Plutonian Shores v2.0

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<center> <div class="passages2"> <center> //it must be around here, somewhere... <br><br> angela's diary... <br><br> [[where could it be?|ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK]]// </center> </div> </center>

<<set $keyItems = [] >> <<cacheaudio "angela" "music/brokenpiano.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "bek" "music/childwhisper.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "breathing" "music/breathing1.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "brokenglass" "music/glass.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "carradio" "music/muffledtalking.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "closetdoor" "music/closetdooropen.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "crickets" "music/crickets.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "darkmode" "music/MyuuGrotesqueFantasia.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "darkmode2" "music/MyuuIntotheDepths.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "dooropen" "music/dooropen.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "drawerOpen" "music/olddraweropening.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "drip" "music/dripping.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "footsteps" "music/footsteps.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "general" "music/MyuuHauntedHouse.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "gong" "music/clockgong.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "growling" "music/growling2.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "halloween" "music/comelittlechildren.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "hinge" "music/doorhinge.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "knock" "music/hardknock.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "loft" "music/TensionsDF.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mattress" "music/bedcreaking.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mib" "music/mib.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "motel" "music/MyuuDespair.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mrblue" "music/Melancholia.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "pageturn" "music/newspaper.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "pop" "music/balloonpop.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "radio" "music/radio.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "rattle" "music/doorrattle.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "scratching" "music/scratchingwalls.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "skinwalker" "music/skinwalker.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "static" "music/TVstatic.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "thud" "music/deadbodythud.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "thump" "music/SoftThumping.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "tv" "music/tv.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "vhs" "music/vhs.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "window" "music/tappingonglass.mp3">> <<set $Title to "Plutonian Shores">> <<set $Association to "The Council">> <<set $closet to false>> <<set $closet2 to false>> <<set $filingCabinet to false>> <<set $filingCabinet2 to false>> <<set $bookshelf to false>> <<set $bookshelf2 to false>> <<set $desk to false>> <<set $desk2 to false>> <<set $bed to false>> <<set $bed2 to false>> <<set $nightstand to false>> <<set $nightstand2 to false>> <<set $dresser to false>> <<set $dresser2 to false>> <<set $loft to false>> <<set $loft2 to false>> <<set $lilithsRoom to false>> <<set $lilithsRoom2 to false>> <<set $kitchen to false>> <<set $kitchen2 to false>> <<set $backdoor to false>> <<set $laundry to false>> <<set $msdesk to false>> <<set $livingroom to false>> <<set $masterbedroom to false>> <<set $bathroom to false>> <<set $spareroom to false>> <<set $frontdoor to false>> <<set $frontdoorKey to false>> <<set $coralstin to false>> <<set $noiseUpstairs to false>> <<set $unlocked to false>> <<set $bible to false>> <<set $bibleComplete to false>> <<set $angelaNote to false>> <<set $behindShelf to false>> <<set $Knife to false>> <<set $fcKey to false>> <<set $Diary to false>> <<set $Slowly to false>> <<set $vhs to false>> <<set $witchhat to false>> <<set $vhstape to false>> <<set $radio to false>> <<set $unicornbag to false>> <<set $candy to false>> <<set $halloweenpath to false>> <<set $halloween to 0>> <<set $birthdaypath to false>> <<set $birthday to 0>> <<set $tinComplete to false>> <<set $diaryComplete to false>> <<set $hoaKey to 0>> <<set $MrBlue to false>> <<set $thayer to false>>

StorySubtitle

by spookythings

StoryMenu

StoryCaption

<<if tags().includes("tbar")>> <div id="topbar"> <div id="bbblock"> <div id="bbtext"> <b>$Title</b> </div> </div> </div> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).one(":passagedisplay", function (event) { if ($("#topbar").length) { $("#passages").css("margin-top", $("#topbar").outerHeight() + 10); } else { $("#passages").css("margin-top", 0); } }); <</script>>

Inventory

<<audio "general" loop volume 0.4 play>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center> <b>angela's room</b> <br><br> <<if $closet is false>> <<link "closet" "closet">><</link>><br> <<elseif $closet is true>> closet<br> <</if>> <<if $filingCabinet is false>> <<link "filing cabinet" "filing cabinet">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $filingCabinet is true>> filing cabinet<br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf is false>> <<link "bookshelf" "bookshelf">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf is true and $bible is false and $bibleComplete is false>> bookshelf<br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf is true and $bible is true>> <<link "bookshelf" "bookshelf">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf is true and $bible is false and $bibleComplete is true and $angelaNote is true and $Knife is false>> <<link "bookshelf" "knife">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf is true and $bible is false and $bibleComplete is true and $angelaNote is true and $Knife is true>> bookshelf<br> <</if>> <<if $desk is false>> <<link "desk" "desk">><</link>><br> <<elseif $desk is true>> desk<br> <</if>> <<if $bed is false>> <<link "bed" "bed">><</link>><br> <<elseif $bed is true>> bed<br> <</if>> <<if $nightstand is false>> <<link "nightstand" "nightstand">><</link>><br> <<elseif $nightstand is true>> nightstand<br> <</if>> <<if $dresser is false>> <<link "dresser" "dresser">><</link>><br> <<elseif $dresser is true>> dresser<br> <</if>> <<if $fcKey is true>> <br><<link "leave" "GETTING LATE">><</link>> <</if>> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "general" stop>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center>night falls. <br><br> it is [[6:00pm|ANGELA'S ROOM -- DARK MODE]] </center> </div> </center>

