*label assault *gosub_scene subroutines clear_fight_vars *set fight_scene "expedition_rushing_bull" *temp peaceful false *temp no_stone false *set expo_rushingbull true You gather all of the Tattooed Warriors of your tribe and explain your immediate goal. You notice none of hesitation in their face: they are excited instead, rattling their spears against the ground, looking at each other with battle-lusting eyes. They were born for this, after all. No, all of their ancestors, all of those who came before them, lived here with one, singular purpose in mind: conquer the others, under your lead. You give the command — and the warriors march. *page_break [b]${expo_army}[/b] Houtians moving in unison, without any attempts at concealing their presence, are quick to be noticed — as you start approaching the Rushing Bull Tribe, the rustling of leaves around you never quietens down. No doubt, scouts of the enemy tribe rushing back, informing ${leader_name} of your presence. Indeed, when you reach the tribe's location, you are met with the Martial Artist and eleven of the Tattooed standing in front of you. The hostile attitude that you expected, however, is lacking: instead, ${leader_name} is all smiles, speaking in the most polite tone imaginable. "${polite_address} ${mc_name}! Haha, so nice to see you!" — your fellow disciple says, suddenly bowing — "${polite_address} ${mc_name}, it seems there's been a huge misunderstanding! A misunderstanding! How about we solve this matter peacefully, no need to resolve to violence." You take a closer look at your Martial Brother and notice the he doesn't look that well: his face is puffy, eyes bloodshot, and even as he stands, you notice him swaying bit by bit. It's evident on what ${leader_name} has spent his time on, and it's clearly not the task the sect has given you. Now that the amount of Tattoed on your side and your own presence have sobered him up, he's trying his best to salvage the situation without losing his own life in the process. *choice *if (wrote_letter) #"It's too late to regret now." Watching his obvious unease, his begging that stops just short of dropping onto his knees, feels you with a sense of unrivaled superiority. You resorted to diplomatic measures at first — it's this fool's fault for not recognizing your good intentions. "It's too late to regret now." — you say, with a smirk, and gesture the warriors behind you to attack. *goto assault_attack #"Trash like you is not worth wasting my words on." His pathetic words cause you to chuckle in contempt. "Peacefully?" — you say, after managing to stop your laughter — "Trash like you is not worth wasting my words on." With two fingers, you gesture the warriors behind you to attack. *goto assault_attack #"Mh? And why should I resort to peace when I can just take what I want easily enough?" "Mh?" — you ask, crossing your arms — "And why should I resort to peace when I can just take what I want easily enough?" "We are fellow disciples!" — ${leader_name} exclaims — "Surely, you should show some leniency towards your Junior Brother." *choice #"You dare tell me what to do?" "You dare tell me what to do?" — you angrily retort. ${leader_name} steps back, raising his arms. "Of course not, of course not, forgive my slip of tongue!" — he pleads — *label how_about_this "How about this, ten thousand gold and the everything you need out of this tribe. In exchange, just let me stay and laze around here." *choice #Deal. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 3 "honor" "+" *set history &"bullleader_friendly|" "Fine." — you sigh and wave ${leader_name} to come closer — "Bring me the gold and the relic then." Overjoyed, your Junior Brother smiles brightly and takes out a pouch full of gold and a very familiar to you rock from his spatial ring. Then, without a second thought, he brings the items to you. You take it, matching the bag's weight with the agreed upon amount, before nodding in satisfaction. *label no_blood_shed *set expo_army +11 "There will be no blood shed today." — you state, turning to your warriors — "From now on, Rushing Bull and Great Panda tribes will become one." Your declaration is met with the expected applause, one that even ${leader_name} joins. "Enough. Let's get moving then." *page_break Before you get back to your tribe, however, there's something else that you want to take care of. *goto stones_merge #Take the money, but betray him afterwards. *set history &"bullleader_killed|" *set characters_10_alive false Feigning an exhausted sigh, you wave ${leader_name} to come closer. "Fine. Bring me the gold and the relic then." Overjoyed, your Junior Brother smiles brightly and takes out a pouch full of gold and a very familiar to you rock from his spatial ring. Then, without a second thought, he brings the items to you. You take it, matching the bag's weight with the agreed upon amount, before nodding in satisfaction. "Nice job. It's a shame, however, that such a dog like you will need to be put down." "Wh-" Before ${leader_name} comes to his senses and realize the meaning behind your words, you spring into action: you leap, forming a claw with your hand and striking right at your fellow disciple throat. Unable to defend, ${leader_name} can only watch as your palm cuts into his neck. Without any mercy or hesitation, you rip out his trachea and throw the freshly-made corpse to the side. As you turn around, you see the warriors of both your and Rushing Bull's tribes watch you in shock. On some, you notice disgusted, repulsed expression due to your despicable actions — but given your status, none dares to say a word. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 3 "honor" "-" *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 3 "kindness" "-" *label enough_gazing_around "Enough gazing around. From now on, this tribe will merge with mine and all of you will give your lives to me. Does anyone dare to refuse?" Expectedly, none do. "Good. Let's get moving then." *if (no_stone) *goto one_thing_left *page_break *set expo_army +11 Before you get back to your tribe, however, there's something else that you want to take care of. *goto stones_merge #"No deal." "No." — you state and gesture the warriors behind you to attack. *goto assault_attack #"You'll have to come up with a more alluring offer." "I'm afraid you'll have to come up with a more alluring offer." — you say, displaying a smile that is polite, yet firm at the same time — "Our relations are not good enough for me to settle this without a fight." Nervous, ${leader_name} starts fidgeting with his hands. *goto how_about_this #"Fine. Just surrender then, I'll let you keep your life." *set history &"bullleader_friendly|" *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 2 "kindness" "+" "Fine." — you sigh — "Just surrender then, I'll let you keep your life." Letting out a breath of relief, ${leader_name} nods. "Alright. I thank Senior ${polite_address} for ${pronoun_3} generosity." He then steps forward and gives you the tribe's relic, a rock identical to one already in your possession. *goto no_blood_shed #"Haha, of course! I was merely playing a joke on Junior Brother." *set history &"bullleader_friendly|" Seeing his willingness to back down, you decide to play along. "Haha, of course!" — you exclaim — "I was merely playing a joke on Junior Brother." That said, you step forward and pat ${leader_name} on the shoulder. He lets out a breath of relief and gives you a happy smile. "I thank ${polite_address} ${mc_name} for ${pronoun_3} mercy and generosity." — he replies, handing you the tribe's relic. You nod and turn to your warriors. *goto no_blood_shed #Gesture your Tattooed Warriors to attack. Without making any effort to settle this matter without spilling blood, you wave the warriors behind you to attack — and one cold, ruthless gesture starts the massacre. *goto assault_attack *label assault_attack "${mc_surname} ${mc_name}! You're going overboard!" — ${leader_name} yells, frantically running behind his own Tattooed — "You think I'm easy to bully?! I'll make you bleed for this!" His words, however, fall on empty ears as warriors around you begin to move. In