Hella's Outing

(set: $minutes to 240)(set: $hadrianAsksForSamothes to false)(set: $hadrianSuggestsChapter to false)(set: $hadrianSuggestsChapter to false)(set: $visitedHome to false)(set: $picnicParty to "")(set: $picnicSize to 0)(set: $visitedHadrian to false)(set: $visitedHadrian2 to false)(set: $visitedHadrian3 to false)(set: $visitedAdaire to false)(set: $visitedLem to false)(set: $visitedSamothes to false)(set: $visitedChapter to false)(set: $visitedAdelaide to false)(set: $toldAdaireAdelaidWouldntBeThere to false)(set: $adaireComing to false)(set: $hadrianComing to false)(set: $lemComing to false)(set: $samothesComing to false)(set: $chapterComing to false)(set: $adelaideComing to false)Your name is ''Hella Veral'' and all of your friends are being weird. You used to be an adventurer, a fighter. Now you've been on this island "Aubade" for years, which is in your old sword. That's already a lot. Things were mostly okay at first, but now they're not. Your best friend ''Hadrian'' has been all sad, your ~~crush~~ boss ''Adaire'' has been disappearing, and ''Lem'' has been fixated on his work. But that's fine, you can deal with this. You've already thought of the solution. [[Go over the plan.->Intro 2]]

You're going to have a picnic on your boat. Everyone likes picnics, everyone likes boats. It's perfect. You already have the food and some other stuff you picked up from Adaire's, there's only one issue. No one has agreed to go on this picnic boat trip. Also the food is going to go bad, so the trip will need to be today. So two issues you guess. [[Regain your confidence.->Home]]

(set: $finished to false)(if: $minutes<30)[(set: $finished to true)](else-if: $visitedAdaire and $visitedHadrian2 and $visitedLem and $visitedSamothes and $visitedChapter and $visitedAdelaide)[(set: $finished to true)](if: not $visitedHome)[(set: $visitedHome to true)Time: $minutes Picnic Party: No One No, it's fine! You can do this! So what if there's a time limit till sunset. So what if no one has actually agreed to go on the boat trip yet. There's plenty of time to convince everyone. Now, who should you reach out to first? (if: $minutes<100)[(if: not $hadrianAsksForSamothes)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[(if:$hadrianSuggestsChapter)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide+samothes+chapter.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide+samothes.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />]]] (else:)[(if: not $hadrianAsksForSamothes)[<img src="images/aubade-start.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[(if:$hadrianSuggestsChapter)[<img src="images/aubade-start+samothes+chapter.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[<img src="images/aubade-start+samothes.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />]]] (if: not $visitedAdaire)[<img src="images/adaire.png" alt="Adaire-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Adaire's to talk to Adaire.->Adaire 1]]] (if: $visitedHadrian and $visitedHadrian2 and not $visitedHadrian3)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Maybe Hadrian will have ideas for other, other guests.->Hadrian R3 1]]](else:)[(if: $visitedHadrian and not $visitedHadrian2)[(if: $visitedSamothes)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Let Hadrian know about Samothes.->Hadrian R2 1]]](else:)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Check if Hadrian has ideas for other guests.->Hadrian R2 1]]]](else-if: not $visitedHadrian)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to that weird cave in the fields to talk to Hadrian.->Hadrian 1]]]](if: not $visitedLem)[ <img src="images/lem.png" alt="Lem-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Lem's place.->Lem 1]]](if: $minutes<100)[ <img src="images/adelaide.png" alt="Adelaide-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Head to the docks to check the boat.->Adelaide 1]]](if: $hadrianAsksForSamothes and not $visitedSamothes)[ <img src="images/samothes.png" alt="Samothes-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Samothes' palace.->Samothes 1]]](if: $hadrianSuggestsChapter and not $visitedChapter)[ <img src="images/chapter.png" alt="Chapter-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Head to the sandbar to see Chapter.->Chapter 1]]]](else-if: $finished)[You watch as the sun drifts to rest along the horizon, bathing the sea in reddish orange light. That's all the time you have, you guess. (if: $picnicSize is 0)[[[Go out on your own.-> Ending Solo]]](else-if: $picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Adaire.->Ending Adaire]]](if: $hadrianComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Hadrian.->Ending Hadrian]]](if: $lemComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Lem.->Ending Lem]]](if: $adelaideComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Adelaide.->Ending Adelaide]]](if: $samothesComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Samothes.->Ending Samothes]]](if: $chapterComing)[[[Take your boat out, just you and Chapter.->Ending Chapter]]]](else-if: $picnicSize is 2)[[[Start the boat party.->Two Ending]]](else-if: $picnicSize is 3)[[[Start the boat party.->Three Ending]]](else-if: $picnicSize < 6)[[[Start the boat party.->Semi-Perfect Ending]]](else:)[[[Start the boat party.->Complete Ending]]]](else:)[ Time: $minutes Picnic Party: (if: $picnicSize<1)[No One](else:)[$picnicParty] Okay, where to next? (if: $minutes<100)[(if: not $hadrianAsksForSamothes)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[(if:$hadrianSuggestsChapter)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide+samothes+chapter.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[<img src="images/aubade-start+adelaide+samothes.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />]]] (else:)[(if: not $hadrianAsksForSamothes)[<img src="images/aubade-start.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[(if:$hadrianSuggestsChapter)[<img src="images/aubade-start+samothes+chapter.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />](else:)[<img src="images/aubade-start+samothes.png" alt="Aubade" height="600" width="600" />]]] (if: not $visitedAdaire)[<img src="images/adaire.png" alt="Adaire-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Adaire's to talk to Adaire.->Adaire 1]]] (if: $visitedHadrian and $visitedHadrian2 and not $visitedHadrian3)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Maybe Hadrian will have ideas for other, other guests.->Hadrian R3 1]]](else:)[(if: $visitedHadrian and not $visitedHadrian2)[(if: $visitedSamothes)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Let Hadrian know about Samothes.->Hadrian R2 1]]](else:)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Check if Hadrian has ideas for other guests.->Hadrian R2 1]]]](else-if: not $visitedHadrian)[<img src="images/hadrian.png" alt="Hadrian-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to that weird cave in the fields to talk to Hadrian.->Hadrian 1]]]](if: not $visitedLem)[ <img src="images/lem.png" alt="Lem-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Lem's place.->Lem 1]]](if: $minutes<100)[ <img src="images/adelaide.png" alt="Adelaide-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Head to the docks to check the boat.->Adelaide 1]]](if: $hadrianAsksForSamothes and not $visitedSamothes)[ <img src="images/samothes.png" alt="Samothes-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Go to Samothes' palace.->Samothes 1]]](if: $hadrianSuggestsChapter and not $visitedChapter)[ <img src="images/chapter.png" alt="Chapter-Icon" height="20" width="20" />[[Head to the sandbar to see Chapter.->Chapter 1]]]]