<<set $closet to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_closet1"> <div class="vnov_location"> closet </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> clothes, neatly hung and folded, but no diary. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $filingCabinet to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_fc1"> <div class="vnov_location"> filing cabinet </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a small filing cabinet.<br> <<linkreplace "open it?">> it's locked. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $bookshelf to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_book1"> <div class="vnov_location"> bookshelf </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <<if $bible is false>> thrillers, mysteries, classics, and biographies. <br>she used to like reading, but now they just collect dust. <br><<linkreplace "examine the bookshelf?">>there's a spot where a book seems to be missing.<</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<return>> <<elseif $bible is true>> there's a spot where a book seems to be missing. <br><<linkreplace "insert the strange bible?">> the bible fits neatly into the empty slot.<br> however, a [[piece of paper]] is dislodged. <</linkreplace>> <</if>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $desk to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_desk1"> <div class="vnov_location"> desk </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> writing utensils, but nothing written.<br> the computer is on, and open to an [[e-mail]]. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $bed to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_bed1"> <div class="vnov_location"> angela's bed </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> there's [[something|look]] under the bed. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $nightstand to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_nightstand1"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> prescription sleeping pills.<br> inside of the nightstand is a collection of empty bottles.<br> there is [[something on the floor]]. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $dresser to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_dresser1"> <div class="vnov_location"> dresser </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the dresser is cluttered with makeup and [[small collectibles]]. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $bookshelf2 to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_book2"> <div class="vnov_location"> bookshelf </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> books lay scattered on the floor. <<if $bibleComplete is true>> <br>the strange bible is gone.<</if>> <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_key.png"> <br><br> you found a key.<br> <<linkreplace "take the key?">> <<set $fcKey to true>> you collected the key. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<set $angelaNote to true>> <<set $bibleComplete to true>> <<set $bible to false>> <<set $behindShelf to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_letter1.png"> <br><br> it's a note from angela.<br> it reads: //"look behind the shelf. be careful."// <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<set $bed2 to true>> <<audio "breathing" loop play volume 0.2>> <center> <div class="vnov_bed2"> <div class="vnov_location"> angela's bed </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> there's something next to the bed.<br> its breathing is even and calm. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "general" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_bible.png"> <br><br> an old, worn out bible of the cheap motel variety.<br> it's written in strange letters and symbols.<br> <<linkreplace "take the bible?">> <<set $bible to true>> you collected the bible. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<set $nightstand2 to true>> <<audio "breathing" loop play volume 0.2>> <<set $bedThing to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_bed3"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the thing on the bed moves closer.<br> <<linkreplace "its breathing has changed.">> <<linkreplace "its breathing is fast and heavy.">> its breath is hot and rotten. <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>> <br><br> [[move slowly|move slowly]]<br> [[move quickly|move quickly]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $dresser2 to true>> <<audio "scratching" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_dresser2"> <div class="vnov_location"> dresser </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> something rattles and scratches in the dresser. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $closet2 to true>> <<audio "closetdoor" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_closet2"> <div class="vnov_location"> closet </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> an old, dirty smell emanates from the closet. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $desk2 to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_desk2"> <div class="vnov_location"> desk </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the computer is on, and a web forum is open.<br> an unhappy discussion about the thing at [[the window]]. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween + 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_knife.png"> <br><br> a knife is wedged between the shelf and the wall.<br> did angela put this here?<br> <<linkreplace "take the knife?">> <<set $Knife to true>> you collected the kitchen knife.<</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_diary.png"> <br><br> a blue diary with a broken lock.<br> <<linkreplace "take the diary?">> <<set $Diary to true>> you found angela's diary. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "look again">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="passages2"> <center><<fadein 6s>>it's getting late.<br><</fadein>> <<fadein 9s>>did you find it yet? <br><br><</fadein>> <<fadein 14s>>//are you still looking?// <br><br><</fadein>> <<fadein 18s>>[[look again|look again]]<</fadein>> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> Let the Games Begin!<br> <b>from:</b> gvaudoin_tricou@smail.com<br> <b>to:</b> a_pleasant17@smail.com <br><br> Angela - <br><br> Forgive me for not contacting you sooner. Fricorith and I are very sorry to hear about the problems your family is currently facing. I will miss Lilith. <br><br> I will not waste precious time with unnecessary pleasantries. Fricorith and I have been successful. We have made contact. It is powerful. It is angry. I feel we are a good match. <br><br> Things are moving fast. I may not be able to contact you again before it ends. In any event, I am sorry for anything that may be unearthed in the coming months. You were nice. Pointlessly so. I will miss you, too. <br><br> Goodbye. <br><br> - Gvaudoin <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>One attachment:</b><br> <div class="em-link2"> <<linkreplace "mother.jpg">>mother.jpg<br> <img src="mother.jpg"> <</linkreplace>> </div> <br> <div class="em-link-blue"> <<link "<<" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> </div> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode" loop volume 0.3 play>> <<audio "window" stop>> <<audio "tv" stop>> <<audio "growling" stop>> <<audio "scratching" stop>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center> <b>angela's room</b> <br><br> <<if $closet2 is false>> <<link "closet" "closet 2">><</link>><br> <<elseif $closet2 is true>> closet<br> <</if>> <<if $Diary is false>> <<link "filing cabinet" "filing cabinet 2">><</link>><br> <<else>> filing cabinet<br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf2 is false>> <<link "bookshelf" "bookshelf 2">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $bookshelf2 is true>> bookshelf<br> <</if>> <<if $desk2 is false>> <<link "desk" "desk 2">><</link>><br> <<elseif $desk is true>> desk<br> <</if>> <<if $bed2 is false>> <<link "bed" "bed 2">><</link>><br> <<elseif $bed2 is true>> bed<br> <</if>> <<if $nightstand2 is false>> <<link "nightstand" "nightstand 2">><</link>><br> <<elseif $nightstand2 is true>> nightstand<br> <</if>> <<if $dresser2 is false>> <<link "dresser" "dresser 2">><</link>><br> <<elseif $dresser2 is true>> dresser<br> <</if>> <<if $Diary is true>> <br><<link "leave" "time to leave">><</link>> <</if>> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $filingCabinet2 to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_fc2"> <div class="vnov_location"> filing cabinet </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a small filing cabinet.<br> <<if $fcKey is false>> <<linkreplace "open it?">> it's locked. <</linkreplace>> <<elseif $fcKey is true>> <<linkreplace "use the key?">> <<goto "Angela's Diary">> <</linkreplace>> <</if>> <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "window" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_window"> <div class="vnov_location"> window </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> how it's so much stronger than glass. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "look again">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_nightstand3"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <<timed 4s>>the room grows even darker.<br><</timed>> <<timed 7s>>the bed creaks softly.<</timed>> <<timed 10s>><br><br> [[hold still|move slowly 2]]<</timed>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "mattress" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_nightstand3"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <<timed 4s>>the room grows darker still.<br><</timed>> <<timed 7s>>the bed creaks loudly.<</timed>> <<timed 10s>><br><br> [[hold still|move quickly 2]]<</timed>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "rattle" loop play>> <<audio "mattress" stop>> <<set $Quickly to false>> <center> <div class="vnov_doorbehindyou"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the door behind you begins to rattle violently. <<if $Knife is true>><br>you grip the knife tightly.<</if>> <br><br> [[hide under the bed|hide]]<br> [[open the door|open the door]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_nightstand3"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> you squint into the darkness.<br> the bed is empty now.<br> you can still hear it breathing. <br><br> [[be careful|move slowly 3]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $Slowly to false>> <center> <div class="vnov_nightstand2"> <div class="vnov_location"> nightstand </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the nightstand is covered in bottles.<br> the nightstand is covered in scratches.<br> <<linkreplace "look inside the nightstand?">>[[something blue]] tumbles out.<</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "look again">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_hideunderbed"> <div class="vnov_location"> under the bed </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> hidden under the bed, you watch the door.<br> it shakes and shudders in its frame. <br><br> [[be quiet]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "rattle" stop>> <<audio "dooropen" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_opendoor"> <div class="vnov_location"> angela's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the knob turns easily in your hand. <br><br> [[check the hall|hallway 1]]<br> <<link "stay here" "look again">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "breathing" stop>> <<audio "darkmode" stop>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center>time tears off another strip. <br><br> it is [[7:00pm|hallway 2]] </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode" stop>> <<audio "darkmode2" loop play volume 0.4>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center> <b>upstairs hall</b> <br><br> <<if $loft is false>> <<link "the loft" "the loft">><</link>><br> <<else>> the loft<br> <</if>> <<if $lilithsRoom is false>> <<link "lilith's room" "lilith's room">><</link>><br> <<else>> lilith's room<br> <</if>> <<link "the stairs" "the stairs">><</link>> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $loft to true>> <<set $birthday to $birthday + 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_loft"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a burnt smell lingers in the loft.<br> the tv is off now. <br><br> [[keep looking|angela's photo 1]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $lilithsRoom to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_lilithsroom"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <<if $witchhat is false>>[[lilith's room|lilith's closet 1]]<<else>>lilith's room<</if>> has been cleaned and sanitized.<br> an entire life condensed into a [[tattered box]] and a <<if $unicornbag is false>>[[bag of trash|trash pile]]<<else>>trash pile<</if>>. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "hallway 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_stairs"> <div class="vnov_location"> the stairs </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> someone's turned the light on downstairs.<br> <<link "it's a long way down" "downstairs">><</link>> <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "rattle" stop>> <center> <div class="vnov_hideunderbed"> <div class="vnov_location"> under the bed </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the rattling stops.<br> you start to crawl out from under the bed.<br> something scrapes your leg. <br><br> [[move|a narrow escape]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "growling" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_underthebed"> <div class="vnov_location"> under the bed </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> with a menacing growl, it sinks back into the floor. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "look again">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "tv" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_hallway1"> <div class="vnov_location"> hallway </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the hallway is dark and silent.<br> the loft glows sick with televirus.<br> who could be watching? <br><br> <<link "stay here" "look again">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "radio" stop>> <center> <div class="vnov_lrmbox"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a few video games, an <<if $radio is false>>[[old radio]]<<else>>old radio<</if>>, a <<if $vhstape is false>>[[vhs tape]]<<else>>vhs tape<</if>>.<br> soon she'll be completely gone. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "lilith's room">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $radio to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_radio.png"> <br><br> <br> a radio turned relic; more grime and rust than tech.<br> lilith used to talk about a hidden station...<br> <<linkreplace "turn on the radio?">><<audio "darkmode" volume 0.25>><<audio "radio" loop play>> the radio crackles and hisses as it awakens.<</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<return>> </div> </center>

<<set $vhstape to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_vhs.png"> <br><br> an unmarked vhs tape.<br> <<linkreplace "take the tape?">> <<set $vhs to true>> you collected the tape. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<return>> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode2" loop play volume 0.4>> <<audio "footsteps" stop>> <<audio "vhs" stop>> <<audio "drip" stop>> <<audio "halloween" stop>> <<audio "loft" stop>> <center> <div class="passages2"> <center> <b>ground floor</b> <br><br> <<if $frontdoor is false>> <<link "front door" "front door">><</link>><br> <<elseif $frontdoor is true and $frontdoorKey is false>> front door<br> <<elseif $frontdoorKey is true>> <<link "front door" "front door">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $livingroom is false>> <<link "living room" "living room">><</link>><br> <<elseif $livingroom is true>> living room<br> <</if>> <<link "kitchen" "kitchen">><</link>><br> <<if $masterbedroom is false>> <<link "master bedroom" "master bedroom">><</link>><br> <<elseif $masterbedroom is true>> master bedroom<br> <</if>> <<if $spareroom is false>> <<link "spare room" "spare room">><</link>><br> <<elseif $spareroom is true>> spare room<br> <</if>> <<if $bathroom is false>> <<link "bathroom" "bathroom">><</link>><br> <<elseif $bathroom is true>> bathroom<br> <</if>> <<if $noiseUpstairs is true>> <<link "upstairs" "upstairs">><</link>> <<elseif $noiseUpstairs is false>> <</if>> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode2" loop play volume 0.4>> <<set $kitchen to true>> <<audio "halloween" stop>> <center> <<if $halloween gte 3>> <<set $halloweenpath to true>> <div class="vnov_kitchen1"> <div class="vnov_location"> kitchen </div> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the <<link "kitchen" "kitchen 2">><</link>> is decorated for [[halloween]]. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> <<else>> <<set $birthdaypath to true>> <div class="vnov_birthday1"> <div class="vnov_location"> kitchen </div> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the <<link "kitchen" "kitchen 2">><</link>> is decorated for a [[birthday party]]. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> <</if>> </center>

<<set $livingroom to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_livingroom"> <div class="vnov_location"> living room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> small and carefully decorated to inflict envy and admiration.<br> beneath the [[silence]], the echoes of tension and pain. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $masterbedroom to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_masterbedroom"> <div class="vnov_location"> master bedroom </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> mary-sue and daniel's bedroom.<br> a cold, and sad room despite the [[fireplace]]. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $bathroom to true>> <<audio "drip" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_bathroom"> <div class="vnov_location"> bathroom </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a small, cramped powder room. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $spareroom to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_spareroom"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a so-called "bonus room" at the foot of the stairs.<br> <<if $VHS is true>> there is a [[small tv with a vcr|vcr]]. <<else>> there is a small tv with a [[vcr]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $frontdoor to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_frontdoor"> <div class="vnov_location"> front door </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<if $frontdoorKey is false>> <<type .05s>> the front door is locked.<br> you'll have to find a key to get out. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> <</if>> <<if $hoaKey gte 2>> <<type .05s>> <<linkreplace "use the front door key?">> <<set $hoaKey to $hoaKey - 2>> <<set $unlocked to true>> the door is unlocked. <br><br> <<link "leave" "leave">><</link>><br> <<return>> <</linkreplace>> <</type>> <<elseif $unlocked is true>> <<type .05s>> the front door is unlocked. <br><br> <<link "leave" "leave">><</link>><br> <<return>> <</type>> <</if>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $vcr to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_vcr1"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the tv's screen is dusty and dark.<br> neon numbers glow faintly on the vcr. <<if $vhs is true>> <br>[[insert the tape?]] <</if>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode2" loop play volume 0.2>> <<audio "vhs" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_vcr2"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> lilith's face fills the screen. <br><br> [[listen closely]]<br> <<link "turn it off" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_vcr3"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_listen"> <<type .05s>> <b>coral:</b> what do you remember?<br> <b>lilith:</b> nothing. he grabbed me, and then -- nothing.<br> <b>coral:</b> did he hurt you?<br> <b>lilith:</b> no, he -- i -- [[i don't remember]]. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween3"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> their little group hadn't minded; it was nice,<br> having it all to themselves. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 4]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_fireplace"> <div class="vnov_location"> fireplace </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the hearth offers no warmth.<br> there seems to be [[something in the ashes|angela's letter to mr. blue]]. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween + 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_letter2.png"> <br><br> a letter from angela to mr. blue.<br> it's smudged with ashes and torn in places. <br><br> [[read the letter?|read angela's letter]]<br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_vcr4"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_listen"> <<type .05s>> <b>coral:</b> at the hospital, you said you heard something.<br> <b>lilith:</b> i'm so sick of this.<br> <b>coral:</b> lilith --<br> <b>lilith:</b> i keep telling you //[[i don't know, i don't remember|i don't remember 2]]//. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_vcr5"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_listen"> <<type .05s>> <b>coral:</b> please don't get upset, lilith. i just want to help you.<br> <b>lilith:</b> you all keep saying that "you just want to help me," but all you're doing is making it worse. everyone keeps telling me "you said this," "you did that," but no one will tell me //[[what happened]]//. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_vcr6"> <div class="vnov_location"> herb's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_listen"> <<type .05s>> <b>coral:</b> no one knows what happened, lilith.<br> <b>lilith:</b> great. neither do i. thanks for your help. <br><br> <center>[[turn it off|coral's tin]]</center><</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="passages2"> <center> <b>kitchen</b> <br><br> <<if $backdoor is false>> <<link "back door" "back door">><</link>><br> <<else>> back door<br> <</if>> <<if $msdesk is false>> <<link "mary-sue's desk" "mary-sue's desk">><</link>><br> <<else>> <<link "mary-sue's desk" "mary-sue's desk">><</link>><br> <</if>> <<if $kitchen2 is false>> <<link "counters" "kitchen 3">><</link>><br> <<else>> counters<br> <</if>> <<if $laundry is false>> <<link "laundry room" "laundry room">><</link>><br> <<else>> laundry room<br> <</if>> <br><<link "leave" "downstairs">><</link>> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $backdoor to true>> <center> <<if $halloweenpath is true>> <div class="vnov_backdoor"> <div class="vnov_location"> back door </div> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the back door is locked. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> <</if>> <<if $birthdaypath is true>> <div class="vnov_backdoor2"> <div class="vnov_location"> back door </div> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the back door is locked. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> <</if>> </center>

