*temp monkey false *temp agreed_to_kill false *temp LC_angry false *if mc_sect_debt > 0 Just before the highly-anticipated expedition, Elder Rin summons you to her quarters. With just a bit of thought, the reason for this invitation becomes crystal clear: it's time to pay off some of the heavy debt she has gotten you into. When you arrive to her lodgings, a two-story building, you find the stairwell blocked by two disciples. "Apologies, Junior ${polite_address}, but Elder Rin is currently busy with matters of utmost importance. You'll have to wait before she can spare some time to see you." *choice #"Alright. Thank you for informing me." "Alright." — you nod, clasping your hands — "Thank you for informing me. I'll be here until the Elder finishes up her important business." "Thank you for being so understanding, ${polite_address}." — the disciples smile in response. From your spatial ring, you take out a praying mat and sit cross-legged on the ground, meditating until the time is right… #"She was the one to summon me. Are you sure I can't go up?" "She was the one to summon me. Are you sure I can't go up?" — you ask, a little bit slighted. If Ma Rin had business to attend to, why would she summon you now? "Something came up." — the disciples reply, though their tone grows colder due to your questioning attitude — "Wait here until we call you again." Left without a choice, you take out a praying mat from your spatial ring and sit cross-legged on the ground, meditating until the time is right… #"What nonsense is this?! She was the one to send out the summon and now refuses to see me!" "What nonsense is this?!" — you exclaim — "She was the one to send out the summon and now she refuses to see me!" At your outburst, the expressions of disciples grow cold and hostile. "I suggest you stop criticizing the Elder's decisions." — one of them says — "Such actions can result in consequences that you can't afford to bear." Left without a choice, take out a praying mat from your spatial ring. As soon as you are about to place it on the ground, however, the disciples stop you. "You are not allowed to place personal items in this building." It seems your previous words have upset them — and now they are purposefully making things difficult for you. You snort, but cross your legs and sit down, meditating until the time is right… *page_break Wait... More than six hours have passed, time that could've been better spent wasted on waiting in boredom. You open your eyes, only to find that nothing has changed: those two disciples still stoically guard the stairwell, with no indication of clearing up the path. *choice #Continue meditating. You take a deep breath, close your eyes and continue your meditation. #"How much longer do I have to wait?" "How much longer do I have to wait?" — you ask, warming up your sore neck. "As long as the Elder needs." — one of the disciples replies, not bothering to give you any other explanation. With a sigh, you close your eyes and continue your meditation. #Damn it all — stand up and leave. Damn it all — who do they think they are, to keep you waiting like an unwanted puppy?! With anger coursing through your veins, you get up and head towards the door, only for an iron grip to clutch your arm and turn you around. "Since you've come, you'll wait for the Elder allow you to leave." — one of the disciples says. You attempt to free your limb from his grasp, but find it so tightly locked in place, you can't even move an inch — and judging by the fluctuations of Inner Energy from the disciple before you, his martial stage is much, much higher than yours. With a tug, he pushes you to the ground. "Sit." — the disciple says — "Don't make be even more unpleasant." Your fists tightly clenched, you close your eyes and, try at least, to continue your meditation. *page_break Wait.... Finally, after spending close to a full day in a lotus-like position, your wait has bore fruit. *label rin_will_see_you "Elder Rin will see you now." — one of the disciples says, as both of them gesture you to go up the stairs. Ma Rin's room appears to be empty: it's full of luxury, of course, of furniture made of materials more costly than entire mortal towns, but the owner of this extravagance is nowhere to be found. It's then that you hear the sound of splashing water coming from your right. Noticing another door, you open it, only to come face to face with a scenery that defies reality. Behind the door lies a world of greenery, full of grass and plants that paint a sharp contrast to the previous interior. In the center of it all is a large, round hot spring, with a waterfall that seemingly pours from the stone-made ceiling. A pair of bare shoulders and a delicate back greet you from inside the pool, followed by an enchanting, bewitching giggle. "Impressive, isn't it?" — Elder Rin says, her voice just as smooth and sweet-sounding as you remember — "Cost me quite a hefty sum to build this room, you know. Turn around now, I'm getting out." *choice #Turn around. Not to daring to disobey her order, you turn around — only to be met with another seductive laugh. A minute later, you feel a palm gently pat your head, before *if mc_hair_length != "bald" ruffling your hair. *else rubbing your bald peak as well. "Good *if mc_sex = 0 boy." *else girl." — Ma Rin whispers, her hot breath flowing into your ear making you aware of just how [i]close[/i] she is — "I like the obedient type the most." *label suddenly_pushes Suddenly, she pushes you forward, making you lose your balance and fall down. "Alright." — you hear her click her fingers and, as if lifted by an invisible hand, you are turned to face her — "Enough playing around. I have something for you to do." #Don't turn around. Instead of following her order, you cross your arms and smirk. She thinks she can boss you ar- "Oh, I was hoping you'd be a little disobedient." — Ma Rin laughs again and waves her small, dainty palm. An inexplicable force enters your body. Unable to withstand the enormous pressure it brings, your legs bend and you fall on your knees. Then you see Ma Rin squeeze — and the force forcefully shuts your eyelids, ridding you of your sight. Minutes pass, in absolute darkness, before you feel cold, marble-like fingertips grasp your chin and lift your head. "Mm. Perhaps I should've crippled your vision for good, you little brat?" — Ma Rin whispers, her hot breath flowing into your ear making you aware of just how [i]close[/i] she is. Gently, she then slaps your cheek — "Even your father does not dare to be arrogant in front of me. Know your place." *goto suddenly_pushes You get up, patting your robe to keep it proper, and take a look at the Elder. She has brought out a large, throne-like chair. Leaning on its armrest, Ma Rin studies you with a playful look in her silver eyes. She wears nothing but a short, thin robe that, drenched in water, has become almost transparent. Her perversely long, crossed legs are on unveiled display, while her hair is wet and unkempt, the magnificent strands almost reaching her slender waist. She tilts her head and smiles, causing your heart to uncontrollably flutter and your forehead to sweat… *choice #It would be a lie to say you aren't attracted to her. You can't help but gulp — it would be a lie to say you aren't attracted to her. #Even though you shouldn't be attracted to her... Even though you shouldn't be attracted to her, there's something [i]magical[/i] about her that makes your body act in an unnatural to it way. Shaking your head to dispel whatever spell she put you under results in another giggle from the Elder. "Fine, fine, I'll stop teasing you." — she says — "As I said before, I have a task for you." *choice #"Of course, Elder. I'm always at your service." "Of course, Elder." — you get up and bow — "I'm always at your service." She nods in appreciation of your politeness. #"I agree. Enough with these games. Speak plainly." "I agree." — you nod, can't help but feeling annoyed at her antics — "Enough with these games. Speak plainly." Unexpectedly, the Elder, this all-powerful and impossibly beautiful figure, pouts like a little girl would. "You're no fun at all. So unlike your father, tsk." #"How dare you treat me this way?!" *if mc_sect_debt > 0 First she made you wait for some ungodly reason, and now she pushes you around as if you were one of her slaves! *else Pushing you around as you were one of her slaves, who does she think she is?! "How dare you treat me this way?!" — you can't help but scream, lacking the patience to hold off your anger. "Ooo~" — she leans back, in an exaggerated and obviously fake fear, raising her arms in the air — "Look, look, an angry puppy." You clench your fist and take a step forward, amusing her even further. "What are you going to do?" — she asks, seemingly enthralled by your actions — "Are you going to hit me? Ah, please, Young Master, don't ruin my exquisite face! I spent years sculpting it!" Before you can do or say anything further, her eyes go wide, as if enlightened, and she opens her mouth wide in surprise. "Ah! That's right! How could I forget!" — her entire demeanor changes as she stares you down with a look that could freeze hell itself — "You are a [i]worm[/i]." A blink — and she's right in front you. A split of a second — you lie on the ground, her foot pressing down your face, heavy as a mountain. "Listen up, you little bastard. In this world, people who can get angry at me are very limited in number. And [i]you[/i], a snot-eating brat, do not deserve to be even mentioned in the same sentence as them. Am I clear?" She presses her foot and your whole skull whimpers in pain, just a tiny effort away from caving under her soles. "Yes…" — you mutter. "Fix your attitude, before I grow tired of you." — she says, getting back to her chair. "In the expedition coming in the next few days, you'll encounter a disciple of the Heavenly Law Sect named