(set: $visitedAdaire to true)(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You follow Cunningham Street up north towards the castle. It's a beautiful day, breezy and bright, like always, and the streets are dense with people. As you move through the crowds voices call out your name, perhaps regular customers at Adaire's, perhaps people you'd killed, but you don't have the time. You call out apologies and hurry your way to Adaire's general store. A small bell chimes as you push open the door, and there's Adaire, working the counter. She's finished ringing up a customer, and she's wearing her polite business smile along with her usual neck-to-toe blue dress and leggings. She cocks an eyebrow as she notices you. "You're not on the schedule today." It's not a question, it's a statement. [[Explain about the boat trip.->Adaire 2a]]

(set: $visitedHadrian to true)(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You cross the open area between the castle and the Shrine of Sabinia. This is all farm land, the sea breeze billowing across fields of wheat as you pass. You've worked these farms before, there really isn't a lot you haven't tried in the past few years. Occasionally you spot someone you know and wave. Then you're upon it. The underground opening to that strange cave of a room. [[Enter the cave thing.->Hadrian 1b]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You make the trek up past the castle towards Lem's place, nestled between the dense housing of New Helianthus and the wider, open area around The Cartwright House, filled with schools and universities. You're not around here much, you never had much time for universities, but the open skies, warm air, and cool wind aren't unpleasant. You find Lem in his studio/library/whatever it is. In contrast to the rest of the area this place is dark, stuffy, and packed full of books, stray sheets of paper, and dust. You think at one point he'd hired someone as like an assistant or something, but that was a long way back. You find Lem sitting on a desk in the center of the mess, asleep on a large open tome. [[Shake him awake.->Lem 2]] [[Shake him awake gently.->Lem 2 Gentle]] [[Leave him alone for now->Home]]

(set: $visitedSamothes to true)(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You make the trek up past Cunningham street, past Adaire's, all the way to the castle. Adaire explained it to you at some point, how the whole island of Aubade was a mountain that had been at the bottom of the sea. She'd been developing some new product themed around Aubade's history, you think. But you'd mostly just been listening to her talk, and hadn't taken a lot of it in. Standing atop the castle now though, you can see it. From the view of this castle at the island's highest point the whole of Aubade stretches out around you. Its breathtaking, and not just because the sea winds are harshest here. You can see the whole world from here, for miles out to sea, and the growing storm beyond. [[Stare out across Aubade for a moment.->Samothes 1b]]