<<set $msdesk to true>> <center> <<if $halloweenpath is true>> <div class="vnov_msdesk"> <div class="vnov_location"> mary-sue's desk </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> mary-sue's "home management center."<br> her [[laptop|mary-sue's laptop]] is on, and logged in. <<if $hoaKey gte 1>> <br>[[check the drawer?]] <<elseif $hoaKey eq 0>> <</if>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "kitchen">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> <</if>> <<if $birthdaypath is true>> <div class="vnov_msdesk2"> <div class="vnov_location"> mary-sue's desk </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> mary-sue's "home management center."<br> her [[laptop|mary-sue's laptop]] is on, and logged in. <<if $hoaKey gte 1>> <br>[[check the drawer?]] <<elseif $hoaKey eq 0>> <</if>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "kitchen">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> <</if>> </center>

<<set $kitchen2 to true>> <center> <<if $halloweenpath is true>> <div class="vnov_kitchen2"> <div class="vnov_location"> kitchen </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a jack-o-lantern leers across the room,<br> a candle flickering in its throat. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> <<elseif $birthdaypath is true>> <div class="vnov_birthday2"> <div class="vnov_location"> kitchen </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the counter is strewn with balloons and party favors. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> <</if>> </center>

<<audio "hinge" play>> <<set $laundry to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_laundry"> <div class="vnov_location"> laundry room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the hinges squeal in protest as the door creaks open.<br> you back away without touching it. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_mslaptop"> <div class="vnov_location"> mary-sue's laptop </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> mary-sue's [[notes|LAPTOP: NOTES]], [[emails|LAPTOP: EMAILS]], and [[messenger|LAPTOP: MESSAGES]] beckon you. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "mary-sue's desk">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween4"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "Come on, guys! My mom's gonna buy us all ice cream!" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 5]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween5"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> ice cream to prepare them for the corn syrup armageddon.<br> it should have been the most wonderful evening. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 6]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween6"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "guys, wait!"<br> but they didn't seem to hear. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 7]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "darkmode2" volume 0>> <<audio "halloween" loop play volume 0.5>> <center> <div class="vnov_halloween1"> <div class="vnov_location"> halloween </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <div class="halloween-link2"> it was brandi's turn to take the kids trick-or-treating.<br> she had surprised them with a trip to [[scarecrow acres]] beforehand. </div> <br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 2]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_scarecrowacres"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <div class="halloween-link2"> a small, locally owned pumpkin patch.<br> it features a small [[gift shop|scarecrow acres: gift shop]] and a [[playground|scarecrow acres: playground]]. </div> <br> <div class="halloween-link"> <<link "L" "halloween">><</link>> </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween2"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> <div class="halloween-link2"> scarecrow acres was mostly empty that night.<br> trick-or-treaters raced by, too focused on candy-accummulation<br> to give the old pumpkin patch another thought. </div> <br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 3]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_sashop"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the gift shop sells fall novelties, snacks and ice cream. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|scarecrow acres]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_saplayground"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the playground is old, but still serviceable. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|scarecrow acres]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween7"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> hurt and embarrassed, she brushed herself off;<br> candy lay scattered at her feet. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 8]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween8"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> //ugh, no one even noticed that i fell...//<br> "are you okay, little lamb?" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 9]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween9"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "huh? is someone there?" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 10]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween10"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> he peeked around a large roll of hay, his good eye wide with concern.<br> "you're not hurt, are you?" he asked. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 11]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween11"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "i'm fine," she lied. "the ground is soft. who are you?"<br> "my name is mr. blue," he said. "who are you?" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 12]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween12"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "angela. are you supposed to be the easter bunny?"<br> //"i don't know what that is."//<br> "guess not, then. well, i like your costume, anyway." <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 13]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween13"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> //"costume?"// he examined a paw, confused. //"is that what i am?"//<br> "uh, no; you're a bunny. well, not really, but you know, your costume is?"<br> //"i don't understand, little lamb. am i a bunny, or a costume?"// <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 14]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $coralstin to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_coralstin.png"> <br><br> <br> you got coral's tin. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween14"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "uh..."<br> "hey, angela? do you want any ice cream?" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 15]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween15"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "sorry, i have to go; my friends are waiting for me." <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 16]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween16"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "who are you talking to, honey?" <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 17]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween17"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "i..." <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 18]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_halloween18"> <div class="vnov_location"> scarecrow acres </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> //"see you later, little lamb."// <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> [[L|halloween 19]] </div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $candy to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_candy.png"> <br><br> <br> you got halloween candy. <br><br> <div class="halloween-link"> <<link "L" "kitchen">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday3"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> they were turning twelve that year. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 2]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $kitchen2 to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_birthday2"> <div class="vnov_location"> kitchen </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a jack-o-lantern leers across the room,<br> a candle flickering in its throat. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday4"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> mary-sue and daniel spent most of the morning preparing. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 3]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday5"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> food and decorations were assembled with surgical precision. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 4]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday6"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the faint scent of smoke embedded itself into everything. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 5]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday7"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> these parties weren't about the twins so much<br> as a testament to their exemplary parenting skills. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 6]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday8"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> everything had to be perfect. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 7]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday9"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the importance of appearance could not be overstated. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 8]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday10"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "smile, angela! it's your birthday, for pete's sake!" <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 9]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday11"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> so she smiled until her face hurt,<br> and she silently cast her wish into the flames. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 10]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday12"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> and they cheered... <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 11]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday13"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> and they cheered... <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 12]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday14"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> and they cheered... <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 13]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday15"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> and they cheered. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 14]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday16"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> it became a competition to see who could celebrate the hardest,<br> and nobody noticed when one of the participants opted out. <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 15]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday17"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> ...or that one of them had never been invited at all.<br> "why are you in here all by yourself, lilith?" <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 16]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday18"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "i'm in time out."<br> "for the entire party?"<br> "yeah." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 17]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday19"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "what could you possibly have done that was that bad?" <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 18]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday20"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "they said i lied about something." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 19]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday21"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "did you?"<br> "no."<br> "i believe you." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 20]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday22"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "really? but you don't even know what i said..." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 21]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday23"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "you're not a liar, lilith."<br> "how do you know?" <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 22]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday24"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "i don't know how to explain in terms that you would understand.<br> but i always know when people are lying. and i know that you're not lying." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 23]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday25"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "..." <br><br> <div class="return">[[>>|birthday party 24]]</div> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_birthday26"> <div class="vnov_location"> happy birthday! </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "you don't think i'm bad?"<br> "no, i think you're special.<br> and some day, that will be very important." <br><br> <<link "end memory" "kitchen">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_upstairs"> <div class="vnov_location"> the stairs </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> that noise from earlier...<br> it sounded like footsteps. <br><br> [[go upstairs|upstairs 2]]<br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_lilithsroom2"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the door to lilith's room is gone.<br> there's a [[large crack]] in the wall now. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_loft2"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the loft has been blocked off by [[thick curtains]]. <br><br> <<return>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $noiseUpstairs to false>> <<audio "static" stop>> <<audio "bek" stop>> <<audio "loft" stop>> <<audio "darkmode2" loop play volume 0.4>> <center> <div class="vnov_upstairs2"> <div class="vnov_location"> upstairs hall </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the hallway leading to <<if $lilithsRoom2 is false>><<link "lilith's room" "lilith's room 2">><</link>><<else>>lilith's room<</if>> and <<if $loft2 is false>><<link "the loft" "the loft 2">><</link>><<else>>the loft<</if>> has changed. <br><br> <<link "go back downstairs" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $lilithsRoom2 to true>> <<audio "static" loop play volume 0.1>> <<audio "bek" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_lilithsroom4"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> static crackles and hisses harshly.<br> she watches intently. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "upstairs 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $loft2 to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_loft2"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> they billow and sway gently.<br> a strange, bright orb glows faintly on the <<if $Knife is true>>[[other side]]<<else>>other side<</if>>. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "upstairs 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_lilithsroom3"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the crack is riddled with thorns and dying vines.<br> [[look inside the room?|lilith's room 3]] <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "upstairs 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $noiseUpstairs to true>> <<audio "footsteps" loop play volume 0.5>> <<audio "pop" play volume 0.5>> <<audio "brokenglass" play volume 0.1>> <center> <div class="vnov_livingroom2"> <div class="vnov_location"> living room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the light dies with a blistering pop.<br> a strange noise erupts across the ceiling. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "downstairs">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Welcome, Mary-Sue!</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <table width="100%"> <tr><td width="40%"> <b>From:</b> Goth, Cassandra<br> <b>From:</b> Lothario, Don<br> <b>From:</b> Bruty, Sandy<br> <b>From:</b> Langerak, Kaylynn<br> <b>From:</b> Firefly Grove </td> <td width="60%"> <div class="em-link2"> <<link "re: Lilith" "EMAIL: CASSANDRA">><</link>><br> <<link "(no subject)" "EMAIL: DON">><</link>><br> <<link "A Proposal, of sorts." "EMAIL: SANDY">><</link>><br> <<link "re: Cleaning Services" "EMAIL: KAYLYNN">><</link>><br> <<link "Urgent Community Safety Update" "EMAIL: FIREFLY GROVE">><</link>> </div> </td></tr> </table> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "mary-sue's laptop">><</link>> </div> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_messenger"> <table class="t-border"> <tr><td valign="top" width="20px"> <img src="MessengerIcon2.png" width="18px"> </td> <td valign="top"> <b>Mary-Sue to Jennifer Burb</b> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Divorce him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="5%"> <img src="icon_marysue.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td> <td width="95%" class="msngr_user2"> Wow! Shouldn't you be trying to convince me to give him another chance? </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Another chance to what? </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Bang the maid? </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Seems like he's had plenty of those. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="5%"> <img src="icon_marysue.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td> <td width="95%" class="msngr_user2"> I just feel like divorce is such a drastic measure. Don't I owe it to my family to at least TRY to repair this? </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="5%"> <img src="icon_marysue.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td> <td width="95%" class="msngr_user2"> He said it only happened once. </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> And you believe him? lol </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="5%"> <img src="icon_marysue.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td> <td width="95%" class="msngr_user2"> Honestly, I don't know what I believe. </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Listen, I love my brother, but </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="5%"> <img src="icon_marysue.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td> <td width="95%" class="msngr_user2"> Jennifer? </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table> <tr><td width="95%" class="msngr_user1"> Kill him. </td> <td width="5%"> <img src="icon_jennifer.jpg" class="msngr_icon"> </td></tr> </table> <table class="msngr_textbox"> <tr><td> </td></tr> </table> <div class="msngr-link"> <<link "<<" "mary-sue's laptop">><</link>> </div> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $frontdoorKey to true>> <<set $hoaKey to $hoaKey + 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> re: Lilith<br> <b>from:</b> c_goth@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> Good evening, Pleasant family. I would be happy to watch over them to ensure their compliance with the new Firefly Grove curfew. After all, it was my idea. Please let me know what time works best for you. <br><br> Regards,<br> C. Goth <br><br> <center> <img src="line.gif"> </center> <br> <b>subject:</b> re: Lilith<br> <b>from:</b> marysue@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> c_goth@gmail.com <br><br> Cassandra, <br><br> Daniel and I are relieved and grateful to hear that Lilith's grades are improving; if only her attitude were as easily remedied! You don't have any expertise in that area, do you? Haha. <br><br> Regardless, your offer to extend Lilith's tutoring sessions is both generous, and timely. Perhaps you could start this week? Say, Wednesday and Thursday? Theoretically, the girls are old enough to mind themselves overnight, but I feel they could still use some form of adult supervision. Especially in light of the newest Firefly Grove regulations. Lilith, in particular, worries me; she hasn't actually tried to sneak out since the new curfew was implemented, but she's got that rebellious streak... <br><br> Speaking of the new curfew, the key they've issued is in the drawer of this desk. Please ensure that both the front and back door are locked no later than 7pm, and the key returned to the drawer when you're done. I would prefer to not be locked inside of my own home because the key got misplaced. <br><br> Thank you in advance,<br> Mary-Sue <br><br> <center> <img src="line.gif"> </center> <br> <b>subject:</b> Lilith<br> <b>from:</b> c_goth@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> Good morning. You'll be pleased to know that Lilith is doing quite well in her subjects, but I feel there is still room for improvement. As such, I would like to request additional time throughout the week to tutor her -- at no additional charge, of course. <br><br> Respectfully,<br> C. Goth <br><br> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "LAPTOP: EMAILS">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> re: Cleaning Services<br> <b>from:</b> k_langerak@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> Mrs. Pleasant, <br><br> I am so sorry! Mr. Pleasant has always told me to leave the fireplaces alone since you never use them, anyway, and to just focus on other areas of the house that need my attention more. <br><br> Please do not report me to the HOA! I will make the fireplaces my top priority from now on. <br><br> Sincerely,<br> Kaylynn <br><br> <center><img src="line.gif"></center> <br> <b>subject:</b> Cleaning Services<br> <b>from:</b> marysue@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> k_langerak@gmail.com <br><br> Kaylynn - <br><br> Is there any particular reason you've stopped cleaning the fireplaces? The one in the kitchen is filthy, and the one in my room looks like someone's lit a bonfire in it, in spite of the fact that Mr. Pleasant and I have never once used it as anything more than decoration. <br><br> I would hate to have to complain to the HOA, as your previous work has always been excellent, but you're not being paid to cut corners, nor am I being paid to spend extra time every evening wiping soot off of the mantle! <br><br> Signed,<br> Mrs. Pleasant <br><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "LAPTOP: EMAILS">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> (no subject)<br> <b>from:</b> l_lothario@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> Mrs. Pleasant, <br><br> Previously you have asked me to keep you abreast of any concerning changes, or abnormalities in Angela's symptoms; ordinarily, I would consider that a breech of patient confidentiality, but I feel compelled to make an exception at this time. <br><br> Angela has confided in me some rather disturbing details about her sister, albeit she has attempted to obscure them within a framework of intricate and increasingly paranoid nightmares. <br><br> If at all possible, I would like to arrange an in-person meeting with you and your husband, without Angela present. Please do not alert her to my request; I believe it is best if we conduct this as quietly as possible in order to avoid any... unfortunate occurrences. <br><br> Please contact me at your earliest convience. <br><br> - Dr. D. Lothario <br><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "LAPTOP: EMAILS">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> A Proposal, of sorts.