeeeeoooowwwwwwww". <p>"Oh!" Fetter laughs nervously. "Cats! Down here! Isn't that something... Good kitties!"</p> <p>"We are //not// good kitties," Pixel warns. "Get too close and we'll claw your face off."</p> <p>"They can... talk?" Fetter asks, pulling back. Then they look more closely. "They're artifexes!"</p> <p>You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this place?"</p> <p>"//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, eyeing the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter. Please don't stick your cats on me." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. </p> <p>"We //know// who you are."</p>] }"Ah..." Fetter says again. "Why don't you take a seat? I believe I have some explaining to do." [[Take a seat.]] [[Stay standing.]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You round the corner, and find yourself in a gallery. Well, kind of. The artwork is torn and washed-out looking, the walls are made from stacked paint cans, and there's a rudimentary desk crafted from chewed-looking wooden beams. Fetter stands behind it. "Ah! I thought I saw someone fall from the esophagus!" they say, jumping up to greet you. You cross your arms over your chest. "What //is// this?" "//Partially Digested Artscapes!//" Fetter says, smile fading as the eye the selection of paintings unhappily. "I did my best... but resources are limited in here, I'm afraid. I'm Fetter." They offer their hand, but you decline to shake it. "I //know// who you are." Fetter looks at the ground. "Ah, I take it you've met my artifex?" "They're the one who threw me //down// here." "Ah..." Fetter says again. "Why don't you take a seat? I believe I have some explaining to do." [[Take a seat.]] [[Stay standing.]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"Yes, well, I'm sure I don't need to explain it to// you//," Fetter says, speeding up. "I met myself standing there behind the desk. The likeness was uncanny! I could hardly just leave them //in //there... so I took them out with me." "And //they// painted the artistivore..." you cut in. Fetter shakes their head. "No... that was //me//. A painting of an art gallery was never going to satisfy the critics. I needed something big... a showpiece." "By 'showpiece,' you mean a big, ugly, slobbering monster?" Fetter smiles. "You have to admit, it //is// striking. There was no way I was going in for a keepsake, but I wanted to see if my artifex could do it. I'd already established they can't die." You sit bolt upright. "They can't?" "Not unless the original painting is destroyed." {(if: $vexdead is true)[You frown, thinking back to the picture you did of Vex. You have no idea what happened to the original, and you coudn't exactly paint her back into that tiny photo in the locket... ](else:)[You frown, giving that some thought.]} "So, what happened?" you ask finally. "My artifex gouged one of the artistivore's eyes out and took it for a keepsake." You inhale sharply. "The belt!" "Tasteless, I know..." Fetter says, grimacing. "I'd made the mistake of painting a collar on the artistivore. Once my artifex had the keepsake, a leash materialized in their hand." [["So they had control of it..."->exposition2]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"Sadly, yes," Fetter says, a faraway look in their eyes. "I was the first to be sacrificed to its appetites. There was another... he's somewhere around here, but he won't even speak to me." "Nervo," you mutter, and Fetter nods. "It //is// your demon we're stuck inside," you say, unable to keep the resentment from your voice. Fetter smirks, but there's a sadness to it. "It is, indeed." They're silent for a moment, then they sit forward and steeple their fingers. "Tell me, what did my artifex comission you to paint?" [["A unicorn."->sarcasm]] [["A rainbow-colored mermaid fairy that shits love hearts."->sarcasm]] [["Another fucking demon. What do you think?!"->excited]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, you know," Fetter says irritably. "But the highest form of intelligence," you retort. They smile, despite themselves. "Let me be more direct. Did they have you paint a demon?" Fetter's eyes glint, and before you can even answer they add: "What kind?" {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[You sigh and point to the webbing still stuck to your legs here and there. "Spider. A big one, with a faceless woman hanging from it like a puppet. She was some sort of lure, I guess." <p>"How inspired!" Fetter says, their voice sincere.</p> <p>"You should see it in //person//," you say, a shiver running down your back, which still itches. You scratch it some more.</p> Fetter chuckles softly.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["The usual... Wings, horns, tail..." you say, trailing off. <p>"Hah, wonderful," Fetter says.</p> <p>"You're artifex said it was 'uninspired,'" you say, narrowing your eyes at them as you scratch your back some more.</p> Fetter laughs apologetically.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["A wraith //skeleton dog//. I thought it was kinda cool until it attacked me..." you say, a shiver running down your back, which still itches. You scratch it some more.</p> Fetter chuckles softly.]} "An artifex doesn't have a moral code like you and I..." {(if: $alone is true)[<p>Fetters eyes bore into you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[<p>"We //have// a moral code!" Vex gripes from the floor. Pixel pauses his licking to chime in. "Yeah, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //we're// assholes."</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[<p>"Hey, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //all// artifexes are," Pixel gripes from the floor.</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)[<p>"Hey, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //all// artifexes are," Vex gripes from the floor.</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>] }You stare, incredulous. "To get the fuck out of here!" They chuckle. "Yes, well, after that... presuming there// is //an after." [[To make a living doing what I love.->selfmade]] [["To make my parents proud."->artstarchild]] {(if: $alone is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cats, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]]} {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Fetters eyes glint. "What kind?" {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[You sigh and point to the webbing still stuck to your legs here and there. "Spider. A big one, with a faceless woman hanging from it like a puppet. She was some sort of lure, I guess." <p>"How inspired!" Fetter says, their voice sincere.</p> <p>"You should see it in //person//," you say, a shiver running down your back, which still itches. You scratch it some more.</p> Fetter chuckles softly.](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["The usual... Wings, horns, tail..." you say, trailing off. <p>"Hah, wonderful," Fetter says.</p> <p>"You're artifex said it was 'uninspired,'" you say, narrowing your eyes at them as you scratch your back some more.</p> Fetter laughs apologetically.](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["A wraith //skeleton dog//. I thought it was kinda cool until it attacked me..." you say, a shiver running down your back, which still itches. You scratch it some more.</p> Fetter chuckles softly.]} "An artifex doesn't have a moral code like you and I..." {(if: $alone is true)[<p>Fetters eyes bore into you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[<p>"We //have// a moral code!" Vex gripes from the floor. Pixel pauses his licking to chime in. "Yeah, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //we're// assholes."</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[<p>"Hey, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //all// artifexes are," Pixel gripes from the floor.</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>](if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)[<p>"Hey, just because //your// artifex is a raging asshole, that doesn't mean //all// artifexes are," Vex gripes from the floor.</p> <p>Fetter raises their hands. "Apologies... Perhaps it //is// just mine." Their gaze shifts back to you. "Tell me, what is your heart's desire?"</p>] }You stare, incredulous. "To get the fuck out of here!" They chuckle. "Yes, well, after that... presuming there// is //an after." [[To make a living doing what I love.->selfmade]] [["To make my parents proud."->artstarchild]] {(if: $alone is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cats, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)[[["To live a quiet, simple life—just me, my cat, and my paintings." -> simplelife]]]} {(set: $simplelife to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Galleries are great and all, but you don't need to be seen as some up-and-coming hotshot. Besides, it's the //process// of painting that you love. {(if: $alone is true)[<p>Fetter smiles. "Then that's what your demon wants!"</p>](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[That, and your cats. <p>Fetter smiles. "Then that's what your demon wants!"</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true)[That, and your cats. Or, //cat//, rather. <p>You sigh, thinking of Vex. You'd// just// gotten her back...</p> <p>Fetter smiles, oblivious to your hangdog expression. "Then that's what your demon wants!"</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false)[That, and your cat. <p>Fetter smiles. "Then that's what your demon wants!"</p>] }{(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)[That, and your cat. <p>Fetter smiles. "Then that's what your demon wants!"</p>] }You give them a flat stare. "My demon wants to //hurt //me." They wave a hand dismissively. "Only because my artifex holds their keepsake." You grumble, unconvinced, and go back to itching your shoulder. You wince—there's something embedded in the wound... You clasp your fingers around it and pull. A cry escapes you as a torrent of fresh, hot blood runs down your back. Your eyes widen as you look at the bloodied thing you've pulled out. It's {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[a hair from the spider's leg!](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[one of your she-demon's foot talons!](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[a foot bone... It must belong to the wraith!]} A leash materializes next to it, shimmering in the dim light. Fetter jumps to their feet, and the two of you follow it upward... and upward... right to the cavern roof. "A keepsake..." Fetter whispers. [["Do you think we can use it to escape?"->optimistic]] {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my spider demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my she-demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my wraith demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]]}{(set: $artstarchild to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You think about your parents submitting that first drawing of Vex to a gallery. They were so proud when it was displayed alongside the other children's pictures. And now, you won’t even answer their calls. Fetter smiles, oblivious to your hangdog expression. "Then that's what your demon wants!" You give them a flat stare. "Demons don't have parents... Besides, they clearly want to //hurt //me." Fetter waves a hand dismissively. "Only because my artifex holds their keepsake." You grumble, unconvinced, and go back to itching your shoulder. You wince—there's something embedded in the wound... You clasp your fingers around it and pull. A cry escapes you as a torrent of fresh, hot blood runs down your back. Your eyes widen as you look at the bloodied thing you've pulled out. It's {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[a hair from the spider's leg!](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[one of your she-demon's foot talons!](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[a foot bone... It must be from the wraith!]} A leash materializes next to it, shimmering in the dim light. Fetter jumps to their feet, and the two of you follow it upward... and upward... right to the cavern roof. "A keepsake..." Fetter whispers. [["Do you think we can use it to escape?"->optimistic]] {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my spider demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my she-demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my wraith demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]]}{(set: $selfmade to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Imagine being able to charge decent money for your work... Not an extravagant amount, just enough to live comfortably. No more scrounging, no more struggling to make rent. It almost felt too good to be true. Fetter smiles. "Then that's what your demon wants!" You give them a flat stare. "My demon wants to //hurt //me." They wave a hand dismissively. "Only because my artifex holds their keepsake." You grumble, unconvinced, and go back to itching your shoulder. You wince—there's something embedded in the wound... You clasp your fingers around it and pull. A cry escapes you as a torrent of fresh, hot blood runs down your back. Your eyes widen as you look at the bloodied thing you've pulled out. It's {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[a hair from the spider's leg!](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[one of your she-demon's foot talons!](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[a foot bone... It must belong to the wraith!]} A leash materializes next to it, shimmering in the dim light. Fetter jumps to their feet, and the two of you follow it upward... and upward... right to the cavern roof. "A keepsake..." Fetter whispers. [["Do you think we can use it to escape?"->optimistic]] {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my spider demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my she-demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[["Yeah, I'm// really// not looking to cross paths with my wraith demon again any time soon..."->fuckthat]]]} {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Fetter gestures for you to give them the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]}, too excited to answer. { (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[ <p>"Wow, hold up. Is that really a good idea? That demon's bad news..." Vex grumbles.</p> ] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ <p>"Wow, hold up. Is that really a good idea?" Vex asks. "I mean, your demon's a //dog//. We can't work with dogs! You should’ve painted a ferocious cat, like me."</p> ] ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[ <p>"Boss, hold up. Is that really a good idea? That demon's bad news..." Pixel grumbles.</p> ] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ <p>"Boss, hold up. Is that really a good idea?" Pixel asks. "I mean, your demon's a //dog//. We can't work with dogs! You should’ve painted a ferocious cat, like me."</p> ] ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[ <p>"Boss, hold up. Is that really a good idea?" Pixel asks.</p> <p>"Yeah, that demon's bad news..." Vex adds, sounding uncharacteristically apprehensive. She must have fewer lives left than she let on.</p> ] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ <p>"Boss, hold up. Is that really a good idea?" Pixel asks.</p> <p>"Yeah, that demon's bad news..." Vex adds, sounding uncharacteristically apprehensive. "I mean it's a //dog//. We can't work with dogs! You should’ve painted a ferocious cat, like me."</p> ] ] }{(if: $alone is true)[You want to give it to them, you really do. Fuck knows you want to get out of this place, but the look in their eyes makes you uneasy. You bite your lip and pull your arm back, preparing to throw the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} as far as you can. <p>Fetter jumps to their feet, hands raised.</p>] (if: $alone is false)["Yeah... you're probably right," you say, pulling your arm back, ready to throw the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} as far as you can. <p>Fetter jumps to their feet, hands raised.</p>] }"STOP!" [[Listen to Fetter.->nothrow]] {(if: $alone is true)[[Forget Fetter, throw the stupid thing away.->yesthrow]] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[[Listen to Vex.->yesthrow]] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[[Listen to Pixel.->yesthrow]] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true) [[Listen to the cats.->yesthrow]]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)["Me neither... that thing was //mean//," Vex grumbles.</p>](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["Me neither... she was //mean//," Vex grumbles.</p>](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Me neither... I mean, it's a //dog//! You should have painted a ferocious cat, like me!" Vex preens.</p>]} ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)["Me neither... that thing was //mean//," Pixel grumbles.</p>](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["Me neither... she was //mean//," Pixel grumbles.</p>](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)["Me neither... I mean, it's a damn //dog//!" Pixel grumbles.</p>]} ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ "I second that," Pixel says. <p>"And I third it!" Vex says, eyes narrowing. (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)["That thing was //mean//."</p>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["She was //mean//."</p>] (if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)["I mean, it's a //dog//! You should have painted a ferocious cat, like me!"</p>] ] }{(if: $alone is true)[You pull your arm back, preparing to throw the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} as far as you can, when Fetter jumps to their feet, arms raised.</p>] (if: $alone is false)[You pull your arm back, ready to throw the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} as far as you can, when Fetter jumps to their feet, arms raised.</p>] }"STOP!" [[Listen to Fetter.->nothrow]] {(if: $alone is true)[[Forget Fetter, throw the stupid thing away.->yesthrow]] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[[Listen to Vex.->yesthrow]] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[[Listen to Pixel.->yesthrow]] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true) [[Listen to the cats.->yesthrow]]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You hesitate, and Nervo snatches the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} from you hand and runs off with it. "You have got to be kidding me," you groan, {(if: $alone is true)[and dash after him.](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[as Vex dashes after him, yowling.](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[as Pixel dashes after him, yowling.](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[as Pixel and Vex dash after him, yowling.]} No sooner have you rounded a junk heap than you see Fetter run headlong into Nervo. The //real// Nervo, that is. "What the //hell//?" he asks, rubbing his head. He looks ragged... dirty... gaunt. Dark circles ring his eyes, and his fingernails are chewed almost to the quick. {(if: $nervoblind is true)[He's not blind, though. Not this version, anyway.]} "Holy shit, how long have you two been down here?" you ask. "Oh not //that// long..." Fetter says as the leash materializes in their hand. "Nervo's struggled with it more than I have. I tried to get him to paint at first—something to keep him occupied, you know? The gallery gives //me// something to focus on, despite its obvious failings... But Nervo said there was no point in making paintings no one would ever see. Said there was no point in the gallery, either. He's just been..." Fetter makes a vague, wavering gesture. "Well, living in the junk heaps like a rodent, quite frankly." {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Vex mutters.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Pixel mutters.