(set: $visitedChapter to true)(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You walk down towards the sand bar that surrounds much of the island of Aubade.(if: $minutes <75)[ As you pass by the docks you think you spot Adelaide perched up next to your ship. You'll have to deal with that whole situation later.] You press on. Thankfully since its low tide you can walk directly up to the sandbar, being careful where you step on the rocky seabed. Atop the sandbar you find them, Chapter the star. The dark mark where you killed them is entirely visible as they stand, looking out towards the ever present storm on the horizon. Things have remained just a bit awkward between the two of you, despite the time that has passed. Well, perhaps not from Chapter's side of things, but for you certainly. You almost miss the days when people stayed dead after you killed them. But then you immediately feel guilty.(if: $minutes <75)[ Your mind drifts back to Adelaide on the docks.] You shake your head, and turn back towards Chapter, who still hasn't noticed you. [[Call out to them.->Chapter 2]] [[Give up and head back.->Home]]

(set: $visitedAdelaide to true)(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)You make your way down to the docks at the southern edge of the island. Aubade is a strange place, despite living here for years it still strikes you as alien. But here, at the docks, you feel at home. The sounds of ships docking and undocking, fish and crates being unloaded, supplies being loaded back. It was loud, raucous, busy. The air was full of sea water and the smells of labor and fish. It felt *alive* in a way that much of Aubade did not. You wave at a number of familiar faces in the crowds as you make your way to your boat, only to spot an even more familiar face perched up on the dock besides it. Adelaide leans against a stack of crates in a way that suggested, but was not quite, a lounge. She's dressed in what you could only describe as a fancy pirate costume: a deep red coat, dark pants, long boots, and a tricorne hat. "Hella," she says, nodding as if this were all perfectly natural. "How nice to see you today." [[Ask her what she's doing.->Adelaide 2 Ask]] [[Ignore her and get on your boat.->Adelaide 2 Boat]] [[Turn right back around and leave.->Home]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)(set: $visitedHadrian2 to true)(set: $hadrianSuggestsChapter to true) "Hey uh," You say, after the long trek back to Hadrian's cave as you peak your head back in. "You got any other ideas about people we could invite to this thing?" Hadrian had been slumped over, but pulls himself up into an upright seated position at your words. "Hella! Oh uh, I don't know, Chapter maybe? They'd probably like a boat trip. Have you gone to see Samothes? Is he coming?" [[Tell him Samothes is going to be there.->Hadrian R2 2]] [[Tell him Samothes isn't coming.->Hadrian R2 2 No Sam]] [[Tell him you haven't been yet and head back.->Home]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)(set: $visitedHadrian3 to true)You enter back into Hadrian's cave to find him asleep, his head in his hands. You have a light jacket on, which you take off and place over him. You pause, not sure what else to do. You pat his shoulder. Embarassed, you turn to go. [[See who else you can invite.->Home]]

"Oh well that would explain that big order you picked up this morning," she says. She pauses, seeming to think it over. Behind the two of you a bell rings as a customer enters. Adaire sighs. As she speaks, she subtly avoids your gaze, looking towards the new customer and wearing the same polite smile. "I don't know Hella, I had plans for after work. And a picnic on a boat? I'm not sure that's the best idea, what if someone gets seasick?" This is what you'd been worried about. Adaire has been disappearing, cancelling, or calling off plans. You'll have to think of something good to get her to come. [[Remind her of that pearl eel thing.->Adaire 3 Pearl Eel]] [[Try to lean on your social connection.->Adaire 3 Please]] [[Tell her how you really feel about her.->Adaire 3 Confession]]

"Remember that like pearl eel thing from the first boat trip? You made so many beautiful things out of that. Maybe that'll happen again!" You do your best to seem enthusiastic about the possibility of pearl eels. Adaire considers this. "You make a good point," she says eventually, drawing out each word. Her eyes continue to avoid your face. "Do you think Adelaide's coming? I kind of suspect the pearl eel had something to do with her. You know. Queen of Pearls and all?" She looks at you now, sidelong, her eyes intent. There's something else in her eyes now, but despite getting a lot better at people skills over the years you can't read it. [[Tell her yes, Adelaide will be there.-> Adaire 4 Adelaide Yes]] [[Tell her no, Adelaide won't be there.->Adaire 4 Adelaide No]] [[Tell her you have no idea, Adelaide does what she wants.->Adaire 4 Adelaide Truth]]

"Please Adaire," you say. You put a hand on the counter, near hers but not too close. "I'd really like you to be there." You try to keep the nerves from affecting your expression as you glance back at Adaire. You're not sure, but for just a moment she seems almost disappointed? Adaire sighs. "Okay I get it. Sundown at the dock right? I'll *try* to be there." For some reason you still feel like there's something off here, but she agreed to come, right? You try to shake it off. "Oh okay great! See you then- I guess!" You say, as you turn to go. You wave as you leave the store, but Adaire's busy with another customer and doesn't see it. [[Go invite another guest.->Home]]