<br> <b>from:</b> s_bruty@gmail.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> To the Guardians of Angela and Lilith Pleasant: <br><br> I am writing to inquire about their "conditions," so to speak, as I have heard some //interesting// rumors... stories that I would love an opportunity to include in my next book. <br><br> For example, I have it on good authority that Angela is suffering from a rather unique sleep disorder, and is subsequently taking experimental medications with spectacularly fascinating side-effects. <br><br> Furthermore, I've been looking into the incident in the desert involving Lilith. Based on what I've managed to discover, I've developed some theories, but I would love an opportunity to have a little chat with her, as well as you, your husband, and the uncle who was supposed to be caring for her on the night in question. It's my understanding that he has relocated to Pleasantview, yes? Such an... unusual choice, given the circumstances. Do they still have contact, I wonder? <br><br> Of course, I will //generously// compensate the girls, and you, should you choose to participate. Please do contact me as soon as possible with your decision. <br><br> SimCity Times Bestselling Author,<br> Sandy Bruty <br><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "LAPTOP: EMAILS">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <b>Inbox</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>subject:</b> Urgent Community Safety Update<br> <b>from:</b> d_pleasant@fireflygroveHOA.com<br> <b>to:</b> marysue@gmail.com <br><br> Good evening, Firefly Grove families. <br><br> We hope this message finds you well, though we must bring a potentially upsetting matter to your attention. <br><br> The Board of Directors has recently been made aware of a potential danger to our community. While we cannot divulge specific details for security reasons, we feel it is our duty to take immediate and precautionary measures to ensure the safety and security of all residents. <br><br> In response to this threat, the HOA is implementing a new covenant that will come into effect in the near future. We understand that this may raise concerns and questions, but please rest assured that this decision has been made with your safety as our utmost priority. <br><br> Here are some key changes that will be introduced as part of this new covenant: <br><br> <b>Strict Curfew:</b> We will be imposing a strict curfew within the community. This curfew will require all residents to remain indoors after a designated time each evening. Specific curfew hours will be communicated to you soon.<br> <b>New Locks:</b> New locks will be installed on all residences. These locks are designed to enhance security and can only be accessed using a special key.<br> <b>Internal Locks:</b> To further safeguard against any potential threats, the new locks will also have a unique feature – they must be locked from the inside, ensuring your safety while you are at home. <br><br> We understand that these measures may seem drastic, but we believe they are necessary to protect our community. Rest assured that our security team is working diligently to investigate and address the situation. <br><br> We urge all residents to remain vigilant during this time and report any suspicious activity immediately to our community security hotline, which will be shared with you soon. <br><br> Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during these challenging times. <br><br> Sincerely,<br> //The Firefly Grove Board of Directors//<br> Daniel Pleasant<br> Jan Tellerman<br> Cassandra Goth<br> Dora Ottomas <br><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="em-link"> <<link "<<" "LAPTOP: EMAILS">><</link>> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "drawerOpen" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_hoakey.png"> <br><br> <br> an oddly battered key.<br> <<if $hoaKey lte 2>> <<linkreplace "take the front door key?">> <<set $hoaKey to $hoaKey + 1>> <<set $frontdoorKey to true>> you got the front door key. <</linkreplace>> <<else>> you got the front door key. <</if>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "kitchen">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<audio "general" stop>> <<audio "darkmode" stop>> <<audio "darkmode2" stop>> <<audio "crickets" loop play>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel1"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the @@.smear;roseland motel@@ has been waiting for you.<br> wearily, you trudge back to [[your room]]. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "crickets" stop>> <<audio "motel" loop play volume 0.4>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel2"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> you've stayed in nicer cardboard boxes,<br> but at least the door locks, and the heater works.<br> you pull [[angela's diary|DIARY 1: SEP 17]] <<if $coralstin is true>> and [[coral's tin|CORAL'S TIN: FISHING TOURNEY]] <</if>> from your bag. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Nov 5, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke1.png" class="img-diary"><br> We met up at Dustin’s house today. He hasn’t been at school, or answering our calls or emails. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke2.png" class="img-diary"><br> We just wanted to make sure he was okay. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_brandi.png" class="img-diary"><br> We could see [[Brandi|DIARY: BRANDI]] through the window on the door, and I know she could see us, because she was sitting at the kitchen table, looking straight at us. She didn’t get up to answer the door, though. <br><br> She just sat there, tapping her cigarette on the table. I could see it was already littered with ashes. The way she was looking at us… she scared me a little. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke7.png" class="img-diary"><br> Dirk and I wanted to give up and go home. I kept thinking she was going to suddenly jump up and charge at the door. Just rip it off the hinges to get at us. I think Dirk felt it, too. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke10.png" class="img-diary"><br> But Lilith just kept banging on the glass and yelling Dustin’s name. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke3.png" class="img-diary"><br> Eventually, [[Dustin|DIARY: DUSTIN]] came to the door. He seemed agitated, like we’d interrupted something, and he looked like he’d gotten dressed straight out of his laundry hamper. He nearly knocked us off the porch when he burst through the door. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke4b.png" class="img-diary"><br> Whatever it was that was (is?) bothering him, he won’t talk about, though. <br><br> Lilith and Dirk are both giving him space, so I guess I should, too. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke9.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke5b.png" class="img-diary"><br> I’m worried about them both. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 3: OCT 31]]          [[>>|DIARY 5: NOV 8]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/diary_brandi.png" class="img-diary"><br> I’ve known Brandi for most of my life, and she’s always been one of the nicest people on earth, but ever since Beau died, she’s been like someone else entirely. She just radiates anger. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> None of us said anything about it, but he smelled like he hadn’t bathed since the funeral. His hair was greasy, his breath was bad, and his eyes were bloodshot and wild with lack of sleep. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Nov 8, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer003.png" class="img-diary"><br> So far, Dirk has been the only one brave enough to ask him about Brandi. Maybe because he lost his own mother to… you know. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke12.png" class="img-diary"><br> Dustin told us that she’s been miserable. That for a while, she would do nothing but cry, day and night. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer004.png" class="img-diary"><br> Then she started breaking things. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_broke11.png" class="img-diary"><br> Now she mostly just holes up in the nursery. She locks the door so he can’t bother her. He says she lies on the floor beside the crib and sleeps. When she wakes up, she takes more pills, and goes back to sleep. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer002.png" class="img-diary"><br> Dirk, who had had a couple of beers by that point, started to open up about [[his own mother|DIARY: DARLEEN]]. <br><br> <img src="diary/dustin004.png" class="img-diary"><br> Dustin got angry afterwards, yelling at us that we were just as bad as Fricorith and Gvaudoin. <br><br> <img src="diary/dustin003.png" class="img-diary"><br> We ended up leaving. Nobody blames him, though. I think he’s afraid that Brandi will find that same path, stumbling through the darkness. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 4: NOV 5]]          [[>>|DIARY 6: NOV 11]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Nov 11, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/ferriswheel.png" class="img-diary"><br> Today Dustin said something that sent chills down my spine, although I don’t really know why I found it so unsettling… <br><br> <img src="diary/skating001.png" class="img-diary"><br> We were downtown at the ice rink, just trying to get back to some semblance of normal (what passes for normal in our social group, anyway). <br><br> <img src="diary/skating002.png" class="img-diary"><br> It was just the two of us on the ice. He turned to me, and there was a shyness there that I hadn’t seen since the day he first asked me out. I thought he was going to ask me to skate with him, which would have been nice. Nicer than what he did say, anyway. Instead he looked me in the eye and blurted out that Beau’s death wasn’t an accident. <br><br> <img src="diary/skating005.png" class="img-diary"><br> We ended up huddled together on a bench outside of the rink, with his cold lips and hot breath against my ear, swearing me to secrecy. <br><br> <img src="diary/skating003.png" class="img-diary"><br> Quietly, as if though he were afraid of being overheard, he told me that Beau’s daycare called and left a message, asking someone to come pick up some of Beau’s belongings. Since Brandi isn’t really in any condition to go anywhere, Dustin went for her. <br><br> <img src="diary/lilythayer_swing1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <<if $thayer is false>> The woman ([[I can’t remember her name|DIARY: LILY]]) who owned it was waiting for him outside on the playground. <<else>> The woman -- Lily Thayer -- who owned it was waiting for him outside on the playground. <</if>> <br><br> <img src="diary/lilythayer_swing2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <b>Dustin:</b> (paraphrasing) She looked different. She was just… I don’t know how to describe it. Haunted? Can a person be haunted, like a house? And she was smoking, which just seemed weird for someone like her. Anyway, when I asked about Beau’s things, she told me that everything was in a box inside the classroom, and I could go get it, but first she wanted to tell me something. <br><br> I asked him what. <br><br> <img src="diary/dustin001.png" class="img-diary"><br> He hesitated a long time and I kind of just… let him. Truth be told, I didn’t want him to tell me. I was almost hoping for a distraction, something to stop him from finishing his story. <br><br> But nothing did, and finally he told me. <br><br> <img src="diary/lilythayer_point.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <b>Dustin:</b> (paraphrasing) She said she saw something strange on the other side of the fence the day that Beau died. <br><br> <img src="diary/somethingblue.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <<if $MrBlue is false>> A flash of [[something blue|DIARY: MR BLUE]]. <<else>> A flash of something blue. <</if>> <br><br> <img src="diary/skating004.png" class="img-diary"><br> It was that last little detail that really did it. I don’t know how to describe it, really, but it felt like someone struck a match and the room lit up, but before I could see anything useful, the flame went out and all that was left was darkness and the lingering smell of smoke. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 5: NOV 8]]          [[>>|DIARY 7: NOV 15]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Nov 15, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_park1.png" class="img-diary"><br> We ended up walking down to the [[park|DIARY: WOODLAND]] after school today. Nothing eventful, we just wandered around there for a couple of hours until [[Dirk|DIARY: DREAMER]] had to go home and make dinner. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_park2.png" class="img-diary"><br> Lilith was in a good mood. It happens so rarely now that I feel like I need to record it for posterity. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 6: NOV 11]]          [[>>|DIARY 8: NOV 16]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<<set $thayer to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/lilythayer.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Thatcher? <br><br> Thorton? <br><br> No, it's kind of, but not quite... I know her first name is Lily. <br><br> <img src="diary/marysue_jennifer.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> My mom was talking about her with aunt Jennifer just the other day, something about her niece... <strike>I know it will come to me eventually...</strike> <br><br> Thayer. <br><br> Lily Thayer. <br><br> <img src="diary/meadow.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Her niece, Meadow, is moving to Pleasantview soon (messy stuff, according to my mother; her parents won't be joining her), and going to Gunther Goth Elementary with Lucy. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<<set $MrBlue to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> I almost forgot – something weird happened with my necklace when Dustin mentioned the color blue. This sounds ridiculous even to me, but… <br><br> It got really hot. It only lasted for a second, and it didn’t get hot enough to burn me, but it still freaked me out a little. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/woodland.png" class="img-diary"><br> Woodland Park. Lilith always complains about the trees and fire hazards, but [[the lake|DIARY: WOODLAND: LAKE]] is so, so pretty. <br><br> On quiet days, when I find myself alone, I like to walk the paths and just listen to the water. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer.png" class="img-diary"><br> I feel bad for him, too. Things have really gone sideways for both of them. Like Dirk is the parent, and Mr. Dreamer is the flighty teenager, dreaming of art school and girls he can’t have. <br><br> Lilith just tells him to send Mr. Dreamer to his room until he’s ready to be a responsible adult again. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Nov 16, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_diary.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I'm babysitting [[Lucy|DIARY: LUCY]] tonight. <br><br> <img src="diary/lilith_frontsteps1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Lilith is acting weird <strike>again</strike> as usual. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_car.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I have to admit, it's getting a little tiresome; I'm actually kind of glad I'm going over to Lucy's house tonight. Lucy's always such a handful that I'll be too busy with her to worry about... everything. <br><br> <img src="diary/cassandra_frontporch.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Especially tonight, since Lilith has another tutoring session. Lilith is always so agitated after [[Cassandra|DIARY: CASSANDRA]] comes over, which I personally think is a bad sign, but mom and dad don't see a problem (they just shrug and tell me that Lilith is "always surly and ungrateful," and then <u>I</u> get agitated, too). And since there's "no problem," they won't let me tutor her myself -- they think Lilith will just take advantage of me, and have me do all of her work for her. <br><br> <img src="diary/lilith_frontsteps2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Maybe they're right... but mostly I think they just don't care. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 7: NOV 15]]          [[>>|DIARY 9: DEC 23]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/woodlandlake.png" class="img-diary"><br> The lake is too cold to swim in, but $Association keeps it well-stocked with a variety of fish. In the summer, there's a small fishing tournament for the kids. <br><br> Dad always said he would take me, but something always came up. Oh, well; maybe some day I'll bring my kids. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 7: NOV 15]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>December 23, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_hurtssomuch.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I don't understand.<br> What do I do?<br> It hurts too much. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 8: NOV 16]]          [[>>|DIARY 10: DEC 24]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>December 24, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela001.png" class="img-diary"><br> I climbed into her bed tonight. I don't really know what I was expecting; a sudden premonition? A surge of twin connection? I think somewhere deep down inside, I did. <br><br> But there was nothing at all. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 9: DEC 23]]          [[>>|DIARY 11: DEC 25]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>December 25, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_presents.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I almost forgot about all of the presents I had stored in my closet. <br><br> That DVD set Lilith wanted...<br> Toys and candy for Lucy... <br><br> What do I do with them now? <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 10: DEC 24]]          [[>>|DIARY 12: DEC 29]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>December 29, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel_newspaper.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Dad tried to hide the paper from me this morning. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_laptop1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I guess he forgot I have internet access. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_laptop2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> So they're blaming Lilith now. <br><br> All of them; Aunt Jennifer and Uncle John... mom and dad. <br><br> <img src="diary/lilith_nevercared.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> She was right; they never cared about her. For them, she was never anything more than an emotional punching bag, and a scapegoat when things went wrong. It's so much easier to just blame her for their fuck-ups than to accept the possibility that any of them might have been less than perfect. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_neverforgivethem.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I will <u>never</u> forgive them for this. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 11: DEC 25]]          [[>>|DIARY 13: JAN 2]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 7, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/house.png" class="img-diary"><br> Everything is different now. <br><br> <img src="diary/house3.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/house4.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/house5.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/angela003.png" class="img-diary"><br> This house is all I’ve ever known, but I don’t know it anymore. It’s just another haunted house, full of ghosts. <br><br> Every room is wrong now. <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel002.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/marysue.png" class="img-diary"><br> Mom and dad are already back on task. I think they set a timer; Appropriate Mourning Period: Approximately 2 Weeks. <br><br> Just long enough to be socially decent, not long enough to get bored. <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel.png" class="img-diary"><br> They open the blinds and the house goes sun-sick and warm. No snow this year; only cold light. They complain as they march from room to room, moaning that it feels like a tomb, insisting that we need fresh air, that we need to purge the darkness. <br><br> <img src="diary/marysue_trash.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> They take her uneaten snacks out of the fridge and pantry, bag them up, and throw them away. <br><br> Bit by bit, [[she disappears|DIARY: LILITH'S STUFF]]. <br><br> <img src="diary/dinner001.png" class="img-diary"><br> They set three plates at the [[table|DIARY: DINNER]]. “Your favorite,” they say, pleased with themselves for such a thoughtful act. //Your sister is dead, but here’s that fish you like.// <br><br> <img src="diary/angela004.png" class="img-diary"><br> They keep her bedroom door shut, and tell me not to go in it because it’s “not healthy,” but they don’t bother to actually monitor me. They still expect me to just quietly adhere to whatever arbitrary law they pass. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela005.png" class="img-diary"><br> I’m no longer interested in the rules of their charade. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 13: JAN 2]]          [[>>|DIARY 15: JAN 8]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 8, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel_door1.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/daniel_door4.png" class="img-diary"><br> I don’t want to be alone, but I can’t stand to be around anyone else. <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel_door2.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/daniel_door3.png" class="img-diary"><br> Not even Dustin and Dirk. <br><br> <img src="diary/daniel_door5.png" class="img-diary"><br> I know they’re trying, but there is an emptiness now in our friend group. A void. We’re just slowly circling the the edges, trying not to fall in. <br><br> <img src="diary/tricou.png" class="img-diary"><br> Gvaudoin and Fricorith reached out to me. They’re still trying to warn everyone about the Grief Eater. <br><br> I still don’t know if I believe them. <br><br> <img src="diary/findme001.png" class="img-diary"><br> If she’s out there, I hope she can find me. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 14: JAN 7]]          [[>>|DIARY 16: JAN 9]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/angela007.png" class="img-diary"><br> I hide her stuff in my room. Little things. Her toothbrush, her old boots, her books and stuffed animals. <br><br> I won’t let them erase her. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/dinner002.png" class="img-diary"><br> Forks and knives clink and scrape. They talk about themselves to each other. They look at me and say things like, “how was your day?” and “what have you been up to?” and I make shit up until they change the subject. <br><br> It never takes long. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 9, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/gethelp.png" class="img-diary"><br> They're relentless in their journey to force me back to normal. <br><br> It's absolutely incredible that they even think that that's still a possibility. <br><br> Mom says I’m “obsessed with my grief” and wants me to get counseling. <br><br> I think I’m just embarrassing her. <br><br> <img src="diary/moveon.png" class="img-diary"><br> Dad says that Lilith would want life to go on. After all, his has. <br><br> She <u>never</u> would have wanted that. <br><br> I wish it had been them instead. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 15: JAN 8]]          [[>>|DIARY 17: JAN 11]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 11, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela006.png" class="img-diary"><br> Last night, I heard them arguing. <br><br> With the mourning period over, they can move on to more pressing issues, like [[what to do with Lilith’s room|DIARY: LILITH'S ROOM]]. <br><br> Without a body, they have to find creative ways to bury her. <br><br> You'd think they would have perfected it by now. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 16: JAN 9]]          [[>>|DIARY 18: JAN 12]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 12, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_bed_pissed.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> I can’t stay here much longer. <br><br> The anger is burning holes in me. <br><br> I [[hate|DIARY: HATE]] them both. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 17: JAN 11]]          [[>>|DIARY 19: JAN 13]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 13, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/dream001.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/dream002.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/dream007.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/dream005.png" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/dream004.png" class="img-diary"><br> The nightmares are getting worse. They scratch and claw and tear at me with fingers like needles and razors and knives. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 18: JAN 12]]          [[>>|DIARY 20: JAN 14]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 14, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_dream5.png" class="img-diary"><br> Tonight I woke up in a desolate place. <br><br> It was nothing but sand and pastel skies. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_dream6.png" class="img-diary"><br> I was all alone. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 19: JAN 13]]          [[>>|DIARY 21: JAN 15]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/argue001.png" class="img-diary"><br> He wants a home gym.<br> She wants a craft room. <br><br> <img src="diary/herb001.png" class="img-diary"><br> He tells her she’s already “hogging” the spare room by moving in Grandpa Herb after Grandma's death; she tells him he’s an asshole, and that he can wait until I go to college and use my room to “store his precious little weights”. <br><br> He says it’s too small; she tells him too bad. On and on it goes. <br><br> <img src="diary/didntknow001.png" class="img-diary"><br> I want to tell them to leave it alone, leave it incase she comes back. <br><br> <img src="diary/didntknow002.png" class="img-diary"><br> But even I don't believe that she will. <br><br> Whatever happened that night... she got out, and she'll never come back. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 15, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/cantsleep.png" class="img-diary"><br> I lie awake at night until I’m dizzy from exhaustion. <br><br> The [[pills|DIARY: PILLS]] don’t help. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_stairs.png" class="img-diary"><br> I’m so tired, all the time. <br><br> <img src="diary/pool.png" class="img-diary"><br> It’s hard to think. There’s a constant sense of dread, like something terrible is going to happen, and there is nothing I can do but wait. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 20: JAN 14]]          [[>>|DIARY 22: JAN 17]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 17, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert002.png" class="img-diary"><br> Last night, I [[dreamed|DIARY: DREAM 1]] about her. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 21: JAN 15]]          [[>>|DIARY 23: JAN 27]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 27, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/eyesclosed.png" class="img-diary"><br> When I close my eyes, there’s something there. <br><br> Inside my head. <br><br> <img src="diary/mrblue002.png" class="img-diary"><br> Someone tip-toeing through the shadows at the edge of my mind. <br><br> Playing hide-and-seek in the smudges and creases of my memory. <br><br> <img src="diary/necklace002.png" class="img-diary"><br> I wake up and my necklace is still warm. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 22: JAN 17]]          [[>>|DIARY 24: FEB 5]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<<set $diaryComplete to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Feb 16, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/mrblue003.png" class="img-diary"><br> Last night he spoke to me, my old friend. <br><br> <img src="diary/mrblue004.png" class="img-diary"><br> He said: //“There you are, little lamb. I've been looking everywhere for you.”// <br><br> <img src="diary/necklace001.png" class="img-diary"><br> I woke up right after that. <br><br> My [[necklace|DIARY: NECKLACE]] was hot enough to leave a little red mark on my skin. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 24: FEB 5]]          [[>>|DIARY 26: MAY 16]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>May 16, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/hoft001.png" class="img-diary"><br> They’re all dead. <br><br> All of them. <br><br> <img src="diary/hoft002.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Gvaudoin and Fricorith… <br><br> Why? <br><br> What's happening to this town? <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 25: FEB 16]] <<if $diaryComplete is true and $tinComplete is true and $candy is true>> <<link "back to the hotel room" "ENDING: TRICK OR TREAT">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $diaryComplete is true and $tinComplete is false and $candy is true>> <<link "back to the hotel room" "your room">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $diaryComplete is true and $tinComplete is true and $candy is false>> <<link "back to the hotel room" "ENDING: BIRTHDAY">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $diaryComplete is true and $tinComplete is false and $candy is false>> <<link "back to the hotel room" "ENDING: BIRTHDAY">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/dreampills.png" class="img-diary"><br> Over-the-counter, prescription-strength, clinical trial, pills, syrups, and teas; Dr. Lothario has prescribed me everything. <br><br> There's a new one he wants to start me on, though... Demetonin. I've seen commercials for it, the ones with the woman in the black and white pajamas. Maybe they'll work for me, but I won't get my hopes up. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/dream_desert001.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> We were driving down a long deserted road, just the two of us, just like we always said we would, someday when they took the shackles off and we were finally free. <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert006.png" class="img-diary"><br> And even though it wasn’t real, we were the happiest we’d ever been, out there on the long road, just me and her, driving off to nowhere, leaving everything behind. <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert003.png" class="img-diary"><br> It felt so good to have her back. It felt like everything was going to be okay now. <br><br> I just had to keep [[driving|DIARY: DREAM 2]]. If I could just keep driving, I could drive us somewhere far away. <br><br> Somewhere safe. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<link "<<" "DIARY 22: JAN 17">><</link>> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/dream_desert007.png" class="img-diary"><br> We passed trees, and bushes, and ufos. <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert008.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> She asked me how I’d been, and I told her I was losing sleep. <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert004.png" class="img-diary"><br> She looked over at me and said, //“I used to keep a handful under my mattress. <br><br> You only need a little, and then you can sleep.”// <br><br> She laughed. <br><br> <img src="diary/dream_desert005.png" class="img-diary"><br> //“You can [[sleep|DIARY: DREAM 3]] forever.”// <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<link "<<" "DIARY 22: JAN 17">><</link>> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/angela008.png" class="img-diary"><br> My phone dinged, then, and woke me up. It was 3:47am. <br><br> “Forever” had lasted about 4 hours. I thought I was still dreaming when I saw it, but it’s still there. <br><br> Lilith’s number, one line. <br><br> //“Don’t believe in ghosts.”// <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<link "<<" "DIARY 22: JAN 17">><</link>> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/garage.png" class="img-diary"><br> I couldn't stand it; I snuck out to the garage and broke the clasp with a pair of pliers. <br><br> I don’t know what the connection is to him, but I don’t want it around my neck, anymore. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer005.png" class="img-diary"><br> He said when it started, she was a lot like Brandi. <br><br> She was so tired. No matter how long she slept, it was never enough. <br><br> Somewhere along the line, she found a dark path, and she started walking. Slow and hesitant, worried that she might not be able to find her way back. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer006.png" class="img-diary"><br> Then she was running. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer007.png" class="img-diary"><br> Then, finally, she was skipping. <br><br> She was excited. <br><br> <img src="diary/angeladiary_dreamer008.png" class="img-diary"><br> She was almost at the end. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> Aunt Jennifer is out of town ([[again|DIARY: JENNIFER]]), and Uncle John has some kind of "urgent business" he needs to take care of ([[again|DIARY: JOHN]]). <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_lucy.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Anyway, Lucy's a lot of fun to watch, even if she has been sneaking out lately. As long as I keep an eye on her, it shouldn't be a problem. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 8: NOV 16]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <img src="diary/diary_cassandra_umbrella.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> She shows up like some kind of dark Mary Poppins, with her briefcase and umbrella and spoonful of secrets. <br><br> <img src="diary/cassandra_lilith_table.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> She's always super polite to me, but mostly she just avoids me. She's clearly only interested in Lilith, and whatever the two of them whisper about in the kitchen. <br><br> <img src="diary/angela_watching.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/lilith_cassandra2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Lilith's grades <u>are</u> improving, so at least something good is coming from it, but her attitude is... unpredictable. It just feels like the more Cassandra takes her under her wing, the further she gets pulled away from me. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Oct 31, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/happyhalloween1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/happyhalloween2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/happyhalloween3.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/happyhalloween4.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <center>Happy Halloween!</center> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 2: OCT 26]]          [[>>|DIARY 4: NOV 5]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Oct 26, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/october1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> The month is flying by; I can't believe it's almost Halloween already. <br><br> <img src="diary/october2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/october3.png" class="img-diary"><br> Lilith and I weren't supposed to go out this year, because mom and dad have decided we're too old for fun, but we're taking Lucy Trick-or-Treating (well, <u>I</u> am; Lilith is tagging along to get out of the house) because both of her parents have to work, so we get one last chance at childhood. <br><br> <img src="diary/october4.png" class="img-diary"><br> Even though I'll technically be babysitting, Dustin, Dirk, Gvaudoin and Fricorith are coming, too. We're all going to meet at Scarecrow Acres, like we used to do when we were Lucy's age. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 1: SEP 17]]          [[>>|DIARY 3: OCT 31]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Sep 17, 2005</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/coral_library.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Grandma Coral called today; the books Lilith and I reserved from the library have finally come in. We just have to stop by after school and pick them up. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[>>|DIARY 2: OCT 26]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Feb 15, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/postlilith_bday2.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> <img src="diary/postlilith_bday1.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Happy Birthday, Lilith. <br><br> I wish things were different. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 23: JAN 27]]          [[>>|DIARY 25: FEB 16]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> Mom is always sneering and judging Aunt Jennifer for her mlm "pyramid schemes," but I think she's just pissed off that Aunt Jennifer is actually making okay money, and gets to go on special cruises all the time. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> I'd think he was having an affair, but it's only a once-a-month thing, and he does it even when Aunt Jennifer is home, soooo... who knows. <br><br> <div class="diary-link"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween + 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_mrblue.png"> <br><br> a stuffed animal shaped like a blue bunny.<br> <<linkreplace "take the bunny?">> <<set $mrbluedoll to true>> you collected the mr. blue doll. <</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "look again">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>Oct 17, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>FISHING TOURNAMENT CANCELLED</b><br> By Peter Ottomas <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> <center> <img src="news/news_fishing.png" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Last year's fishing tourney at Woodland Park </div> </center> <br> (Pleasantview) Burgeoning fisherman and their families will be disappointed to hear that the annual summer fishing tournament held at Woodland Park will be cancelled this year. <br><br> In the hopes of protecting our Pleasantview families -- both those who have already lost something, and those who are still fortunate enough to have escaped such tragedy -- </td><td width="5%" valign="top"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> The Council has imposed an immediate suspension on all outdoor activities until further notice. <br><br> In addition to the cancellation of outdoor activities, The Council will also be implimenting a strict curfew; all residents are expected to be indoors between the hours of 10pm and 5am. A harsh punishment for curfew violators is expected. <br><br> Please be advised that any attempts to circumvent these new regulations will result in severe disciplinary action for the offending citizen, including steep fines and other measures. <br><br> Stay safe, Pleasantview! </td></tr> </table> <br> <center> [[Next Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: CHANDLER]] </center> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "pageturn" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>Oct 17, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>ANOTHER CHILD GOES MISSING</b><br> By Rainelle Neengia <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> <img align="right" src="news/news_chandler2.png" class="img-news2"> (Pleasantview) Another local child in the small town of Pleasantview has disappeared. <br><br> Search and Rescue have canvassed the town, including the pond at Woodland Park and the surrounding forest, but have found no sign of Chandler Platz, 9. </td><td width="5%" valign="top"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> Platz was playing in his own backyard under the supervision of his mother, Lisa Platz, when she left him alone briefly to go back inside of the house. While she was gone only momentarily, when she returned, the yard was empty, and Chandler did not respond to her frantic calls. <br><br> Combined with other recent events, officials fear this may be an emerging pattern, and urge residents to keep a close eye on their children and grandchildren. </td></tr> </table> <br> <center> [[Prev Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: FISHING TOURNEY]] | [[Next Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: WOLF IN THE WOODS]] </center> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "pageturn" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>Oct 17, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>TEEN COUSIN SUSPECTED IN CHILD'S DEATH</b><br> By Rainelle Neengia <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> <img align="right" src="news/news_lilith2.png" class="img-news2"> (Pleasantview) Police in Pleasantview are looking for information regarding the disappearance of a local teen in connection to the suspicious death of Lucy Burb, 8. <br><br> Lilith Pleasant, 17, was last seen heading toward Woodland Park after leaving her aunt and uncle's house late Thursday night. Witnesses report seeing the troubled teenager enter the park at roughly 10pm, Thursday night, although no one can recall seeing her leave. Footage obtained from home security cameras seem to verify these claims. </td><td width="5%" valign="top"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> As previously reported, the body of Lilith's young cousin, Lucy Burb, was found early Friday morning in Woodland Park's lake. The death has been reported as a drowning, as Lucy was reportedly a poor swimmer. Authorities suspect that Lilith may have information pertaining to the death of her younger cousin. <br><br> At this time, Lilith is not considered armed nor dangerous, however police encourage citizens to exercise caution and common sense; if seen, do not approach her, instead contact the hot line, the police, or the Council directly. </td></tr> </table> <br> <center> [[Prev Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: LUCY]] | [[Next Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: STRANGE OCCURRENCES]] </center> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "pageturn" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>Oct 17, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>CHILD FOUND DEAD IN PARK'S LAKE</b><br> By Rainelle Neengia <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> <img align="right" src="news/news_lucy2.png" class="img-news2"> (Pleasantview) Pleasantview residents visiting Woodland Park were given a ghastly shock upon their arrival when a body was discovered floating in the middle of the lake. <br><br> Faith and Herbert Goodie were visting the park for an early morning stroll when they noticed something floating in the water. </td><td width="5%" valign="top"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> Upon realizing it was a human child, Mr. Goodie pulled the child from the water and attempted CPR, while his wife called the police. <br><br> Paramedics were unable to revive the child, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. <br><br> The child, Lucy Burb, 8, was an outgoing and beloved child who dedicated her short life to making others laugh. Her parents have asked for privacy during this dark hour. </td></tr> </table> <br> <center> [[Prev Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: WOLF IN THE WOODS]] | [[Next Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: LILITH]] </center> </div> </div> </center>