seconds, dozens begin to clash, each exerting strength and power beyond those of mortal realm. The outcome of the battle is clear: your numeric advantage is too great to be ignored, but the casualties your army'll suffer are yet to be determined. To prevent them, you must use the only other variable you have, one that benefits you greatly compared to ${leader_name}'s force — and that advantage is you, yourself. *page_break The most efficient, effective way to resolve this matter would be going straight for the head: if you take out ${leader_name}, other Tattooed would immediately cease fighting. Their loyalty lies with the Apostle, after all. However, your Junior Brother, in all his bravery and glory, hides behind multiple warriors. It will take you great effort and will require great strength to get to him in time — and if you fail, this approach may lead to the most numerous casualties. On the other hand, you could focus on taking out Rushing Bull's tattooed instead. By lowering the burden on your subordinates, you'll help them maintain their lives. Alternatively, if you can't be bothered, you could just watch as the battle comes to conclusion by itself. *label choose_route *choice #Target ${leader_name}. Your mind made up, you no longer hesitate. The first obstacle you will have to overcome are the two Tattoed guarding your fellow disciple, spears drawn and eyes of die-ready spirit. *choice #Running kick. You rush towards the warriors and jump, your leg stretched out… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 22 *if (stat_check) With you being too fast to react to, your kick finds its target: you feel the warrior's chest cave in and see his expression freeze in terror as you send him soaring backwards. When the second Tattooed attempts to avenge his comrade, you easily duck under the thrust of the spear and trip him, before getting down and finishing the unlucky tribal member with a mean elbow to the face. Then, you get up… *goto bing_chokehold *else *set expo_army -1 However, such an aggressive move is easily avoided: the Tattooed steps to the right and drills his spear into your side. *label first_stab *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "con" 20 *if (stat_check) It barely enters your flesh, drawing just a trickle of blood. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 2 *else It enters your flesh and the warrior doesn't hesitate to twist the weapon further, worsening your wound. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 8 Ignoring your injury, you punch the Tattooed, your fist carrying with it all the power of your Martial Stage… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 21 *if (stat_check) The force behind your strike knocks your opponent down, and while he's dazzled and stunned, you attempt to finish him off by kicking him in the face — only to let out a painful grunt as the second warrior stabs you with the spear in the back. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 5 *else *set expo_army -1 The force behind your strike rattles your opponent, but he still remains on his feet. Moreover, he stabs you again, this time right in the stomach — and at the same time, the second one thrusts his spear in your back. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 10 You jump to the side, your soar turning into a roll, before you recover your senses. The warriors soon come again, but this time you don't let them have the upper hand: you duck under the spear aiming at your neck, tripping its wielder, and then, still from the ground, kick the second warrior right in the chin. He falls, rid of his consciousness, and you finish the second one with a mean elbow to the face. Panting, you get up… *label bing_chokehold Only to be brought down again by ${leader_name}, who took this opportunity to get behind and put you in a firm chokehold. *label bing_chokehold_2 His arms are weaved around your neck, his legs are crossed at your hips, and he exerts as much pressure as he can, hoping to block the air from reaching your lungs. *choice #Pull ${leader_name}'s arms apart. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 23 *if (stat_check) You grip into his forearms and apply all of your herculean strength, successfully breaking his hold on your neck. Then, you *label throw_head_back throw your head back, letting it his smash face and cause your Junior Brother to let out a cry of pain. You flip over and put your own arm onto ${leader_name}'s throat. *label choke_or_kill *set expo_army +11 *choice #Choke him out. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) As you start to push your arm deeper into his neck, ${leader_name} desperately tries to shove you off: but you persist and, a few minutes of hopeless struggle after, your Junior Brother blacks out. *label with_a_shout With a shout, you draw attention to his limp body — and the fighting around you ceases to be. Tattooed of the Rushing Bull Tribe eye you with reverence instead. *goto tie_up *else As you start to push your arm deeper into his neck, ${leader_name} furiously tries to resist: you fail to subdue him in time and have to suffer from the fists fueled by his desperation. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 7 After a few minutes of this struggle, however, your Junior Brother finally blacks out. *goto with_a_shout #Break his trachea. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 22 *if (stat_check) As you start to push your arm deeper into his neck, you feel the fragile bronchial tubes beneath his skin snap, break due to your pressure. Understanding the danger, ${leader_name} desperately tries to shove you off: but you persist and, with one final thrust, crush your fellow disciple's windpipe. *label with_a_killing_shout *set history &"bullleader_killed|" *set characters_10_alive false With a shout, you draw attention to his dying body — and the fighting around you ceases to be. Tattooed of the Rushing Bull Tribe eye you with reverence instead. From this point onwards, all of you just watch as your Junior Brother coughs and spits out mouthfuls of blood. His agony lasts for minutes, as ${leader_name} slowly, but surely, drowns in his own vital crimson essence. *set no_stone true *goto enough_gazing_around *else As you start to push your arm deeper into his neck, ${leader_name} furiously tries to resist: you fail to subdue him in time and have to suffer from the fists fueled by his desperation. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 9 After a few minutes of this struggle, however, you finally crush your fellow disciple's windpipe. *goto with_a_killing_shout *hide_reuse #Tell him to surrender. "Do we need to continue this nonsense?" — you snort — "Or are you smart enough to surrender?" *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 18 *if (stat_check) *set history &"bullleader_friendly|" Fully aware of his own situation, ${leader_name} begins to enthusiastically nod. You remove your arm from his neck, causing him to cough a few times due to the sudden oxygen arrival. In the end, he props himself up and smiles. "This little one thanks Senior ${polite_address} for ${pronoun_2} leniency." — he says, hurriedly taking out the tribe's relic and handing it over to you. You take it and nod in return, turning to the warriors to stop their onslaught. *goto no_blood_shed *else Although at a disadvantage, ${leader_name} refuses to give in. Instead, he spits right in your face as he does his best to break your hold on his neck. *goto choke_or_kill *else *set expo_army -1 You grip into his forearms and apply all of your strength into breaking his hold, but your efforts only result in him tightening his hold. *label seconds_pass Seconds pass, each moment highlighting your sudden, yet most vital urge for air… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "con" 22 *if (stat_check) But you are not so easily defeated: you power through his choke and *goto throw_head_back *else … soon your vision starts to go dark, your consciousness disappearing… *goto_scene game_over #Try to weasel out of his grasp. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 23 *if (stat_check) Like a slippery fish, you manage to weasel one of your legs under his lock and flip to the side: from there, it's only a matter of a few wrestling twists and turns to completely free yourself of his grip and end up being the one on top, with your own arm on ${leader_name}'s throat. *goto choke_or_kill *else *set expo_army -1 You try to weasel one of your legs under his lock and flip to the side, but your efforts prove to be in vain, only resulting in ${leader_name} tightening his hold. *goto seconds_pass #Bite into his arm. *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 1 "honor" "-" With no regards to decency or martial honor, you bite into his arm. And it's far from a playful nip: your teeth dig deep into his skin and, with a thrash of your head, rip a significant chunk of his flesh. ${leader_name} cries out in pain, instantly removing his hold, and you use this opportunity to flip over and press your own arm into his throat. *goto choke_or_kill #Catch their weapons and grab them both. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 23 *if (stat_check) You grab the spears by the shafts and pull: the sudden motion makes both warriors lose their balance and fall forward, where you catch them by the collars of their clothes *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 25 *if (stat_check) Then, not giving them a chance to react, you lift them in the air and smash their heads against each other. *label with_such_force You do it with such force that both of the skulls break, cracking like the shells of raw, uncooked eggs — only instead of white and yellow, red blood is hidden underneath. As soon as you throw both of the Tattooed to the side, ${leader_name}, who took this opportunity to sneak behind you, brings you down. *goto bing_chokehold_2 *else You attempt to lift them in the air and smash their heads against each other, but they resist your strength and take their weapons back. Then, on them masterfully closes the distance and stabs the spear into your side. *goto first_stab *else *set expo_army -1 You grab the spears by the shafts and pull — but the warriors stand firm on their feet. On of them, instead, masterfully closes the distance and stabs the spear into your side. *goto first_stab *if (mc_defensive_2_mastery >= 1) #Void Step behind them. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_2_cost "" "defensive_2" With a single step, you, much to the warriors confusion, reappear behind their backs — and smash their heads against each other. *goto with_such_force #Attack Tattooed. *set expo_army -3 Overall, your forces have an undeniable advantage: although members of the Rushing Bull appear to be slightly stronger one-on-one, perhaps due to their ferocious nature, your warrior are able to use numbers to suppress them. Your best approach would be to help those stuck in individual, dragged out fights: and your first target is one of the Tattooed, who's currently on the ground, moving her upper body left and right in an attempt to dodge the stabs of a lethal spear. You reach her quickly and… *choice #Tackle the hostile Tattooed. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) Like a bullet from a sling, you dive forwards. Your arm wrap themselves around the Tattooed's waist and, with your shoulder shoving him back, both you tumble and roll on the ground. You are the first to recover, as you sit up and start raining down punch after punch onto his unprotected face. Soon, he's beaten unconscious, and you are able to move on to your next mark. *else *set expo_army -1 Like a bullet from a sling, you dive forwards. Your arm wrap themselves around the Tattooed's waist and your shoulder shoves him back, but the warrior roots himself in place, grabs you, spins you, and hurls you to the side. *label tumble_and_roll You tumble and roll on the ground, hurt after such a powerful throw. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 5 Just as you feared, the enemy warrior then turns his attention back to your subordinate and thrusts his spear into her chest, killing her in an instant with a perfect strike to the heart. You retaliate, of course, soon bringing him down, but the loss of a life is permanent and cannot be reversed. #Stop the spear with your forearm. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "con" 20 *if (stat_check) Just as your Tattooed grows desperate, with certain death looming over her head, you dive forward and stretch out your arm, letting it beat the force of the incoming stab. The blade of the weapon, expectedly, doesn't even break your skin — and your subordinate thrusts her own spear into the shocked warrior's chest. Exchanging nods, both of you get up and move on to your next marks. *else *set expo_army -1 *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 7 Just as your Tattooed grows desperate, with certain death looming over her head, you dive forward and stretch out your arm, letting it beat the force of the incoming stab. Against your expectations, however, the blade of the weapon pierces through your flesh and still reaches the warrior underneath. It strikes right into her heart, killing her in an instant — you retaliate, of course, bringing the enemy Tattooed down with a roundhouse kick despite your injury, but the loss of a life is permanent and cannot be reversed. #Ax-kick the warrior above her. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 20 *if (stat_check) Just as your Tattooed grows desperate, with certain death looming over her head, you appear above her: jumping, you bring your foot down onto the enemy warrior's head, striking as if your leg was a legitimate ax. The warrior immediately collapses from your strength, able to neither dodge nor withstand your blow. *else *set expo_army -1 Just as your Tattooed grows desperate, with certain death looming over her head, you appear above her: jumping, you bring your foot down onto the enemy warrior's head, striking as if your leg was a legitimate ax. The warrior, however, tilts his body back and avoids your blow. Instead, he grabs you, spins you, and hurls you to the side. *goto tumble_and_roll The next situation requiring your attention is a two versus two scuffle, where your warriors seem to be on the losing side. They are driven back, pressured by the relentless attacks of the Rushing Bull Tribe members. With a quick look around, you spot a dropped spear laying nearby: you pick it up, aim and release… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 22 *if (stat_check) The weapon flies try, unwavering in front of both the distance and the wind. Just as you planned, it passes in-between your allies and, perhaps with assistance of some luck, hits one of the enemies right above the mouth. The spearhead digs into the bone, far too deep to give the warrior any chance of survival. He drop to his knees first, before his whole body collapses, turned into a corpse with but a single throw. You are no longer needed here — two against one, you have confidence your Tattooed would not lose out. *else *set expo_army -2 The weapon, however, wavers in front of the distance and the wind. Its trajectory changes and, instead of passing in-between your allies, it hits one of them in the shoulder. It sticks deep into the bone and the enemies do not fail to capitalize on such a heaven-brought opportunity: they quickly finish both of the warriors, before you can even reach them. You, of course, defeat them afterwards — but your interference have done more harm than good. A loud cry of agony attracts your attention: your turn head and watch, as a member of the Rushing Bull Tribe, one for whom the word giant would be a gigantic understatement, tears a warrior of yours in half. The spears of your Tattooed, three of whom still surround him, can barely graze this mountain of flesh. *label at_the_same_time At the same time, however, you spot ${leader_name} making his escape, using the chaos of the battle to leave unscathed. *choice #Help your tribesmen. *set history &"bullleader_escaped|" Abandoning the thought of chasing after your fellow disciple, you go for the giant instead. With a shout, you order your tribesmen to retreat — in this fight, they would be more a nuisance than of help. As you let out taunts and your tribesmen back away, the giant doesn't seem care about his previous opponents and switches his focus onto you. His eyes are bloodshot, lacking any semblance of rational thought, and his voice is booming: he yells out, an almost bestial cry of rage, and leaps towards you. His massive frame is above you, his large, inhumanly-sized palm threatening to squash your skull. *choice #Jump and wrestle him in the air. You jump and catch his hand with your own — but the giant doesn't give up, grabbing you and trying to smash your very bones into dust. Both of you start tussling in the air, twisting and turning, trying to gain the upper hand… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 23 *if (stat_check) … in the end, right before you land, you manage to flip him over and take control. The giant bears the brunt of the damage, as his wide back cracks the ground and he releases an involuntary grunt. *label giant_on_ground *choice #Pound him with punches. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 24 *if (stat_check) One after another, you unleash punches upon the giant's head. Your fists rain down on his face, turning an already ugly mug into a bloody mess. The warrior, however, is not someone who gives up so easily: he retaliates with powerful hits, returning just as much hurt as you deliver. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 7 *label eventually_prevail Eventually, however, you prevail — panting and bleeding, but victorious. *goto bing_runaway *else One after another, you unleash punches upon the giant's head. Your fists rain down on his face, but the ugly mug is made of steel: your knuckles hurt themselves more than they do the warrior underneath you. And the giant doesn't take such lack of strength lightly. He retaliates, with powerful hits to both your abdomen and sides, returning even more hurt than your deliver upon him. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 15 Eventually, however, you prevail — panting and bleeding, but victorious. *label bing_runaway *page_break Standing up, you take a quick look around. *label bing_runaway2 *set expo_army +11 There are multiple corpses on the ground, both yours and that of the Rushing Bull Tribe, and fighting is still ongoing. ${leader_name}, however, is nowhere in sight. His absence does not go unnoticed, as his tribesmen, one by one begin to surrender. They are loyal to the tribe, to the Apostle, and since the previous once has ran away, they will whole-heartedly consider you to be their new leader. Soon, the battle ends, and you have won — but since your Junior Brother has ran away, you'll have to collect the relic by yourself. *goto guardian_relic #Attempt to choke him out. You slide legs under his and cross them. Afterwards, you put one of your arms under his head, press the other one into his throat, and then you [i]lean[/i] forward, using all of your weight. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 23 *if (stat_check) The giant starts to gasp for air, thrashing left and right to throw you off, but you remain in the mount. Then, out of desperation, the warrior starts pounding your stomach and sides with punches. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 7 *goto eventually_prevail *else The giant starts to gasp for air, thrashing left and right to throw you off, and you are unable to remain in the mount. Then, out of fury, the warrior starts pounding you with punches. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 15 Eventually, however, you manage to take control of his back and put him in a firm chokehold, one that even the giant is unable to escape. *goto bing_runaway *else … in the end, the giant is the one who ends winning your scuffle. Once on the ground, he spares no mercy and headbutts you in the face. *label giant_headbutt *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 10 With your now blurry vision, you barely perceive the fist that is coming next. Half-dazzled, you try your best to move your head out of the way… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 22 *if (stat_check) … and succeed, catching his arm and managing to turn him over — now, you are the one in the mount. *goto giant_on_ground *else … and fail, as the punch knocks a few of your front row teeth. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 8 Thankfully, you manage to catch his arm as he is pulling it back, using it to flip the giant over and ending up being the one on top. *goto giant_on_ground #Cross your arms and block his palm. You cross your arms and plant your feet, ready to withstand the terrifying blow… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "con" 22 *if (stat_check) *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 5 When the palm hits, your knees and back bend from its power. Your block trembles and it [i]hurts[/i], but, otherwise, you're fine. You quickly grab the giant's arm and, with a twist of your hip, throw the humongous man to the ground. *goto giant_on_ground *else When the palm hits, your block disappears. Crumbles in the face of its inhuman power. Your knees and body bend and soon, you are hurled to the ground, unable to resist. The giant, sparing you no mercy, headbutts you straight in the face. *goto giant_headbutt #Side-step. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 22 *if (stat_check) As the palm comes closer and closer, you side-step and avoid the terrifying blow. Moreover, as you dodge, you reward the giant with an elbow straight to the temple — and the force behind it knocks him down. *goto giant_on_ground *else As the palm comes closer and closer, you attempt to side-step — but mistime your movement and get hit by the terrifying blow, without any protection what so ever. *gosub_scene subroutines reduce_health 10 Moreover, once on the ground, the giant spares no mercy and headbutts your straight in the face. *goto giant_headbutt #Chase after ${leader_name}. *set expo_army -5 Leaving your tribesmen on their own, you chase after ${leader_name} instead. But as both of you run, it proves to be quite a difficult task: "[b]Inferior Earth Escape[b]!" — ${leader_name} shouts and, suddenly, the earth itself opens up, swallowing your Junior Brother whole. Unsure of his direction, you stop and crouch down, pressing your ear against the ground to listen for any rumblings below. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "per" 21 *if (stat_check) Thankfully, his Art seems to be of a low Grade — it produces a loud, easily noticeable sound, allowing you to track the escapee. *choice #Run after him. *comment change Fu Bing life status *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 23 *if (stat_check) Doing your best to catch up, you utilize your legs to the fullest. Your pursuit lasts for minutes, one running, the other, like a mole, digging through the dirt. *label inner_energy_runs_out Eventually, however, either his Inner Energy runs out or his supply of oxygen ends, but ${leader_name} bursts up from the ground, panting. Seeing you, his expression first turns shocked, before surprise gives way to fury. "You!" — he curses — "Leave me alone! Must you push me to this extent?! I will not go down quietly!" *choice #"You have thirty seconds left to live. Spend them wisely." Smirking, you cross your arms. "You have thirty seconds left to live. Spend them wisely." "You!" — ${leader_name} screams again — "Fine! Taste this then!" He shouts the name of some skill that you don't bother to remember — due to just how weak it is. With absolute ease, you avoid it, step closer and knee him in the stomach. ${leader_name} bends in half, coughing, and, with a slap, you smack him to the ground. *choice #Capture him alive. *goto tie_up #Kill him. *set history &"bullleader_killed|" *set characters_10_alive false As if squashing a bug, you step onto his throat and crush his windpipe with your boot. Then, you just watch as he chokes on his own blood, his dying hems not having any effect on your psyche. *label killed_escaping_bing Shaking off the blood from your hands, you return back to the battle that must have already