"Adaire-" you start, bracing yourself on the counter. "Look, it's really important for me that you be there. You specifically." "Do you remember that time in the woods? Right after we first met? When I caught you after you were dragged off by that moth lady-?" "Rosette?" Adaire suggests. "What?" you say, confused by the interruption. "The moth queen, Rosette?" "Oh yeah, sure? I guess? I'm not really good with names," you say, looking down at Adaire. Adaire's eyes catch the light, and you catch your breath. No, you can't. It's too soon. This isn't right. You make an excuse, and turn to leave. [[Go talk to someone, anyone else.->Home]]

"Oh uh, yeah! She'll be there!" you say. You glance down at Adaire, but her expression remains unchanged. "She's uh- really excited about it!" Adaire sighs again. "I think I'll pass. She made some comment about me being working class I didn't much appreciate last time." You open your mouth to argue, but a gentle cough from behind interrupts. You turn to see the customer from earlier, a thin man with thinning hair and thick-rimmed glasses. "I'm sorry, but are you in line?" he asks, voice nasally. You get out of the way. [[Wait for your chance to talk to Adaire again.->Adaire 5 Wait]] [[Give up and try for someone else.->Home]]

(set: $toldAdaireAdelaidWouldntBeThere to true)(set: $adaireComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"Uh no, she won't! She was all weird last time, so no way am I letting her in on this one!" You try to keep the nerves from changing your expression as you glance back at Adaire. You're not sure, but for just a moment she seems almost disappointed? Adaire sighs. "Alright, I might as well I suppose. Sundown at the dock right? I'll be there." For some reason you still feel like there's something off here, but she agreed to come, right? You try to shake it off. "Oh okay great! See you then- I guess!" You say, as you turn to go. You wave as you leave the store, but Adaire's busy with another customer and doesn't see it. [[Go invite another guest.->Home]]

(set: $adaireComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]You laugh. "Will Adelaide be there? Who knows, she just kind of does whatever she wants." You're not sure, but you think for a moment Adaire's polite smile turns to a genuine one. "You're right about that," she says. She sighs, but it seems like its mostly for show. "Sure, I'll be there. Sundown at the docks yeah? See you then." "Looking forward to it," you say. You lock eyes with Adaire for a moment, and you can feel your cheeks start to redden. "Okay yeah! See you!" You say, turning towards the exit. You wave as you leave the store, Adaire's busy with a customer, but she looks back and nods. [[Go invite another guest.->Home]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-5)You wait for the customer to be rung up, by which time there's another customer in line. Then there's another customer, and another. You wait for several minutes, but it's no use, it seems the afternoon rush has hit. If you know anything about retail (and you now have years of experience), it'll be like this for hours. [[Go try to talk to someone else.->Home]]

(set: $visitedLem to true)You move to shake Lem awake, but accidentally fully shove him off his chair. Lem wakes halfway through the fall, trying to grab hold of something to stop himself. Unfortunately, Lem grabs the desk, and only manages to pull it down as well. There's a loud thud. [[Apologize, pick the desk off him.->Lem 3]]

(set: $visitedLem to true)You shake Lem a few times, remembering to use a light touch. For an orc, Lem has always been a bit delicate and he's only become more so since his arrival in Aubade. "Wha- who-," Lem mutters, pushing himself off the desk. "Where- Oh, hi Hella!" "Hi Lem," you say. Lem's eyes focus and widen as the situation dawns on him. "Oh no, I'm sorry! I was just up all night. You see there's this coffee they used to have back in the canteen at the Archives and-" You raise a hand to stop Lem, who is partway through picking up a stack of papers to show you. "Ah," says Lem, "Right. Um, What can I do for you?" [[Explain about the picnic boat trip.->Lem 4 Picnic]]

"Hella! I'm sorry! I didn't hear you come in!" Lem exclaims as you pull the desk off him. "Lem you don't have to apologize, I just knocked you over!" You reply, pulling Lem to his feet and dusting him off. "Oh hmm yes right true," says Lem. He looks over the desk, absentmindedly stacking books and papers atop it. You clear your throat. Lem jumps. "Oh right!" He exclaims, "Sorry, just very um focused on this problem right now. See there was this coffee in the canteen..." He trails off, shaking his head. "What can I do for you, Hella?" [[Explain about the picnic boat trip->Lem 4 Picnic]]

"Oh okay!" says Lem. "So you'll come?" You ask. "Oh no sorry." Lem shakes his head, holding his hands up. "I was saying okay like yes got it, right. Sorry for the confusion." You take a deep breath. "So... you aren't coming?" "Oh no I didn't mean that either," says Lem. You wish you still had your sword. "You see," Lem says, gesturing back at his papers, blissfully unaware as ever, "I'm just right in the middle of something. Not sure I can take the time for a boat trip, I'd lose my place. Well you see there's this whole coffee thing and..." Lem trails off. [[Offer to help him, even if it takes a while.->Lem 5 Help]] [[Try to interest him in the boat trip.->Lem 5 Interest]] [[Say goodbye and go try to talk to someone else.->Home]]