Lei Xiwen. Your task will be to gain his trust and uncover a crucial piece of information." "I need you to figure out where does that handsome kid come from. What's his real origin, his place of birth." "You'll need to be careful and thorough, however. He may look simple on the surface, but he's a personal disciple of the Omniscient Sage, the greatest schemer to ever walk the Martial World. And for some reason, that geezer decided to hide Xiwen's real background from the public." *if mc_sect_debt <= 0 "You will naturally not be disappointed with my reward." *label marin_decision *choice *hide_reuse #"Why are you so interested in him?" "Why are you so interested in him?" At your question, Ma Rin smiles lewdly and leans forward. "I want to see whether the body underneath his robes is just as pretty as his face." — she says, crossing her arms — "I have a weakness for fragile, beautiful things." It's clear that she doesn't tell you the truth — but you can't exactly ask her again, so you nod your head in acceptance of her answer. *goto marin_decision #"What? You want me to go against the so-called 'greatest schemer of the Martial World'? Are you insane?" *if mc_sect_debt > 0 "What? You want me to go against the so-called 'greatest schemer of the Martial World'? Are you insane?" Ma Rin rolls her eyes and nonchalantly forms a fist with her hand. Immediately, you feel your throat constrict, your lungs emptied, as you start to choke due to the sudden lack of air. The Elder watches you with utter disregard conveyed in her bored expression. "You don't have a choice. The moment you entered my debt, you became my little slave. You will do as I say, and if you fail, I possess full authority to punish you as see fit." — she leans forward — "Believe, brat, you do not want to see me angry." She releases her fist, causing you to cough due to the arrival of much needed oxygen. "I hope we understood each other. Go now." Giving the damned woman one last glance, you leave her quarters, futilely hoping to never see her again. *else "What? You want me to go against the so-called 'greatest schemer of the Martial World'? Are you insane?" Ma Rin rolls her eyes and nonchalantly forms a fist with her hand. Immediately, you feel your throat constrict, your lungs emptied, as you start to choke due to the sudden lack of air. The Elder watches you with utter disregard conveyed in her bored expression. "[b]Mind your tone.[/b]" She releases her fist, causing you to cough due to the arrival of much needed oxygen. "If you don't want to do it, then fine. I'll find someone else. Leave now, before I lose my temper." Rubbing your neck, you leave her quarters, hoping to never see the damned woman again. *goto expo_start *if mc_sect_debt > 0 #"Elder Rin, I apologize, but I'm ill-suited to such a delicate task that requires subtlety and human touch." "Elder Rin, I apologize, but I'm ill-suited to such a delicate task." — you bow — "Something t hat requires subtlety and human touch is beyond my abilities." "If you can force the information out of him, be my guest. I don't care how you do it, just make sure to comeback with the answers I want." — she replies, her expression conveying her boredom with this conversation — "You are in my debt, do not forget. Until you repay it, you are mine to command and punish as I wish." With nothing else left to say, you give her a forced smile and leave her quarters. #"It will be done, Elder." "It will be done, Elder." — you reply without hesitation. "Good." — she nods — "Take this. It will help you to look a little better." She takes out a talisman and, with a wave of her hand, sends it over to you. With another bow, you leave her quarters. *if mc_sect_debt <= 0 #"I have to refuse." "I have to refuse." — you state resolutely. "Mind if I ask why?" — she asks, her jesty attitude turning cold and serious. *choice #"I'm not a dog that you can give out errands to." You snort and stare her down. "I'm not a dog that you can give out errands to." Your reply flabbergasts her at first. But soon, her surprise turns into merry laughter. "I ca- I can't…" — she says, struggling to speak amidst her chortles — "You are indeed not a dog. Dogs are smart creatures, after all." Ma Rin waves her hand unceremoniously. "Leave then. Someone as stupid as you is of no use to me." You comply, exiting her quarters and hoping to never see the damned woman again. #"I will not be involved in such dirty matters." "I apologize, Elder, but I will not be involved in such dirty matters." "Goody two-shoes?" — she says — "Disappointing. Leave then." You comply, exiting her quarters with a small bow. #"I do not wish to go against the Omniscient Sage." "I do not wish to go against the Omniscient Sage." Elder Rin sighs and waves her hand unceremoniously. "Understandable, but still disappointing. Leave then." You comply, exiting her quarters with a small bow. *else Just before the highly-anticipated expedition, Elder Rin summons you to her quarters. An invitation from such a prestigious figure is not easily refused, so you comply. When you arrive to her lodgings, a two-story building, a pair of disciples welcomes you. *goto rin_will_see_you *label expo_start *page_break Months of preparation over, the day finally comes. The day when all the the sects of the Martial World gather their young, preparing for an expedition into a newly found Danger Zone. Yours is no exception. You, and about twenty others, are gathered together, waiting for an Elder to accompany you on your journey. All the men and women around you are young, no more than twenty one, for those of older age it would be impossible to take part in this specific expedition. You recognize some of them. Tang Ruo is obviously present, sitting closed-eyes on his flying sword. A small crowd has formed around him, but none dares to speak while the Prince is silent. The Tigress is here as well, albeit she stands in solitude. Whether others are too afraid of her, her wild demeanor too intense for them to handle, or her loneliness is a display of disciples' contempt for her origin, you do not know. When she sees you glance her way, she *if characters_5_status = "[i]Special[/i] Friends" gives you a hungry, predatory smile before she licks her lips and winks. *elsif characters_5_opinion >= 50 gives you a polite nod, before resuming to sharpen her claws. *else scowls at you, before resuming to sharpen her claws. Even Ai appears to be invited, though, while the Tigress is left alone, the commoner woman is [i]ostracized[/i]. Other disciples give her sneering, ridiculing looks — which is not surprising, considering that she lacks both background and, from what you know, personal strength. There also Jing Guo and Yuan Fang, conversing with each other about some matters. *page_break Minutes Pass Finally, as you wait and minutes pass, you hear a a loud, continuous crunching sound. You and all other disciples turn around, only to be faced with the most monstrous beast you have ever seen. Dozens of feet in length, with dark red carcass and tens of tiny little legs crawling at its sides. Two thick, long tentacle-like whiskers spread out from its face and six black as the void itself eyes stare straight into your very soul. Hissing, but with the sheer volume of its voice the noise more resembles a growl, the giant centipede raises a third of its body, its skeleton unnaturally nimble, and [i]charges[/i] straight at you. All around you, disciples start to scatter, running away like hapless chickens. Only Tang Ruo still remains seated, but his eyes are open now, concentrated and focused. *choice #Run away as well. There is bravery — and there is stupidity. Charging that enormous bug would surely classify as the latter. So, you follow the example of the disciples around you, running away as well. One quick look behind, and you see only one man remaining in his place. Tang Ruo has not gotten up, has not moved at all, except for his gaze that now stared the centipede down. Enraged, the beast rushes at him, dozens of its bug-like legs moving together without any harmony. Its tentacles shiver, before they strike at the Prince. Yet, Tang Ruo is still tranquil. Calm. And when the tentacles are but an inch away from his face, they stop. Not by their own will, but due to the desire of a heavy fist that hammers the centipede's skull from above. Loud laughter erupts, from a man who jumps down from the enormous, but now docile as a puppy, monstrosity. The man is old, bald and thicker than a tree. A giant of eight feet tall, with bulging muscles and red, pulsating veins. "Cowards, all but one." — he taunts — "The lizard boy is the only one with some amount of guts." *label cowards_all Tang Ruo sneers, but doesn't utter a word, leaning back and relaxing instead. "It's a shame I don't have time to beat some courage into you." — the man continues — "I ought to have you all whipped. How can you, as martial artists, be afraid of this little bug?" He pats the centipede's head and, you swear, it [i]purs[/i]. "I'm Yang Bohai, the Elder that will accompany you lot into the expedition." — the man introduces himself — "Until we return, all of you will do as I say. Those who won't, will [i]die[/i]. Is a demonstration needed?" Yang Bohai then carefully studies your group with his dangerous, bloodthirsty gaze. You hear gulps all around you, even see some disciples go weak in the knees — and when the Elder's eyes meet yours, your understand why. There's nothing inside them but death. But blood, gore and suffering. All people have a scent, and this old man smells of murder. No ones dares to speak either. His loud, thunderous voice has already been enough, the hint of something utterly wicked in his tone makes your skin crawl in terror. *if characters_12_opinion > 100 *set characters_12_opinion 50 *choice #"Actually, fighting that beast was a bad idea..." "Actually, fighting that beast was a bad id-…" You don't get to finish your sentence. The old man moves, at a speed that is utterly impossible, and grasps your throat in a steel-like, immovable grip. "Stupid monkey knows not how to listen." He [i]slams[/i] you in the ground. Once, twice, thrice — until you stop struggling completely. *goto set_monkey #Keep silent. Smartly, you decide to keep silent: talking back to man like that sounds painful. "Good. At least you're smart enough to keep your mouths shut." — Yang Bohai nods — "Climb on. We have a long way to go." #Remain where you are. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "4" "2" "+" Tang Ruo is not the only one gutsy enough to face off the giant bug: just like him, you also remain unperturbed. The Prince gives you a small smile, but doesn't utter a word. The centipede, however, does — it growls, insulted by your lack of fear, and its tiny eyes flicker between you and Tang Ruo, choosing its target. Eventually, they land on you and the centipede menacingly crawls at you with a speed that could never be described as slow. Dozens of its bug-like legs move together without any harmony. Its tentacles shiver, with excited hunger, before they lunge at you in an attempt to devour you whole. *choice #Dodge. Unable to withstand the tentacled terror, you flinch and roll to the side. The tentacle is swifter though, as it catches your ankle in its grip. You feel its slimy, rough substance caressing your skin as the centipede pulls your back. You hear the bug's mandibles clank audibly, eager to feast on your flesh. Before a heavy fist hammers the centipede's skull from above, plastering the insect on the ground. Loud laughter erupts, from a man who jumps down from the enormous, but now docile as a puppy, monstrosity. The man is old, bald and thicker than a tree. A giant of eight feet tall, with bulging muscles and red, pulsating veins. "Cowards, all but one." — he taunts — "The lizard boy is the only one with some amount of guts." *goto cowards_all #Don't move. [i]You will not flinch.[/i] At least, that's what you tell yourself when the slimy tentacle reaches for your face. When another starts wrapping around your neck. They start to tremble with delight when you don't resist. And just when you feel like you have no way but fight, a heavy fist hammers the centipede's skull from above, plastering the insect on the ground. Loud laughter erupts, from a man who jumps down from the enormous, but now docile as a puppy, monstrosity. The man is old, bald and thicker than a tree. A giant of eight feet tall, with bulging muscles and red, pulsating veins. "Cowards, all but two." — he taunts — "The lizard boy and the Whore Chao's *if mc_sex = 0 son *else daughter are the only one with some amount of guts." *goto cowards_all #Attack the beast instead. This must be some kind of trick — the sect wouldn't let a beast like this run freely. And even if it isn't, why would you be afraid of some above-average sized bug? Laughing, your eyes glinted with the desire of a fight, you turn the tables and run at this creature of hell. Your reckless act shocks other disciples, as they even stop their escapes and stare, transfixed, at your attempt. Your fist glows as you roar, eager to crush the little with your might. Only, as soon as you come closer, one of the centipede's tentacles immediately wraps itself around you torso. No matter how much you struggle, you cannot break free from its grasp and soon enough, you don't even have power to resist as it slams you into the ground, time and time again. Then the centipede opens its mouth, a horrifying pit of despair, and clanks its mandibles excitedly as it brings you, its most recent snack, inside its maw. At the last moment, however, a fist pounds the centipede's skull and it flattens on the ground, releasing you from its grip. You lay in the dirt, coughing out blood as your limbs are too painful to move. Something suddenly kicks you in the stomach, sending you flying like a weightless toy. "An idiot like you is a rare find." — a giant, mountain of a man looms over you — "It seems you are in need of a lesson about self-preservation. And I always considered humiliation to be the best teacher." The man picks you up by your pants and hold you in the air as if you were a child. "Attention, punks." — the man shouts — "I'm Yang Bohai, the Elder responsible for your pathetic puny lives during this expedition. And since this little one has already felt the urge to throw his away, he will be punished." *label set_monkey "From now, and until this mission ends, all of you are to call ${pronoun_2} a monkey. Those who do otherwise will have their legs broken, their arms torn off and their tongues fed to the pigs. Is that understood?" The disciples all nod, not daring to contradict a word. "Good. Now climb on, we have a long way to go." *set monkey true *goto exp_explanation *label exp_explanation *page_break *temp meimei_plot false Your group rides the hurried centipede, rushing through the open plains under the clear sky. You, however, have no time to enjoy the view. Instead, you stare at the man sitting next to the Elder. [i]Long Chen.[/i] *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "agreed_to_kill_LC" *if (cslib_ret > 0) *set agreed_to_kill true *set meimei_plot true You're not surprised to find him here. How could you be, with Mei Mei having already given you a warning. Alongside a massive bomb of terrible destruction. Are you truly planning on using it, damning both your Senior Brother, who now sits with a peaceful expression, and your fellow disciples to certain death for no fault of their own? *label lc_stare *comment random-named var, change it up later *if characters_14_opinion > 30 "You should get a mirror, if you enjoy staring at this face so much." — Long Chen says, breaking you out of your stupor — "Though, I understand. Your looks are quite inferior in comparison." He then smiles. "No offense, of course, *if (monkey) monkey." *else Junior ${polite_address}." *choice #"Don't talk to me, trash." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "10" "-" You snort. There's no reason to waste words on him — Long Chen is a dead man walking. "Don't talk to me, trash." — you reply, giving him a disdainful look and turning away. You do catch, with the corner of your eyes, how he tightens his fists and how his humorous mood changes to anger. Perhaps this argument could've escalated further, but Yang Bohai begins to speak. #"I believe it's you who are in the need of a mirror, Senior Brother." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "2" "+" "None taken, none taken." — you graciously nod — "However, Senior Brother, I believe you are the one in the need of a mirror. Such a terrible misjudgment could only be either a result of blindness or terribly inflated sense of self-importance." Long Chen chuckles. *if (monkey) " Monkey *else "Junior ${polite_address} has a sharp tongue. How humorous." Perhaps you could've talked for more, but Yang Bohai begins to speak. #"What, you want to fight? I'll fight you!" How dares this bastard insult your looks? You are *if mc_sex = 0 the most handsome hero under the Heavens! *else the most pretty maiden under the Heavens! "You, you want to fight? I'll fight you!" — you shout, uncaring about attracting attention of the people nearby. Long Chen, however, just chuckles. *if (monkey) "Ah, monkey *else "Ah, Junior ${polite_address} has a short temper. We are even more alike that I have thought." Perhaps you could've talked for more, but Yang Bohai begins to speak. #"It's not suitable for a man to take such pride in his appearance." You roll your eyes. "It's not suitable for a man to take such pride in his appearance." — you lecture him — "A hero must be praised for his actions and strength, not the symmetry of his face." Long Chen, however, just chuckles. "I didn't take *if (monkey) monkey *else Junior ${polite_address} as someone who cares about such matters." Perhaps this argument could've escalated further, but Yang Bohai begins to speak. *else "I give you five seconds to avert your gaze." — Long Chen says, breaking you out of your stupor — "Before I gouge out your eyes." You chuckle at his threat, but, sadly, do not get an opportunity to retort as Elder Bohai begins to speak. *goto for_most_of_you *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "refused_to_kill_LC" *if (cslib_ret > 0) *set agreed_to_kill false *set meimei_plot true You're not surprised to find him here. How could you, with the recent request of Mei Mei still fresh in your memory. You may have turned it down, the knowledge of an assassination plot in the making doesn't just disappear. Should you warn him? Tell him all about the attempt at his life? *goto lc_stare What's he doing here? You don't understand. Wasn't the age limit supposed to be below twenty? Long Chen may be young, exceptionally young for someone of his power, but he's not [i]that[/i] young. *goto lc_stare *label for_most_of_you *page_break "For most of you," — he says, as your group rides the hurried centipede — "This expedition will be the greatest moment of your lives. Your only achievement that will actually matter. So [i]don't[/i] fuck it up." "There a few things that you should know." "First of, this Danger Zone is quite… strange. There was never an age limit quite this low. Twenty-one years cut-off is unprecedented in our six thousand years of history. In addition to that, none of the Fate Readers, not even the Omniscient Sage, could gain a hint of information about what's inside. So, for all we know, this may be a deathtrap that will kill you all." You notice disciples around you growing uneasy, giving each other hesitant looks. But Yang Bohai couldn't care less. "If some of you have seconds thoughts, I can crush your skulls right now to rid you of them." — he threatens once more and, just like before, his method gains immediate affect — "We've