ended. *page_break There are multiple corpses on the ground, both yours and that of the Rushing Bull Tribe, and fighting is still ongoing. The absence of ${leader_name}, however, does not go unnoticed as his tribesmen, one by one begin to surrender. They are loyal to the tribe, to the Apostle, and since the previous once has ran away, they will whole-heartedly consider you to be their new leader. Soon, the battle ends, and you have won — but since your Junior Brother has been killed by you, you'll have to collect the relic by yourself. *goto guardian_relic #"For all of your gold and Contribution Points, I'm willing to let you go." Smirking, you cross your arms. "For all of your gold and Contribution Points, I'm willing to let you go." "What?" — ${leader_name} exclaims — "Can't you be reasonable?" "Is your life less important than your material possessions?" "Fine. But I'm keeping the relic, in case you decide to go back on your words." ${leader_name} stares at you, with his fists clenched, before he grits his teeth and starts handing you over pouches of gold alongside his contribution points. *set mc_gold +10000 *set mc_sect_points +248 *choice #Let him go. *set history &"bullleader_escaped|" *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 2 "honor" "+" Satisfied, you shoo him away. "Don't get in my way again." Without a word, only with one final, hateful glance, ${leader_name} scurries away. *goto bing_runaway2 #"I lied." *set history &"bullleader_killed|" *set characters_10_alive false *gosub_scene subroutines reputation_change 3 "honor" "-" Having gained everything ${leader_name} owned, you can't help but let out an amused chuckle. "What are you laughing at?" — your Junior Brother asks. "At your foolishness." "What?" — ${leader_name} gulps, taking a step back. "You really can't understand?" — you sigh, before your eyes beam with a ruthless, brutal light — "I lied." *label before_comes_to_senses Before ${leader_name} comes to his senses and realize the meaning behind your words, you spring into action: you leap, forming a claw with your hand and striking right at your fellow disciple throat. Unable to defend, ${leader_name} can only watch as your palm cuts into his neck. Without any mercy or hesitation, you rip out his trachea and throw the freshly-made corpse to the side. As you turn around, you see the warriors of both your and Rushing Bull's tribes watch you in shock. On some, you notice disgusted, repulsed expression due to your despicable actions — but given your status, none dares to say a word. *goto killed_escaping_bing #Silently attack. *goto before_comes_to_senses *else *set history &"bullleader_escaped|" You do your best, trying to catch up to the runaway, but his skill proves to be potent — and your legs too slow. Eventually, he escapes your senses and you, helpless, can only return back to the battle that must have already finished. *page_break *goto bing_runaway2 *selectable_if (mc_footwork_2_mastery >= 1) #Gale Stream. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_footwork_1_cost "" "footwork_1" Imbuing your legs with the power of wind, you soar after the runaway, following the sound of the underground. Minutes pass, you you are still in pursuit… *goto inner_energy_runs_out *selectable_if (mc_footwork_1_mastery >= 1) #Lightning Flicker. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_footwork_2_cost "" "footwork_2" Imbuing your legs with the power of lightning, you soar after the runaway, following the sound of the underground. Minutes pass, you you are still in pursuit… *goto inner_energy_runs_out *else *set history &"bullleader_escaped|" However, your senses fail you. Although his Art is of a lower grade and produces quite a bit of sound, you, for the life of you, just can't track his direction properly. Helpless, you can only return back to the battle that must have already finished. *page_break *goto bing_runaway2 #[i]Skills/Items[/i]. *set aura_disabled true *set needle_disabled true *gosub_scene skill_menu *goto at_the_same_time #Do nothing. Instead of participating in the fight yourself, you find a tree to lean on and watch the happenings with an amused smile on your face. Minutes pass and the battlefield is soon riddled with corpses, both of your allies and enemies. There are few times when ${leader_name} wanted to step in, to take part in the action himself, but the stern looks coming from you dissuaded that notion. In the end, the result is exactly as you predicted: ${leader_name} runs away and your side is victorious. Albeit, the casualties you've suffered turn out to be much higher than expected. You don't really care though, instead walking to the Tribe Protector to retrieve the relic. *page_break *goto guardian_relic #[i]Skills/Items[/i]. *set aura_disabled true *set needle_disabled true *gosub_scene skill_menu *goto choose_route *label sneak *gosub_scene subroutines clear_fight_vars *set fight_scene "expedition_rushing_bull" *temp peaceful false *temp no_stone false *set expo_rushingbull true *page_break Taking down a few warriors of the Rushing Bull Tribe doesn't prove to be a challenge — they are careless and lax, so you easily catch a lonely hunter outside. You knock them out and steal the clothes, donning yourself in tribal wear. *if ((mc_bodytype = "skinny") or (mc_bodytype = "lean")) That's when you run into another problem: you are far too skinny to blend in with other members of this settlement. They are all big and muscular, perhaps due to the influence of their Protector, and your slim build will surely attract attention. You'll have to put on one hell of an act to not be discovered. *set fight_difficulty +5 *else Thankfully, you have the right build for the job: all the members of this settlement are huge and muscular, and your large build fits right in. Letting out one final breath, you do your best to adjust your posture and attitude, turning from a noble scion of a great clan into an unassuming warrior of the jungle, before you waltz right into the sanctuary of Rushing Bull Tribe's wooden walls. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 16 *if (stat_check) The sentries at the top give you a swift glance and, seeing nothing wrong, don't pay you any mind. *else The sentries at the top give you a swift glance that soon turns into a long, heavy stare and then, a shout that you, even without understanding their tongue, can understand: an alarm! You've been discovered even before you could set foot inside the tribe. Left without a choice, you turn on your heels and run. *goto_scene expedition_free Once inside the tribe, it doesn't take you long to find ${leader_name}: the loud laughter of your fellow disciple allows you to notice his drunken figure stumble into tribe hall. If you wish to follow, you'll have to think of a way to go past the the warrior guarding the entry door. You can't [i]talk[/i] to him, after all. *set fight_difficulty 0 *choice #Uncaringly walk in, shoving the guard out of the way. Snorting, you walk forward, uncaring about the guard standing in your way. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 16 *if (stat_check) When he raises his hand to stop you, you, putting all of your weight behind your shoulder, shove him down. Stunned, he lies on the ground, not knowing how to react. As he opens his mouth to speak — or scream — you growl, forcing him to swallow his words and keep quiet. Without any other hindrances, you enter the hall. *else When he raises his hand to stop you, you, putting all of your weight behind your shoulder, attempt to shove him down — but he stays stable on his feet, not bulging under your strength. "Gua Mumo?" — he asks, again in the tongue you can't understand. Your refusal to answer makes him suspicious and, as he stares into your face, you see his eyes widen as he realizes that something about you is not quite right. He pushes you, lets out a cry of alarm and in mere seconds the warriors of the tribe gather to surround you. *goto one_against_many #Try to incapacitate him with a single strike. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 16 *if (stat_check) You walk up to the guard and, before he can even speak, unleash a lightning quick punch at his throat. His words are halted, as the warrior starts to gasp for air — and you knock him out with a chop. He falls, leaving the way to the door wide open and a few seconds for you until his unconsciousness will be noticed. Without any other hindrances, you enter the hall. *else You walk up to the guard and, before he can even speak, unleash a punch at his throat — but he jumps back just in time and cries out in alarm. In mere seconds afterwards, warriors of the tribe gather to surround you. *goto escaping_outside *selectable_if (mc_trait_3) #Flash him a dazzling smile. You walk up to the guard and hear him ask you something in that tongue you don't understand — instead of replying, you just flash him a smile that dazzles the warrior in his steps. With him too fascinated by the prettiness of your face, you simply stroll past him, entering the hall without any other hindrances. *page_break ${leader_name} sits cross-legged, a jug of wine in his hand. Hearing you enter, he turns to you and yells. "Hey, idiot! Go and bring me someone who passes for a beauty around here!" — he burps, his body swaying — "Goshan, are you fucking deaf, you old fart?! I said go and bring me a beauty!" A few seconds later, however, the cloudiness of his eyes clears up a little and he gives you a more thorough look. "You… you are not Goshan…" *choice #Subdue him before he can figure out your identity. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check_double "agi" "str" 18 *if (stat_check) Before he can realize what's going on, you leap and smash his nose with your elbow. *goto smashed_nose *else You leap at him, intending to smash his nose with your elbow, but ${leader_name}, perhaps awakened from his inebriated state due to the sense of danger, jumps back and avoids your attack. *label you_are_intruder "You… you are ${mc_surname} ${mc_name}!" — he exclaims, before crying out in alarm. *goto hear_footsteps #"Of course I am, holy one. Do you not recognize me?" "Of course I am, hole one. Do you not recognize me?" — you say, hoping that the influence of alcohol on his mind would be enough for him to believe such an obvious lie. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 19 *if (stat_check) ${leader_name} hesitates, but, in his inebriated state, your words sound believable enough as he eventually nods. "Right. Old fart, why do you suddenly look younger? I almost didn't recognize you…" You continue to hold your subservient smile, getting closer and closer to ${leader_name}, before you leap and smash his nose with your elbow. *goto smashed_nose *else ${leader_name} may be drunk, but he's not [i]that[/i] drunk. *goto you_are_intruder #"Fucking pathetic. Look at you, you dare proclaim yourself a Martial Artist?" "Fucking pathetic. Look at you, you dare proclaim yourself a Martial Artist?" — you chuckle mockingly — "Waste of air, getting drunk out of your mind instead of focusing on your mission." *goto you_are_intruder *label peaceful *page_break *gosub_scene subroutines clear_fight_vars *set fight_scene "expedition_rushing_bull" *temp peaceful true *temp no_stone false *set expo_rushingbull true With a couple of your Tattooed in tow, you set out for the Rushing Bull Tribe. It doesn't take you long to reach them, and when you arrive, you are greeted by ${leader_name} who smiles at your approach. "Welcome, welcome, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}!" — he greets — "I've been waiting for you ever since your letter found me." ${leader_name} clasps his hands and bows to you in greeting. You do the same. "Please, follow me inside." *page_break As the two of you walk, you catch the wandering glances and the muttering whispers of the tribesmen who have gathered to welcome you. When they see you looking, however, they hurriedly avert their gazes. "Disgusting savages." — ${leader_name} spits, not bothering to hide his contempt — "Look at them. I should have them whipped for even daring to look in our direction." He then smiles, his expression becoming wicked as the corners of his mouth raise. "But it'd pretty pointless, wouldn't it? These imbeciles can't even speak properly, so they still wouldn't understand." *choice #"Their tongue makes my ears bleed." You chuckle, your eyes darting towards the tribesmen with unveiled contempt. "Their tongue makes my ears bleed." — you sneer — "Say, Junior Brother, how about we forbid them from speaking it? Let them be mute, better than hurting our senses with their gibberish." ${leader_name} laughs, patting you on the shoulder. "Ha, I knew that ${polite_address} ${mc_name} is someone who can discern the gold from trash." — he replies — "Come, come, I'll open a bottle of three hundred year old wine to celebrate our meeting." #"Junior Brother, don't be so harsh. After all, they did not choose to be born barbarians." "Junior Brother, don't be so harsh. After all, they did not choose to be born barbarians." — you say, with a chuckle. ${leader_name} sneers, but nods. "I suppose you're correct, Senior ${polite_address}. It's just their tongue itches my senses." — he replies — "Fine, nevermind these unpleasant matters. Come, come, I'll open a bottle of three hundred year old wine to celebrate our meeting." #"Have you no shame, Junior Brother? These people deserve respect." You stop and cross your arms. "Have you no shame, Junior Brother? These people deserve respect!" — you exclaim, feeling yourself getting angry over his derogatory remarks — "They and their ancestors have spent hundreds of years waiting for us, living a life of singular purpose, yet you dare insult them so?!" ${leader_name} halts as well and sneers. "Really, [i]Senior[/i] ${polite_address}?" — he says, his voice turning venomous — "You wish to fall out with me over these barbarians?" *choice #"Never mind." "Never mind." — you sigh, shaking your head — "Let's talk inside the tribe hall." ${leader_name} nods, though you see his enthusiasm from meeting you has dwindled. #"As long as you insist on being an ungrateful bastard, I have no choice." "As long as you insist on being an ungrateful bastard, I have no choice." — you snort — "Someone needs to scold you, since your parents seem to have failed to educate you." "You!" — ${leader_name} shouts, raising a clenched fist. He grits his teeth and from his rapidly reddening face, you understand that he's holding back a lot of words, perhaps afraid of fully destroying your relationship — "Senior ${polite_address}, I'm afraid I have to ask you to leave. You do not respect my views, so I have no desire to hand the tribe over to you." "Oh? Then you wish to act against instructions of the sect?" "Who said I'm going against the sect?" — ${leader_name} smirks — "I'll just hand the tribe over to Tang Ruo." He then beckons with his fingers, causing about a dozen of Tattooed Warriors to emerge from the crowds, forming a circle around you. *label offended_fubing *choice *hide_reuse #"Have you given this decision a thorough thought?" "Have you given this decision a thorough thought?" *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 15 *if (stat_check) Even though ${leader_name} seemed arrogant at first, drawing confidence from the sheer numbers of warriors on his side, as seconds pass you watch his fragile facade of pride crumble into pieces. You tilt your head, a light, almost mocking smile on your lips. Your calm, peaceful gaze carries the open challenge in your eyes. You [i]dare[/i] him to say yes, eager for the fight that will occur afterwards. Eventually, ${leader_name} subconsciously moves back, uncomfortable with your overbearing presence. "I.. I mis-mispoke, Senior ${polite_address}. Please, don't take it to heart!" *goto peaceful_resolution *else Snorting, ${leader_name} gives you an unimpressed look. "What's there to think about?" — he sarcastically asks — "${polite_address}, you are not threatening me, are you?" He points to the tribesmen nearby. "Because that would be quite unwise of you." *goto offended_fubing #Attack him. *goto attack_fu_bing #"Fine. But I hope you won't regret this in the future." "Fine." — you reply, finding the idea of engaging in battle too