*gosub_scene subroutines clear_fight_vars *set fight_scene "expedition_disturbance" *temp woman_present true *temp dislocated_jaw false *temp heard_disciples false *temp need_compensation false *temp blocked_space false *temp bing_killed false *temp bing_in_tribe false *temp bing_captured false *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "fubing_killed_prologue_tigress|" *if (cslib_ret > 0) *goto late_in_evening *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "bullleader_killed|" *if (cslib_ret > 0) *set bing_killed true *else *gosub_scene cslib_string find history " fubing_killed_prologue_mc||" *if (cslib_ret > 0) *set bing_killed true *else *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "bullleader_friendly|" *if cslib_ret > 0 *set bing_in_tribe true *else *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "bullleader_captured|" *if cslib_ret > 0 *set bing_captured true *label late_in_evening It's late in the evening, and the sun has almost hidden itself behind the distant horizon. You are outside, practicing some punching techniques, when you are interrupted by a panting, sweating Goshan. "Ho-holy one…" — he mumbles, failing to catch his breath — "Ple-please, come to the entrance…" Noticing his evident urgency, you follow him to the tribe's gate. When you mount the walls and look below, an unexpected sight greets you: before your tribe, more than half a dozen of Martial Artists respectfully wait for your arrival. When you appear, they all clasp their hands and bow in unison. *if (bing_killed) All, except for a woman standing in front of the others. Instead, she fixes you with a hateful, furious gaze. "${mc_surname} ${mc_name}, come down and pay for your crime, you scum!" — she yells, her shouts causing the crowd to give her weird glances and back away from her in haste. Flabbergasted, you look at her thoroughly, trying to remember if you've ever met her before. Yet, no matter how deep you dig into your memory, this woman's face does not ring a bell. "I'm Fu Lanfen of the Heavenly Law Sect and I'm here to seek justice for my brother! Are you still going to hide, you evil-doer?!" — she keeps on crying out — "I request a duel! Come down and receive your punishment!" Ah, now it makes sense: this woman seems to be the sister of Fu Bing, a fellow Junior Brother you so heartlessly have killed. *label deal_with_lanfen *if expo_xiwen = "owner" At this point, Lei Xiwen comes near you. "I've met her before. Lady Fu is a stubborn, unrelenting person. You've done her wrong, you must answer for it." — he says — "She won't leave otherwise and I'm not going to chase her out, since her reasoning is righteous." *if (bing_captured) *choice #Let Fu Bing go. *label freed_bing Unwilling to quarrel and risk your life over an insignificant character like Fu Bing, you give the woman an affirmative nod and send someone to fetch her captured brother. When he's carried out and given to Fu Lanfen, she kneels down next to him and slaps your fellow disciple with a wide-open palm. A bright red hand print fades into existence on his cheek as Fu Bing looks at his sister with a wronged expression. "S-Sis…" — he sobs — "I'm so-sorry…" "Shut up," — she slaps him again — "Useless trash. I should've let you rot." Fu Lanfen picks him up and throws her good-for-nothing brother on her shoulder. She then glances at you and waves her hand. "Ciao! Let's not meet again!" With that, she leaves and you decide to focus on the rest of the Martial Artists. *set history &"bing_freed|" *page_break *goto simple_man #Fight her. Unwilling to simply let Fu Bing go, you jump down the wall and face the woman head-on. *goto jump_down Left without a choice, having lost control of your tribe, you jump down the wall and face the rage-filled woman. *goto jump_down *if (expo_yuanfang) At this point, both Yuan Fang and Lei Xiwen come near you. "I say you shouldn't bother." — Yuan Fang suggests, after a moment of thought — "You never know what tricks she has prepared. After all, something must have given her enough confidence to challenge you this brazenly." "Then ${polite_address} ${mc_name} will lose a lot of face." — Lei Xiwen retorts — *label honorable_duel "An honorable duel in these circumstances is only right. If you refuse, the rumors of your cowardice and shamelessness will spread like a wildfire during summer." — he points to all the other disciples present. — "They won't stay quiet, after all." "Moreover, I've met Lady Fu before. She's a stubborn, unrelenting person. You've done her wrong, you must answer for it. Otherwise, she won't ever leave." *else At this point, Lei Xiwen comes near you. *goto honorable_duel *choice *if (bing_captured) #Let Fu Bing go. *goto freed_bing #Accept the duel. You jump down the wall and wall and face the rage-filled woman. *label jump_down *choice #"You want a fight? I'll give you one." "You want a fight?" — you laugh, shrugging your shoulders to warm them up — "I'll give you one!" #"I apologize that things have reached this point." You smile at her regretfully and sigh. "I apologize that things have reached this point." "I don't need your apologies!" — she exclaims — "What I want is your mutilated corpse!" #Gesture her to attack. Calmly, you lift your arm and gesture her to attack, before crossing your hands behind your hand. *goto fight_lanfen #Refuse and send Tattooed after her instead. Not caring about the loss of reputation, you command your Tattooed to go out and deal with her instead. Before you can give the order, however, Xiwen stops you. "${polite_address} ${mc_name}, please reconsider." — he says — "She's an acquittance of mine. If you go down this path, I'm afraid our relationship will become hostile." *choice #"I've made my choice." *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 5 "honor" "-" *set mc_prestige -20 *set characters_15_opinion 0 *set characters_15_status "Enemy" "I've made my choice." — you state and continue with your previous plan. Lei Xiwen doesn't say a word, but leaves, unwilling to stay