already sent a few dozen disciples back. Two of them even came back, so quit whining." "Secondly, the dangers of the zone itself will be just one of your concerns. As our sect have yet to claim ownership, something that you will have to rectify, disciples of all other sects will be present as well. And by all, I mean all: neutral, demonic or righteous; mortal, earthly or heavenly — all will be present, limited only by the quota that was agreed upon beforehand." "This is a competition. Your performance will affect to which sect the Danger Zone will belong. Win, and you'll be rewarded. Lose, and I'll personally punish you." "And remember: trust no one, except your own brothers and sisters. For I guarantee you, even the most moral and honorable man will betray his flimsy principles for the enormous benefits his Elders promised him." "Now, stop gawking. I told you all you need to know, look away. Your faces annoy me." *page_break *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "killed_mo_long" *if cslib_ret > 0 "Come here." — Yang Bohai gestures. You turn around, following his finger, wondering who's the lucky one to have caught the insane old man's attention. "You, dumb monkey. I said, come here!" That's when you realize — he's talking to you. Left without much choice, you crawl the centipede until you reach the Elder. "What is it that Elder desires of me?" — you ask. "Do you know what you've done, you dumb idiot?! All of your brain must have gone into your blood, otherwise I can't explain how someone can be so foolish." Still not understanding what's going on, you're about to ask Yang Bohai to clarify: but there's no need to do so, since Yang Bohai is more than happy to tell you what a fuck-up you are. "You killed Pan Bo! You killed Demon Queen's son! Are you out of your goddamn mind?!" *comment lock out first option *choice #"What? I don't understand what you're talking about..." "What? I don't understand what you're talking about…" "Heavens, you are even dumber that you look. The guy you killed, during your last Sect Mission? That was Demon Queen's son!" *goto do_you_realize #"He wished for death. It was naturally my duty to grant it to him." "He was in pain. His sufferings too much to live with. He wished for death," — you explain — 'It was naturally my duty to grant it to him." Your excuse causes Yang Bohai to laugh out loud. His massive frame almost bends in half in the cackle. "You doomed yourself, you doomed your clan because you felt… pity?" — his laughter gains even more in volume — "Forget it. I intended to take you in as my disciple to protect you from her wrath, but I have no need of a disciple as stupid as you. Leave now." He waves his hand, signaling you to crawl back into your seat. You do, only one thing on your mind… [i]she can't be that dangerous, can she?[/i] *goto arrival_in_dz #"It was the mission issued to me... I did nothing more than was required of me by the sect." "It was the mission issued to me." — you argue — "I did nothing more than was required of me by the sect." Your excuse causes Yang Bohai to laugh out loud. His massive frame almost bends in half in the cackle. "So? Do you you think the sect will protect you from the Demon Queen's wrath? Naive! The sect will not risk a war for you." "But I was only-" "NAIVE!" — he roars, with enough force to almost send you flying from the centipede — "[i]Always[/i] think for yourself. Always be on guard. Always consider every goddamn possibility!" *label do_you_realize "Do you even realize, how big of an enemy you've made? Do you realize, how powerful she is?" — Yang Bohai shakes his head — "Tang Yichen aside, perhaps only the old pervert can rival her. But it doesn't matter to you that much, does it? Second or third strongest person in the world wanting you dead, you'll end up six feet under all the same." *if (mc_surname = "He") "The He will sell you out in an instant. Their snake of a patriarch would not even hesitate when that insane woman comes knocking at his door." *else "Your clan will join you in reincarnation as well. And don't even for a moment think that sad excuse of a man you call a father could protect it. Your whole family will be wiped out. Every cousin, every nephew, every servant will be reunited with their ancestors as soon as she arrives." "And trust me, she [i]will[/i] come. For such an offense is not something that can be forgiven." *choice #"Let her come! I'm not afraid!" "Let her come!" — you fearlessly declare — "I'm not afraid of some unholy demon." "Truly, a newborn calf knows not to fear the tiger." — Yang Bohai shakes his head — "If you opt to die, then that's your choice." He waves his hand, signaling you to crawl back into your seat. You do, only one thing on your mind… [i]she can't be that dangerous, can she?[/i] *goto arrival_in_dz #"What do I do then?" "What do I do then?" — you ask, wondering if you really have made that big of a mistake. "You only have one opportunity to survive." — Yang Bohai says — "Become my disciple." *label yb_disciple *choice #"I agree." — you say, understanding that's there is no other choice. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "12" "1" "-" "I agree." — you say, reluctant. Yang Bohai may not have been the Master you originally envisioned for yourself, but the reality of the Martial World often leaves one with little choice. Choosing between death by the hands of an insane powerhouse and a bit more sane demon as a master, you'd rather pick the second option. "Good." — Yang Bohai nods, noticing your hesitation — "It's a virtue, being able to reign in your pride when you needed. A necessary quality to survive, even." *label go_back *set mc_master "Yang Bohai" "Go back to the others now. We'll perform a Master-Disciple ceremony after the expedition." Giving him a bow, you return to your seat. *page_break #"I agree." — you say, finding the concept of your Master being a powerful Shangtian appealing. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "12" "3" "+" "I agree." — you say, finding your future prospects quite exciting. A Shangtian, from one the of the most powerful clans in the world? What's there to refuse?! "Good." — Yang Bohai nods, obviously happy at your enthusiasm. *goto go_back *hide_reuse #"Why?" You give the Elder a confused look. "But why? You just said it yourself, the Sect would not go to war with the Demon Queen for me. Why are ready to risk it?" "Because I believe you will return the investment." — Yang Bohai replies — "These are turbulent times, punk. There are too many geniuses in this generation. Too many feuds left unresolved. And when the youthful arrogance will clash, their clans will follow them in bloodshed." He matches your stare, his gaze determined and steadfast. "And my Yang Clan has no intention of becoming a mere mention in the historical scriptures." *goto yb_disciple *hide_reuse #What would be required of me?" "What would be required of me, then?" "Obedience. Discipline. [i]Will[/i]." — Yang Bohai says — "As long as you listen to what I say and do what I say, I will turn you into the strongest warrior of your generation. You will have no match, no peer — even the lizard boy will be left behind." "My Yang Clan has the best pills and elixirs to grow in strength, and the most powerful martial techniques. Isn't that what you lack most? I can provide that for you." "In return, however, you will have no way back. You will become a weapon of me and, by extension, the Yang Clan. You will fight for it, you will bleed for it, and you will kill for it." "And don't forget. Masters are chosen for life and are [b]not[/b] to be betrayed." His voice become heavy, weighing down on your with enough force to make it a struggle to stand. As you look at the mountain of a man standing before you, as his gaze pierces into your soul, you feel suffocated. On the verge of blacking out, when your vision darkens, the dreadful invisible hold is finally released. "I will not ask you to go against your clan. Nor will I require you to sacrifice your own life. But be aware, training under me will be the most painful and agonizing experience." *goto yb_disciple #"I refuse." — you say. Yang Bohai is too brutish, too [i]wicked[/i] for you to accept him as a master. "I refuse." — you say. Yang Bohai is a demon, through and through. An evil man, who has proven many times he's more than capable of wanton slaughter. What kind of Martial Artist would that make you, if you accepted someone like him as a master? *comment add mc knowledge about yang bohai when he's introduced from the arena fight *label yb_refusal Yang Bohai doesn't try to convince you otherwise. He just looks at you, incredulous, before he laughs out loud. "Truly, a newborn calf knows not to fear the tiger. If you opt to die, then that's your choice." He waves his hand, signaling you to crawl back into your seat. You do, only one thing on your mind… [i]she can't be that dangerous, can she?