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Pixel mutters. Vex lets out a soft "mrrp" in agreement.</p>] }"I'll kill you!!" Nervo screams, launching himself at Fetter. [[Jump between them.->intervene]] [[Let them sort it out themselves.->nointervene]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(set: $threwkeepsake to true)}Fetter gasps in horror and raises their hands to their head as the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} spins through the air, just clearing the wall. You hear a faint thud on the other side, followed by a groan. "Owwwww.... what the hell?" A figure rounds the corner, looking at the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} in confusion and rubbing their head. You take a step back. "Nervo?" He looks ragged... dirty... gaunt. Dark circles ring his eyes, and his fingernails are chewed almost to the quick.{(if: $nervoblind is true)[He's not blind, though. Not this version, anyway.]} "How long have you two been down here?" you whisper to Fetter, who's already snatched the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} from Nervo. "Oh not //that// long..." they say, as the leash materializes in their hand. "Nervo's struggled with it more than I have. I tried to get him to paint at first—something to keep him occupied, you know? The gallery gives //me// something to focus on, despite its obvious failings... But Nervo said there was no point in making paintings no one would ever see. Said there was no point in the gallery, either. He's just been..." Fetter makes a vague, wavering gesture. "Well, living in the junk heaps like a rodent, quite frankly." {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Vex mutters.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Pixel mutters.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[<p>"Probably where he belongs..." Pixel mutters. Vex lets out a soft "mrrp" in agreement.</p>] }"I'll kill you!!" Nervo screams, launching himself at Fetter. [[Jump between them.->intervene]] [[Let them sort it out themselves.->nointervene]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"Wow, wow, Nervo! Let's all take a step back." Nervo looks at you in puzzlement. "We know each other?" [["Sure! We're friends."->friends]] [["Sure! We hate each other's guts."->nofriends]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) } Fetter dodges to the side, and Nervo stumbles, panting. When he finally manages to get back to his feet, he starts weakly slapping Fetter on the back. "Now, now..." Fetter says, "There's no need for that. We're all friends here." "Friends? //Friends//?!" Nervo cries, suddenly more energized. Fetter hunches his shoulders. "Oh alright, you and I are no longer friends, but what about our new {(if: $alone is true)[arrival](if: $alone is false)[arrivals]}?" Nervo pauses his attack, giving you a puzzled look. "What //about// our new {(if: $alone is true)[arrival](if: $alone is false)[arrivals]}?" [["//We're //friends!"->friends]] [["We hate each other's guts."->nofriends]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $alone is true)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He's a fellow painter—what's not to like?" <p>Nervo looks unconvinced. "I'm not usually popular with other painters... They're intimidated by my superior artistry."</p> <p>You take a deep breath. "Well, I might have been a// little// intimidated. I mean, the flying tiger—" you kiss your fingers. "She's really something!"</p> <p>Nervo's eyes light up with excitement. "Isn't she just? I say, an //artist// friend." He gives his head a small shake, as though he can't quite believe it. "I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company."</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false and $nervoblind is true)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He's a fellow painter—what's not to like?" <p>"Isn't that the guy I bli—" Vex starts to say, but you shush her.</p> <p>Nervo purses his lips, looking from your to Vex, then back again. "I'm not usually popular with other painters... They're intimidated by my superior artistry."</p> <p>You take a deep breath. "Well, I might have been a// little// intimidated. I mean, the flying tiger—" you kiss your fingers. "She's really something!"</p> <p>Nervo's eyes light up with excitement. "Isn't she just? I say, an //artist// friend." He gives his head a small shake, as though he can't quite believe it. "I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company."</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false and $nervoblind is false)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He's a fellow painter—what's not to like?" <p>"Quite a lot..." Vex mutters. You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "She's kidding..."</p> <p>Nervo looks from you to Vex, then back again. "Perhaps she is, perhaps she isn't. I'm not usually popular with other painters... They're intimidated by my superior artistry."<p/> <p>You take a deep breath. "Well, I might have been a// little// intimidated. I mean, the flying tiger—" you kiss your fingers. "She's really something!"</p> <p>Nervo's eyes light up with excitement. "Isn't she just? I say, an //artist// friend." He gives his head a small shake, as though he can't quite believe it. "I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company."</p> ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He's a fellow painter—what's not to like?" <p>"Quite a lot..." Pixel mutters. You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "He's kidding..."</p> <p>Nervo looks from you to Pixel, then back again. "Perhaps he is, perhaps he isn't. I'm not usually popular with other painters... They're intimidated by my superior artistry."</p> <p>You take a deep breath. "Well, I might have been a// little// intimidated. I mean, the flying tiger—" you kiss your fingers. "She's really something!"</p> <p>Nervo's eyes light up with excitement. "Isn't she just? I say, an //artist// friend." He gives his head a small shake, as though he can't quite believe it. "I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company."</p> ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He's a fellow painter—what's not to like?" <p>"Quite a lot..." Pixel mutters. You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "He's kidding..."</p> <p>"No, he's not," Vex says.</p> <p>Nervo looks between you, Pixel, and Vex. "That doesn't surprise me. I'm not usually popular with other painters... They're intimidated by my superior artistry."</p> <p>You take a deep breath. "Well, I might have been a// little// intimidated. I mean, the flying tiger—" you kiss your fingers. "She's really something!"</p> <p>Nervo's eyes light up with excitement. "Isn't she just? I say, an //artist// friend." He gives his head a small shake, as though he can't quite believe it. "I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company.</p> ]}"I'm standing right here..." Fetter says testily, but Nervo ignores them. His eyes go glassy, and then he hugs you. It's so unexpected you don’t even have a chance to react. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex swishes her tail back and forth in displeasure.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel swishes his tail back and forth in displeasure.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Vex swishes her tail back and forth in displeasure, and Pixel lets out a low, frustrated meow.]} Just as you go to pull away, Nervo starts to cry. "I've been so lonely!!" You cringe and pat him on the back awkwardly. "Don't worry, help is on the way," Fetter says, tugging the leash. [["No!!"->fightit]] [[It's not like you have a whole lot of options...->letithappen]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $alone is true)["Me and your artifex, I mean. He was a bit critical of a painting I did... among other things."] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Me and your artifex, I mean." <p>"Because he's an asshole," Vex says, scowling at Nervo.</p> <p>You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "She's just being protective! Your artifex was a bit critical of a painting I did..."</p> "Among other things..." Vex mutters under her breath.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Me and your artifex, I mean." <p>"Because he's an asshole," Pixel says, scowling at Nervo.</p> <p>You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "He's just being protective! Your artifex was a bit critical of a painting I did..."</p> "Among other things..." Pixel mutters under his breath.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Me and your artifex, I mean." <p>"Because he's an asshole," Pixel says, scowling at Nervo.</p> <p>You let out a nervous laugh and wave your hand dismissively. "He's just being protective! Your artifex was a bit critical of a painting I did..."</p> "Among other things..." Vex mutters under her breath.]} "Artistic rivalry, eh?" Nervo asks, lifting his chin a little. "My paintings really //are// something... I can see why you might be intimidated, but let's start fresh. I've been stuck down here for so long, with only Fetter for company." "I'm standing right here..." Fetter says testily, but Nervo ignores them. His eyes go glassy, and then he hugs you. It's so unexpected you don’t even have a chance to react. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex swishes her tail back and forth in displeasure.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel swishes his tail back and forth in displeasure.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Vex swishes her tail back and forth in displeasure, and Pixel lets out a low, frustrated meow.]} Just as you go to pull away, Nervo starts to cry. "I've been so lonely!!" You cringe and pat him on the back awkwardly. "Don't worry, help is on the way," Fetter says, tugging the leash. [["No!!"->fightit]] [[It's not like you have a whole lot of options...->letithappen]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $greenspider is true)[You look up, and see the massive spider rappelling from the roof of the cavern on a silk thread, its green eyes gleaming in the semi-dark.] (if: $crimsonspider is true)[You look up, and see the massive spider rappelling from the roof of the cavern on a silk thread, its crimson eyes gleaming in the semi-dark.] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[You look up, and see your she-demon's silhouette against the roof of the cavern, her large wings flapping as she circles lower and lower.] (if: $greenwraith is true)[You look up, and see green-tinged shadows drifting down from the roof of cavern, as if carried by an unseen wind.] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[You look up, and see green-tinged shadows drifting down from the roof of cavern, as if carried by an unseen wind.]} "No, no, no!!" Nervo cries, and dives head first into a junk heap. Fetter shakes their head. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)["So long as I have its keepsake, it won't hurt us!"](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["So long as I have her keepsake, she won't hurt us!"]} {(if: $alone is true)[You take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex arches her back and hisses as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel arches his back and hisses as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true) [Vex arches her back and hisses, while Pixel yowls loudly as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.]} "Aren't you forgetting something? Your artifex also has one of {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[its](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her]} keepsakes!" Fetter speaks slowly, as though explaining something to a child. "As you should know, the moment you take a second keepsake from a painting, the first one dissolves." You blink in surprise. "Oh..." "It's alright, Nervo. The demon is under my control. Come on out..." Fetter says. Nervo does not come out. "Give me that," you say, snatching the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} from Fetter's hand. "Don't trust me?" they ask, raising an eyebrow. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[ [["Of course I do! But it's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ [["Of course I do! But she's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ] (else:)[ [["Of course I do! But it's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"What are you doing?!" {(if: $greenspider is true)[You look up, and see the massive spider rappelling from the roof of the cavern on a silk thread, its green eyes gleaming in the semi-dark.] (if: $crimsonspider is true)[You look up, and see the massive spider rappelling from the roof of the cavern on a silk thread, its crimson eyes gleaming in the semi-dark.] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[You look up, and see your she-demon's silhouette against the roof of the cavern, her large wings flapping as she circles lower and lower.] (if: $greenwraith is true)[You look up, and see green-tinged shadows drifting down from the roof of cavern, as if carried by an unseen wind.] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[You look up, and see green-tinged shadows drifting down from the roof of cavern, as if carried by an unseen wind.]} "No, no, no!!" Nervo cries, and dives head first into a junk heap. Fetter shakes their head. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)["So long as I have its keepsake, it won't hurt us!"](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)["So long as I have her keepsake, she won't hurt us!"]} {(if: $alone is true)[You take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex arches her back and hisses as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel arches his back and hisses as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true) [Vex arches her back and hisses, while Pixel yowls loudly as you take a step back, ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble.]} "Aren't you forgetting something? Your artifex also has one of {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[its](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her]} keepsakes!" Fetter speaks slowly, as though explaining something to a child. "As you should know, the moment you take a second keepsake from a painting, the first one dissolves." You blink in surprise. "Oh..." "It's alright, Nervo. The demon is under my control. Come on out..." Fetter says. Nervo does not come out. "Give me that," you say, snatching the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bone]} from Fetter's hand. "Don't trust me?" they ask, raising an eyebrow. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[ [["Of course I do! But it's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ [["Of course I do! But she's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ] (else:)[ [["Of course I do! But it's //my// demon"->mydemon]] <p>[["Are you kidding? Of course I don't trust you!!"->mydemon]]</p> ]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }Fetter just shrugs. {(if: $alone is true)[You tense as] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex stands at your feet, ready to pounce as] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel stands at your feet, ready to pounce as] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex stand at your feet, ready to pounce as]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider lands in the middle of the 'gallery' and clicks its fangs at you.] (if: $greendemon is true)[your she-demon lands in the middle of the 'gallery.' She folds her wings behind her back and fixes you with those burning green eyes of hers.] (if: $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon lands in the middle of the 'gallery.' She folds her wings behind her back and fixes you with those burning crimson eyes of hers.] (if: $greenwraith is true)[the wraith's body materializes in the middle of the 'gallery.' It cocks its skeleton head at you, its flurorescent green eyes glowing in the semi-darkness of the cavern.] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's body materializes in the middle of the 'gallery.' It cocks its skeleton head at you, its crimson eyes glowing in the semi-darkness of the cavern.]} You clear your throat. "Hi there... Ah..." You trail off, unable to bring yourself to ask for help from this... {(if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[[[This //thing.//->thingdemon.]] <br/> [[This being.->beingdemon.]]] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[[[This //thing.//->thingdemon.]] <br/> [[This woman.->beingdemon.]] <br> [[This beautiful woman.->crushdemon.]]] } {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(set: $demoncrush to true)(set: $beingdemon to true)} {(if: $alone is true)["Ah..." you say again, unable to take your eyes off her. Is it your imagination, or does the corner of her mouth lift just a little?] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Ah..." you say again, unable to take your eyes off her. <p>Vex looks from you to the she-demon and back again and gives a disapproving meow, her ears flat against her head.</p> Is it your imagination, or does the corner of your she-demon's mouth lift just a little?] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Ah..." you say again, unable to take your eyes off her. <p>Pixel looks from you to the she-demon and back again. "Boss, don't even think about it!"</p> <p>But you can't think of anything else...</p> Is it your imagination, or does the corner of your she-demon's mouth lift just a little?] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Ah..." you say again, unable to take your eyes off her. <p>Vex looks from you to the she-demon and back again and gives a disapproving meow, her ears flat against her head.</p> <p>"Boss," Pixel says. "Don't even think about it!"</p> <p>But you can't think of anything else...</p> Is it your imagination, or does the corner of your she-demon's mouth lift just a little?]} "Oh, for goodness sake!" Fetter exclaims. "Just tell her we need her to go out there and tear all the paintings to shreds." "Except for yours!" you add hurriedly. "Definitely, definitely don't damage that one." Your she-demon's half-smile falters and she drops her gaze to the ground. Then it hits you—she’s afraid. [["Don't worry, you've got this!"->confident]] [["Once you destroy the artistovore's painting, we'll be right behind you..."->lessconfident]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(set: $thingdemon to true)}{ (if: $demonlover is true)[You love demons! In theory. In reality? They're pretty terrifying... {(if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[Even your she-demon. Forgetting she's not human?]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[And your spider is no exception. Forgetting it's not human?]} {(if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[And your wraith is no exception. Forgetting it's not human?]} That's one mistake you don't intend to make—lest it be your last. ]}{ (if: $demonlover is false)[Never for one second did you think you'd actually come face to face with one of the demons you painted. I mean sure, you sometimes got a glimpse of one when you went into a painting for a keepsake, but then you were out of there. These things were terrifying up close. And they //were// things. Forget they weren't human, and it might be the last mistake you ever make. ]} {(if: $alone is true)[ "Ah..." you say, unable to take your eyes off { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider's massive fangs. They're shiny and ever so sharp, as you're now painfully aware!] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon's bird-like feet. You see one of the talons is missing—the side one, that's like a mini thumb. <p>"Serves you right for digging it so deep into my back," you mutter under your breath.</p> <p>She crosses her arms and taps the foot impatiently.