by your side any longer. #"Fine." "Fine." — you relent and jump down to face the rage-filled woman. *goto jump_down Your actions immediately cause a stir: the crowd of Martial Artists erupts with whispers and, you have no doubt, gossips about what happened will be known to all inside the Danger Zone in a short amount of time. When your warriors actually reach the woman, she proves to be a much tougher opponent to handle that you originally expected: she doesn't run, doesn't try to escape — instead, she goes through the Tattooed like a knife cutting butter, defeating each one in a matter of mere seconds. From what you are able to see and feel, she's someone near the very peak of Middle-Houtian, a difficult enemy even for you to face against. Eventually, the sheer numbers of Tattooed overwhelm her. Like ants, they swarm and topple her, but not before the fierce warrior crushes [b]7[/b] of them underneath her feet. *set history &"lanfen_killed|" *set expo_army -7 This matter dealt with, you order Fu Lanfen's corpse to be removed and address the remaining crowd. "What are you here for?" — you ask. There's no need to fear them possessing hostile intentions: with Xiwen present, these six wouldn't dare even dream of them. After a moment of hesitancy, most likely due to your previous actions, one disciple manages to gather the courage and speak out. *label come_in_peace "Senior ${polite_address}, we've come in peace!" — he exclaims — "We look for protection and shelter. If you show us magnanimity, we will follow you until this expedition ends." "Protection? From what?" "From both our fellow disciples and…" — he gulps — "${polite_address} ${mc_name} may not know, but there are dangerous beasts roaming this jungle. We are far from their match, even when traveling together. I hope Senior ${polite_address} will not leave us on our own." You give the Martial Artists a more thorough glance. There are six of them: the plain-looking man who spoke to you, a pair of twins, a man and a woman, who, by the way they stand, are obviously a couple, and a masked figure with a skinny, androgynous figure. All appear to be in a rough state, with their clothes either dirtied or outright torn, and bodies relaying their exhaustion. *if expo_xiwen = "owner" *set expo_disciples true This decision, however, is out of your hands: Lei Xiwen warmly waves his hand, welcoming them in. "Come, come, all friends are welcome!" — he shouts — "But, please, be understanding and don't cause trouble." The disciples bow, overjoyed. "Thank you, Senior Brother! We won't forget this kindness!" — they reply, entering the tribe one by one. *goto disciples_entered *choice #Allow them in. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 1 "honor" "+" *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 3 "kindness" "+" *set expo_disciples true "Of course, of course!" — you declare, welcoming them in — "The more, the merrier!" The disciples bow, overjoyed. "Thank you, Senior ${polite_address}! We won't forget this kindness!" — they reply, entering the tribe one by one. *goto disciples_entered #Chase them out. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 2 "kindness" "-" "You're not welcome here." — you declare — "Leave, before I force you to." The disciples start to argue, but you, unperturbed, turn away and leave them behind. Let them fend for themselves — their fates are not your responsibility. *goto disciples_not_entered #Kill them all. *set woman_present false *set heard_disciples true *goto ruthless_glint #Refuse and kill every other disciple alongside her. *set history &"lanfen_killed|" *label ruthless_glint *set characters_15_opinion 0 *set characters_15_status "Enemy" With a ruthless glint flashing in your eyes, you give an order to your Tattoed — one that causes *if (expo_yuanfang) Yuan Fang to look at you with interest and Lei Xiwen to recoil in abhorrence. *else Lei Xiwen to recoil in abhorrence. "Are you insane?" — he exclaims — "This better be a poor attempt at a joke." "It's not." — you reply, turning to him — "Have you forgotten your promise? Until this expedition is over, you are mine to command." Xiwen continues to hold your gaze, unflinching. For a moment, you are unsure whether or not he'll actually support you: sure, he said he would, but words do not mean much in front of power, do they? However, in the end, Xiwen lets out a sigh and walks away. "I will remember your actions today." — he says, not bothering to face you — "I will not participate in this nonsense, but, since I promised, I will not stop you either. Deal with this yourself." You do not stop him — you can't, really, and this is already the best possible outcome. *if (not (heard_disciples)) *if (expo_yuanfang) Yuan Fang, however, claps his hands to express his admiration. "This is the best possible decision." — he nods — "I applaud your resolve. I'll help you, then." Once you are outside the tribe's walls, the sight of the warriors causes the disciples expression to change, from hopeful smiles to panic and fear. They flee *if (woman_present) at once, all except Fu Lanfen: she stays instead and meets the Tattooed head-on, going through them like a knife cutting through butter. *if (expo_yuanfang) Even with Yuan Fang's assistance, she manages to bring [b]4[/b] of the warriors down before her eventual demise. *set expo_army -4 *else She manages to bring [b]7[/b] of the warriors down before her eventual demise. *set expo_army -7 *else at once, without exception. You give chase, but, in the end, only manage to catch and kill three of them: the twin-beauties and the masked woman escape, their traces disappearing with the wind. The rumors will spread — and they will be even more brutal. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 10 "honor" "-" *goto disciples_not_entered *elsif (bing_captured) All, except for a woman standing in front of the others. Instead, she fixes you with a serious, ice-cold gaze. "${mc_surname} ${mc_name}, release my brother! If you dare not to, then come down and fight me instead!" — she yells, her shouts causing the crowd to give her weird glances and back away from her in haste. Flabbergasted, you look at her thoroughly, trying to remember if you've ever met her before. Yet, no matter how deep you dig into your memory, this woman's face does not ring a bell. "I'm Fu Lanfen of the Heavenly Law Sect!" — she keeps on crying out — "My brother has been captured by you and I demand his release through a Martial Challenge!" *goto deal_with_lanfen *elsif (bing_in_tribe) All, except for a woman that steps forward and clasps her hands. Her greeting, while not hostile, is different from the others — while still respectful, it's clear she treats you like an equal, instead of a senior. "I'm called Fu Lanfen." — the woman says — "I'm here to accompany my brother, who seems to have ended up in your care." "Do not worry." — she continues — "While we're here, I'll naturally obey your orders. Provided, they are not too unreasonable, of course." "How strong are you?" — you ask point-blank, seeing no need to beat around the bush. "I believe amongst Middle-Houtians, few can be my match." — Fu Lanfen answers , standing tall and proud as she does. Since Fu Bing already resides inside your tribe, you don't have any real reason to refuse his sister's entry. "Alright." — you agree — "You are welcome to stay." Done with Fu Lanfen, you focus your attention on the other disciples. *label simple_man *set woman_present false A man, with a simple, opposite of outstanding appearance, calls to you. *goto come_in_peace *else *goto simple_man *label disciples_entered *temp suspicious false An hour after the disciples have settled into the tribe, there's a knock on your door. "Come in." — you say, turning to welcome your guest. Expectedly, it's one of the new Martial Artists: the masked, androgynous figure to be more specific. Seeing you, the disciple bends their waist, their bow deep and full of respect. "This little one thanks Senior ${polite_address}. Your generosity has, most likely, prevented my early death. My, Ro Hui's, favor may not worth much, but know that you have it either way." — the disciple says, still bowing. Using this opportunity, you take a closer glance at their figure: *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "per" 30 *if (stat_check) Although you can't tell much, you know by fact that something about this Martial Artist is [i]off[/i]. Once you look at them long enough, their silhouette starts to blur and deform. What's more, their voice is weird as well. It sounds fine at first, your sensitive ears catch distortions in its tone, as if different pitches were engaged in a fierce struggle against each other. Moreover, while martial artists using masks are not that uncommon in the Martial World, it's still a suspicious sign why wear one, if you've got nothing to hide? *set suspicious true *else Besides the mask and figure-concealing robes, you find nothing suspicious about this disciple. And even those factors are not that big of a deal: many martial artists use masks for one reason or another. *choice *if (expo_xiwen = "owner") #"It's not me you should thank. Lei Xiwen is the one who allowed your entry." "It's not me you should thank." — you refuse, waving her hand — "Lei Xiwen is the one who allowed your entry. And please, stand up." The disciple does as you say, but shakes his head afterwards. "No matter, you're one the leaders of this expedition, without your grace it would be hard for us to stay peacefully in this tribe." — Ro Hui replies, with another short bow. *label what_is_it "What is it?" — you eventually ask — "I'm sure you didn't come here just to express your gratitude." "${YM} ${mc_name}'s eyes are thorough, allowing ${pronoun_3} to see the truths in people easily." — Ro Hui nods — "Indeed, I have something to report to ${YM}, but I'm not sure if you would look down on me for stirring trouble." Ro Hui fidgets with their hands, looking down. "Speak." "While I was traveling with those disciples, I've overheard a conversation between the twins. It appears… they are members of the Havoc Sect." — Ro Hui mutters and you can hear their voice [i]shake[/i] at the mere mention of the name — "I don't know their purpose, but it can't be good. I'm afraid they may have nefarious intentions." *choice #"Thank you for telling me this. I'll keep this information in mind." "Thank you for telling me this." — you say with praise — "I'll keep this information in mind." "That's all I ask for." — Ro Hui replies, clasping their hands — "I'll be off then. I appreciate ${YM} listening to my words." With another bow, the disciple leaves you alone as you ponder on their ominous warning… *goto end_event #"And what about you? Who are you really?" "And what about you?" — you sneer — "Do you have any nefarious intentions?" Startled, the disciples stumbles back, before dropping on their knees. "I dare not! I dare not even possess thoughts about harming ${YM}." "Then why do you wear that mask? What are you hiding?" — you step closer, intimidating the poor martial artist with your presence. Your questions stops their pleads as the disciple, hesitantly, touches their mask. "Please…" — Ro Hui begs — "Don't make me take it off…" *choice #"Do it." "Do it." — you order — "If you want to leave this house alive." At first, Ro Hui doesn't response. They sit still, unmoving on their knees. Then, you hear sobs, as the disciple, with trembling hands, removes the mask — and *label burned_face reveals a horrifically burned face, one covered in entirety with with scars. It's disfigured, deformed to a point where the only human thing about it are the crying ${mc_eye_left} eyes. *choice #"Heavens, what happened to you?" "Heavens," — you exclaim, sitting down next to Ro Hui — "What happened to you?" Wiping off the tears, the disciple begins their — you still can't tell whether the one before you is a woman or a man — explanation. "My clan is known for their fire-attuned techniques. Once, when I was young, I snuck into one of the