[/i] *goto arrival_in_dz #"I refuse." — you say. You don't trust Yang Bohai one bit. "I refuse." — you say. Yang Bohai is a demon, through and through. Men like him cannot be trusted even a bit, no need to mention taking someone like that as your master. *goto yb_refusal #"I refuse." — you say. You want someone else as your master, consequences be damned. "I refuse." — you say. For one reason or another, you want someone else as your master. Perhaps not the most optimal decision, considering [i]who[/i] exactly is after you, but you are as stubborn as a mule. *goto yb_refusal #"So what?" "So what?" — you carelessly respond — "I'm not afraid of her." *goto do_you_realize *label arrival_in_dz *page_break Almost half a day later, you finally arrive to the Danger Zone. And as soon as you do, yours, and everyone else's, attention is immediately captured by the heavenly sounds coming from the nearby. Music of such beauty and grace nurtures your ears, that all your worries, all your fears… They all immediately disappear in the torrent of perfectly composed notes. You look forward, towards dozens of disciples sitting cross-legged, in total mental felicity, before a young man with a zither in his hands. His long, thin fingers carefully caress the instrument's strings and he lets out a blindingly charming smile. His features are already too pretty for a man — big, expressive blue eyes, full, thick crimson lips and long lashes that flopped with every blink — yet now, with a cute dimple on the left side of his mouth, he appears unnaturally comely. And when you think it's all there is, just a pretty, androgynous youth, comes the voice. The most ethereal, the most angelic voice you've ever heard. A voice that grips your heart, that gently forces you to listen and refuses to let go of its hold until its finished. [i]The Sun and the Moon are always apart, Never together, they bask in their sadness; The Heavens themselves divide them in half, Struggle and fight, growing celestial madness;[/i] [i]But worry not, sweet darling of mine! Our love is eternal and timeless! And if the Heavens dare to strike at our blissful shine, I'll take it as a divine sign to make them lifeless![/i] Cheers follow immediately after. Loud claps and exhilarated exclamations. [i]Lei Xiwen's musical skills are truly otherworldly![/i] [i]I've never smiled or experienced sadness in my life, yet Brother Xiwen's performance made be both jubilant and greatly depressed… [i]Brothers, lets not tell the others about how we cried today… I don't think they'll understand…[/i] Finished with his performance, Lei Xiwen bows and puts his zither back into his spatial ring. "I thank brothers and sisters for their high praise." — he says, taking out a jug — "Fellow practitioners, I have brought some Nine Heavens Tea with me. Although we lack the means to do a proper ceremony, I hope everyone will still enjoy it." At the same time, Yang Bohai addresses your group. "I'm going to find Heavenly Law Elders to discuss matters with. Don't cause trouble, understand?" Getting a nod from the disciples, Yang Bohai orders the centipede to to lay down on the ground, which the bug obeys without question, and jumps down. *set characters_15_opinion 50 *label expo_talk You have some time before all the sects gather and the expedition starts. *choice *hide_reuse #Talk with Long Chen. *goto talk_LC *hide_reuse #Talk with Lei Xiwen. *goto talk_LX #Wait. You sit down and wait for Yang Bohai to come back and give you further instructions. The rest proves to be short-lived: not because of your Elder's return, however, but by the certain arrival that has immediately disrupted the peaceful atmosphere. [i]Heavenly Havoc Sect has come![/i] *goto havoc_arrival *label talk_LC Unlike many other disciples, who have wandered over to converse with other sects, Long Chen remains near the centipede. He sits cross-legged, rubbing some kind of paste into his arms. *if characters_14_status = "Enemy" As soon as Long Chen sees you walk by, he scowls and waves you off. "Scram, before I break your legs." Not wishing to enter into a scuffle right before an important mission, you have no choice but to walk away. *goto expo_talk *if characters_14_opinion < 50 When Long Chen sees you walk by, he shakes his head and waves you off. "${polite_address} ${mc_name}, I'm quite busy now. We'll talk some other time" Nodding, you walk away. *goto expo_talk "What are you doing, Brother Long?" — you curiously ask. "This is Skin Hardening Paste." — Long Chen answers — "Have you heard of it?" *comment check if this is correct *gosub_scene cslib_string find history "basic_alchemy_knowledge|" *if cslib_ret > 0 You have: it's an obscure alchemical concoction, produced from Liquid Rocks of more than ten thousand years old. It is said to, temporarily, turn one's skin into the hardest of stones. Tough and unbreakable, yet still retaining its elasticity. "That's an expensive paste." — you give him a nod — "Brother Chen has truly come prepared." "Junior ${polite_address} is quite knowledgeable." — Long Chen smiles — "But yes. I assume this is your first venture into a Zone, so let me give you some advice. You should never be stingy with your preparations. Zones are chaotic, dangerous and unpredictable. I've seen far too many fellow disciples die to lack caution." He then hands you the paste over. *else You haven't: you are not that well-versed in the art of alchemy. "I haven't, Brother Chen." — you shake your head. "It's a concoction produced from Liquid Rocks of more than ten thousand years old. It can temporarily turn one's skin into the hardest of stones. It becomes tough and unbreakable, yet still retains its elasticity." — Long Chen explains — "I'm not surprised you know not of it. This paste is quite obscure and expensive." "Sounds like Brother Chen has truly come prepared then." Long Chen nods. "I assume this is your first venture into a Zone, so let me give you some advice. You should never be stingy with your preparations. Zones are chaotic, dangerous and unpredictable. I've seen far too many fellow disciples die to lack caution." He then hands you the paste over. "Would you like some? Though, I have to warn you, your skin will have quite an uncomfortable itch." *choice #Accept. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "1" "+" You give Long Chen a small bow of gratitude, before proceeding to run the ointment into your skin. It lacks the instantaneous speed, but you can already feel as you skin begins to scab and harden. *set mc_con_temp +1 *set mc_con +1 [b]Constitution temporarily increased by 1.[/b] #Refuse. I don't want to take anybody's gifts. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "2" "+" Although this ointment may be beneficial, but you don't need any handouts. So, you put your hand up and make your decision known. *label bluff_paste "I apologize, Brother Chen, but such things are too lavish for me to accept as mere gifts." Long Chen holds your gaze for a moment, before shrugging his shoulders. "I won't say that's wise, but I understand that, sometimes, pride comes before reason. Very well." — he hides the paste into his ring. #Refuse. I don't trust him. Although this ointment may be beneficial, you can't trust a man you don't know that well not to tamper with it. A potential risk of getting poisoned in a Danger Zone far outweighs whatever boons the concoction may bring. *choice #Tell him the real reason. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "1" "-" "I apologize, Brother Chen, but I would rather not." Long Chen holds your gaze, discerning the reason for your refusal with ease. He chuckles and puts the paste away. "I can't say that I'm pleased at your distrust, but it's understandable, I suppose." #Tell him that this is too expensive for you to accept. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "chr" 15 *if (stat_check) *goto bluff_paste *else *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "3" "-" Both not wishing to offend him nor take ointment, you attempt to come up with a lie — but are not not convincing enough to fool Long Chen. He shrugs his shoulders in response. "If you don't trust me, just say so. No need to engage in deceit." *temp asked_about_meimei false *label LC_dialogue *if (LC_angry) With Long Chen unwilling to converse with you any longer, you leave him alone. *goto expo_talk *choice *hide_reuse #"How come you are participating in this mission? I thought the age limit was 21." "How come you are participating in this mission?" — you ask Long Chen — "I thought the age limit was twenty one years old." Long Chen grins. "Junior ${polite_address}, never believe that something is impossible. For every rule, there is an exception." — he says — "Although costly, it's possible to, for a time, lower someone's biological age and trick the Zone into allowing you in. Of course, the sheer price of doing so often outweighs the benefits of the Zone. But, today is a special case." He then points to Lei Xiwen, the man who was singing when you first arrived. "And our sect is not the only one that has utilized this opportunity." *hide_reuse #"Do you know any details about this Danger Zone?" "Brother Chen, do you know any details about this Danger Zone?" — you question — "Elder Bohai was not very descriptive." "To tell you the truth," — Long Chen says — "I know as much as you do. Many Fate Readers attempted to glimpse inside the Zone, but none succeed. In fact, three of them died, seven sustained severe injuries and even the Omniscient Sage got a nosebleed. So we're all going in blind." *hide_reuse #"Brother Chen, you seem to be interested in Junior Sister Ai." "Brother Chen, you seem to be interested in Junior Sister Ai." — you say. "I am." — Long Chen replies, tilting his head and crossing his arms — "Is that a problem?" *choice #"You are after her physique, aren't you?" *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "2" "-" "You are after her physique," — you grin — "Aren't you?" Long Chen, however, just snorts. "I knew there were going to be bastards with such impure thoughts. Didn't expect you to be one of them as well." — Long Chen says — "But no. I won't lie and argue that her physique has nothing to do with my pursuit, but we've been friends before her uniqueness was even revealed." "Of course, of course." — you sneer — "I believe you." "I require not your faith." — Long Chen rolls his eyes. #"No, I was just curious how that came to be." "No," — you laugh — "I was just curious how that came to be." "I saved her life a few years ago and we developed a friendship. Recently, I've found myself attracted to her, so I, of course, decided to pursuit her. This is no complicated science." "I see." — you tell him — "Well, then I wish you luck in your endeavor." #"Yes. I am interested in her as well." "Yes." — you say, matching his gaze — "I'm interested in her as well." "Oh?" — Long