</p>] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's crimson eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's fluorescent green eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] } ] (else:)[ "Ah..." you say, unable to take your eyes off { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider's massive fangs. They're shiny and ever so sharp, as you're now painfully aware!] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon's bird-like feet. You see one of the talons is missing—the side one, that's like a mini thumb. <p>"Serves you right for digging it so deep into my back," you mutter under your breath.</p> <p>She crosses her arms and taps the foot impatiently.</p>] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's crimson eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's fluorescent green eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] } ]}{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex hisses.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel hisses.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex hiss.</p>] }"This gets us nowhere," Fetter says, wringing their hands impatiently. "Just tell {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]} we need {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]} to go out there and tear all the paintings to shreds." { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider lowers its body to the ground, and rubs its mouthparts together. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $greendemon is true)[Your she-demon arches a forest green eyebrow. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon arches a crimson eyebrow. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith cocks its head. "Except my own, presumably?"] } "Ah, right," you say, shrugging. That... honestly hadn't even crossed your mind. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider pulls its legs in close to its body and lowers itself so much you swear its abdomen must be touching the ground. It's scared!</p>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon drops her gaze to the ground and bites her lip. She's scared!</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith huffs again, and lies down on the ground like a regular dog. It's hard to tell, but you think it might even be giving you puppy dog eyes. You think it might be scared!</p>] }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex is still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for her to stop. "Yeah, Vex, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel is still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for him to stop. "Yeah, Pixel, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex are still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for them to stop. "Yeah, you two, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."</p>]}[["Don't worry, you've got this!"->confident]] [["Once you destroy the artistovore's painting, we'll be right behind you..."->lessconfident]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(set: $beingdemon to true)}{(if: $demonlover is true)[You love demons! In theory. In reality? They're pretty terrifying, but they're still living beings, deserving of respect.] }{ (if: $demonlover is false)[Never for one second did you think you'd actually come face to face with one of the demons you painted. I mean sure, you sometimes got a glimpse of one when you went into a painting for a keepsake, but then you were out of there. These things were terrifying up close, but they were still living beings, and they ought to be respected as such. ]} {(if: $alone is true)[ "Ah..." you say, unable to take your eyes off { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider's massive fangs. They're shiny and ever so sharp, as you're now painfully aware! It's hard not to hold a grudge, but you remind yourself the spider wasn't in control—at least, not completely...</p>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon's bird-like feet. You see one of the talons is missing—the side one, that's like a mini thumb. You want to tell her it serves her right for digging it so deep into your back, but you think better of it. I mean, did she even have a choice?</p>] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's crimson eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's fluorescent green eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] } ] (else:)[ "Ah..." you say, unable to take your eyes off { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider's massive fangs. They're shiny and ever so sharp, as you're now painfully aware! It's hard not to hold a grudge, but you remind yourself the spider wasn't in control—at least, not completely...</p>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon's bird-like feet. You see one of the talons is missing—the side one, that's like a mini thumb. You want to tell her it serves her right for digging it so deep into your back, but you think better of it. I mean, did she even have a choice?</p>] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's crimson eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] (if: $greenwraith is true)[the wraith's teeth. Did you really paint //that// many teeth? What were you thinking? <p>The skeleton dog's fluorescent green eyes bore into you as it lets out a huff of faintly glowing mist.</p>] }]}{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex hisses.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel hisses.</p>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex hiss.</p>] }"Hurry it up already," Fetter says, wringing their hands impatiently. "Just tell {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]} we need {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]} to go out there and tear all the paintings to shreds." { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider lowers its body to the ground, and rubs its mouthparts together. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $greendemon is true)[Your she-demon arches a forest green eyebrow. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon arches a crimson eyebrow. "Except my own, presumably?"] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith cocks its head. "Except my own, presumably?"] } That... honestly hadn't even crossed your mind. How had that not crossed your mind?! "Except your own!" {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider pulls its legs in close to its body and lowers itself so much you swear its abdomen must be touching the ground. It's scared!] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon drops her gaze to the ground and bites her lip. She's scared!] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith huffs again, and lies down on the ground like a regular dog. It's hard to tell, but you think it might even be giving you puppy dog eyes. You think it might be scared!]}{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex is still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for her to stop. "Yeah, Vex, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel is still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for him to stop. "Yeah, Pixel, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Pixel and Vex are still hissing at {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it]}. You signal for them to stop. "Yeah, you two, it's not you {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she's](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[it's]} afraid of—it's the artistivore."]} [["Don't worry, you've got this!"->confident]] [["Once you destroy the artistovore's painting, we'll be right behind you..."->lessconfident]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You turn to Fetter. "{(if: $thingdemon is true)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[It's](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[It's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[She's]}]}{(if: $beingdemon is true)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[They've](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[She's](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[They've]}]} got this, right?" "Of course!" Fetter says, giving a very unconvincing nod. "All going well..." You groan. "Look, I wouldn't ask you if there was any other way..." {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider slowly rises back up to its full height, and starts rubbing its front legs together.] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon gives a sad smile.] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith huffs one last time and slowly gets to its feet.]} "I understand. I'll give it my all, master." [["Whoah, whoah, I'm no one's master!"->notmaster]] [["Em... thanks."->master]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You turn to Fetter. "We //will// be right behind {(if: $thingdemon is true)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[it](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[it](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her]}] {(if: $beingdemon is true)[{(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[them](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[them]}]} } right?" Fetter gives a noncomittal shrug. "All going well..." You groan. "Look, I wouldn't ask you if there was any other way..." {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider slowly rises back up to its full height, and starts rubbing its front legs together.] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon gives a sad smile.] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith huffs one last time and slowly gets to its feet.]} "I understand. I'll give it my all, master." [["Whoah, whoah, I'm no one's master!"->notmaster]] [["Em... thanks."->master]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) } { (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ "As you wish," the spider says in its rumbling voice, before disappearing between the junk piles in a blur of scurrying legs. You spot it scaling the cavern wall a short time later. (if: $thingdemon is true)[That thing is] (if: $beingdemon is true)[They're] //fast//.</p> ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($demoncrush is true))[ "Well, isn't that a pity?" your she-demon says, winking at you. Before you can respond, she flaps her wings and takes flight. You crane your head back, watching her until she disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.</p> ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($demoncrush is false))[ "If you say so," your she-demon says with a shrug, then takes flight. You crane your head back, watching her until she disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.</p> ] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[ "As you command, no one's master," the wraith says in {(if: $thingdemon is true)[its](else-if: $beingdemon is true)[their]} raspy voice. Before you can respond, {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it disappears](else-if: $beingdemon is true)[they disappear]} in a cloud of crimson-tinged mist. You crane your head back, watching it swirl higher and higher until it disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.</p> ] (if: $greenwraith is true)[ "As you command, no one's master," the wraith says in {(if: $thingdemon is true)[its](else-if: $beingdemon is true)[their]} raspy voice. Before you can respond, {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it disappears](else-if: $beingdemon is true)[they disappear]} in a cloud of green-tinged mist. You crane your head back, watching it swirl higher and higher until it disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.</p> ] }{ (if: $alone is true)[ "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Vex says, lifting her nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>You cough. "Yeah, well, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Fetter mutters under their breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Pixel says, lifting his nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>"You call me boss! Anyway, you wouldn't get it, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Fetter mutters under their breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Vex says, lifting her nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>You cough. "Yeah, well, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Pixel mutters under his breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] } Fetter starts removing the paintings from the walls, surveying each one carefully before stacking them neatly onto the desk. "Now, we wait." [[Go find Nervo.]] [[Help Fetter.]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The spider disappears between the junk piles in a blur of scurrying legs. You spot it scaling the cavern wall a short time later. (if: $thingdemon is true)[That thing is] (if: $beingdemon is true)[They're] // fast//.<p> ] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon takes flight. <p>You crane your head back, watching her until she disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.<p/>] (if: $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith disappears in a cloud of red-tinged mist. You crane your head back, watching it swirl higher and higher until it disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.<p/>] (if: $greenwraith is true)[The wraith disappears in a cloud of green-tinged mist. You crane your head back, watching it swirl higher and higher until it disappears through the opening at the top of the cavern.<p/>] }{ (if: $alone is true)[ "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Vex says, lifting her nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>You cough. "Yeah, well, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Fetter mutters under their breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Pixel says, lifting his nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>"You call me boss! Anyway, you wouldn't get it, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Fetter mutters under their breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"Yeah, I won't be calling you master," Vex says, lifting her nose in the air disapprovingly.</p> <p>You cough. "Yeah, well, it's a demon thing."</p> <p>"//Sure// it is..." Pixel mutters under his breath.</p> You sigh. "So, what happens now?" ] } Fetter starts removing the paintings from the walls, surveying each one carefully before stacking them neatly onto the desk. "Now, we wait." [[Go find Nervo.]] [[Help Fetter.]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }{(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[You tell Vex to hang back as you search around.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[You tell Pixel to hang back as you search around.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[You tell Pixel and Vex to hang back as you search around.]} It doesn't take long to find Nervo's shelter. He's built it onto the back of //Partially Digested Artscapes// from broken bits of wood and yet more paint cans. The roof is just wooden beams with some tattered and torn canvas draped over it. {(if: $threwkeepsake is true)[You see a hole and wonder if that's where the {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider hair](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[talon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[bit of bone]} fell through and hit Nervo earlier.]} "Nervo? Are you in here?" you ask, ducking your head as you enter. The place is tiny. Your gaze is drawn to a drawing of Nervo's flying tiger. He’s put X’s through its eyes and surrounded it with flames. The demon must turned on him when Fetter's artifex got a hold of its keepsake, then. You sigh, and something rustles in the corner. There's some sort of... //nest// there, made from rubbish. "What do you want?" Nervo cries from inside. "I... I wanted to tell you we'll be getting out of here soon! Or, at least, I think we will." "You're getting your hopes up for nothing, there's no way out," he spits. You peek inside the nest and see he's curled in on himself completely, head tucked between his knees. "No, really! I sent my demon out. {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[It's](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[She's]} gonna destroy the artistivore painting. Fetter seems to think that'll do it." Nervo wipes his eyes and looks up at you. "He does? Really?" [["Really! So what are we waiting for?"->nervo2]] [["Really! So get a move on!"->nervo2]]{(set: $helpedfetterbefore to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"Need a hand?" you ask. Fetter looks surprised, maybe even a little embarrassed. "Oh, I suppose I wouldn't say //no//. I'm being silly, I know, but routine is ritual at this point... Secure the artwork, tidy up, make sure everything's all set for the next day's business! But there might not //be// a next day's business... Not in here. Maybe not out there, either." "It //was// pretty chaotic when I came through..." you admit. "But worst comes to worst, you can rebuild!" You raise your hands and twirl, taking in //Partially Digested Artscapes//. "I mean, you've done it before, and with nothing but old paint cans and scraps!" Fetter smiles. "You show me kindness. I'm not sure I deserve it, but I thank you for it, all the same." {(if: $demoncrush is false)[ <p>[[Flirt.->fettercrush]]</p> [[Don't fucking flirt, you idiot!->fetterew]] ] (else-if: $demoncrush is true)[ <p>[["Don't sweat it."->fetterneutral]]</p> [["You probably don't, but hey."->fettermean]] ] (else:)[ <p>[["Don't sweat it."->fetterneutral]]</p> [["You probably don't, but hey."->fettermean]] ]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You lower yourself to the ground, feeling so tired and sore you're not sure you ever want to get up again. Vex comes over and starts smushing her face into yours and purring. You fucking love cats. "It's good to have you back, Vex," you say as she curls up at your feet. "It's good to //be// back," she replies, yawning. "I just wish we were back //home.//" "Oh... yeah about that. I live in a shitty little flat now," you sigh. "It's a mess." Vex flicks her ears. "Well, maybe that's something we can work on if we ever get back... And by 'we,' I mean you, //obviously//." You reach over and scratch under her chin, and she purrs contentedly for a while until a sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the gallery's paint-can walls begin to topple. Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively as they make their way over to you. "Vex, come on," you say, gathering her in your arms and struggling to your feet. Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... (text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You lower yourself to the ground, feeling so tired and sore you're not sure you ever want to get up again. Pixel and Vex come over and start smushing their faces into yours and purring. You fucking love cats. Eventually, Vex curls up at your feet. Pixel, on the other hand, just sits, staring up at the cavern. "I know that look. What's up, Pixel?" He sighs. "I hate not knowing what's gonna happen next." Vex opens her one pistachio-green eye. "Nobody ever knows what's gonna happen next." "You know what I mean..." Pixel says. You scratch his favorite spot under his chin, and he closes his eyes, leaning in. "Here's what's gonna happen..." [["We're getting out of here, and we're going home."->homecats]] [["We're either getting out of here, or we're stuck here for the foreseeable."->stuckcats]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }You lower yourself to the ground, feeling so tired and sore you're not sure you ever want to get up again. Pixel comes over and starts smushing his face into yours and purring. You fucking love cats. After a while he sits on your lap, staring up at the cavern. "I know that look. What's up, Pixel?" He sighs. "I hate not knowing what's gonna happen next." "Nobody ever knows what's gonna happen next." "You know what I mean..." Pixel says. You scratch his favorite spot under his chin, and he closes his eyes, leaning in. "Here's what's gonna happen..." [["We're getting out of here, and we're going home."