disadvantageous for you to consider — "But I hope you won't regret this in the future." Snickering, ${leader_name} waves you off. "Bye-bye, Senior ${polite_address}. Please, do not visit again." Your goal unrealized, your mission failed, you return back to your tribe. *goto_scene expedition_free *label inside_hall *page_break You and ${leader_name} sit down, your legs crossed, and your fellow disciple takes out a bottle of wine from his spatial ring. He opens it, causing the potent fragrance to erupt after years of being sealed inside its prison of glass. The strong aroma enters your nostrils, the smell of cherry relaxing your mood. ${leader_name} pours the wine into two cups and gestures you to drink. "Let us toast for our upcoming hundreds years of friendship!" *choice #Drink wine. *label drink_wine You raise the cup to your lips, give ${leader_name} a nod, and sip the beverage inside. It tastes like you imagined it would: the bold, sweet flavor assaults your tongue, the alcoholic heat warming up your very soul. *if leader_name = "Fu Bing" *if (not (mc_trait_7)) *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "vit" 25 *if (not (stat_check)) Something about it is strange, however. There's a certain bitterness to it, one that doesn't mix with the palette this wine is supposed to have. And when your vision starts to blur, it doesn't take you long to figure out what has just occurred. "You!" — you stagger to your feet, dropping to the cup from your trembling hands — "What did you do?!" Your legs sway and you stumble over the table, falling back to the floor. Before you can get up, however, something presses you down. "I just did what was best for myself, Senior ${polite_address}. Please, don't be angry, such a little man like me does not deserve your wrath." You struggle, attempting to regain control of your body, but it grows more and more limp at an exceptional rate. "Don't bother, ${mc_surname} ${mc_name}. They assured me that this poison is impossible to resist for disciples as weak as us. Ah, you truly are unfortunate — a bright star, a martial seed with unlimited potential, yet your journey ended on such a sour note! Haha!" Your vision darkens… And you do not wake up. *goto_scene game_over *else *goto resisted_poison *else *label resisted_poison Something about it is strange, however. There's a certain bitterness to it, one that doesn't mix with the palette this wine is supposed to have. It doesn't take you long to figure what has occured: this little punk tried to poison you! But why? He doesn't stand anything to gain from your demise — if not you, then someone else will come for his tribe. Fu Bing is nowhere near strong enough to contend with the powerhouses of this expedition. Why would he use such an underhanded trick to deal with you then? You don't know. But from the warriors gathering outside the room, one thing is clear: he doesn't intend on letting you go alive. *choice #Pretend to be poisoned. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 17 *if (stat_check) "You!" — you stagger to your feet, dropping to the cup from your trembling hands — "What did you do?!" In a brilliant display of your acting capabilities, your legs sway and you stumble over the table, falling back to the floor. You do your best to appear as if you're attempting to get up and the bait works like a charm as Fu Bing presses you back down. "I just did what was best for myself, Senior ${polite_address}. Please, don't be angry, such a little man like me does not deserve your wrath." You 'struggle' under his hold, causing him to laugh. "Don't bother, ${mc_surname} ${mc_name}. They assured me that this poison is impossible to resist for disciples as weak as us. Ah, you truly are unfortunate — a bright star, a martial seed with unlimited potential, yet your journey ended on such a sour note! Haha!" Your body grows gradually limp, as you pretend to be unconscious. Fu Bing, careless and confident in his victory, reaches to turn you around, and that's when you act. Your eyes open, just in time to notice the expression of unparalleled shock on Fu Bing's face, before you grab him by the hair and smash your forehead right into his nose. *label smashed_nose He reels from the impact, blood staining his skin and robe, but you do not intend to relent so easily: instead, you bring back your leg and kick him stomach, cannonballing your fellow disciple into the wall. ${leader_name} grunts as he lands, far too stunned to do anything else but try and recover his wits. You leap after him and lift him up, squeezing his throat with your hand. *choice *if (peaceful) #"Talk. Why did you do this?" "Talk." — you threaten, your grip growing tighter — "Why did you do this?" Fu Bing provides no resistance as he spills everything he knows in an unstoppable torrent of terrified blabber. "Some dis-disciples from the Havoc Sect approached me… Apparently, they have a competition going on — since they don't dare try to claim the Zone with Senior Chen and Xiwen present, they instead opted to kill off as many young talents as they can." "You are very, very high on their list, number two to be exact. I got of-offered a lot of resources to poison you…" "${polite_address} ${mc_name}! Please, forgive me! I was wrong! My mind was clouded by greed, I did not think straight!" Tears appear at the corners of Fu Bing's reddened eyes, his whole arrogant grimace nowhere to be found. Instead, he growls and sobs. *choice #"Stop spouting nonsense. You betrayed the sect for your own self-interest. Trash like you deserves to die." "Stop spouting nonsense. You betrayed the sect for your own self-interest. Trash like you deserves to die." *goto snap_neck #"At least meet your death with some dignity intact." "At least meet your death with some dignity intact." *goto snap_neck #"I don't forgive those who wish me harm." "I don't forgive those who wish me harm." *goto snap_neck #Spare his life. *set expo_army +11 *label tie_up *set history &"bullleader_captured|" You take out a rope from your spatial ring and tie ${leader_name}, making sure the knots are tight enough to prevent him from escaping. After a few not-so-veiled threats, ${leader_name} easily gives up the tribe's relic in exchange for his life, an ordinary looking stone. *goto familiar_stone *else #Tie him up. *set expo_army +11 *goto tie_up #Snap his neck. *label snap_neck *set expo_army +11 *set history &"bullleader_killed|" *set characters_10_alive false With an effortless gesture, you twist his neck and let his body fall helplessly to the ground. This matter done, now it's time to get what you came here for — the relic of this tribe. *goto guardian_relic *else You stagger to your feet, attempting to appear poisoned and weakened, but your measly acting skills are seen through in an instant. "You!" — Fu Bing screams, his voice a shrill — "How come you're not poisoned?! Get him, get him!" *label hear_footsteps You hear footsteps, a dozen of them and soon enough, the hall is filled with Tattooed, all of them armed with their spears and axes. *goto one_against_many #Attack him before he can gather his wits. *label attack_fu_bing *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) In a blink, you grab him by the robe and pull him closer, smashing his nose with your forehead. *goto smashed_nose *else You try to grab his robe and pull him closer, but Fu Bing smacks your wrist away and jumps back. "Get him, get him!" — he screams, his voice a shrill. *goto hear_footsteps *else *label peaceful_resolution Done with the drink, ${leader_name} smiles. "Senior ${polite_address}, I hope you'll understand — I won't be joining your tribe. If you do not mind, I'll just treat this mission as a vacation and enjoy the sights of the jungle. That said, I'll naturally uphold what I promised before and hand the tribe over to you." ${leader_name} produces a stone from his ring. *label familiar_stone A stone you're already familiar with — same one as given to you by Xiong Mao, emitting the same kind of power as well. *goto stones_merge #Don't drink it. With an apologetic smile, you shake your head. "Excuse me, Junior Brother, but I don't drink." Instantly, ${leader_name} turns