Chen laughs, crossing his arms — "Then it seems we are in a little competition." Long Chen appears confident, amused even at the thought. He doesn't perceive you to be of any threat to his romantical pursuit. You sneer. "I hope Brother Chen is prepared to lose then." — you reply — "Because I'm not planning on giving up." Once again, Long Chen chuckles. "We'll let Junior Sister Ai decide then." *if (not (asked_about_meimei)) *selectable_if (meimei_plot) #"I need you to tell me about your relationship with He Mei." *set asked_about_meimei true "I need you tell me about your relationship with He Mei." — you say, wanting to gouge his reaction. Long Chen's brows furrow. "My relationship with her is my business. Don't meddle in things that don't concern you." His reaction is weirdly hostile and tense, not at all what you would have expected. *choice *if (meimei_engagement = 1) #"It [i]is[/i] my business. I'm engaged to her!." "It [i]is[/i] my business!" — you answer, your voice growing wrathful — "She's my fiance!" "What?" — Long Chen's expression loses its animosity, becoming puzzled instead — "What are you talking about?" "Don't act as if you didn't know." — you sneer — "Mei Mei told me how you leverage your position and talent with her family to force her into a marriage. Even though you knew full well that she already was engaged." Long Chen continues looking at you with a baffled gaze. Then, after a moment, his mouth spreads into a smile and he laughs out loud, head thrown backwards. "That fucking bitch." — he cackles — "I don't know whether I should admire her or hate her guts." "Do you want to know the truth then?" — Long Chen asks — "Or have the damage done by her poisonous lies already become irreversible?" *choice #"What truth?" "What truth?" Now it's your turn to be confused. Could it be that he really didn't know? Then why would Mei Mei tell you otherwise… *label she_was_the_one "She was the one who asked me for this engagement." Huh? "Why would she do such a thing?" "Because I know something about her that she doesn't want to be let out. And no, I'm not talking about her fake, white lotus personality." — Long Chen says — "Since she, to her greatest regret, can't kill me, she figured the best way to keep me silent would be by entering a marriage." Long Chen puts his head in his palm as he sighs. "I just didn't expect her to use this arrangement to drive a wedge between us as well. She's truly a He, isn't she? Despite her hate towards her family, she's just as much of a snake as the rest of them." *choice #"What could you possibly know about her that is so damning?" "What could you possible know about her that is so damning?" Long Chen hesitates, not knowing whether he should confine in you or not. In the end, however, he decided not to. Perhaps it's his pride, urging him to deal with his problems himself — perhaps it's his distrust towards you, basically a stranger, that keeps his mouth shut. "Something that can put her very existence at risk. Don't concern yourself with it, Junior ${polite_address}." *goto believe_LC #"Let's assume I believe you. Why would you accept such an engagement? She could hardly force you." "Let's assume I believe you." — you say — "Why would you accept such an engagement? She could hardly force you." Suddenly, Long Chen smirks: his grin is that of arrogance, of unshakable confidence and insatiable ego. "If a beautiful woman throws herself at me, how can I refuse her?" — he answers, shamelessly — "She may be a thorny rose, but a rose nonetheless." "But going by your own words, isn't she dangerous?" "Could I, as a powerful Martial Artist, be scared of my own wife? [i]Please[/i]." — Long Chen rolls his eyes. "Not to mention," — adds Long Chen — "Her alchemical talents are quite useful." *label believe_LC *choice #"I believe you." — You really do. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "5" "+" It really seems that Mei Mei has tricked you — the question '[i]why?[/i]' still remains, however. "I believe you." — you eventually tell Long Chen — "We both have been lied to." "That we were." — he chuckles — "I hope that her deceit won't affect our relationship going forward." *choice #"Actually, she asked me to kill you." "Actually," — you confess — "She asked me to kill you." Long Chen looks you up and down. *label asked_to_kill "No offense, Junior ${polite_address}, but that sounds absurd. You are nowhere my match." *if (agreed_to_kill) *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "10" "+" *set history &"LC_owes_favor" "I don't have to be." — you say — "Not when I have this." From the pouch on your waist, you take out the bomb Mei Mei has given you. Long Chen eyes immediately go wide as he takes a step back. "This… this is 99,999 Failures?!" — he screams. You see, as his his skin reddens, his jaw clenches and his breathing becomes heavy. He turns to the side, in the direction of the sect — "That whore dares to take a claim on my own life?!" "I must thank ${polite_address} ${mc_name} for bringing me this information. I owe you a favor and I, Long Chen, never forget my friends." — he bows, slightly. *else "Don't underestimate her resourcefulness, Brother Chen. I'm sure she had a poison or something just as wicked for me to use." Long Chen thinks for a moment, frowning. "You're exaggerating her capabilities, Junior ${polite_address}." — he says, smile returning to his face — "She may be a talented alchemist, but I'm an even more talented Martial Artist." You realize that you can't convince him otherwise: Long Chen is far too confident in himself to consider Mei Mei a legitimate threat. *page_break *goto LC_dialogue #"Yeah..." "Yeah…" — you scratch your neck, deciding, for one reason or another, to omit the plan of his assassination. Long Chen puts a hand on your shoulder. "Don't mind Mei Mei's words much. Treat everything she says as a lie — you can't be betrayed, if you never trusted the person to begin with." *page_break *goto LC_dialogue #"I believe you." — You don't, but it's better to make him think that you do. *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "5" "+" His words have failed to move you — but since you're just about to venture into a Danger Zone where Long Chen will be the most powerful person around, it's better to keep your relationship friendly. "I believe you." — you eventually tell Long Chen — "We both have been lied to." "That we were." — he chuckles — "I hope that her deceit won't affect relationship going forward." Long Chen puts a hand on your shoulder. "Don't mind Mei Mei's words much. Treat everything she says as a lie — you can't be betrayed, if you never trusted the person to begin with." #"I don't believe you." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "15" "-" His words have failed to move you — and you are not about to pretend otherwise. "I don't believe you." — you state, firmly. Long Chen snorts at your response. "Then we have nothing else to talk about. Drown in the ocean of her lies, if you so wish, just don't expect me to save you afterwards." *set LC_angry true *page_break *goto LC_dialogue #"What do you mean, she hates her family?" "What do you mean, she hates her family?" — you ask — "Isn't Mei Mei the jewel of the He Clan?" "She? Jewel of the He?" — Long Chen laughs — "If you think this way, then you don't know her at all." "Mei Mei hates her family to the core, the passion of her animosity an inextinguishable flame." "But why?" "That," — answers Long Chen — "I do not know. It's not a topic she's willing to talk about." *goto believe_LC #"This is a bunch of nonsense." "This is a bunch of nonsense." — you say — "Weren't you supposed to be proud and straightforward? Why are trying to cloud my mind with these pathetic lies?" Long Chen snorts at your response. "You are a fool, I see now." — replies Long Chen — "We have nothing else to talk about. Drown in the ocean of her lies, if you so wish, just don't expect me to save you afterwards." *set LC_angry true *page_break *goto LC_dialogue #"Stop spouting bullshit. Back off, or you'll regret it." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "20" "-" "Stop spouting bullshit. Back off from the engagement, or you [i]will[/i] regret it." Your words infuriate Long Chen, as he stares at you with amused contempt in his eyes. "I will do whatever I want to." — Long Chen sneers — "And you are far too weak to threaten me. Be thankful we're in public, otherwise your tongue would've already found a new home inside my hand." "We have nothing else to talk about. You want to drown in the ocean of Mei Mei's deceit?" — he adds — "Be my guest. A fucking fool, that's what you are." *set LC_angry true *page_break *goto LC_dialogue #"You are trying to force an engagement upon her! Bastard, have you no shame?!" *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "14" "20" "-" "You are trying to force an engagement upon her!" — you yell, enraged — "Bastard, have you no shame?!" "What kind of nonsense is this?" — Long Chen replies, growing furious as well — "No one is forcing her into anything! What kind of a man do you think I am?!" "A man that fucks everything that moves. Your reputation is well-known, in case you weren't aware." — you sneer — "I wouldn't put it beneath to coerce an innocent woman into a marriage." Long Chen mouth's twitches, his hands clench. "GET OUT!" — he screams — "Or help me Heavens, I will rip your filthy tongue out of your mouth." You knew it — an innocent man would not get so defensive. This goddamn asshole! "You'll pay for it." — you say, before turning away and leaving. *set LC_angry true *goto LC_dialogue #"I heard you were trying to force an engagement upon her. Is that true?" "I heard you were trying to force an engagement upon her. Is that true?" — you ask. "Huh?" — Long Chen tilts his head in confusion — "Where did you hear such nonsense? No one's forcing her into anything." "She told me