->homepixel]] [["We're either getting out of here, or we're stuck here for the foreseeable."->stuckpixel]]{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) }"You're not pulling some awful prank on me?" he asks. "We are friends?" "Eh... sure, why not," you say, and Nervo crawl-hops out of the nest. "We're getting out! //We're getting out!//" he cries, balling his fists in excitement. "What should I bring? This one?" he asks, eyeing one of his crumpled drawings. "Or maybe... Oh, who am I kidding, they're all terrible—but who cares? WE'RE GETTING OUT!! I can make new ones... I can get a new paint set... I can... I can..." He jumps for joy and you flinch, half-expecting the roof to collapse, but Nervo narrowly misses one of the beams. He hugs you again. "Promise we'll stay in touch?" You pat his back awkwardly again. "Sure..." "You //did //say we were friends." Nervo pulls back suddenly and looks you directly in the eyes. "Were we... more than friends?" [[Barf.->ewnervo]] {(if: $demoncrush is false)[ [[You're loathe to admit it, but Nervo //is// pretty hot...->crushnervo]] ] (else-if: $demoncrush is true)[ [["No. That demon you saw circling the cavern? She's my girlfriend. Or, you know... will be my girlfriend. I hope..."->demongfnervoshock]]] (else:)[ [[You're loathe to admit it, but Nervo //is// pretty hot...->crushnervo]] ]}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"No!!" Nervo just shrugs. "I didn't think so, you're not really my type... or on my level either, I just wanted to double check. Wouldn't want to go hurting your feelings, talking about other people, not realising what we had, you know?" "..." You just stare at him, open-mouthed. Before you can make an attempt at a response, there's a sudden, ear-piercing shriek, and the paint cans around you begin to topple. "Shit, come on!" you cry. The pair of you run back to //Partially Digested Artscapes//, where you find {(if: $alone is true)[Fetter](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex and Fetter] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel and Fetter] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Fetter and the cats] waiting.} Little remains of the gallery—Fetter must have dismantled it, which was fortunate. The ground is starting to shake, and if the area hadn't been cleared, you could have all been buried. You watch the wobbling junk heaps about the place apprehensively. {(if: $alone is true)[Nervo looks terrified. Fetter too, though they hid it better.](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5) } "Oh, I see!" Nervo says, eyes wide. There's a sudden, ear-piercing shriek, and the paint cans around you begin to topple. "Quickly!" you cry. The pair of you run back to //Partially Digested Artscapes//, where you find {(if: $alone is true)[Fetter](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex and Fetter] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[Pixel and Fetter] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Fetter and the cats] waiting.} Little remains of the gallery—Fetter must have dismantled it, which was fortunate. The ground is starting to shake, and if the area hadn't been cleared, you could have all been buried. You watch the wobbling junk heaps about the place apprehensively. {(if: $alone is true)[Nervo looks terrified. Fetter too, though they hid it better.](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms. Normally, she wouldn't be that obedient—she was obviously scared. You all were. "I've got you," you whisper into his fur, and he snuggles against your chest.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms. Normally, he wouldn't be that obedient—he was obviously scared. You all were. "I've got you," you whisper into his fur, and he snuggles against your chest.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms. "I've got you," you whisper as they snuggle against your chest.]} Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-coloured paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 12s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }{(set: $nervocrush to true)}"Not... exactly," you say, staring into his eyes. They were hazel, with little flecks of green and gold. "I mean, not because I wasn't interested or anything... we just didn't have much time together." "Well, yes, I am rather busy, you know, with the artistry and whatnot..." he says, examining some paint under his nails. "But, you know, maybe we could get a coffee some time?" You flinch, thinking back to the café. "Uh... yeah. Or maybe a drink? Like, an alcoholic drink?" Nervo smirks. "Saucy!" There's a sudden, ear-piercing shriek, and the paint cans around you begin to topple. "Quick!" you cry, and the pair of you run back to //Partially Digested Artscapes//, where you find {(if: $alone is true)[Fetter](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[Vex and Fetter] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true) or ($pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false))[Pixel and Fetter] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[Fetter and the cats] waiting.} You watch the wobbling junk heaps about the place apprehensively. {(if: $alone is true)[Nervo looks terrified. Fetter too, though they hid it better.](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true and $vexdead is true) or ($pixelswallowed is true and $foundvex is false))["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(track: 'belly', 'stop') (track: 'splat', 'play') (track: 'splat', 'volume', 3)}There's a loud splat, and suddenly you're all sprawled on the floor in //Voracious Artscapes'// back room. Everything's covered in paint—the floor, the walls, //you//... The painting of the artistivore has been reduced to scraps of canvas. {(if: $alone is true)["It worked!" you cry, jumping to your feet, which is, of course, a terrible idea. You nearly slip right back onto your ass. "Nervo? Fetter? You okay?"](if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["You okay, Vex?" She'd dug her claws in pretty good to hold onto you, but the cuts were nothing in comparison to the other injuries you'd suffered today. <p>"I've survived worse," she says, hopping down to the floor. She goes to lick some of the paint off her fur, then quickly sticks her tongue out at the bitter taste.<p/> "Nervo? Fetter? //You// okay?"](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["You okay, Pixel?" <p>He'd dug his claws in pretty good to hold onto you, but the cuts were nothing in comparison to the other injuries you'd suffered today.<p/> <p>"All good, boss," he says, hopping down to the floor. He goes to lick some of the paint off his fur, then quickly sticks his tongue out at the bitter taste.<p/> "Nervo? Fetter? //You// okay?"](if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats, you okay?" <p>They'd both dug their claws in pretty good to hold onto you, but the cuts were nothing in comparison to the other injuries you'd suffered today.<p/> <p>"All good, boss,"Pixel says, hopping down to the floor. Vex goes to lick some of the paint off her fur, then quickly sticks her tongue out at the bitter taste.<p/> "Nervo? Fetter? //You// okay?"]} Nervo is better than okay. Nervo is fucking dancing. Fetter, on the other hand, is walking around with their hands on their head, a look of utter horror on their face. The gallery is //quite// the mess. [["Don't worry, you'll have it good as new in no time!"->fettersproblem]] [["Don't worry, you and Nervo will have it good as new in no time!"->nervosproblem]] [["Don't worry! We'll have it good as new in no time!"->yourproblem]]"I don't know about //that//..." Fetter says, still surveying the damage. They pause, tilting their head to the side as if straining to hear something. You and Nervo do the same. {(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $foundvex is false)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cat.<p/> <p>Your former cat, that is.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you cry, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexdead is true)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cats.<p/> <p>Your former cats, that is.<p/> <p>Something catches in your throat when you think of Vex. Of how she died... But you have to focus on the present.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you ask, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)["It's Pixel!" Vex says. "He's hissing at someone..." <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met Pixel.<p/> The two of you didn't exactly part on the best of terms, but that doesn't mean you want to see him hurt. You dash out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs, with Vex quick on your heels.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel and Vex, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.]} { (if: $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>Sure enough, you find Pixel perched atop the welcome desk, hissing at (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith].</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] <p>"The gallerist..." (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider says wearily.] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon says wearily.] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith says wearily.]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>You find (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] standing in front of the welcome desk, (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $beingdemon is true)[clicking their fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $beingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $beingdemon is true)[swishing her tail in annoyance] (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $thingdemon is true)[clicking its fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $thingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $thingdemon is true)[swishing its tail in annoyance] at whoever's back there.</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] ] <p>You hear Nervo and the real Fetter come down the stairs behind you.</p> }[["Come on out, fake Fetter!"->ripfetter]]Nervo's eyebrows raise, and his dancing grinds to a halt. "Huh?" "That's quite alright," Fetter says. "This is my mess—" They pause, tilting their head to the side as if straining to hear something. You and Nervo do the same. {(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $foundvex is false)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cat.<p/> <p>Your former cat, that is.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you cry, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexdead is true)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cats.<p/> <p>Your former cats, that is.<p/> <p>Something catches in your throat when you think of Vex. Of how she died... But you have to focus on the present.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you ask, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)["It's Pixel!" Vex says. "He's hissing at someone..." <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met Pixel.<p/> The two of you didn't exactly part on the best of terms, but that doesn't mean you want to see him hurt. You dash out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs, with Vex quick on your heels.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel and Vex, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.]} { (if: $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>Sure enough, you find Pixel perched atop the welcome desk, hissing at (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith].</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] <p>"The gallerist..." (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider says wearily.] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon says wearily.] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith says wearily.]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>You find (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] standing in front of the welcome desk, (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $beingdemon is true)[clicking their fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $beingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $beingdemon is true)[swishing her tail in annoyance] (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $thingdemon is true)[clicking its fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $thingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $thingdemon is true)[swishing its tail in annoyance] at whoever's back there.</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] ] <p>You hear Nervo and the real Fetter come down the stairs behind you.</p> }[["Come on out, fake Fetter!"->ripfetter]]{(set: $helpedfetter to true)}Nervo's eyebrows raise, and his dancing grinds to a halt. "Huh?" "That's quite alright," Fetter says. "This is my mess—" They pause, tilting their head to the side as if straining to hear something. You and Nervo do the same. {(if: $pixelswallowed is false and $foundvex is false)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cat.<p/> <p>Your former cat, that is.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you cry, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexdead is true)["It's a cat!" you say. "A hissing cat!" <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met your cats.<p/> <p>Your former cats, that is.<p/> <p>Something catches in your throat when you think of Vex. Of how she died... But you have to focus on the present.<p/> "Pixel, is that you?" you ask, dashing out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is false and $vexswallowed is true)["It's Pixel!" Vex says. "He's hissing at someone..." <p>Fetter and Nervo exchange confused glances—why wouldn't they? This version of them has never met Pixel.<p/> The two of you didn't exactly part on the best of terms, but that doesn't mean you want to see him hurt. You dash out onto the mezzanine and down the stairs, with Vex quick on your heels.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[You know that {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[rumbling](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[sultry](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[raspy]} voice... "Come on!" you say to Pixel and Vex, dashing onto the mezzanine and down the stairs.]} { (if: $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>Sure enough, you find Pixel perched atop the welcome desk, hissing at (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith].</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] <p>"The gallerist..." (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider says wearily.] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon says wearily.] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith says wearily.]</p> ] (else:)[ <p>You find (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] standing in front of the welcome desk, (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $beingdemon is true)[clicking their fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $beingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $beingdemon is true)[swishing her tail in annoyance] (if: ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true) and $thingdemon is true)[clicking its fangs] (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and $thingdemon is true)[growling] (if: ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true) and $thingdemon is true)[swishing its tail in annoyance] at whoever's back there.</p> (if: $beingdemon is true)[ <p>You should probably give (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[her] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] a name. Or ask if (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[they have] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she has] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[they have] one already.</p> ] ] <p>You hear Nervo and the real Fetter come down the stairs behind you.</p> }[["Come on out, fake Fetter!"->ripfetter]]They slowly get to their feet and cry: "I don't want to die!" They're clutching a painting to their chest protectively. It must be the one the real Fetter did of //Voracious Artscapes.// [["No shit! We didn't want to die either, but you had us eaten alive."->nomercy]] [["Nobody wants you to die..."->mercy]] Fetter sighs. "Hand over the painting." Their artifex is sobbing now. {(text-style: "rumble")["No!"]} You gesture at { (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider](else-if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon](else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith], and (if: $thingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[it lunges] (else-if: $thingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[she lunges] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[they lunge] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[she lunges] forward with (if: $thingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[its] (else-if: $thingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[her] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[their] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[her] (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[fangs bared.] (else-if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[talons bared.] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[teeth bared.]} { (if: $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>Pixel ducks out of the way as (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider bites down on the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p> <p>"Fuck me!" Pixel cries, jumping down from the desk and shaking his fur out.</p>] (else-if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon slashes at the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p> <p>"Fuck me!" Pixel cries, jumping down from the desk and shaking his fur out.</p>] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith snaps at the painting, tearing a corner off. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p> <p>"Fuck me!" Pixel cries, jumping down from the desk and shaking his fur out.</p>] ] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true)[ <p> (if: $thingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true))[<p>It bites down on the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] (else-if: $thingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[<p>She slashes at the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] (else-if: $thingdemon is true and ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[It snaps at the painting, tearing a corner off. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true))[<p>They bite down on the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[<p>She slashes at the painting. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] (else-if: $beingdemon is true and ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true))[<p>They snap at the painting, tearing a corner off. Fetter's artifex explodes, spraying multi-coloured paint everywhere.</p>] ] }"Take that!" Nervo cries, and starts dancing again. Fetter clears their throat. "The gallery has been cleansed... Its paintings destroyed... Its demons exorcised, for the most part," they say, eyes flicking to your {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}. "Now it's time to rebuild..." Nervo pauses. "Em, there's still a demon in here... Am I the only one who can see that demon?" "I'll handle it," you say. Nervo shrugs and skips back upstairs. {(if: $alone is true)["You'd //better,//" Pixel says, skulking into a corner to preen himself.] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Handle it //how//?" Vex asks.