cold. His eyes drill into you, as he swirls the wine. "${polite_address}, will you truly not give me any face? Do you know how much this bottle costs? I opened it specifically to celebrate our newly formed friendship and if you refuse, I will take great offense." *choice #"Alright, alright. I was too hasty. Let's drink." "Alright, alright." — you chuckle — "No need to be offended, I was too hasty. Let's drink." "Ha, I'm glad that Senior ${polite_address} has at least some respect for me." *goto drink_wine #"I said no." "I already said no, Junior Brother." ${leader_name} lets out an angered chuckle. "Then get out. If you refuse to give me any respect, I shall show none to you as well." *goto offended_fubing *label one_against_many *page_break You can't possibly fight off a dozen of Houtians at once, which leaves you only with two viable options. Either run, escape while you still have the chance, or attempt to strike down ${leader_name} — a much riskier option, one that would require you to subdue a fellow disciple in mere seconds, for you can't afford a prolonged battle. *choice #Escape. Your mind set on escaping, you spring into action: the first obstacle on your way to freedom are two warriors standing at the door of the hall. You… *choice #Push through them. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) … grab the spears they aim at you, yank the tribesmen towards you and then push them both in chest. Unable to resist your monstrous strength, they are thrown backwards and you use this opportunity to leave the enclosed space, reaching outside. *else … grab the spears they aim at you, attemping to yank the tribesmen towards you — but they hold firm, their postures steady, and defend against your insufficient strength. One by one, the warriors surround you and, in minutes that follow, overwhelm whatever resistance you put up. *goto_scene game_over #Somersault above them. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 20 *if (stat_check) … run at them and, just when they thrust their spears at you, you jump and somersault over them. Too fast for them to react, you land and sprint to the outside. *else … run at them and, just when they thrust their spears at you, you attempt to jump and somersault over them — only you are too slow, as one of the weapons reaches you and pierces your calf, bringing you back down. Wounded and outnumbered, the warriors do not take long to overwhelm whatever resistance you put up. *goto_scene game_over *selectable_if (mc_defensive_2_mastery >= 1) #Void Step behind them. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_2_cost "" "defensive_2" You take a step and vanish under their confused gazes, reappearing behind the warriors and sprinting to the outside. *label escaping_outside There's quite a distance between you and the exit of the tribe, and your pursuers do not rest: some are racing after you, others getting to throw their spears at your escaping figure. *choice *selectable_if (mc_footwork_1_mastery >= 1) #Lightning Flicker. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_footwork_2_cost "" "footwork_2" The power of lightning courses through your flesh, granting your speed past human limits as you accelerate, leaving the tribesmen far behind. #Gale Stream. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_footwork_1_cost "" "footwork_1" The power of the wind courses through your flesh, granting you speed past human limits as you accelerate, leaving the tribesmen far behind. #Just run. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 20 *if (stat_check) You accelerate, leaving the tribesmen far behind. *else You run at your full speed, but it's not enough: before you manage to reach the wooden gates, the tribesmen catch you, their numbers too overwhelming to resist… *goto_scene game_over You reach the tribe's gate, one hurdle away from your grand escape. *choice #Try to rush through the wooden gate. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) Not bothering to stop, you dash full speed at the closed gate: crossing your arms before your face, you crash into the wooden barrier and smash it past its hinges, causing splinters to scatter to the sides. *else Not bothering to stop, you dash full speed at the closed gate: crossing your arms before your face, you crash into the wooden barrier and… fall down, unable to move it past its hinges. Seconds later, the tribesmen reach you, their numbers too overwhelming to resist… *goto_scene game_over #Jump over the spiked walls. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 20 *if (stat_check) Your dash at its peak speed, you suddenly crouch slightly before erupting in a superhuman jump, soaring above the walls dozens of feet in height. *else Your dash at its peak speed, you suddenly crouch slightly before erupting in a superhuman jump… that proves too be to weak to soar above the walls dozens of feet in height. You fall down and seconds later the tribesmen reach you, their numbers too overwhelming to resist… *goto_scene game_over *selectable_if (mc_offensive_1_mastery >= 1) #Blow the gate open with Heaven Crushing Palm. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_offensive_1_cost "" "offensive_1" Stilling dashing at your full speed, you guide your Inner Energy inside your palm — and blow the wooden barrier from its hinges, causing splinters to scatters to the sides. Your goal of conquering another tribe has failed, but at least you got out with your life intact… *set expo_rushingbull false *goto_scene expedition_free #Attack ${leader_name} Your mind set on attacking, you spring into action… *choice #... tackling ${leader_name}. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "agi" 20 *if (stat_check) You lunge at the martial artist, managing to ram your shoulder into his waist before he steps aside and… *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "str" 20 *if (stat_check) bring him down, before smashing your forehead into his nose. *goto smashed_nose *else fail to bring him down, as ${leader_name} merely takes a few steps back but remains on his feet. *label opportunity_lost With the opportunity lost, the tribal warriors soon reach you and overwhelm you with their numbers… *goto_scene game_over *else You lunge at the martial artist, but he steps aside before you manage to ram your shoulder into his waist. *goto opportunity_lost *selectable_if (mc_defensive_2_mastery >= 1) #... void stepping to ${leader_name}. *gosub_scene subroutines skill_exhaustion mc_defensive_2_cost "" "defensive_2" You take a step, suddenly vanishing from sight and reappear right in front of ${leader_name}, smashing your forehead into his nose. *goto smashed_nose *label guardian_relic *page_break The Tattooed of the tribe, who have gathered after hearing the commotion, do not give you any trouble: for them, both you and ${leader_name} are outsiders and having witnessed his defeat, they now naturally treat you as their rightful Apostle. *label one_thing_left There's only one thing left — to recover the tribe's relic. It is most likely stored inside ${leader_name}'s ring, which you have no means to access, so you head out to the tribe's Protector. *goto_scene fight_rushing_bull *label stones_merge Curious, you take out the previous stone, the one you got from the Xiang Mao, just to compare with the new-found rock — but just as you do, the stones start to suddenly vibrate. The heat inside them rises, to the point where the temperature makes even you uncomfortable, before both of them suddenly soar from your palms. They float toward each other, seemingly by themselves and unguided by any external force. When the stones connect, they emit a blinding glow, a light so powerful it burns your eyes and forces you to look away, and when you can finally return your gaze, what greets you is singular, but twice the size of before rock. Just to be sure, you inspect the stone, but no matter how thoroughly you look, there are no signs that just a few moments ago these were two separate pebbles. Moreover, the Inner Energy inside, somehow, feels more potent than before. Just what in the world are these stones? *goto_scene expedition_free