"Well what if I helped you out?" "What?" Lem asks, as if he suddenly jerks back into reality. "Help you with your..." you glance at Lem's piles of paper and dust, "...research?" "Oh! Oh of course! Yes, that would be a big help Hella!" Lem gestures, leading you further into his studio. You notice the stacks of books growing higher and more precarious around you. It strikes you that this might be a lot more than you bargained for. [[Commit to helping Lem, no matter how long it takes.->Lem 6 Help]] [[Make some excuse and leave, there's no time for this.->Home]]

"Lem, you like weird stuff right?" You ask, putting on the same smile you use for difficult customers at Adaire's. "Um, I suppose?" Lem replies, nervous. "Well, there's all kinds of weird stuff out on the water!" You say, increasingly aware of how much this was like trying to get a customer to buy day old pastry. "Oh?" Lem says, a bit less nervous. "Yeah! There's uh," you pause, trying to remember what else was out there besides fish. "Well there's sometimes like weird creatures- like a pearl eel! Or like there's a massive storm that's supposed to be linked to the heat and whatever. Um." You realize perhaps that there's not as much to interest Lem here as you thought there was. "That sounds great Hella, really it does. But I have a lot of work to do, I'll come for the next trip out, okay?" [[Offer to help with his research.->Lem 5 Help]] [[Give up and head home.->Home]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-60)Lem is as grateful for your help as he is entirely unprepared for it. He spends the next hour or so trying to explain his notes, while taking repeated tangents. You don't follow at all, only occasionally picking out a word: "pattern", "Samothes", "Samol", "coffee", "Morbash", "pot", "cooking", and so on. He seems to notice the time eventually and instead switches to having you search through his piles for particular books and papers. You do as he asks, glad to at least be doing something, and after yet more time has passed you find the books. [[Bring the books back to Lem->Lem 6a Help]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes-30)(set: $lemComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]It can in fact take that much longer. While you made it through the stacks to find his first requests with no problem, you search for this "Brewings of Beans" fruitlessly for a half hour. Finally, you notice a stack of books so high and gray with dust you'd mistaken it for a wall. Frustrated, you push them over. There's a great slam and clatter as thick tomes meet the floor. Dust billows up, sending you into a coughing sneezing fit. The dust clears and through it you spot a second desk, identical to the one in the front you found Lem sleeping on. In the center of the desk, as if waiting for you, is the book. You take it back through the towers of books, to find Lem once again asleep at this desk. You slam the book down, perhaps harder than necessary, and let him know you're looking forward to seeing him at the boat at sundown. [[Leave before he can get a response in.->Home]]

(set: $lemComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]You explode. You start shouting, you're not even entirely sure what. You say something about how you're holding everything together and that no one is helping and that no one cares to help. That you're scared of the time you've spent here every moment, and scared even more of what its doing to your friends. You're not entirely sure all of it is relevant to this situation or even if it has to do with Lem at all. Maybe you've been under more stress than you thought. Finally you regain your composure, holding the desk and breathing hard. "Oh," says Lem. "I hadn't realized. Um." "Lem," you say, shame coloring your voice. "No, no, it's okay! Um. Yes I'll go to the boat picnic. Sundown? Right. See you then!" You take this as a polite cue for you to leave. [[Leave.->Home]]

"Oh a picnic?" Hadrian says. "Sounds nice." "So, you'll come?" You ask. "I don't know..." Hadrian glanced back at the walls, the lights and the whispers. "It feels like we're close, you know? I don't want to miss something." He doesn't look back or meet your eyes. You feel like you're going to have to try something bigger to convince him. You wrack your brain for a moment, coming up with a few options. [[Play the best friend card.->Hadrian 3 Best Friend]] [[Tell him you'll invite Samothes.->Hadrian 3 Samothes]]

"Hadrian we've known each other for a long time. We've been through a lot. It'd mean a lot to me if you came." "Hella..." Hadrian sighs. He looks up at you. It strikes you how old he looks, sitting in this strange room, a scraggly beard on his face. He looks so tired. "Hella I would go on any quest you asked me to." Hadrian says. You swear there's a bit more light in his eyes now. "I don't think there's anything you or I can't do. You know that." He turns back towards the walls. "But this is just a boat trip. I'm sure we'll have other boat trips. I'm sorry, but I can't risk missing something, not after all this time." "But-" You begin, but stop as Hadrian raises a hand. "That's just how it is, I'm sorry." [[Tell him you'll invite Samothes.->Hadrian 3 Samothes]] [[Give up and head back.->Home]]