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Handle it //how//, boss?" Pixel asks.] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Handle it //how//, boss?" Pixel asks.]} You turn to face {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the paint-splattered spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your paint-splattered she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[your paint-splattered wraith].} You can either destroy the painting, effectively killing { (if: ($thingdemon is true) and (($greenspider or $crimsonspider) is true))[it] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and (($greenspider or $crimsonspider) is true))[them] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and (($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) is true))[it] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and (($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) is true))[them] (else-if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon))[her] }, or you can hand the painting over and set { (if: ($thingdemon is true) and (($greenspider or $crimsonspider) is true))[it] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and (($greenspider or $crimsonspider) is true))[them] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and (($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) is true))[it] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and (($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) is true))[them] (else-if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon))[her] } free. {(if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[ [[Destroy her painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over her painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask her to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[ [[Destroy their painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over their painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask them to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[ [[Destroy her painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over her painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask her to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[ [[Destroy its painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over its painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask it to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else:)[ [[Destroy the painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over the painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask the demon to move in with you.->movein]] ]}{(set: $showedmercy to true)}"Oh, some of us //definitely //do..." Nervo says, rounding on them. "Wait!" the real Fetter cries, holding their hands in the air. "The gallery has been... //cleansed//. Its paintings destroyed... Its demons exorcised, for the most part," they say, eyes flicking to your {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}. "We need to rebuild. My artifex can help with that!" You shrug. "They could pass for a twin, I guess." "Are you kidding me?" Nervo asks, clearly appalled. "I was stuck in there for... for..." "For two weeks," Fetter says flatly. Nervo looks taken aback. "Two weeks? Is that all!" [["So we're good?"->notsogood]] [["I'm not sure about this..."->notsogood]] "I assure you, I will keep my artifex under close supervision," the real Fetter says. You shrug again. "So long as you don't send them into any more paintings..." "You have my word." Nervo kicks the welcome desk and storms off. "He'll come around," the real Fetter says with a smile, before giving you a searching look. { (if: $alone is true)[<p>"What's next for //you// two?"<p/>] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["What's next for the three of //you//?" <p>Three? Wow, you were going to need to rent a bigger flat.</p> <p>Then again, you didn't have to bring {(if: $beingdemon is true)[your](else-if: $thingdemon is true)[the](else:)[the]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](else-if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith](else:)[demon]} home with you.</p>] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["What's next for the four of //you//?"<p>Four? Wow, you were going to need to rent a bigger flat.</p> <p>Then again, you didn't have to bring {(if: $beingdemon is true)[your](else-if: $thingdemon is true)[the](else:)[the]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider](else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon](else-if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith](else:)[demon]} home with you.</p>] (else:)["What's //next//?"] }You can either destroy the painting, effectively killing {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider)[the spider](else-if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith)[the wraith](else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon)[your she-demon](else:)[your demon]}, or you can hand the painting over and set {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith and $beingdemon)[them](else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon)[her](else-if: $thingdemon)[the thing](else:)[your demon]} free. {(if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[ <p>[[Destroy her painting.->destroy]]<p/> <p>[[Hand over her painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask her to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[ <p>[[Destroy their painting.->destroy]]<p/> <p>[[Hand over their painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask them to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[ <p>[[Destroy her painting.->destroy]]<p/> <p>[[Hand over her painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask her to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[ <p>[[Destroy its painting.->destroy]]<p/> <p>[[Hand over its painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask it to move in with you.->movein]] ] (else:)[ <p>[[Destroy the painting.->destroy]] <p>[[Hand over the painting.->free]]<p/> [[Ask the demon to move in with you.->movein]] ]}{(if: $pixelswallowed is false)[ (set: $pixelpissed to true) (set: $catScore to it - 1) ]}Fetter gives you a knowing look and goes back upstairs. "Well, thanks for, you know... saving us," you say to {(if: $beingdemon is true)[your](if: $thingdemon is true)[the]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[spider.] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon.] (if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith.]} {(if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[They shuffle in place, fidgeting with their silk. "It was my pleasure—" they say in their low, rumbling voice. <p>Then they fucking explode.</p>] (if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[She twirls her tail in her hands nervously. "It was my pleasure—" she says in that seductive voice that crackles like flame. <p>Then she fucking explodes.</p>] (if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[They crouch slightly, tucking their tail behind them. "It was my pleasure—" they say in that raspy voice of theirs. <p>Then they fucking explode.</p>] (if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[It shuffles in place, fidgeting with its silk. "It was my pleasure—" it says in its low, rumbling voice. <p>Then it fucking explodes.</p>] (if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true))[She twirls her tail in her hands nervously. "It was my pleasure—" she says in that seductive voice that crackles like flame. <p>Then she fucking explodes.</p>] (if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[It crouches slightly, tucking its tail between its legs. "It was my pleasure—" it says in its raspy voice. <p>Then it fucking explodes.<p/>] }{"Holy shit!" you cry, wiping paint from your eyes. (if: ($pixelswallowed is false) and ($showedmercy is true))[ <p>"Holy fucking shit!" Pixel echoes. He was standing on the welcome desk right next to (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider,] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[the she-demon,] (if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith,] and his fur is now saturated in multi-colored paint. He blinks up at you, clearly unimpressed. "A little fucking warning next time would be nice!"</p> <p>"If I'd warned you, we'd probably be dead!"</p> <p>The two of you stare at one another, and Pixel whips his tail back and forth unhappily.</p> ] }{(if: ($demoncrush is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false))[<p>"Holy shit!" Pixel echoes. "And here I was worried you had a thing for her..."</p>] (if: ($demoncrush is true) and ($vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false))[<p>"Holy shit indeed!" Vex echoes. "And here I was worried you had a thing for her..."</p>] (if: ($demoncrush is true) and ($vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is true))[<p>"Holy shit!" Pixel echoes. "We were worried you had a //thing// for her..."</p>] }<p>The real Fetter comes running back downstairs. "You gave me the look!" they cry. "You //did //give me the look, didn't you?"</p>[["I did give you the look...->demonkiller]]{(set: $demonfree to true)}{(if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider takes it gingerly with their front legs, their eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the hair.<p/> <p>You flinch as the spider takes it between their mouthparts and drops it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly.<p/>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon takes it from you carefully, eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the talon.<p/> <p>She examines it for a moment, and then drops it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly.<p/>] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith takes it from you in their mouth, and carefully places it against one of the walls, eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the bone.<p/> <p>You half-expect the wraith to re-attach it, but instead, they drop it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly.<p/>] ]}{(if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider takes it gingerly with its front legs, eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the hair.<p/> <p>You flinch as the spider takes it between its mouthparts and drops it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly<p/>] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon takes it from you carefully, eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the talon.<p/> <p>She examines it for a moment, and then drops it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly.<p/>] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith takes it from you in its mouth, and carefully places it against one of the walls, eyes searching the mostly blank canvas. <p>"Oh, and you should probably have this too," you say, handing over the bone.<p/> <p>You half-expect the wraith to re-attach it, but instead, the wraith drops it into the painting. The leash in your hand disappears instantly.<p/>] ]}{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ "Wow, are you really sure you want to unleash a //demon// on the world?" Pixel asks. <p>You wave a hand dismissively. "It'll be //fine//..."</p> <p>[["So, now //that's// sorted..."->goodbyes]]</p> ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ "Wow, are you really sure you want to unleash a bonafide //demon// on the world?" Vex asks. <p>"She has a point, boss," Pixel says.<p/> <p>You wave a hand dismissively. "It'll be //fine//..."</p> <p>[["So, now //that's// sorted..."->goodbyes]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ "Wow, are you really sure you want to unleash a bonafide //demon// on the world?" Vex asks. <p>You wave a hand dismissively. "It'll be //fine//..."</p> <p>"She has a point, boss," Pixel says from the corner.<p/> <p>"Oh, so now I'm the boss again?" you ask irritably. "Look, I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with us if you want."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with us if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true)["Boss, have you lost your fucking mind?" Pixel asks from the corner. <p>"Oh, so now I'm the boss again?" you ask irritably. "Look, I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with us if you want."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with us if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ]}{(set: $demonflat to true)}You clear your throat. {(if: $alone is true)[ "You know, you're welcome to come live with me if you want... I mean, it's a small flat and a bit of a mess, but we'd figure it out..." ](else:)[ "You know, you're welcome to come live with us if you want... I mean, it's a small flat and a bit of a mess, but we'd figure it out..." ]} {(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The spider twitches. "Can I bring my dolly?" <p>You grimace. "You mean that meat puppet thing?"</p> <p>The spider nods overzealously.</p> <p>"Eh... sure, I guess."</p> <p>The spider does a little hop.</p> ] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ Your she-demon twitches her wings. "Does it have a balcony?" <p>"God no!" you laugh. "But I can get you rooftop access, which is to say I can get you some bolt cutters."</p> <p>She grins. "Sounds perfect."</p> ] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith averts your gaze. "Does it have a garden?" <p>"God no!" you laugh. "But there's a park around the corner, and you can essentially teleport, so good enough, right? Go there at night! Your glowing eyes and Halloween vibe will freak the fuck out of my landlord—it'll be hilarious!"</p> <p>The wraith cocks its head, as if considering. Then it nods and wags its tail.</p> <p>"Awesome," you say.</p> ]}{(if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ "Boss, have you lost your fucking mind?" Pixel asks, shaking his head. <p>You ignore him.</p> <p>[["So, now //that's// sorted..."->goodbyes]]</p> ] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ "Boss, have you lost your fucking mind?" Pixel asks, shaking his head. <p>"What he said..." Vex grumbles.</p> <p>You ignore them.</p> <p>[["So, now //that's// sorted..."->goodbyes]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ "Wow, just wow," Vex says. <p>You ignore her.</p> "She has a point, boss," Pixel says from the corner. <p>"Oh, so now I'm the boss again?" you ask irritably. "Look..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want. I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true)["Boss, have you lost your fucking mind?" Pixel asks from the corner. <p>"Oh, so now I'm the boss again?" you ask irritably. "Look..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want. I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ]}{(set: $demonkiller to true)}Fetter gives a faint smile of relief. Then their eyes drift to the mess of splattered paint left by { (if: $beingdemon is true)[your] (if: $thingdemon is true)[the] (if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[spider] (if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[wraith]}, and the smile disintegrates.{(if: $showedmercy is true)["Right then, other me," they say. "Time to make yourself useful." <p>Their artifex comes out from where they were hiding behind the welcome desk. They're still holding the gallery painting wrapped tightly against their chest.</p> <p>"It's alright..." Fetter says patiently. "You can put that down; we won't do anything to it."</p> <p>Their artifex looks around for a clean spot, finally placing it by the window on the other side of the entrance room. They come back with a sheepish look on their face. "For what it's worth, I'm sorry," they say, finally.</p> <!-- Case 1: apologised true, pix swallowed true --> (if: $apologisedp is true and $pixelswallowed is true)[ <p>Where had you heard //that// before. You take a breath. "Don't worry about it. I'm told I can be a bit of an asshole myself, at times."</p> <p>Pixel looks up at you with a smile and slow-blinks in acknowledgment. You pick him up and cuddle him close.</p> (if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex clears her throat, and you roll your eyes before picking her up too. Some people say there's no such thing as too many cats, and those people are 100% right, but Vex is big and heavy. You're going to need to work on your upper body strength if you want to carry the two of them around like this.</p> ] [["So..."->goodbyes]] ] <!-- Case 2: apologised true, pix swallowed false --> (else-if: $apologisedp is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>Where had you heard //that// before. You take a breath. "Don't worry about it. I'm told I can be a bit of an asshole myself, at times."</p> <p>Pixel sighs. "At least you can acknowledge that fact."</p> <p>You raise an eyebrow.</p> <p>[["You can be a bit of an asshole too at times, let's be honest. And these people are no different! If you'd rather take your chances with them, that’s your call. But there’s always a place for you in my home, if you want it."->pixelhomecheck+1]]</p> (if: $alone is true)[ <p>[["You can come home with me if you want, but I'm not apologising for being who I am."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> ] (else-if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>[["You can come home with us if you want, but I'm not apologising for being who I am."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> ] <p>[["Get over it, Pixel."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] <!-- Case 3: apologised false, pix swallowed true --> (else-if: $apologisedp is false and $pixelswallowed is true)[ <p>"You hear that boss?" Pixel asks. "An apology. What an //interesting //concept..."</p> <p>You narrow your eyes. "What have //I// got to apologise for?"</p> (if: $catScore <= 1)[ <p>"You almost got us killed! Also, you can be a bit of an asshole sometimes."</p> <p>You look down at Pixel, affronted. "//I// can be a bit of an asshole?"</p> <p>"It's okay," he says. "I forgive you."</p> (if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"Same," Vex says.</p> <p>"What do you mean, same? When was I ever an asshole to //you//?"</p> <p>"Oh... you were an asshole," Vex chuckles and goes back to preening herself.</p> ] [["Unbelievable..."->goodbyes]] <!-- Link for catScore <= 1 --> ] (else-if: $catScore >= 2 and $catScore < 3)[ <p>"You almost got us killed! But yeah, aside from that, you're not the worst."</p> <p>"Not the worst? //Ouch//," you say, smiling.</p> (if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"You //are// a little stingy with the cat treats..." Vex chimes in.</p> <p>"YES!!" Pixel says, pupils going wide. "We want more //Chonkers Meaty//—"</p> <p>"//Chonkers Meaty Sticks//, okay, okay I get the hints!"</p> ] You yawn, suddenly [[exhausted.->goodbyes]] <!-- Link for catScore >= 2 and < 3 --> ] (else-if: $catScore >= 3)[ <p>"You almost got us killed! But yeah, aside from that, I can't complain."</p> <p>You smile and go to give him a rub, but think better of it when you see the paint matted into his fur.</p> (if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"Yup, you're the best," Vex chimes in. "But if you want to be better than the best, more cat treats please."</p> <p>"YES!!" Pixel says, pupils going wide. "We want more //Chonkers Meaty//—"</p> <p>"//Chonkers Meaty Sticks//, okay, okay I get the hints!"</p> ] You yawn, suddenly [[exhausted.->goodbyes]] <!-- Link for catScore >= 3 --> ] ] <!-- Case 4: apologised false, pix swallowed false --> (else-if: $apologisedp is false and $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>"Wow, you hear that boss?" Pixel asks. "An apology. What an //interesting //concept..."</p> <p>You roll your eyes.</p> <p>[["Look, I’m sorry I’m an asshole, okay? But newsflash—sometimes, you can be an asshole too, and these people are no different! If you'd rather take your chances with them, that’s your call. But there’s always a place for you in my home, if you want it."