<<set $tinComplete to true>> <<audio "pageturn" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>December 27, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>STRANGE OCCURRENCES AND REOCCURRENCES</b><br> By Rainelle Neengia <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> (Pleasantview) A veil of unease has descended upon the once tranquil town of Pleasantview as a series of eerie and inexplicable events unfold, all seemingly centered around the town's youngest residents. Parents are growing increasingly concerned, and local authorities are struggling to make sense of these bizarre incidents. <br><br> <b>The Mysterious Disappearance</b> <br><br> The first incident occurred just last week when nine-year-old Chandler Platz mysteriously disappeared while playing in his backyard. His mother, Lisa Platz, described the harrowing ordeal. "I was inside for just a few minutes to grab some lemonade, and when I returned, Chandler was gone," said a visibly distraught Lisa. "There was no sign of a struggle or anything unusual. It's as if she vanished into thin air." <br><br> Local law enforcement has been tirelessly searching for any clues or leads in Chandler's disappearance, but so far, the investigation has yielded few answers. No witnesses have come forward with any useful information, and there is no evidence of foul play. <br><br> <b>A Broken Family</b> <br><br> <center> <img src="news/beau_firetruck.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Beau Broke, 2, pictured in front of<br> the pool where his father would later<br> be found unresponsive. </div> </center> <br> The Platz family isn't the only one struggling with grief this holiday season. The Broke family is grappling with its own heartbreaking mysteries, having suffered a devastating loss when husband and father of two, Officer Skip Broke, was found dead in their above-ground pool. Authorities ruled it as a tragic accident, but the circumstances surrounding his death have left many in Pleasantview with questions. <br><br> As if the family hadn't suffered enough, their youngest son, 2-year-old Beau Broke, met a tragic end at a local daycare center. According to reports, Beau fell from a playground structure while under the daycare's supervision. The daycare center staff acted quickly to provide medical assistance, but Beau had already succumbed to his injuries. This second tragedy has sent shockwaves through the town, leaving the community reeling from the unexplained string of misfortunes that have befallen the Broke family. <br><br> <b>The Burb-Pleasant Tragedy</b> <br><br> <center> <img src="news/woodland_fishing.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Woodland Park </div> </center> <br> Adding to the town's growing unease, a chilling incident involving cousins Lucy Burb (8), and Lilith Pleasant (17), has sent shockwaves through Pleasantview. As we reported earlier, Lucy was found badly injured and drowned in Woodland Park's pond. What makes this tragedy all the more horrifying is the disturbing surveillance footage that captured Lilith leading her younger cousin to the park shortly before the incident. </td><td width="5%"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> <center> <img src="news/marysue_daniel.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Mary-Sue and Daniel Pleasant </div> </center> <br> "She was always a troubled child, but never in our most horrific nightmares did we dream she was capable of this kind of depravity," Lilith's mother, Mary-Sue Pleasant, has been quoted. <br><br> Lilith's father, Daniel Pleasant, seemed to agree. "She was into dark stuff. We thought it was just a phase that she would grow out of, but now..." <br><br> Local authorities have not yet been able to locate Lilith, who has seemingly disappeared without a trace. The video evidence, while not conclusively proving foul play, has led investigators to strongly suspect that Lilith may have been involved in Lucy's tragic death. <br><br> Lucy's parents, John and Jennifer Burb, are offering a substantial reward for anyone who comes forward with information on Lilith's whereabouts. <br><br> <b>The Unexplained Power Outages</b> <br><br> Following the disappearance of the Platz boy, Pleasantview experienced a series of perplexing power outages. On three separate occasions, the town's electricity grid failed without any discernible cause. These outages always occurred after dark, plunging the town into an eerie darkness that only fueled the growing sense of unease among residents. <br><br> Some parents reported that their children experienced night terrors during these outages, speaking of shadowy figures and strange whispers in the darkness. One mother, Jennifer Parker, said her daughter, Brittany, woke up screaming, claiming that "the shadow people" were trying to take her away. <br><br> <b>A Community on Edge</b> <br><br> As Pleasantview grapples with these baffling events, the once close-knit community is on edge. Parents are keeping their children close, and many schools have reported increased absenteeism as parents opt to keep their kids at home. <br><br> <center> <img src="news/demilove.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Officer Demi Love </div> </center> <br> Local police officer Demi Love weighed in on the situation. "The fear and uncertainty surrounding these events are having a profound psychological impact on the residents of Pleasantview, especially the children," she said. "It's crucial for the community to come together, support one another, and allow law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation." <br><br> <b>The Investigation Continues</b> <br><br> Local authorities have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to unravel the mysteries plaguing Pleasantview. The SBI has been contacted to provide additional resources and expertise in the hopes of solving these cases. <br><br> As the town holds its collective breath, one question lingers: Are these strange occurrences merely a series of bizarre coincidences, or is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows of Pleasantview? Only time will tell as the investigation unfolds, leaving residents anxiously awaiting answers and praying for the safe return of young Chandler Platz. <br><br> Please stay tuned for further updates on this developing story. </td></tr> </table> <br><br> <center> [[Prev Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: LILITH]] | <<if $tinComplete is true and $diaryComplete is true and $candy is true>> <<link "go back to your room" "ENDING: TRICK OR TREAT">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $tinComplete is true and $diaryComplete is false and $candy is true>> <<link "go back to your room" "your room">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $tinComplete is true and $diaryComplete is true and $candy is false>> <<link "go back to your room" "ENDING: BIRTHDAY">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $tinComplete is true and $diaryComplete is false and $candy is false>> <<link "go back to your room" "your room">><</link>> <</if>> </center> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_lrmtrash"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the trash bag is strained with the remnants of lilith.<br> [[something pink|unicorn gift bag]] stands out in the dark debris. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "lilith's room">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween - 1>> <<set $unicornbag to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_unicornbag.png"> <br><br> a crumpled and stained unicorn gift bag. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "lilith's room">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween + 1>> <<set $witchhat to true>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_witchhat.png"> <br><br> a dusty old witch hat has fallen off the shelf. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "lilith's room">><</link>> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_loft"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> there's [[something|angela's photo 2]] on the floor. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "hallway 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween +1>> <center> <div class="vnov_dresser3"> <div class="vnov_location"> dresser </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> little ghosts throughout the room. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "ANGELA'S ROOM - PRE-DARK">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<set $halloween to $halloween - 1>> <center> <div class="vnov_item"> <img src="item_angelaspicture.png"> <br><br> an old picture of angela.<br> she looks sad. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "hallway 2">><</link>> </div> </center>