training grounds and played inside. However, once our servants discovered me, I got startled and slipped… falling into a lava pool. I was still a mortal then, so my body and face were thoroughly damaged. My family had to pay a fortune just to keep me alive, how could they afford fixing such deep scars?" "After I underwent rebirth, it already became too late. These injuries are now considered by the Heavens to be a part of me, so no restorative treasure or Art can help me look normal again. There may be temporary cosmetic measures, but wouldn't I be spending all of my hard-earned money on a lie then? I'd rather live as is." Ro Hui sighs, as they get up. "Actually…" — Ro Hui swallows, trying to control their shaking voice — "Actually, I'm fine with the way I look. Sure, I get envious when I see beautiful Martial Artists whenever I go, and feel a tinge of regret, but how could I continue my existence if I was still not used to it?" As they speak, tears again appear under their eyes. "It's just… It's just… I hope others wouldn't judge me so harshly. They are disgusted with me when they see my face, or, like you, suspicious of my identity when I wear a mask." — Ro Hui cryingly complains, lifting their head and staring at you — "Tell me, what should I do, ${YM} ${mc_name}?" *choice #"I apologize. I didn't expect the situation to be like this." "I apologize." — you sincerely bow — "I didn't expect the situation to be like this." "No one does." — Ro Hui sneers — "They all think I'm an evil person because I hide my face." You can hear the frustrated anger in their tone, growing louder and louder. In a moment, however, Ro Hui exhales and puts their mask back on. "No need for an apology, ${YM}. You only did what's expected, what others do. If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave." They do so, turning away and walking out of the door, leaving behind their tragic story and their ominous warning. *goto end_event #"How should I know? You should've been more careful when you were little. It's your fault." "How should I know?" — you shrug your shoulders — "You should've been more careful when you were little. It's your fault." *label ro_hui_chuckle Ro Hui chuckles, as they put their mask back on. "${YM} is right, everything is my fault. I apologize for making your listen to my exhausting story. I will not bother your anymore." They turn away and walk out the door, leaving behind their tragic experience and their ominous warning. #"Well, now you can shut up and leave. I'm tired of listening to your depressing story." "Well, now you can shut up and leave. I'm tired of listening to your depressing story." *goto ro_hui_chuckle *goto end_event #"What a disgusting sight." "What a disgusting sight." — you scorn as you back away — "Earn some money and heal this atrocity." Ro Hui chuckles, as they put their mask back on. "I apologize if my appearance upset ${ym}." — they say, their sarcasm evident — "I will get out of your sight, in order to not be an eyesore any longer than necessary." The disciples bows again, turns away and leaves. *goto end_event #"Fine. I've heard you, you can leave." "Fine." — you agree, noticing the disciple's distress — "I've heard you. You can leave." "Thank you, ${YM}." — Ro Hui replies, bowing to display their sincerity — "Thank you for your trust and understanding." They then turn away and walk out the door, just like you asked, leaving you alone with their ominous warning stuck in your mind. *goto end_event #"Spot spouting nonsense." "Spot spouting nonsense." — you scoff — "Is that why you came here? To sow discord?" Startled, the disciple stumbles back. They try to explain, but are too nervous to form a proper sentence. "What?" — you sneer — "Can't come up with a lie to explain yourself? Scram, before I get angry." Hurriedly bowing, Ro Hui runs out the door, without any further arguing. *goto end_event *if (expo_xiwen = "owner") #"No need. I didn't want to allow you in anyway." "No need." — you wave your hand, your expression ice-cold — "I didn't want to allow you in anyway." "I see…" — Ro Hui murmurs — "But I will still extend my gratitude, since the situation has turned out this way." *goto what_is_it #"I only followed martial courtesy. No need for thanks." "I only followed martial courtesy." — you wave your hand — "No need for thanks. And please, stand up." "In our turbulent world, those who stick to honor and proper etiquette are a rare find." — Ro Hui says, straightening their back — "I praise ${YM} for ${pronoun_2} moral standing." *goto what_is_it #"Haha, since you're so grateful, I'll accept your favor!" "Haha, since you're so grateful, I'll accept your favor!" — you boisterously say — "Don't forget it, when I'll come knocking to collect!" Ro Hui chuckles, straightening their back. "No need to fret, I, Ro Hui, is not someone who betrays the words I've said." *goto what_is_it #"Who are you?" "Who are you?" — you question in suspicion. "I'm Ro Hui. In the secular world, I'm the heir of the Ro Clan hailing from the Teanshou Province. In the Jianghu, I'm but a lowly disciple of the Righteous Fist Sect." — they reply, still bowing. You don't know whether the words this disciples speaks are truth or not: there are indeed a province named Teanshou and a sect called Righteous Fist, but how would you know every insignificant character of every insignificant clan? *goto what_is_it *selectable_if (suspicious) #Attack the disciple. This Ro Hui is far too suspicious — and you know that there's nothing better than violence to reveal the truth. Although you can't exactly kill them here for Lei Xiwen will not let you off if you murder a guest that was promised safety, some threats are well within your means. You leap, crossing the distance between you in a blink. Your leg trip theirs, your hand grab their neck as you push the disciple on the ground. Ro Hui, however, doesn't resist: even as you squeeze, even as they start to choke, the disciple does nothing, as if they resigned to their fate. Curious, you ease your