(set: $hadrianAsksForSamothes to true)"Well, what if I got Samothes to come?" You ask. You know how much Hadrian likes that guy, it's basically all he ever talked about before Aubade. Then again, things have been weird lately with Hadrian, maybe- "Okay," says Hadrian. "Okay?" "Okay." Hadrian repeats, nodding. "If he's there he can sense the outside world, at least some. That way we'll still know if something changes. If Samothes comes, I'm happy to be there." "Oh! Great!" You say, happy that this was so simple. It dawns on you then that this means you have to actually go ask Samothes to come. You hope you bought enough food for everyone. Do gods eat? [[Go back and ask someone else (maybe Samothes?)->Home]]

(set: $hadrianComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")](if: $samothesComing)["Yeah he is!" You say, just a bit of pride in your voice.](else:)["Uh. Yeah, he is!" You say, trying to keep the lie off your face.] "Oh! Great!" Hadrian replies, shifting in his seat. "I was honestly feeling really bad about not coming, so this works out great for me. Sundown at the docks, right? I'll be there." (set: $hadrianComing to true)(if: $samothesComing)[You nod and smile, relieved.](else:)[You nod and smile, but feel guilt already bubbling up inside you.] [[Head back.->Home]]

"Yeah uh," you say, "Samothes is like really busy it turns out." "Oh." "But I'd still really love for you to come!" You say, hopefully. Hadrian sighs. "Yeah I know. I'll come for the next one, okay? I just really don't want to miss anything, not after all this time." He turns back towards the walls. You turn back to the entrance. [[Head back.->Home]]

"A boat trip and picnic? And you want me to come?" Samothes asks. It's a simple question, you guess, but it annoys you that he'd even ask. You're here aren't you? You look at him, opening your mouth to reply, but pause. Maybe he meant something else? [[Tell him yes, you do want him to come.->Samothes 2 Yes]] [[Tell him no, you really don't want him there.->Samothes 2 No]] [[Explain how its Hadrian that wants him to come.->Samothes 2 Hadrian]]

(set: $samothesComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"Y-yeah!" You say, aware of how unconvincing you sound. Samothes shakes his head, still smiling. "I have been around for a very long while, but it is Aubade that taught me the value of taking time for myself and sharing it with others. If you are certain I would not intrude, I will be there." (if: $minutes<100)[He turns, looking at the sun, so close to the horizon now. A wry smile returns to his face. "You are running low on time I think. Would you like me to do something about that?" [[Say yes.->Samothes 2 Sun]] [[Say no and leave.->Home]]](else:)[[[[Thank him and go.->Home]]]]

Samothes blinks. "So you came to inform me of a boat party you do not wish me to attend?" He smiles. "Ha, you are a strange one Hella Veral. But I appreciate your visit." [[Let him go, and head out yourself.->Home]] [[Explain to him that Hadrian wants him there.->Samothes 2 Hadrian]]

(set: $samothesComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"Ah. Hadrian." The gentle smile on his face continues, but a sadness enters Samothes' eyes. "I fear I have not given that man the guidance he deserves, that he wants from me." You don't know what to say to that. You become increasingly aware of the distance to the exit and how easy it would be to just leave. Samothes looks up, noting your discomfort. "My apologies, I should not burden you further." "I'll be there," he says after a moment. "I can do that much, at least." (if: $minutes<100)[He turns, looking at the sun, so close to the horizon now. A wry smile returns to his face. "You are running low on time I think. Would you like me to do something about that?" [[Say yes.->Samothes 2 Sun]] [[Say no and leave.->Home]]](else:)[[[[Thank him and go.->Home]]]]

(set: $minutes to $minutes+50)Samothes stares at the sun. Something about the light of the setting sun on his face and his smile reminded you of stories that Hadrian had told you. For a moment, you almost could see what Hadrian saw in him. "I cannot reconfigure here, nor would I want to. That style of authorship does not fit Aubade. But, I can give you a bit more time before sundown." Samothes gestures towards the sun. You follow his gesture with your eyes, squinting from the light. If you hadn't been looking you would have missed it, but the sun shifts ever so slightly further up in the sky. Samothes turns back towards you. "My gift to you, for taking care of Hadrian all these years. I'll see you on the boat." He turns with a nod, and leaves. [[Head back and see who else you can talk to with this extra time.->Home]]

"Hey Chapter... buddy... you there?" You call out. Chapter shakes their head, turning their glowing white form towards you. "Hella. My apologies. I was looking at the storm." Chapter continues to stare at you, unblinking. "Can I do something for you?" They ask, eventually. [[Explain about the picnic.->Chapter 3]] [[Cut your losses and head back.->Home]]