<<audio "thump" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_lilithscloset"> <div class="vnov_location"> lilith's room </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> something scrapes softly against the [[closet door|witch hat]]. <br><br> <<link "keep looking" "lilith's room">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_blueletter"> //deer mr. blue, <br><br> ...find me tonite? my parents are... agin and its relly, relly bad... scares me when they... braking things and yelling <u>so loud</u>... <br><br> got mad last time but i promis... soon! she just dosn't... sware i'm trying! relly!! <br><br> please please... i don't want... gets home from... please...!! <br><br> love, angela// <br><br> <center> <div class="em-link-blue"> <<link "<<" "downstairs">><</link>> </div> </center> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "pageturn" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_news"> <div class="news-link2"> <b>Oct 17, 2005</b><br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <b>MYSTERIOUS HOWLING IN PLEASANTVIEW WOODS SPARKS WOLF SPECTULATION</b><br> By Rainelle Neengia <br> <table> <tr><td width="45%" valign="top"> <img src="news/forest.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Sunset Woods, which border Pleasantview, may now be home to at least one wolf </div> <br> (Pleasantview) The tranquil town of Pleasantview has been abuzz with nervous excitement and intrigue over the past week, as reports of mysterious howling in the nearby Sunset Woods have led some residents to speculate that a wolf may have taken up residence in the area. <br><br> The first reports of eerie, echoing howls came in from local residents last Thursday night, sending shockwaves through the close-knit community. <br><br> <img src="news/arcadia1.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Arcadia Bradshaw, owner of local bar, Barcadia </div> <br> Arcadia Bradshaw, a long-time resident of Pleasantview, was one of the first to hear the distinctive sounds. <br><br> "It was unlike anything I've ever heard before," said Bradshaw. "I've lived here for decades, and I know every sound that comes from those woods. This was different. It sent shivers down my spine." </td><td width="5%" valign="top"> </td><td width="45%" valign="top"> Since then, several other residents have reported similar experiences. Many have taken to social media to share their stories and theories about the source of the howling. Some have even claimed to have spotted a large, shadowy figure moving through the trees. <br><br> <img src="news/john3.jpg" class="img-news4"> <div class="news_small"> Ranger John Burb investigates reports of wolf sightings in the area </div> <br> Local wildlife experts and authorities have been quick to respond to the reports, though they remain cautious about jumping to conclusions. <br><br> Ranger John Burb of the Pleasantview Wildlife Conservation Society commented, "While it's not impossible for a lone wolf to venture into our woods, it's quite rare. Wolves tend to avoid human-populated areas, so we must approach this situation with a degree of skepticism." <br><br> Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution when in the vicinity of Sunset Woods and to avoid going into the forest alone, especially after dark. </td></tr> </table> <br> <center> [[Prev Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: CHANDLER]] | [[Next Clipping|CORAL'S TIN: LUCY]] </center> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "knock" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel3"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> a loud knock at the door startles you.<br> who could that be?<br> no one knows you're here. <br><br> [[open the door|ENDING: TRICK OR TREAT 2]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "breathing" loop play volume 0.2>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel5"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the lights go out just as you finish reading.<br> must be another one of pleasantview's infamous [[power outages|ENDING: BIRTHDAY 2]]. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "bek" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel4"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> "trick or treat!" <br><br> the end <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "skinwalker" loop play volume 0.4>> <center> <div class="vnov_loft_thing1"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the floor is covered with broken glass.<br> the thing at the window lurches forward. <br><br> [[use the knife|kill it]] <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "skinwalker" stop>> <<audio "thud" play>> <center> <div class="vnov_loft_thing2"> <div class="vnov_location"> the loft </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> the knife is sharp.<br> so much sharper than flesh.<br> did it feel good? <br><br> <<link "go" "upstairs 2">><</link>> <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_diary"> <div class="diary-link2"> <b>Jan 2, 2006</b> <br><br> <img src="diary/coral_dead.jpg" class="img-diary"><br> Grandma Coral died in her sleep last night. <br><br> I don't even know <u>how</u> -- she was so healthy. <br><br> <strike>I wonder if it was all the stress from what happened with Lilith...</strike> <br><br> No, I can't think like that. Everyone is already blaming her for everything else, I can't put Grandma's death on her, too. <br> <img src="line.gif" width="100%" height="1px"><br> <div class="diary-link"> [[<<|DIARY 12: DEC 29]]          [[>>|DIARY 14: JAN 7]] </div> </div> </div> </center>