->pixelhomecheck+1]]</p> (if: $alone is true)[ <p>[["You can come home with me if you want, but I'm not apologising for being myself."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> ] (else-if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>[["You can come home with us if you want, but I'm not apologising for being myself."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> ] <p>[["Get over it, Pixel."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] ] } {(if: $showedmercy is false)["I'll go find a bucket..." they mutter, disappearing into the back. (if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[ <p>"Pixel..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want. I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with us too if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] (else-if: ($alone is true) or ($vexswallowed is false and $pixelswallowed is false))[ <p>"Pixel..."</p> <p>[["You can come home with me if you want. I'm willing to work with a clean slate if you are."->pixelhomecheck+0]]</p> <p>[["You can come home with me if you want, just don't give me any shit."->pixelhomecheck-1]]</p> ] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[ <p>"That was the right decision boss. At least I //think// it was..." Pixel says.</p> <p>You sigh. "I mean it was a demon!"</p> <p>"Uh huh..."</p> <p>The two of you stare at the mess of paint for a while, saying nothing.</p> [["So..."->goodbyes]] ] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>"That was the right decision boss. At least I //think// it was..." Pixel says.</p> <p>You sigh. "I mean it was a demon!"</p> <p>"Absolutely!" Vex says a little unconvincingly.</p> <p>The three of you stare at the mess of paint for a while, saying nothing.</p> [["So..."->goodbyes]] ] ]}{(if: $apologisedp is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 2) ]} {(if: $catScore >= 0)[ Pixel slowly walks over to you, his head hanging low. "I'll come home." {(set: $pixelreunited to true)} <!-- Pixel has decided to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex purrs and brushes up against him.</p> ]} <p>[["Cool," you say with a nod.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Awesome!" you cry, scooping him up for a hug.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} {(if: $catScore < 0)[ "It's probably best if we part ways. So long, boss," Pixel says, slinking off into the gallery. {(set: $pixelreunited to false)} <!-- Pixel has refused to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex does a soft, sad-sounding purr.</p> ]} <p>[["Okay, best of luck!" you call after him.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Fine, be like that then..." you mutter.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} {(set: $catScore to it +1)} {(if: $apologisedp is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 2) ]} {(if: $catScore >= 0)[ Pixel slowly walks over to you, his head hanging low. "I'll come home." {(set: $pixelreunited to true)} <!-- Pixel has decided to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex purrs and brushes up against him.</p> ]} <p>[["Cool," you say with a nod.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Awesome!" you cry, scooping him up for a hug.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} {(if: $catScore < 0)[ "It's probably best if we part ways. So long, boss," Pixel says, slinking off into the gallery. {(set: $pixelreunited to false)} <!-- Pixel has refused to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex does a soft, sad-sounding purr.</p> ]} <p>[["Okay, best of luck!" you call after him.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Fine, be like that then..." you mutter.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} {(set: $catScore to $catScore - 1)} {(if: $apologisedp is true)[ (set: $catScore to $catScore + 2) ]} {(if: $catScore >= 0)[ Pixel slowly walks over to you, his head hanging low. "I'll come home." {(set: $pixelreunited to true)} <!-- Pixel has decided to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex purrs and brushes up against him.</p> ]} <p>[["Cool," you say with a nod.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Awesome!" you cry, scooping him up for a hug.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} {(if: $catScore < 0)[ "It's probably best if we part ways. So long, boss," Pixel says, slinking off into the gallery. {(set: $pixelreunited to false)} <!-- Pixel has refused to come home --> {(if: $vexswallowed is true)[ <p>Vex does a soft, sad-sounding purr.</p> ]} <p>[["Okay, best of luck!" you call after him.->goodbyes]]</p> <p>[["Fine, be like that then..." you mutter.->goodbyes]]</p> ]} { <!-- Help Fetter, no crush --> (if: $helpedfetter is true and $fettercrush is false)[ (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>Vex hops down and sits in the window. "I'll wait here!"</p> <p>Pixel shrugs and joins her. [["Have fun!"->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>Vex hops down and sits in the window. [["I'll wait here!"->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>Pixel hops down and sits in the window. [["I'll wait here!"->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ [["Time to go help Fetter, I guess...->tidytime]] ] ] }{ <!-- Help Fetter, with crush --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is true and $fettercrush is true)[ (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>"Why, do you have a crush on them or something?" Pixel asks. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p>Pixel's eyes go wide. "You're not denying the crush... Why are you not denying the crush?"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. They are not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs, and the //sides// of the chairs, and—"</p> <p>Vex clears her throat. "Those are //my// sleeping spots, you can have the floor."</p> <p>Pixel flicks his ears back in annoyance.</p> <p>"There's plenty of space," you say, raising your hands. "Look, I'm just helping Fetter tidy up—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"For //now//..." he grumbles.</p> <p>[["For now."->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>"Why, do you have a crush on them or something?" Vex asks. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p>Vex's eyes go wide. "You //do// have a crush on them!"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"They are //not// moving in with us," Vex insists. "The sleeping spots are all mine—the chairs, the //sides// of the chairs..."</p> <p>"Look, I'm just helping Fetter tidy up—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"For //now//..." she grumbles.</p> <p>[["For now."->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ "What do you say we go help Fetter tidy up?" <p>"Why, do you have a crush on them or something?" Pixel asks. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p>Pixel's eyes go wide. "You're not denying the crush... Why are you not denying the crush?"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. They are not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs. The //sides// of the chairs too, and—"</p> <p>"Look, I'm just helping Fetter tidy up—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"For //now//..." he grumbles.</p> <p>[["For now."->tidytime]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ [["Time to go help Fetter, I guess...->tidytime]] ] ] <!-- Fetter crush, no help --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is false and $fettercrush is true)[ (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Fetter, then we're out of here." <p>"Fuck Fetter!" Pixel cries. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p>Vex's eyes go wide. "Oh my god you have a crush... and it's on the worst person ever!"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. They are not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs, and the //sides// of the chairs, and—"</p> <p>Vex clears her throat. "Those are //my// sleeping spots, you can have the floor."</p> <p>Pixel flicks his ears back in annoyance.</p> <p>"There's plenty of space," you say, raising your hands. "Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Fetter—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not// yet//..." Pixel grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byefettercrush]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Fetter, then we're out of here." <p>"//Fetter//?" Vex blinks in surprise. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p><p>"Eh..."</p> <p>Vex's eyes go wide. "Oh my god you have a crush... and it's on the worst person ever!"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"They are //not// moving in with us," Vex insists. "The sleeping spots are all mine—the chairs, the //sides// of the chairs..."</p> <p>"Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Fetter—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not// yet//..." Vex grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byefettercrush]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Fetter, then we're out of here." <p>"Fuck Fetter!" Pixel cries. "They fed us to an artistivore!"</p> <p>"That was their artifex."</p> <p>Pixel's eyes go wide. "Oh my god you have a crush... and it's on the worst person ever!"</p> <p>"Eh..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. They are not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs, and the //sides// of the chairs, and—"</p> <p>"Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Fetter—they're not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not// yet//..." Pixel grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byefettercrush]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ [["Guess I'll go say goodbye to Fetter..."->byefettercrush]] ] ] <!-- Nervo crush, no Fetter help --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is false and $nervocrush is true)[ (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Nervo, then we're out of here." <p>"Fuck Nervo!" Pixel cries. "He's the absolute worst!"</p> <p>You roll your eyes. "He's not that bad..."</p> <p>Pixel's jaw drops. "Oh my god you have a crush... And it's on an utter asshole!"</p> <p>"He's not an //utter// asshole either..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. He is not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs. The //sides// of the chairs too, and—"</p> <p>Vex clears her throat. "Those are //my// sleeping spots, you can have the floor."</p> <p>Pixel flicks his ears back in annoyance.</p> <p>"There's plenty of space," you say, raising your hands. "Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Nervo—he's not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not //yet//..." Pixel grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byenervocrush]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Nervo, then we're out of here." <p>"Fuck Nervo!" Vex cries. "He's the worst!"</p> <p>You roll your eyes. "He's not that bad..."</p> <p>Vex gives you a look. "Yes, he is. You finally have a crush... And it's on an utter asshole!"</p> <p>"He's not an //utter// asshole either..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. He is not moving in with us," Vex insists. "The sleeping spots are all mine—the chairs, the //sides// of the chairs..."</p> <p>"Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Nervo—he's not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not //yet//..." Vex grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byenervocrush]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ "I'm just gonna say goodbye to Nervo, then we're out of here." <p>"Fuck Nervo!" Pixel cries. "He's the absolute worst!"</p> <p>You roll your eyes. "He's not that bad..."</p> <p>Pixel's jaw drops. "Oh my god you have a crush... And it's on an utter asshole!"</p> <p>"He's not an //utter// asshole either..."</p> <p>"Oh, no, no, no. He is not moving in with us," Pixel insists. "The poof is //my// sleeping spot. And the chairs. The //sides// of the chairs too, and—"</p> <p>"Look, I’m just saying goodbye to Nervo—he's not moving in!"</p> <p>"Not yet..." Pixel grumbles.</p> <p>[["Not yet."->byenervocrush]]</p> ] (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ [["Guess I'll go say goodbye to Nervo..."->byenervocrush]] ] ] <!-- Demon flat, no crushes no help --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is false and $nervocrush is false and $fettercrush is false and $demonflat is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, what are we waiting for?" you ask (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith]. "Let's get out of here!" <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] following close behind.</p> <p>Hopefully, the two of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//. <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Pixel and Vex nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Pixel and Vex, and growls mischievously at them before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Such a bad idea bringing a demon home..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex steps out onto the street. "Don't worry, it won't last," she says, trotting after you.</p> <p>"Pixel, let's go!" you call, and he finally starts moving.</p> <p>Hopefully, the four of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//. <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Vex nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Vex, and growls mischievously at her before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Such a bad idea bringing a demon home..." Vex mutters to herself, trotting after you.</p> <p>Hopefully, the three of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//. <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Pixel nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Pixel, and growls mischievously at him before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Such a bad idea bringing a demon home..." Pixel mutters to himself, trotting after you.</p> <p>Hopefully, the three of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] ] <!-- Demon free, no crushes, no help --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is false and $nervocrush is false and $fettercrush is false and $demonfree is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, I'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>(if: $demoncrush is true)["Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Pixel mutters, trotting after you.](else:)["Good riddance," Pixel mutters, trotting after you.]</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>(if: $demoncrush is true)["Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Vex mutters, trotting after you.](else:)["Good riddance," Vex mutters, trotting after you.]</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] (if: $demoncrush is true)[ <p>"Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> ] (else:)[ <p>"Good riddance," Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> ] <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] ] <!-- Go home if no obligations --> (else-if: $helpedfetter is false and $nervocrush is false and $fettercrush is false and $demonkiller is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Pixel mutters, trotting after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Vex mutters, trotting after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] ] }{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"You know that for sure?" Pixel asks, sounding dubious. "I know that for sure," you say reassuringly. "You're full of shit!" he says with a smile, then curls up on your lap. "Home... Where is that exactly?" Vex asks. "Shitty little flat," Pixel murmurs. "It's a mess, too." Vex flicks her ears. "Well, maybe we can work on that... And by 'we,' I mean you two, obviously." Pixel starts snoring. There's a sudden, ear-piercing shriek, and the gallery's paint-cans walls begin to topple. Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively as they make their way over to you. "Pixel, Vex, come on," you say, gathering them in your arms and struggling to your feet. Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... (text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"Stuck in another painting, //wonderful//," Vex says, rolling her eye. "Honestly, it's not much worse than home," Pixel says, curling up on your lap. "Except that there are no //Chonkers Meaty Sticks// in sight..." "How could this place //possibly// be worse than home?" Vex asks. "Home is a shitty little flat," Pixel murmurs. "It's a mess, too." Vex flicks her ears. "Well, maybe that's something we can work on if we ever get back... And by 'we,' I mean you two, obviously." Pixel starts snoring. There's a sudden, ear-piercing shriek, and the gallery's paint-can walls begin to topple. Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively as they make their way over to you. "Pixel, Vex, come on," you say, gathering them in your arms and struggling to your feet. Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... (text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"You know that for sure?" Pixel asks, sounding dubious. "I know that for sure," you say reassuringly. "You're full of shit!" he says with a smile, then curls up on your lap. "Am not! We're getting home to our shitty little flat. How //exciting//." He flicks his ears. "Yeah well, maybe we can work on making it a little //less// shitty... And by 'we,' I mean you, obviously." "Maybe..." you whisper, and Pixel starts snoring until a sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the gallery's paint-can walls begin to topple. Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively as they make their way over to you. "Pixel, come on," you say, gathering him in your arms and struggling to your feet. Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... (text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]] {(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"I guess it's not //that// much worse than home," Pixel says, curling up on your lap. "Except that there are no //Chonkers Meaty Sticks// in sight..." "Seriously?" "We live in a small, shitty flat. And it's always a mess!" he mutters. You sigh. "Yeah..." He flicks his ears. "Maybe we can work on making it a little //less// shitty if we ever get back... And by 'we,' I mean you, obviously." "Maybe..." you whisper, and Pixel starts snoring until a sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the gallery's paint-can walls begin to topple. Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively as they make their way over to you. "Pixel, come on," you say, gathering him in your arms and struggling to your feet. Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... (text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]{(set: $fettercrush to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 10s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"Oh, I’m sure you deserve a lot more than just kindness." You wink, and Fetter blushes. "I... um..." They just keep opening and closing their mouth and rubbing the back of their neck. "Maybe if we ever get out of here we could, you know, hang out?" They give you a big, wide, dazzling smile. "Yes! I would like that very much," they finally manage to say. You smile back, until a sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the gallery's paint-can walls begin to topple. Fetter places a protective hand around you as Nervo reappears. "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms. Normally, she wouldn't be that obedient—she was obviously scared. You all were.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms. Normally, he wouldn't be that obedient—he was obviously scared. You all were.