so herself." — you explain. Long Chen continues looking at you with a baffled gaze. Then, after a moment, his mouth spreads into a smile and he laughs out loud, head thrown backwards. "That fucking bitch." — he cackles — "I don't know whether I should admire her or hate her guts." "I assume you want to know the truth then?" — Long Chen questions. Naturally, you nod your head. *goto she_was_the_one #"There's something that you should know..." Taking a deep breath, you decide to let him know about Mei Mei's nefarious plot. Why do you want to do this, though? *choice #Mei Mei's evil and needs to be stopped. Mei Mei is evil and needs to be stopped — you were only pretending to agree before, attempting to get her to trust you. #Long Chen doesn't deserve to die. Long Chen doesn't deserve to die. Although their situation is complicated, it's no reason for murder. #I want to set them against each other. Mei Mei, Long Chen — you don't like them both. Let them fight and kill each other, that will certainly be the best outcome. "There's something that you need to know, Brother Chen." — you say. "What is it?" "Mei Mei, she… she asked me to kill you." *goto asked_to_kill #"I apologize. Forget I ever asked." "I apologize." — you smile — "Forget I ever asked." *hide_reuse #"You mentioned you wanted to discuss our... alikeness." "When we first met, you mentioned you wanted to discuss our… alikeness." Immediately, Long Chen grows alert. His eyes dart from side to side, checking in whether any other disciple was listening in. After a moment, Long Chen nods. "Yes," — he says — "I have some information that you should know. But first, tell me, do you have any theories regarding our similarity?" "Are you my half-brother?" Long Chen grins, expecting your response. "Indeed, that's the one theory that makes sense, isn't it?" — he explains — "We look far too identical not to be related, and related closely at that." "There is just one small problem with it, however." — Long Chen continues — "It is completely wrong and utterly impossible." "What do you mean, Brother Chen?" — you ask him, bewildered. Long Chen stands up, stretching his limbs. "Think about it, Junior ${polite_address}. We can't be related through your father, despite his… respectable attempts at spreading his bloodline." — the young man in front of you refutes — "After all, we look nothing like him and yet so similar to each other." "And through our mothers," — he continues — "Well, I don't know about yours, but mine surely couldn't a hide pregnancy for nine months straight. She's always at home, under the watchful eyes of my father and a dozen of servants. It's unfeasible for her to have, somehow, covered up your birth." "But that's not all, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}. There's one more piece of evidence that disproves this theory entirely." "Apart from us two, I'm aware of at least three others that share our appearance." *choice #"WHAT?!" "WHAT?!" — you exclaim, stupefied. "That was precisely my reaction as well when I found out, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}." — Long Chen consoles you — "Shock and disbelief." "Where are they now?" #"Surely, you jest." "Surely, you jest." — you give him a disbelieving look. "I wish I was, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}, I wish I was." — Long Chen sighs — "But no, I'm being as serious as can be." "Where are they now?" #"Continue." "Continue." — you stoically tell him, keeping your emotions in check — "Where are they now?" "Two of them are dead. What's curious, both died when they tried to attempt their first rebirth." — Long Chen answers — "The third one is a woman a year older than you, who's a disciple of the Havoc Sect. I've also heard that she's quite talented and we may very well meet her in this expedition." "And before you ask further, I have no idea what's the cause of this strangeness. I have been digging around for years, but had no luck in finding the origin of our shared appearance. If you become aware of something, I would appreciate it if you shared you findings with me as well." You promise him that you will, the recent revelation occupying your mind. *goto LC_dialogue #"That's all. I wish you luck in the upcoming expedition." "That's all." — you say — "I wish you luck in the upcoming expedition." "May the Heavens smile on us both, ${polite_address} ${mc_name}." *goto expo_talk *page_break *goto LC_dialogue *label talk_LX You approach the group of Martial Artists you noticed before. A couple of disciples from your own sect are already there, drinking tea as they jubilantly tell each other stories. "Ah, another guest!" — Lei Xiwen, the man who sang when you first arrived, exclaims — "What an honor, please join us." He gestures to the empty space besides him, an inviting smile on his beautiful face. *choice #Sit down. You accept his suggestion, crossing your legs underneath you. "I'm ${mc_surname} ${mc_name}, Inner Disciple of the Heavenly Ascension Sect." — you introduce yourself. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "per" 15 *if (stat_check) For a second, you see his expression falter. It happens when you introduce yourself, when you pronounce your name — as if he didn't expect you to look like you do. "Lei Xiwen, Core Disciple of the Heavenly Law Sect." — Lei Xiwen replies — "It's nice meeting you, Junior ${polite_address}." *label dialogue_LX *choice *hide_reuse #"Core Disciple? Impressive." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "2" "+" "Core Disciple?" — you ask, surprised. Such a title means two things: the man in front of you both supremely talented and has, at least, reached the second stage of Houtian — "Brother Xiwen is sure impressive." "No need for praise." — Lei Xiwen chuckles, scratching his neck with a bit of shyness — "I'm sure you'll reach the same heights in a few years." *hide_reuse #"You look a bit old, Senior Brother." You study his face for a moment: his skin is spotless and pristine, his features soft and gentle. And yet, he's obviously not a teen — late twenties, if you had to guess. "You look a bit old, Senior Brother." — you observe — "No offense, of course." "None taken, none taken." — he waves his hands — "Who would I be, if I got offended by the truth? I'm twenty-nine, Junior ${polite_address}." "And before you ask, yes, that's against the Zone's rules." — he grins — "But we, people of the Martial World, are nothing if not resourceful." Lei Xiwen gives a nod towards Long Chen, who sits a couple dozen feet away. "It seems both our sects decided to spend big in order to increase their chances inside." *hide_reuse #"That song was very touching." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "2" "+" "I must admit, that song was very touching." "Do you truly think so?" — he asks — "Many have said to me that music is useless, meant for mortals to entertain their masters." *choice #"Music has its own power as well." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "5" "+" "Music has its own power as well." — you reply, after a moment of contemplation. "That's what I've been telling people!" — Lei Xiwen exclaims, joyful — 'I didn't expect to find a like-minded friend during this expedition. A trip not wasted, then." #"There is nothing wrong with a hobby — especially one as beautiful as Brother Xiwen's." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "2" "+" "There is nothing with a hobby — especially one as beautiful as Brother Xiwen's." "Music can be more than just a hobby, Junior ${polite_address}." — Lei Xiwen explains — "It possesses its own strength, one that can rival fists if properly applied. But don't mind me, I don't expect many people to understand the passion I share for it." #"They have a point." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "5" "-" "They have a point, Brother Xiwen. Although I found your song enjoyable, for us, Martial Artists, training and strength are all that matter." "But there is strength in music as well!" — Lei Xiwen protests, before sighing — "Forget it. Let us not argue about something that you do not understand." *hide_reuse #"Senior Brother, you're so pretty!" *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "3" "+" "Senior Brother," — you say, a mischievous glint in your eyes — "How come you're so pretty?" Your compliment catches him off-guard, unprepared and embarrassed. A bit of a blush, which he struggles to contain, paints his cheeks. "I-I…" — he staggers, putting one his hands behind his head in his nervousness — "Thank you for your kind words." *choice #"Sorry! But you're so cute, I just want to eat you up." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "5" "+" "Sorry," — you tell him, your voice not at all apologetic — "But you're so cute, I just want to [i]eat[/i] you up!" You see, as his brows rise and his eyes widen. Lei Xiwen staggers back a step, raising his arm to separate himself from you. "I assure you, I'm not tasty." — he murmurs, gulping — "Please, keep such cannibalistic desires to yourself." "Hehe," — you snicker — "I was talking about a different kind of hunger." To this, Lei Xiwen doesn't know how to react. The disciples around you, however, don't hesitate to make their opinion known. [i]Slut![/i] *line_break [i]Back off from Brother Xiwen![/i] *line_break [i]He's ours, you skank![/i] Irritated, you give them a glare. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "prestige" 150 *if (stat_check) Remembering who you are, the disciples grow silent. You turn back to Lei Xiwen, but he seems too embarrassed to continue the conversation. *else However, your image in the disciples' eyes seems to be too insignificant to force them into silence. [i]What are you looking at us for? Huh?![/i] Understanding that the conversation is you over, you reluctantly shake your head. "We'll see each other soon." — you wink at Lei Xiwen — "Goodbye for now." *goto start_get_up #"I was just stating the obvious." "I was just stating the obvious." — you reply, prolonging his embarrassment — "Brother Xiwen is very cute." "T-Thanks…" — he stammers, his gaze turned away from yours. #"Haha, I apologize." "Haha, I apologize." — you reply — "Didn't mean to embarrass you, Brother Xiwen." "I'm not embarrassed!" — he shouts, a bit too soon and abrupt to be believable — "You just surprised me, that's all." "Uh-huh." — you say, with a knowing look. *hide_reuse #End conversation. "Well, I have to go now." — you eventually say — "Goodbye, Brother Xiwen. We'll see each other soon, I suppose." *label start_get_up You turn away and start to get up, when you feel his thin-fingered hand on your shoulder. "Wait a minute, Junior ${polite_address}!" "Yes?" — you question as you face him again — "What's the matter?" "Does n-" — realizing that his palm was still on your robe, he pulls it back with haste and gives you a nervous smile — "Does name Zhong Zhi ring a bell?" He studies you intently, gauging your reaction with every bit of his perception. "It does not." — you say, hearing the name for the first time — "Should it?" "Ah." — his smile drops for a second, before he covers it up with a joke — "Never mind, never mind. Treat it as senseless ramblings of your Senior Brother." Perplexed, you nod before leaving, this time without interruptions. *goto expo_talk *page_break *goto dialogue_LX #"I just came over to say that your singing is trash." *gosub_scene subroutines change_opinion "15" "10" "-" "No need." — you sneer — "I just came over to say that your singing is utter garbage. Talentless bump, you shouldn't open your mouth if you don't have the voice." Your insult catches him off guard and, for a second, he has no idea how he should react. The crowd around the man, however, doesn't hesitate to make its opinion known. [i]Shut up! You clearly don't understand anything when it comes to music![/i] *line_break [i]Don't open your mouth if you have trash taste then![/i] *line_break [i]Why are you spoiling our fun? Go away if you don't like Brother Xiwen's songs![/i] Irritated, you give them a glare. *gosub_scene subroutines stat_check "prestige" 150 *if (stat_check) Remembering who you are, the disciples grow silent. *else However, your image in the disciples' eyes seems to be too insignificant to force them into silence. "It's alright." — Lei Xiwen calms his group down. He's still tranquil and genial, but his demeanor towards you has, undoubtedly, grown colder — "Junior ${polite_address}, I apologize if my singing has bothered you. However, your rudeness is uncalled for. I'll let it go, on account of our sects being long-time friends. But, take it as an advice from a senior: don't offend people you know nothing about." "Are you threatening me?" — you growl, his firm, piercing gaze making you uncomfortable. "Of course not." — Lei Xiwen lets out another smile, once again becoming cheerful. Now, however, you spot hints of ruthlessness in his expression — "I have no need to threaten a youngling like you." "We'll see if you will be as arrogant inside the Zone." — you snort, turning your back at him. Lei Xiwen doesn't bother to reply, letting you have the last word, as you walk away. *page_break *goto expo_talk *label havoc_arrival Dozens of demonic disciples arrive and immediately start brewing trouble. They push and shove members of the minor sects, uncaring about causing offense: those who stand in their way get stomped into the ground, their Elders unable or unwilling to help, so most scurry out of the newcomers' path in a frightened hurry. When the martial brothers and sisters — though they hardly share such close relations — of the Havoc Sect reach the range of your sight, you realize how different they look from what you have come to consider proper Martial Artists. They do wear neither robes nor uniform, spotting different sets of clothes: from wore-down rags that seem too cheap even for the lowliest of peasants, to sturdy, practical linen pants and shirts. Their bodies are narrow and thin, as if starved for months, and their expressions are savage, flickering with hints of unveiled brutality. They all appear to be on edge, their fidgety eyes dart around left and right in order to perceive any apparent threats. The demonic disciples stop a hundred yards from the spot of your gathering and their hungry gazes start judging you with a intensity that lacks any notion of restraint. [i]Look at these sheep! They all look so soft and tasty…[/i] *line_break [i]So weak and plump…[/i] *line_break [i]These are our enemies? Even the slaves back in the sect are tougher.[/i] The martial artists around you tense up, the previous serenity destroyed. Some take out weapons from their spatial rings, others clutch talismans inside their hands. But no fighting breaks out, it lacks the time to, for three figures appear in the sky — two from your side, Yang Bohai and a refined middle-aged woman, and one from theirs, a child of about ten or eleven. The boy, hovering in the air, smiles and raises his arms in a gesture of peace. His looks are nothing alike to the disciples below him, lacking any hints of savagery on his fat-cheeked face. If he wasn't flying, a feat only Xiantian are capable of, you would've easily assumed that this was an unfortunate kid that got lost and somehow ended up in the clutches of the Havoc Sect. "Elder Bohai!" — the child exclaims, ignoring the woman besides the bald old man. He clasps his hands and gives a bow — "Your presence here is unexpected. If you've given this little one a warning, he could've prepared a gift worthy of your person." Yang Bohai snorts in derision, but its the woman who speaks out first. Perhaps it's the slight of not being addressed, perhaps it's some matters of the past, but her voice is venomous and sharp. "Blood Child, stop your empty flattering! You're not dumb, I think it's obvious why Elder Bohai is here." The boy looks her over, his derision on open display, and shakes his head. "Lady Feifei, I see you still haven't learned how to be quiet when adults are speaking." — the Blood Child said, infuriating the woman even more, before turning his gaze back to Yang Bohai — "Esteemed Elder, please, dispel this nonsense." "Your Havoc Sect has been too rowdy recently." — Yang Bohai states — "You're disrupting the peace of the Celestial Empire. As a punishment for your transgressions, your quota for this Danger Zone has been reduced to ten." "What?!" — Blood Child yells, his voice bearing high-pitched fury — "Elder Bohai, this is not what the leaders agreed upon! You do not have the authority to change it!" "I don't have the authority?!" — Yang Bohai rages back. His nostrils flare, his skin reddens. And as his breathing grows faster, the Blood Child grows paler — "I DON"T HAVE THE AUTHORITY?!" Yang Bohai moves forward a yard — The Blood Child floats back dozens of feet, gulping as sweat pours from his forehead. "Elder Bohai, this little one meant no offense. But the Demon Queen, Monkey God and the Omniscient Sage already discussed this beforehand, and it wouldn't be approriate-" "Your queen," — Yang Bohai growls, the veins on his face pulsating red — "Is [i]not[/i] here. I [i]am[/i]." "Elder Bohai, but…" — the boy begins, but, feeling the sheer bloodthirstiness emitted by Yang Bohai, stops. He clenches his fists and grits his teeth, but soon puts on a forced smile — "Of course. Thank you, Elder, for being so gracious and allowing ten of my disciples in. I apologize for out sect's mistakes." Yang Bohai nods and breathes out, causing the child to sigh in relief. He then waves his hand and the disgruntled boy, after another bow, flies toward his sect members. "Arrogant shit." — the woman spits, watching the child leave with a scorching gaze. Your sect elder doesn't comment on her outburst, though you notice a slight trace of derision flicker in his expression. "Gather your things. We're entering the Zone in ten minutes." — he declared, causing the disciple to bow in unison. *page_break You stand before the fissure in the air, watching as it shimmers with green, bright light. There's a pull from it, like a magnet attracting a metal, but it's weak enough for you to resist without much of a hassle. Still, there's a non-quiet desire in your mind. To touch the rift, to place your hand upon it, to enter into its depths — a condition known as the Danger Zone Attraction, one that affects every disciple around you. Some have it just as easy as you, barely noticing the enticing draw. Others, however, sweat profoundly as they force their limbs into stillness. Your sect, probably due to Yang Bohai's presence, is the first in line to enter the Zone. The elder himself hovers above the rift, staring inside as if trying to pierce through its with the force of his gaze. His attempt is futile, of course, so the old man just snorts in frustration and turns to you. "You all know your purpose. Get inside and do whatever it takes to claim the Zone for yourself. Cooperate with your brothers and sisters. Don't get fooled by those who will wish to trick you." — he says — "If you succeed in this endeavor, the Sect will reward you handsomely. Pills, techniques, Contribution Points — all will be within your grasp, should you prove to be the winner." "Do [i]not[/i] fail me." With that, Yang Bohai waves his meaty hand. Tang Ruo, the one who sits in front, takes a deep sigh and, with a determined look behind his violet eyes, places his palm onto the portal. His body immediately begins to distort, flickering in and out of existence, before he, in a blink, disappears from your view. "Next." — Yang Bohai commands and you naturally follow, repeating Tang Ruo's gesture. The rift is cold, almost bone-chilling, but you don't have time to reflect on the sensation: for your body suddenly moves, sucked inside the portal at the speed of light… *goto_scene expedition_awakening