<<audio "breathing" loop play volume 0.2>> <<audio "growling" loop play volume 0.2>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel7"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> you'd make a break for the door, but...<br> someone is already there. <br><br> the end. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<<audio "breathing" loop play volume 0.2>> <center> <div class="vnov_motel6"> <div class="vnov_location"> roseland motel </div> <center> <div class="vnov_text"> <<type .05s>> something shifts on the bed beside you.<br> frightened, you scramble backwards and tumble [[off of the bed|ENDING: BIRTHDAY 3]]. <</type>> </div> </center> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <center><b>kaylynn.txt</b></center> <br> Do not forget to notify the HOA of Kaylynn's appalling negligence in cleaning the fireplaces. <br><br> I'm uncertain as of yet if I want a replacement, however; other than the fireplaces, she does quite well. <br><br> <div class="em-link-blue"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <center><b>halloween.txt</b></center> <br> It galls me to have to admit that the girls have finagled yet another round of door-to-door panhandling after Daniel and I expressly forbade them. They're much too old for it, and they know it; I can only imagine what the neighbors must think when they open their doors to a group of smirking, entitled teenagers with their bags out. Ugh. <br><br> If Lucy needs an escort next year, I'll do it myself, or perhaps more appropriately, make my manchild of a husband do it. <br><br> I will not continue to be undermined and embarrassed. <br><br> <div class="em-link-blue"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </center>

<center> <div class="vnov_item"> <center> <div class="vnov_email"> <center><b>soliciting.txt</b></center> <br> I've received numerous complaints about "soliciters" approaching homeowners at odd hours. <br><br> Every report is nearly identical: the soliciters come in groups of three, appear extraordinarily pale except for their "dark red" lips, and are all dressed alike, in suits and hats. A strange enough ensemble, but stranger still, nobody can seem to remember what this gaggle of soliciters is selling, or what was even discussed; only that the soliciters frequently requested to be allowed inside, and once they'd left, the homeowner was left with a persistent feeling of having lost something they cannot recall. <br><br> I will be sure to bring it up at the next City Council meeting, although I'm not sure what can be done about it at this point. <br><br> <div class="em-link-blue"> <<return "<<">> </div> </div> </center>