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(set: $spokeregallery to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 12s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }"Don't sweat it," you say, and the two of you start taking down some of the paint cans. "You know, I really did want to find talented artists for my gallery... Maybe if we get out of here, you could bring in some of your work? I'd love to see it. If it's a good fit for the gallery—if indeed there still //is// a gallery—maybe we could put an exhibition together." You smile. {(if: $artstarchild is true)["I would //love// that." <p>"Wonderful!" Fetter says, holding out their hand. You shake it.</p>] (if: $selfmade is true)["Yeah, maybe! When the time is right... For now, I'd settle just for being able to make my rent." <p>"Ah," Fetter says, lip curling. "Well in that case, perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."</p> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.</p>] (if: $simplelife is true)["Oh no, it's the simple life for me. I've had enough of galleries to last a lifetime—no offense!" <p>Fetter looks disappointed, but nods. "Understandable... Perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."</p> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.</p>] }A sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the paint cans you didn't get to begin to topple. Nervo reappears, shouting: "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(set: $spokeregallery to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 12s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }Fetter smiles, and the two of you start taking down some of the paint cans. "You know, I really did want to find talented artists for my gallery... Maybe if we get out of here, you could bring in some of your work? I'd love to see it. If it's a good fit for the gallery—if indeed there still //is// a gallery—maybe we could put an exhibition together." {(if: $artstarchild is true)["I would //love// that." <p>"Wonderful!" Fetter says, holding out their hand. You shake it.<p/>] (if: $selfmade is true)["Yeah, maybe! When the time is right... For now, I'd settle just for being able to make my rent." <p>"Ah," Fetter says, lip curling. "Well in that case, perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."<p/> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.<p/>] (if: $simplelife is true)["Oh no, it's the simple life for me. I've had enough of galleries to last a lifetime—no offense!" <p>Fetter looks disappointed, but nods. "Understandable... Perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."<p/> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.<p/>] }A sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the paint cans you didn't get to begin to topple. Nervo reappears, shouting: "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} {(set: $spokeregallery to true)}{(track: 'belly', 'loop', true) (track: 'belly', 'playwhenpossible') (track: 'belly', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'belly', 'fadein', 2) (live: 12s)[(track: 'shriek', 'play') (track: 'shriek', 'volume', 0.5)] }Fetter grimaces, and the two of you start taking down some of the paint cans. "You know, I really did want to find talented artists for my gallery... Maybe if we get out of here, you could bring in some of your work? I'd love to see it. If it's a good fit for the gallery—if indeed there still //is// a gallery—maybe we could put an exhibition together." You smile. {(if: $artstarchild is true)["I would //love// that." <p>"Wonderful!" Fetter says, holding out their hand. You shake it.<p/>] (if: $selfmade is true)["Yeah, maybe! When the time is right... For now, I'd settle just for being able to make my rent." <p>"Ah," Fetter says, lip curling. "Well in that case, perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."<p/> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.<p/>] (if: $simplelife is true)["Oh no, it's the simple life for me. I've had enough of galleries to last a lifetime—no offense!" <p>Fetter looks disappointed, but nods. "Understandable... Perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."<p/> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.<p/>] }A sudden, ear-piercing shriek fills the cavern, and the paint cans you didn't get to begin to topple. Nervo reappears, shouting: "What the fuck was //that//?" "That's what we've been waiting for..." Fetter says, eyeing the wobbling junk heaps apprehensively. {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)["Vex? To me!" you say, and she jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)["Pixel? To me!" you say, and he jumps into your arms.<p/>] (if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)["Cats? To me!" you say, and they both leap up into your arms.<p/>] }Everything around you starts to... //melt//. The junk heaps transform into multi-colored paint, sloshing this way and that as the cavern shakes. Then, that //too// turns to paint. You're swept off your feet... {(if: $vexswallowed is true and $pixelswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Vex!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is false)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, Pixel!"->splat]]]] (else-if: $pixelswallowed is true and $vexswallowed is true)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["Hold on, cats!"->splat]]]] (else:)[(text-style: "rumble")[[["This was a terrible idea!!"->splat]]]]} Everything hurt... Your { (if: $crackedrib is true)[ribs where the troll kicked you.. Your ] (if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true) and ($legbitten is true and $thingdemon is true))[leg where the wraith grabbed you... Your neck where it dug its teeth in... Not to mention your back, where it pinned you with its entire weight... Your ] (if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true) and ($legbitten is true and $beingdemon is true))[leg where the wraith grabbed you... Your neck where they dug their teeth in... Not to mention your back, where they pinned you with their entire weight... Your ] (if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true) and ($legbitten is false and $thingdemon is true))[neck where the wraith dug its teeth in... Not to mention your back, where it pinned you with its entire weight... Your ] (if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true) and ($legbitten is false and $beingdemon is true))[neck where the wraith dug their teeth in... Not to mention your back, where they pinned you with their entire weight... Your ] (if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true) and ($thingdemon is true))[shoulder where the spider pinned you with its legs, and your neck where it pinched you with its fangs... Your ] (if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true) and ($beingdemon is true))[shoulder where the spider pinned you with their legs, and your neck where they pinched you with their fangs... Your ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($choked is true) and ($lashedcheek is true))[larynx, from when your she-demon choked you earlier, and your cheek where she lashed you with her tail... Not to mention your back, where she dug her talons in... Your ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($choked is true) and ($lashedcheek is false))[larynx, from when your she-demon choked you earlier... Not to mention your back, where she dug her talons in... Your ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($choked is false) and ($lashedcheek is true))[cheek where your she-demon lashed you with her tail earlier... Not to mention your back, where she dug her talons in... Your ] (if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($choked is false) and ($lashedcheek is false))[neck, where your she-demon grabbed you earlier... Not to mention your back where she dug her talons in... Your]} whole body //ached//. You wanted nothing more than to collapse into bed, but you knew that if you didn’t get all this paint cleaned up before it dried, it would never come out. Besides, you’d promised Fetter, so here you were... scrubbing away with them on your hands and {(if: $showedmercy is true)[knees in the back room, while their artifex worked out on the mezzanine.](if: $showedmercy is false)[knees.]} "I know it's hard coming back and seeing it like this, but at least it's yours again..." you say. "And, you know, at least it's not inside an artistivore's stomach..." Fetter smirks. "There is that." They're silent for a time, then they put their brush down with a sigh. "I just had such high hopes for this particular exhibition—for my artistivore and all the other demons... Now I have nothing." They take in the gallery with a look of defeat. "Now you have a clean slate," you say, your voice firm. They drum their fingers on their knees. "I suppose that's one way of looking at it..." "That's the only way to look at it. No more moping!" Fetter dips their head, a little abashed. "Right you are." [[The two of you get back to scrubbing.->tidytime2]] You find them in the back room, scrubbing the massive paint stain left by the artistivore. They glance up at you as you walk in, and their expression softens. "Ah!" "Hope I'm not interrupting," you say, edging closer. "An interruption would be quite nice, actually," Fetter says, getting to their feet. You bite your lip as they approach. "I didn't want to leave without saying goodbye..." Fetter wraps their arms around your waist. "Meeting you is the one good thing that's come out of all this." "I feel the same way," you reply, suddenly breathless. Fetter leans in, pressing their lips against yours, and just like that, everything that's happened—meeting Nervo at the café, the break-in, the troll, the demons, the artistivore—it all washes off your shoulders. "Can I see you again?" they ask eventually. You smile. "What do you think?" Fetter kisses you again, harder this time. "I'd better get back to it, but I won’t ask any more of you tonight. Go home and rest—we can talk in the morning." "If you insist..." Fetter takes your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. { (if: (($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)) or (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)) or ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is false)))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitwithfriends]] ] }{ (if: ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is true))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitalone]] ]}You find Nervo in a small kitchen at the back of the gallery, raiding the fridge. He whirls around when you come in, his expression ecstatic. "Are you hungry? There's so much food... I mean, most of it's expired, but I don't even care at this stage, I haven't eaten properly in //weeks//..." "Two weeks," you tease, a grin tugging at your lips as he stuffs his face with cheese. He pulls out a fruit tray. "Strawberry?" You open your mouth, and he pops one in. It tastes a little fizzy, like it's started to ferment. Nervo grabs an entire handful for himself. "I didn't want to leave without saying goodbye," you say, stepping a little closer. Nervo sets the fruit tray on the counter and pulls you toward him. Before you have a chance to react, his lips are on yours. Suddenly, everything that's happened—the break-in, the troll, the demons, the artistivore—it all washes off your shoulders. Then, just as quickly, Nervo releases you and goes back to the fruit tray. "I'll be in touch!" he says around a mouthful of overripe raspberries. { (if: (($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)) or (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)) or ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is false)))[ "Cool..." you say, trying to act nonchalant. You linger in the doorway for a moment, but when Nervo doesn’t seem to notice, you head back to the [[welcome desk.->exitwithfriends]] ] }{ (if: ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is true))[ "Cool..." you say, trying to act nonchalant. You linger in the doorway for a moment, but when Nervo doesn’t seem to notice, you head back to the [[welcome desk.->exitalone]] ]} { (if: $helpedfetterbefore is true)[ "This is the second time you've helped clean one of my galleries," Fetter says after a while. "Keep this up, and I'll have to put you on the payroll!" <p>You laugh.</p> ] }{ (if: $spokeregallery is false)[ "You know, I really did want to find talented artists for this place... Maybe once we get this place in better shape, you could bring in some of your work? If it’s a good fit for the gallery, we could put an exhibition together!" <p>You smile. { (if: $artstarchild is true)[ "I would //love// that." <p>"Wonderful!" Fetter exclaims, holding out their hand. You shake it.</p> ] (else-if: $selfmade is true)[ "Yeah, maybe! When the time is right... For now, I'd settle just for being able to make my rent." <p>"Ah," Fetter says, lip curling. "Well, in that case, perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."</p> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.</p> ] (else-if: $simplelife is true)[ "Oh no, it's the simple life for me. I've had enough of galleries to last a lifetime—no offense!" <p>Fetter looks disappointed but nods. "Understandable... Perhaps I could buy one or two of your paintings for my personal collection instead."</p> <p>"Deal," you say, giving them a thumbs-up.</p> ] } ] }{ (if: $fettercrush is true)[ The two of you work side by side in companiable silence, sneaking glances at each other when you think the other isn’t looking. <p>[[Playfully flick a little water at Fetter.->fetterflirtA]]</p> <p>[['Accidentally' reach for the brush at the same time as they do.->fetterflirtB]]</p> ] (else-if: $nervocrush is true)[ It takes a lot of elbow grease, but the room finally starts to look a little less like a battlefield. <p>Fetter lets out a sigh of relief. "That's enough cleaning for one day, I think!"</p> <p>You couldn't agree more.</p> <p>Fetter thanks you sincerely for your help and waves goodbye as you head downstairs in search of [[Nervo.->byenervocrush]]</p> ] (else-if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is true)[ It takes a lot of elbow grease, but the room finally starts to look a little less like a battlefield. <p>Fetter lets out a sigh of relief. "That's enough cleaning for one day, I think!"</p> <p>You couldn't agree more.</p> <p>Fetter thanks you sincerely for your help and waves goodbye as you head [[downstairs.->exitalone]]</p> ] (else-if: $fettercrush is false and $nervocrush is false and (($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)) or (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)) or ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is false)))[ It takes a lot of elbow grease, but the room finally starts to look a little less like a battlefield. <p>Fetter lets out a sigh of relief. "That's enough cleaning for one day, I think!"</p> <p>You couldn’t agree more.</p> <p>Fetter thanks you sincerely for your help and waves goodbye as you head [[downstairs.->exitwithfriends]]</p> ] }They jump in surprise, and then lock eyes with you. "Oh, so //that's// how it is?" they ask, dipping their fingers in the bucket. "Wait, stop!" you gasp, raising your hands in front of your face protectively as they sprinkle you with suds. "You started it," they tease as you lunge for the bucket, which they quickly whisk behind their back. You reach around for it, but stop short when you notice your lips are mere inches apart. "Meeting you is the one good thing that's come out of all this," Fetter whispers. "I feel the same way," you reply, suddenly breathless. Fetter leans in, pressing their lips against yours, and just like that, everything that's happened—meeting Nervo at the café, the break-in, the troll, the demons, the artistivore—it all washes off your shoulders. "Can I see you again?" they ask eventually. You smile. "What do you think?" Fetter kisses you again, harder this time. "I'd better get back to it, but I won’t ask any more of you tonight. Go home and rest—we can talk in the morning." "If you insist..." Fetter takes your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. { (if: (($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)) or (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)) or ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is false)))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitwithfriends]] ] }{ (if: ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is true))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitalone]] ]}Your fingers meet, and you let the touch linger. "Meeting you is the one good thing that's come out of all this," Fetter says, looking into your eyes. "I feel the same way," you reply, suddenly breathless. Fetter leans in and presses a gentle kiss to the corner of your mouth. Just like that, everything that's happened—meeting Nervo at the café, the break-in, the troll, the demons, the artistivore—it all washes off your shoulders. You sigh, resting your head against Fetter's. "Can I see you again?" they ask eventually. You smile. "What do you think?" Fetter kisses you again, harder this time. "I'd better get back to it, but I won’t ask any more of you tonight. Go home and rest—we can talk in the morning." "I'm too tired to argue," you reply, pushing yourself to your feet with a groan. Fetter takes your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. { (if: (($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)) or (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)) or ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is false)))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitwithfriends]] ] }{ (if: ($alone is true and $pixelreunited is false and $demonkiller is true))[ You give them one last kiss, and head [[downstairs.->exitalone]] ]}You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>You yawn loudly. "Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p>{ (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, what are we waiting for?" you ask (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith], stifling a yawn. "Let's get out of here!"</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider] (if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[your she-demon] (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith] following close behind.</p> <p>Hopefully, the two of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//. </p> <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Pixel and Vex nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Pixel and Vex, and growls mischievously at them before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Unbelievable..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex steps out onto the street. "Don't worry, it won't last..," she says, trotting after you.</p> <p>"Pixel, let's go!" you call, and he finally starts moving.</p> <p>Hopefully, the four of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//.</p> <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Vex nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Vex, and growls mischievously at her before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Such a bad idea bringing a demon home..." Vex mutters to herself, trotting after you.</p> <p>Hopefully, the three of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Let's get out of here!" you say finally, taking one last look over your shoulder before walking out of //Voracious Artscapes//. </p> <p>(if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[The spider glances down at Pixel nervously, and scampers after you.]</p> <p>(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[Your she-demon skips after you, twirling her tail.]</p> <p>(if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[The wraith glances down at Pixel, and growls mischievously at him before scampering after you.]</p> <p>"Such a bad idea bringing a demon home..." Pixel mutters to himself, trotting after you.</p> <p>Hopefully, the three of you didn't get any weird looks on the way home.</p> <p>Now that you thought about it, you were //definitely //going to get some weird looks on the way home...</p> <p>[[Fuck it.