"Oh. There will be a picnic on your boat. Thank you for letting me know." Chapter continues to stand on the sandbar, unmoving. You pinch the bridge of your nose. [[Ask them if they'd like to come.->Chapter 4]] [[Turn around and just go.->Home]]

(set: $chapterComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"I see. This is an invitation. I understand now." Chapter pauses, but tilts their head to the side to demonstrate that they are considering your offer. "Yes I will come to your picnic boat party Hella Veral. Thank you for having me." You shake your head. "Glad you can make it Chapter. See you then." "Indeed you will," says Chapter, and they turn back towards the storm. [[Head back.->Home]]

"Adelaide..." you say, sighing out the word, "What do you want?" She closes her eyes, spreading her arms wide, her mouth retaining her trademark smirk. "I heard you were having a boat party. I only thought to dress for the occasion." She puts a finger to her chin, playing at being in thought. "Your last 'boat party' lead you to me, isn't that right?" You try to keep up your frustrated appearance, but you can't help but smile a bit at that. "Oh?" You say, hands on hips. "And so you assume that you're invited to this one?" "Am I?" Adelaide asks. For just a moment you swear you see the smirk drop, catching sight of vulnerable eyes, but then its gone. [[Tell her yes, she is.->Adelaide 3 Yes]] [[Tell her no, she isn't.->Adelaide 3 No]] [[Tell her she can do what she wants.->Adelaide 3 Maybe]]

You ignore Adelaide and make your way onto your boat. You begin checking it over along with the supplies that you'd purchased for the picnic, very aware that Adelaide's eyes remain on you the entire time. You turn back to see her now *on* your boat, leaning up against the hull. Somehow she has an apple, and is cutting into it with a knife. You catch yourself staring a bit too long, and turn back to your work, embarassed. Adelaide definitely notices as well, and clears her throat. "A little bird- no, Fero isn't here. Someone tells me you're having a boat party tonight." Adelaide leaves the words hanging in the air, waiting on your response. [[Invite her, she won't leave you alone till you do.->Adelaide 3 Invite]] [[Tell her to get off your ship, you're busy.->Adelaide 3 Leave]]

(set: $adelaideComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"I guess." You say, hiding your grin as you glance away. Adelaide pushes herself off the stack of boxes, striding forward. "Oh good," she says. For just a moment she reaches out to rest a hand on your shoulder, but retracts it just before touching you. Instead she turns, now directly next to you on the dock, so there's barely any distance between the two of you at all. "Well, I'll see you then," she says, holding your gaze for just a moment as if giving you the time for one last look. Then she's gone. You feel like all the tension leaves your body all at once. You feel exhausted and something else- sad? You shake your head, turning back towards your boat. [[Check the boat over quickly and head back.->Home]]

You shake your head, your thoughts on Hadrian, Lem, and Adaire. "Not this time, Adelaide." She stands still, her smirk gone. Her face looks confused more than hurt, like she didn't see this coming. She looks downward and then away. "Ah, I see. Well, I hope you have a lovely time with your little friends." She pushes herself off the stack of crates, walking by you without another word. By the time you consider a reply she's already lost in the crowd. You're not sure how you feel about that. [[Check over the boat and head back.->Home]]

(set: $adelaideComing to true)(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"Don't you usually just do what you want?" You ask. Adelaide looks away, her smile still on her face. But when she speaks next you catch a bit of disappointment in her words, like she had been hoping for another answer. "I do," she says, "And I think I'll continue to do what I want. See you at sundown?" You say nothing, and this time you can see the disappointment in her eyes, but she quickly hides that as she pushes off the crates and disappears back into the crowd. You watch her go, not sure how to feel about how this went. [[Finish checking the boat out quickly and head back.->Home]]

Somehow it ends with just you on the water. You look across the waves as the light begins to fade. Maybe it's better this way. You've been spending a lot of time trying to hold everyone else together. Maybe its okay to take some time just for yourself. You have this time to yourself anyway. Feeling the rock of the boat, the crash of the waves. You could almost be back off the shores of Ordenna. That feels so long ago now and so far away. But you feel as if you could almost be there. You close your eyes. Tomorrow will be another day. You'll work at Adaire's, check in on Hadrian, maybe make sure Lem didn't get buried under a stack of paper. But for now, it's just you, your boat, and the sea. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

Adaire seems surprised when its just you and she on the boat as it pulls out of the harbor. For a while the only sound is the waves and wind. "I thought there was going to be more people?" Adaire says, eventually. "Do you want there to be more people?" You ask without thinking. "No, no. This is fine." Adaire pauses, giving off a small sigh. "It's nice." She continues, as if admitting some dark secret. "I think it's nice too," you say, quietly. Adaire smiles up at you, and pats the hull beside her. You secure the boat, and move to her side. The rest of the night passes uneventfully. Sometimes the two of you stand in silence, overlooking the waves. Sometimes Adaire tells you about some new plan for the store or about an interesting tidbit of information she picked up. She does most of the talking, but you don't mind, you like to listen to her. You pull into the dock as the last of the light fades. You say your goodbyes, and Adaire turns to go. Just as quickly she turns back, a look of sudden decision on her face. She shoots forward, faster than you can react, and jumps up to plant a kiss on your cheek. She's gone soon after. You touch your cheek, gently brushing it with your fingers, and smile. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