grasp a little and tilt your head. "If ${YM} wants to kill me, there's nothing I can do to stop ${pronoun_2}." — Ro Hui explains, the eyes behind their mask appearing soulless and dead — "I just hope that whatever sins I've committed, the punishment will end with me and ${YM} won't spread it on my family as well." *choice #"I overreacted." Seeing their submissive, servile state, you sigh and get up. "I overreacted." — you say, apologizing without saying sorry — "I hope you will not find offense in my actions." "Would I dare to?" — Ro Hui mutters, caressing their neck. They then let out a breath as well and bow again — "If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave. I appreciate ${YM}'s mercy." Ro Hui then leaves, dejected at your mistrust. *goto end_event #"Who are you? You better not lie." "Who are you? You better not lie." — you ask, your voice ice-cold and stern. "I'm Ro Hui. In the secular world, I'm the heir of the Ro Clan hailing from the Teanshou Province. In the Jianghu, I'm but a lowly disciple of the Righteous Fist Sect." You don't know whether the words this disciples speaks are truth or not: there are indeed a province named Teanshou and a sect called Righteous Fist, but how would you know every insignificant character of every insignificant clan? "And what was your purpose in coming here today?" "I merely came to warn ${YM} of the possible danger. I had no ulterior motive." Again, you can't determine whether they speak the truth or not. Their words sound sincere enough, but the Martial World is full of schemers whose acting skills would put the most famous actors to shame. So, you snort and get up. "Scram now." With another bow, Ro Hui obeys and dejectedly walks out the door. *goto end_event #Take off their mask. Without hesitation, you rip off their mask — and immediately wished that you hadn't. Your action *goto burned_face *label end_event *goto_scene expedition_free *label disciples_not_entered *goto_scene expedition_free *label fight_lanfen With a scream full of animosity and grief, the woman runs, jumps and soars towards you. Her speed is high and she closes in, spreading her leg in a kick, you can almost feel the power contained in her attack. [i]This is not going to be an easy opponent to overcome[/i], you realize. *gosub_scene subroutines set_enemy_stats 28 30 25 24 29 "middle" "Karmic Stomp" *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" (0-2) *if (stat_check) Nimbly, you step out of the way. Fu Lanfen flies past you, but this setback does not discourage her. Instead, she lands with acrobatic grace, steps back, raises her leg and spins — another kick is unleashed upon you, this one targeting your head. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" (0-1) *if (stat_check) You manage to duck under it, avoiding the powerful blow. In retaliation, you try to trip her up, but she jumps over your sweep and, as if chopping with an ax, brings down her leg upon your skull. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" 0 *if (stat_check) You put your arms behind you and use them to flip yourself over just in time. The kick hits the ground, cracking the hard earth beneath. Having put a bit of distance between you two, you inspect the woman: she hops on her feet, her breathing steady and even despite the various lethal attacks she just let loose. The singular piece of evidence indicating her exhaustion is a bead of sweat on her forehead. Fu Lanfen wipes it off and snorts. "You're fast. But I'm [i]faster[/i]." *goto crane_kicks *else It hits right on the target and you feel it [i]crack[/i] your cranium. *label broken_skull You feel the blood that starts to flow, and you feel the dizziness that comes… *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 15 fight_scene However, you are not so easily brought down. Shaking off the impact, you regain your focus, ignoring the horrible *if (dislocated_jaw) wound and putting your jaw back in place. *else wound. You focus on the woman instead, inspecting her from head to toe: she hops on her feet, her breathing steady and even despite the multiple lethal attacks she just let loose. The singular piece of evidence indicating her exhaustion is a bead of sweat on her forehead. Fu Lanfen wipes it off and snorts. "Do you want to taste my shoe again?" *goto crane_kicks *else It finds its target, dislocating your jaw as it hurls you to the side. *label dislocated_jaw *set dislocated_jaw true *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 10 fight_scene Before you can even get up, Fu Lanfen, as if chopping with an ax, brings down her leg upon your skull and [i]cracks[/i] your cranium. *goto broken_skull *else The kick causes you to fall down, unable to remain on your feet from the power put behind it. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 5 fight_scene Another one arrives soon after: it dislocates your jaw and hurls you to the side. *goto dislocated_jaw *label crane_kicks "[b]Myriad Kick Art - Three Crane Kicks of Order![b]" Suddenly, illusory wings appear on her back. The woman stretches her neck and warms up her shoulders, giving you a confident, cocky smirk. She leaps forward, bent on dominating the initiative. Her wings flop, lifting her higher and further. Her arms spread out, her body resembling a soaring crane, and she kicks out with her left leg. *choice #Dodge it. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" 1 *if (stat_check) You lean back, avoiding the strike, but the wings bring Fu Lanfen closer to you once again. And once again, she kicks. You bend your body further, your back almost perpendicular to the ground, and dodge the attack. *label as_if_possessed However, as if possessed, Fu Lanfen lets out an ear-piercing shriek of a bird: she brings her knees to her chest and then, as if an arrow released from a bowstring, shoots forward. Too fast to react, her legs slam into your chest, bringing with them a terrifying amount of force. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "con" "str" 3 *if (stat_check) *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 5 fight_scene You stumble back, a red print no doubt appearing underneath your robes. But you grit your teeth and withstand the pain. *goto counterattack *else Your sternum caves in, you legs leave the ground — like a kite with its strings cut, you fly backwards, crushing into the tribe's wall. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 15 fight_scene *label mouthful_of_blood You cough out a mouthful of blood, your limbs shaking as you get back on your feet. *if (blocked_space) Glancing at Fu Lanfen, you see her point towards a void-colored bracelet on her hand. Then, she gives you a wink and comes rushing at you — but this time, you manage to outmaneuver her and gain an advantage. *goto counterattack *else With another attack, Fu Lanfen comes rushing at you — but this time, you manage to outmaneuver her and gain an advantage. *goto counterattack *else *label her_foot Her foot hits right under your chin, lifting you up and sending you flying like a kite with its strings cut. While you are still in the air, she brings her knees to her chest. Then, as if an arrow released from a bowstring, shoots forward, slamming into your chest. It caves in, your sternum fractures and you crash into the tribe's wall. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 25 fight_scene *goto mouthful_of_blood #Block it. You cross arms together and put them down, trying to stop the kick before it gathers its full momentum. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "str" "str" 1 *if (stat_check) The attack rattles your block, making your forearms tremble, but it still holds true to its purpose. Fu Lanfen's wings, however, flop once again and raise her above your guard. And once again, she kicks. You quickly readjust, bringing your arms higher and blocking the strike. *goto as_if_possessed *else The attack destroys your flimsy block completely, your attempt at defense unable to withstand a single blow. *goto her_foot *selectable_if (mc_defensive_2_mastery >= 1) #Void Step. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_2_cost "" "defensive_2" You break the space in front of you, preparing to step into the void and disappear, but the black fissure you created with the skill suddenly closes before you enter. You catch Fu Lanfen grinning at your confusion — and her attacks soon reach the defenseless you. *set blocked_space true *goto her_foot *label counterattack *choice #Double-palm strike her in the chest. You put one palm on top of another and, exhaling, strike her in the chest. Before it can land, however, her wings suddenly grow and envelop her in their embrace. They absorb the attack and dissipate, revealing a furious Fu Lanfen punching at your throat. #Grab her shoulders and knee her in the face. You grab her shoulders and pull her closer, kneeing her in the face. Before it can land, however, her wings suddenly grow and envelop her in their embrace. They absorb the attack and dissipate, while Fu Lanfen twists herself in your grip and weaves her legs around your neck. She then pulls herself up and punches at your throat. #Move back and taunt her. Finding amusement in this fight, you simply step back and clap. "You're qualified enough to be my maid. Congratulations." She doesn't answer, but the raging look in her eyes is difficult to miss. *set fight_difficulty +1 [b]You have angered Fu Lanfen even further - this fight will be more difficult![/b] Her movements erratic and difficult to predict, Fu Lanfen runs up close and punches at your throat. *choice #Swat her hand away. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" 0 *if (stat_check) Just when the timing is right, you swat her wrist and redirect it to the side. You bring up your leg, hoping to catch her with a knee to the stomach… *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "agi" "agi" 1 *if (stat_check) … she tries to block it with her own, but misses the opportunity and instead find herself swallowing a yelp of pain. She's rattled and hurt, but manages to back away and put some distance between you. *else … but she blocks it with her own, punching you in the face instead. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 3 fight_scene It's a light tap, compared to her kicks, but it hurts nevertheless. You back away, putting some distance between you. *else You wait for the right timing to swat her wrist and redirect it to the side, but miss it. *label throat_punch_hits The punch ends up hitting and you gulp for air, unable to breathe. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 5 fight_scene Rattled and hurt, you barely manage to back away and put some distance between you. #Catch her fist. *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "str" "str" 0 *if (stat_check) The power of her fists is nothing compared to her kicks: you catch her hand with a palm, pull her to disrupt her balance and punch her in the face. She's rattled and hurt, but manages to back away and put some distance between you. *else Although the power of her fists is nothing compared to her kicks, it's still beyond what you can handle: trying to catch her hand was definitely a bad idea. *goto throat_punch_hits You give Fu Lanfen another glance: she's panting now, at least. Her speed and technique are definitely outstanding amidst Middle-Houtians, her power is well above average as well. Her endurance seems to be on the lower side, however, and she's quite fragile on top of that. Overall, though, you are surprised: a person without much reputation to her name is able to give such a fight. Just how many hidden geniuses are there? And how many of them are present in this Zone, with a grudge against you? It doesn't matter now. You should with deal with your enemy at hand first. "It's time to answer for your crimes." — Fu Lanfen declares, looking every bit like a paragon of justice: standing firm, head held high with an expression of unwavering determination — "Let the Heavens judge your sins, let the world condemn you!" You can't help but find her claims a bit hypocritical: Fu Bing wasn't that good of a guy, was he? But your opinion doesn't matter, as the woman starts to emit a golden brilliance "[b]Myriad Kick Art - KARMIC STOMP![/b]" As if squashing a bug, Fu Lanfen stomps the ground — and as soon as she does, the world itself rumbles in response and a golden, half-transparent leg forms above your head. *if mc_reputation_kindness <= 30 It's size is beyond gigantic, several tens of feet in length. As the leg begins to move, a slow, unhurried motion, you escape. But no matter what you do, no matter how you run, the apparition remains above you, refusing to fall behind. You can only watch it press down, an enormous heavenly boot desiring for your life… *choice *selectable_if (mc_defensive_1_mastery >= 1) #Celestial Shell. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_1_cost "" "defensive_1" A golden barrier forms around you, your most ultimate form of protection: yet, despite its absurd defense, the shell [i]cracks[/i], barely able to soak some of the stomp's strength. *goto raise_arms #Wrestle against it. You raise your arms and plant your feet, trying to prevent the leg from your crushing you into dust. *label crushed_by_stomp But the small stream of your strength is meaningless against the boundless ocean of wordly power: inch by inch, the boot breaks your bones, turning flesh into meat paste… *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health_return 10000 fight_scene When you get up, having escaped certain death by a narrow margin, you find *label lanfen_nosebleed Fu Lanfen swaying, eyes blurry, and with two trails of blood under her nose. *goto swaying_lanfen *elsif mc_reputation_kindness < 50 It's size is large, ten feet of length at least. As the leg begins to move, a slow, unhurried motion, you escape. But no matter what you do, no matter how you run, the apparition remains above you, refusing to fall behind. You can only watch it press down, an enormous heavenly boot desiring for your life… *choice *selectable_if (mc_defensive_1_mastery >= 1) #Celestial Shell. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_1_cost "" "defensive_1" A golden barrier forms around you, your most ultimate form of protection: yet, despite its absurd defense, the shell [i]cracks[/i], though it's able to soak a significant part of the stomp's strength. *goto raise_arms_2 #Wrestle against it. *label raise_arms You raise your arms and plant your feet, trying to prevent the leg from your crushing you into dust… *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "str" "str" 4 *if (stat_check) Although your limbs shake and your muscles scream in desperate exhaustion, you manage to withstand the tyrannical Art. You raise your head and *goto lanfen_nosebleed *else *goto crushed_by_stomp *elseif mc_reputation_kindness < 70 It's size is barely that of a human limb, but, to your surprise, you find it to be inescapable. No matter what you do, no matter how you run, the apparition remains above you, refusing to fall behind. You can only watch it press down, a heavenly boot desiring for your life… *choice *selectable_if (mc_defensive_1_mastery >= 1) #Celestial Shell. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_1_cost "" "defensive_1" A golden barrier forms around you, your most ultimate form of protection: and it halts the stomp, allowing to remain unscathed. You raise your head and find *goto lanfen_nosebleed #Wrestle against it. *label raise_arms_2 You raise your arms and plant your feet, trying to prevent the leg from your crushing you into dust… *gosub_scene subroutines f_stat_check "str" "str" 2 *if (stat_check) Although your limbs shake and your muscles scream in desperate exhaustion, you manage to withstand the tyrannical Art. You raise your head and *goto lanfen_nosebleed *else *goto crushed_by_stomp *else However, as soon as it appears, the leg dissolves into particles of light and vanishes. "WHAT?!" — Fu Lanfen screams out in surprise — "HOW IS THAT PO-" She doesn't finish her words. Already swaying on her feet and with two trails of blood under her nose, the unexpected failure of the skill exhausts her beyond the limit her body can take. The woman collapses, her consciousness sent to slumber. *goto fight_end *label swaying_lanfen Although clearly clearly tired and running on fumes, Fu Lanfen still assumes a proper stance is unwilling to give up. You'll have to force her, then. *choice #Run up and knee her in the face. You run up and jump, bending your knee in the air. If she wasn't so muddled, Fu Lanfen would've surely avoided such an obvious attack: but in her current state, the knee hits and you see as her eyes lose their light before she falls onto the ground. *goto fight_end #Kick at her legs and bring her on her knees. You walk towards her and kick at her leg. If she wasn't so muddled, Fu Lanfen would've surely avoided such an obvious attack: but in her current state, she can't defend. Unable to stand, she falls onto her knee and you… *choice #Smack her with an open palm. Smack her with a wide-open palm, an ultimate gesture of humiliation. She falls to the ground, hitting her head, and her consciousness is sent to slumber. #Knock her out with a punch. Punch her squarely in the jaw, causing her eyes to lose their light and her consciousness to be sent to slumber. #Choke her out with your hands. Grab onto her neck and squeeze. Her face reddens, her nails scratch your arms, but you don't release your hold until her eyes lose their light and her consciousness is sent to slumber. #Tackle her. Run up, put your head forward, grab her waist and push with your shoulder. If she wasn't so muddled, Fu Lanfen would've surely avoided such an obvious attack: but in her current state, she can't defend and is thrown to the ground. There, it's just a matter of time before your pounding fists make her eyes lose their light and her send her consciousness into the land of slumber. *goto fight_end *label fight_end *set woman_present false *choice #Let her keep her life. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 2 "kindness" "+" *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion 15 3 "+" You sit down next to her, waiting for the woman to recover. It doesn't take her long: a minute passes, before her senses return and she wakes up. Seeing you so close, she recoils by instinct, but moans in agony due to the sudden movement. "Will you cause me trouble in the future?" — you ask, observing her with a tilt of your head. Noticing that you don't wish her harm, Fu Lanfen relaxes and sighs. "I've tried to seek revenge and failed, therefore this matter is now settled." — she explains — "We weren't that close, anyway. Xiao Bing was a scoundrel." You stare at her, dumbfounded. If they weren't close, why would she go through all this trouble? As if hearing the thoughts in your head, Fu Lanfen chuckles. "Code of honor dictates that one must avenge your family, no matter your actual relations. I was merely following my duty as an older sister, nothing more." "You seemed so angry, though." At your remark, Fu Lanfen just shrugs her shoulders. "I'm always angry. It helps me focus." With a groan, the warrior gets up. She clasps her hands and bows, though the latter part obviously causes her pain. "Anyway, I'll get going now. Don't kill people, it's not good for your karma." — Fu Lanfen says and leaves, as if the previous fight has never happened. Beside you, rings out a charming giggle. *label quite_a_character "She's quite a character, isn't she?" — Lei Xiwen mentions, amused — "Her mind is quite chaotic. Even back in the sect, not many can understand her. But you can be at ease, Fu Lanfen is a woman of her word. She won't come after you anymore." *label putting_woman_away *page_break Putting the woman out of your mind, you switch your attention to the rest of the gathered disciples. They hesitate, for a moment, before a man steps out and bows. *goto come_in_peace #Kill her. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion 15 2 "-" You wind up your arm, prepared to take the woman's life when you feel a hand firmly gripping your bicep. *if expo_xiwen = "owner" "No." — states Lei Xiwen, leaving no room for discussion — "This matter is now settled. No need to shed more blood." *label lanfen_wakes It's at this moment that Fu Lanfen wakes up. Seeing the unfolding situation, she clasps her hands and bows, though the latter part obviously causes her pain. "Thank you for your assistance, Eldest Senior Brother." — the woman says — "I'll owe you a favor." "What use are your empty favors to me? You already owe me a dozen of them." Fu Lanfen chuckles and sticks out her tongue, in a display of playfulness you did not expect in the current circumstances. "Stop saving me then." — she retorts and leaves, waving her hand in a goodbye — "No worries, I've tried to seek revenge and failed. I won't bother you anymore, ${mc_surname} ${mc_name}. Xiao Bing and I weren't that close anyway. Ciao!" *page_break *goto putting_woman_away *else "${polite_address} ${mc_name}," — Lei Xiwen addresses you — "Let her live, will you? I can compensate you for your troubles." "Why?" — you ask, acutely aware that your limb is still in his grasp and, should he want it, ripping it off won't be much of a hassle. "She's a junior of mine. Don't worry, she won't cause you trouble anymore." *choice #"I can't do that." *label sorry_xiwen "Sorry, Brother Xiwen," — you shake your head in refusal — "But I can't do that." "Oh?" — Lei Xiwen tilts his head — "You really wish to fall out with me over this matter?" Although his words are still polite, his tone and attitude grow cold. Distant. *choice #"Fine, I change my mind." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion 15 1 "-" *if (need_compensation) *set mc_gold +20000 "Fine." — you give in and take a step back — "I change my mind." *goto xiwen_laughs #"Yes." *set characters_15_opinion 0 *set characters_15_status "Enemy" *set history &"lanfen_killed|" *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 2 "kindness" "-" "Yes." — you state, jerking your arm out of his grasp. You kneel down, grab Fu Lanfen's head and twist it, ending her life. Lei Xiwen doesn't stop you — most likely due to the promise he made. But even as you get up, he watches you with a hostile gaze. "I see." — he says, whatever friendliness he had long forgotten. *goto putting_woman_away #"Alright." *label alright "Alright." — you nod, unwilling to quarrel with Xiwen over this matter — "No need for compensation. We're friends, aren't we?" *label xiwen_laughs Xiwen laughs, patting your shoulder. "I knew I could count on you, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}." *goto lanfen_wakes #"You mentioned compensation?" *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion 15 1 "-" "You mentioned compensation?" Lei Xiwen smiles and takes out a heavy-looking pouch. "Twenty thousand gold coins for her live. Sounds fair enough?" *choice #"I can't do that." *set need_compensation true *goto sorry_xiwen #"Alright." *set mc_gold +20000 *goto alright *label defeat *page_break Defeat... Fu Lanfen kneels down, prepared to finish you off, but a gentle voice stops her. "That's enough, Sister Lanfen." — Lei Xiwen says as he grabs her shoulder — "I'm afraid I can't let him ${pronoun_3} die." "Why?" — Fu Lanfen asks, turning her head — "I didn't take Eldest Senior Brother for a type that shields murderers." Lei Xiwen sighs as he withdraws his hand. "We have some fate between us, one that cannot be easily discarded." — Lei Xiwen replies — "Just treat it as repaying one of those favors you owe me." "Alright!" — Fu Lanfen immediately perks up, no sign of her previous ice-cold anger — "I wasn't that close with Xiao Bing anyway." She backs away and waves her hand as she leaves. "See you around, Senior Brother. Ciao!" And just like that, the matter is settled. Confused, you look at Xiwen for an explanation, but he just shrugs his shoulders and helps you get up. *goto quite_a_character