->end]]</p> ] ] }{ (if: $demonfree is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p> "Well, I'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>(if: $demoncrush is true)["Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Pixel mutters, trotting after you.](else:)["Good riddance," Pixel mutters, trotting after you.]</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] <p>(if: $demoncrush is true)["Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Vex mutters, trotting after you.](else:)["Good riddance," Vex mutters, trotting after you.]</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, we'll see you around, maybe," you say to (if: $beingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, who waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, who waves their bony paw.] ] (if: $thingdemon is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[the spider, and it waves a hairy leg.] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave. <p>"See you around," she says in that sultry voice of hers, and winks.</p>] (else:)[your she-demon, who gives a friendly wave.] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[the wraith, and it waves a bony paw.] ] (if: $demoncrush is true)[ <p>"Such a bad idea getting involved with a //demon//..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> ] (else:)[ <p>"Good riddance," Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> ] <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] ] }{ (if: $demonkiller is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false)[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Pixel mutters, trotting after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Vex mutters, trotting after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ You gather up your keepsakes. They're a little paint-splattered, but at least you have them back. <p>"Well, time to get the fuck out of here..."</p> <p>"//Finally//..." Pixel mutters.</p> <p>Vex adds a soft "mrrmp" of agreement, and the two of them trot after you.</p> <p>You take one last look over your shoulder, and walk out of //Voracious Artscapes//, ready to finally [[head home.->end]]</p> ] ] }{(track: 'end', 'play') (track: 'end', 'volume', 0.5) (track: 'end', 'fadeout', 30)}You’ve had a lot of time to reflect while you’ve been recuperating these past few weeks. { (if: $selfmade is true)[ You need to take this whole artist thing way more seriously if it's ever going to pay the bills. So, you start building a portfolio, setting up a website, and networking (the horror!). <p>Fetter helps—once you have enough paintings, they let you exhibit at //Voracious Artscapes//. The turnout isn't huge, but it's enough. Commissions start rolling in—decent ones—and you're no longer scrambling to make rent month after month.</p>] (if: $artstarchild is true)[ You need to get your act together. Letting the flat get messier by the day, ignoring calls, and failing to pay bills on time—it all has to stop. You know you can be the kind of person your parents could be proud of, but it's going to take a lot of hard work. <p>You start by building a portfolio, setting up a website, and networking—the whole nine yards! Fetter helps—once you have enough paintings, they let you exhibit at //Voracious Artscapes//. The turnout is big. Commissions start rolling in—decent ones—and you're no longer scrambling to make rent month after month.</p> ] (if: $simplelife is true)[ You’ve been stuck in a rut. Letting the flat get messier by the day, ignoring calls, and failing to pay bills on time—all of that has to stop. But you're not about to force it. <p>You know putting pressure on yourself to create a portfolio or rush into an exhibit could make things worse, not better. So you're just taking it one commission at a time. They're small, and you still struggle to make your rent every now and then, but you're finding your rhythm.</p>] }{(if: $maudhatesyou is true)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ The landlord still hasn't forgiven you for cursing at her that time, though, so you'd want to start looking for a new place. ] (else-if: (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)))[ The landlord still hasn't forgiven you for cursing at her that time, though, so you'd want to start looking for a new place. ] (else-if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ The landlord still hasn't forgiven you for cursing at her that time, though, and she's making a big deal about your tenancy agreement prohibiting pets, so it's probably time to start looking for a new place. ](print: " ") (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The sight of the giant spider affixed to the ceiling hasn’t helped. When she saw the meat puppet, she assumed you had an extra person living in the flat and raised the rent, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ The sight of your she-demon accidentally setting the furnishings on fire hasn’t helped. The landlord isn't thrilled about her moving in, either, and keeps reminding you only one person is named on the lease. ] (else-if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting the corridors at night and scaring her half to death hasn’t helped. ] ] (print: " ") (if: $demonfree is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The spider scaling the ceiling whenever {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[ The sight of your she-demon accidentally setting the furnishings on fire hasn’t helped. The landlord isn't thrilled about her frequent visits, either. Especially since she can never spot her coming or going—your she-demon always flies over, letting herself in via the roof. ] (else:)[ The sight of your she-demon flying in and out of the building whenever she visits scares the landlord half to death, too. ] ] (else-if: $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting through the corridors at night when {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, too. ] ] (print: " ") (if: $nervocrush is true)[ She isn’t thrilled about Nervo visiting, either, though she can’t seem to resist his confident air. She giggled like a schoolgirl when he promised to paint her. ] (print: " ") (if: $fettercrush is true)[ She isn’t thrilled about Fetter visiting, either, though she can’t seem to resist their polite, composed demeanor. She giggled like a schoolgirl when they invited her to an exhibition at the gallery. ] ] (else-if: $maudhatesyou is false)[ (if: $alone is true and $pixelreunited is false)[ It's such a relief to have the landlord off your back for a change. (print: " ") (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The sight of the giant spider affixed to the ceiling hasn’t gone down too well, though. When she saw the meat puppet, she assumed you had an extra person living in the flat and raised the rent, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ The sight of your she-demon accidentally setting the furnishings on fire hasn’t gone down too well, though. The landlord isn't thrilled about her moving in, either, and keeps reminding you only one person is named on the lease. ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting the corridors at night and scaring her half to death hasn’t gone down too well, though. She keeps reminding you that your tenancy agreement prohibits pets. ] ] (print: " ") (if: $demonfree is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The spider scaling the ceiling whenever {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, though. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[ Though she's not thrilled about your she-demon's frequent visits, especially since she can never spot her coming or going—your she-demon always flies over, letting herself in via the roof. ] (else:)[ The sight of your she-demon flying in and out of the building whenever she visits scares her half to death, though. ] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting through the corridors at night when {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, though. ] ] ] (else-if: (($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false) or ($vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false)))[ It's such a relief to have the landlord off your back for a change. (print: " ") (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The sight of the giant spider affixed to the ceiling hasn’t gone down too well, though. When she saw the meat puppet, she assumed you had an extra person living in the flat and raised the rent, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ The sight of your she-demon accidentally setting the furnishings on fire hasn’t gone down too well, though. The landlord isn't thrilled about her moving in, either, and keeps reminding you only one person is named on the lease. ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting the corridors at night and scaring her half to death hasn’t gone down too well, though. She keeps reminding you that your tenancy agreement prohibits pets. ] ] (print: " ") (if: $demonfree is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The spider scaling the ceiling whenever {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, though. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[ Though she's not thrilled about your she-demon's frequent visits, especially since she can never spot her coming or going—your she-demon always flies over, letting herself in via the roof. ] (else:)[ The sight of your she-demon flying in and out of the building whenever she visits scares the landlord half to death, though. ] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting through the corridors at night when {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, though. ] ] ] (else-if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ It’s such a relief to have the landlord off your back for a change, though she keeps reminding you that your tenancy agreement prohibits pets. She never made a big deal about Pixel, but you suppose two cats might be pushing it. (print: " ") (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ The sight of the giant spider affixed to the ceiling certainly hasn't helped... When the landlord saw the meat puppet, she assumed you had an extra person living in the flat and raised the rent, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ The sight of your she-demon accidentally setting the furnishings on fire hasn't helped... The landlord isn't thrilled about her moving in, either, and keeps reminding you only one person is named on the lease. ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ The wraith ghosting the corridors at night and scaring her half to death certainly hasn't helped... ] ] (print: " ") (if: $demonfree is true)[ (if: $greenspider or $crimsonspider is true)[ And the spider scaling the ceiling whenever {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death, too. ] (else-if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[ (if: $demoncrush is true)[ She's not thrilled about your she-demon's frequent visits, either. Especially since she can never spot her coming or going—your she-demon always flies over, letting herself in via the roof. ] (else:)[ And the sight of your she-demon flying in and out of the building whenever she visits scares the landlord half to death. ] ] (else-if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ And the wraith ghosting through the corridors at night when {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it visits](if: $beingdemon is true)[they visit]} scares her half to death. ] ] ] (print: " ") (if: $nervocrush is true)[ (if: not ($vexswallowed is true or $pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $demonkiller is true)[ And she likes Nervo! He's trying to talk her into renting out the loft. It’d make a great studio space, big enough for the two of you. His tactic of promising to paint her had her giggling like a schoolgirl. ] (else:)[ <p>The landlord //does// like Nervo, though! He's trying to talk her into renting out the loft. It’d make a great studio space, big enough for the two of you to work in. You could make room for {(if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[the cats](else:)[(if: $vexswallowed is true)[Vex](else-if: $pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)[Pixel]]}{(if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greendemon or $crimsondemon or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[ and ]}{(if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[the spider](else-if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[your she-demon](else-if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[the wraith]} up there too. ] ] (print: " ") (if: $fettercrush is true)[ (if: not ($vexswallowed is true or $pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $demonkiller is true)[ And she likes Fetter! He's trying to talk her into renting out the loft. It’d make a great studio space, big enough for the two of you. ] <p>The landlord //does// like Fetter, though! They're trying to talk her into renting out the loft. It’d make a great studio space, big enough for the two of you to work in, although you’re not sure they'll ever paint anything themselves again after the artistivore. You could make room for {(if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[the cats](else:)[(if: $vexswallowed is true)[Vex](else-if: $pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true)[Pixel]]}{(if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider or $greendemon or $crimsondemon or $greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[ and ]}{(if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[the spider](else-if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[your she-demon](else-if: ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[the wraith]} up there too. ] ] }{ (if: ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[ <p>The wraith has taken up diorama making. Graveyards are {(if: $thingdemon is true)[its](if: $beingdemon is true)[their]} favorite—{(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[they]} just love crafting all those tiny little bones. ] (else-if: ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[ <p>The spider has taken up knitting. {(if: $beingdemon is true)[They mostly make](if: $thingdemon is true)[It mostly makes]} more creepy puppets, which you’ve started selling online. It’s a nice little side-earner! ] (else-if: ($greendemon or $crimsondemon is true) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true))[ <p>Your she-demon has taken up cooking. She's even started her own YouTube channel. Her food is diabolical, but it doesn't matter—people watch for that smoldering smile of hers, not the recipes. ] (print: " ") (if: ($vexswallowed is true) and ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true) and ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true or $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[ The cats have actually warmed to {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](else:)[{(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[them]}]} a little, even snuggling up {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[on her lap](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against its carapace](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against their carapace](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to it](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to them]} every now and then. ] (print: " ") (else-if: $vexswallowed is true and ($pixelswallowed is false and $pixelreunited is false) and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true) and ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true or $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[ Vex has actually warmed to {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](else:)[{(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[them]}]} a little, even snuggling up {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[on her lap](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against its carapace](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against their carapace](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to it](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to them]} every now and then. ] (print: " ") (else-if: ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true) and $vexswallowed is false and ($demonflat is true or $demonfree is true) and ($greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true or $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true or $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true))[ Pixel's actually warmed to {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[her](else:)[{(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[them]}]} a little, even snuggling up {(if: $greendemon or $crimsondemon is true)[on her lap](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against its carapace](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenspider or $crimsonspider is true))[against their carapace](else-if: ($thingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to it](else-if: ($beingdemon is true) and ($greenwraith or $crimsonwraith is true))[next to them]} every now and then. ] }{ (if: $vexdead is true)[ <p>You can't stop thinking about Vex. Your mother said the drawing of her went blank. She put it down to light exposure and was about to toss it, but you convinced her it had sentimental value and to keep it for you. You're going to try drawing Vex back into it. You're not sure if that will work, or if Vex will remember you even if it does, but it's worth a shot.</p>] }<p>Your parents are coming to dinner tomorrow. The flat is actually tidy for once! { (print: " ") (if: $nervocrush is true)[ Nervo's coming, too. You've been spending a lot of time together lately, and your parents are eager to finally meet him. You're a little nervous, but excited, too. ] (else-if: $fettercrush is true)[ Fetter's coming, too. You've been spending a lot of time together lately, and your parents are eager to finally meet them. You're a little nervous, but excited, too. ] (else-if: $demoncrush is true and $demonkiller is false and (($greendemon is true) or ($crimsondemon is true))) [ Your she-demon is coming, too. She goes by Ember now. You've been spending more and more time together, and your parents are eager to finally meet her. You're a little nervous but excited, too. ] (print: " ") (if: $demonflat is true)[ (if: $greenwraith is true or $crimsonwraith is true)[ <p>You're not sure how you'll explain the wraith. Maybe you can pass {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[them]} off as some sort of 3D art project you're experimenting with... (set: $demonexplained to true) ] (else-if: $greenspider is true or $crimsonspider is true)[ <p>You're not sure how you'll explain the spider. Maybe you can pass {(if: $thingdemon is true)[it](if: $beingdemon is true)[them]} off as some sort of 3D art project you're experimenting with... (set: $demonexplained to true) ] (else-if: $greendemon is true or $crimsondemon is true)[ <p>You're not sure how you'll introduce your she-demon or explain her look. Maybe you can pass her off as a friend who's just really into special effects makeup and prosthetics or something... (set: $demonexplained to true) ] ] (print: " ") (if: $vexswallowed is true)[ (if: $demonexplained is false)[ <p>You're not sure how you'll explain Vex's reappearance after all this time, but maybe you're overthinking it—they'll probably just assume she's a new cat who happens to look almost exactly like their old one...</p> ] (else:)[ <p>You're not sure how you'll explain Vex's reappearance after all this time either, but maybe you're overthinking it—they'll probably just assume she's a new cat who happens to look almost exactly like their old one.</p> ] ] (print: " ") (if: not ($pixelswallowed is true or $pixelreunited is true))[ <p>They'll probably ask where Pixel is. You do miss him at times, but you're slowly adjusting to life without him.</p> ] }<p>But that's a problem for tomorrow. For now, the canvas awaits.</p> <center>[[Credits]]</center>