Hadrian is already waiting for you at the boat when you arrive. You try to begin the process of disembarking while just engaging in small talk, but Hadrian catches on. "Hella," says Hadrian, "Where's Samothes?" "Um. Oh weird," you say, "Guess he got busy or something! Yeah. Weird." Hadrian stares at you. You do your best to keep the guilt off your face. Eventually he turns to face the castle. "He wasn't ever going to come, was he Hella?" Hadrian asks, his voice quiet. Your shoulders fall. "No." You manage. "He wasn't." Hadrian turns and begins to walk away. "Hadrian!" You call, throwing some rope onto the ground. "Wait!" But he doesn't wait. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

It just ends up being you and Lem on the boat as you leave the harbor. But Lem doesn't seem to mind. He sits at the front of the ship until you're a distance from the island. You come to sit by him. "How do you think the fish work here?" He asks, as you sit down. "What?" "The fish. How do you think they work? Where did they come from?" "Oh. I don't know. Uh. Samothes, probably?" "Samothes," Lem says to himself, like he's making a mental note. You sit in silence for some time after that. The last fading daylight dissipates and the lights of Aubade twinkle on in the distance. You offer Lem food and drink silently, and he accepts. "Fero would love that," Lem says eventually, breaking the silence. "Oh, what would he love?" You ask. "Making up new animals," he replies, staring into the sea. "I bet he'd really enjoy that. He gets such a kick out of it anytime he finds a new animal to be. I mean- he got- I guess-" You follow Lem's gaze, and clap him on the shoulder. "I miss him too." "I think he probably hates me," says Lem, taking a sip of his drink. "And he'd be right to. I've done a lot I'm not proud of." You turn to look at him now, his eyes downcast, his tusks drooping. "We both have," you reply. He looks up then, a weak smile on his face. You two spend the rest of the night exchanging memories, of Rosemarrow, of Velas, of Nacre, and of Fero. When you make it back to the harbor Lem thanks you for making him leave his workshop. You thank him for coming out. You both hug and wish each other good night. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

When you pull the boat from the docks, it's just you and Adelaide aboard. "Hella," says Adelaide, once you're out on the water, "You promised me a party." You turn for a retort but find her typical smirk replaced by an open and easy smile. "You know, if you'd wanted me to yourself," she continues, "You could have just asked." You redden immediately, covering it with a cough. Adelaide laughs, coming to sit besides you at the back of the boat. You chat for a while, eat and drink the food you had prepared, and if anything else happened that night, you certainly don't kiss and tell. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

(set: $picnicSize to $picnicSize+1)(if:$picnicSize is 1)[(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")](if: $lemComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]](else-if:$picnicSize is 2)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" and Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 3)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 3)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 4)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 4)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 5)[(set: $numChecked to 0)(if: $adaireComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire")](if: $hadrianComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 2)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+" , Hadrian")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Hadrian")]](if: $lemComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Lem")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Lem")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Lem")]](if: $samothesComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Samothes")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Samothes")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Samothes")]](if: $chapterComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Chapter")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Chapter")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Chapter")]](if: $adelaideComing)[(set: $numChecked to $numChecked+1)(if: $numChecked is 5)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", and Adelaide")](else-if: $numChecked>1)[(set: $picnicParty to $picnicParty+", Adelaide")](else:)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adelaide")]]](else-if:$picnicSize is 6)[(set: $picnicParty to "Adaire, Adelaide, Hadrian, Lem, Samothes, and Chapter")]"You want to come?" You say, still with your back to Adelaide. There's a crash as a wave hits the docks, sending tremors through your boat. Or at least that's why you'd say you had to steady yourself. "Is that an invitation?" Adelaide asks. You can hear the smirk in her voice even without looking. You sigh, but you're smiling. "Yes! I guess!" You say, in mock exasperation. "Well I'll see if I can fit it into my schedule," says Adelaide, "But I'll probably see you tonight." You hear her hitch herself over the hull and back onto the dock. After waiting for what you feel is an appropriate amount of time you turn to see if she's still there. She is, and she's looking right at you. She laughs, having caught you looking, and your face reddens. She waves you goodbye with a smile that's more of a grin than a smirk, and heads back into the crowds. [[Finish checking over the boat and head back.->Home]]

"Just get out of here Adelaide," you say, still not turning around. "I have work to do." There's quiet behind you, just gentle waves crashing against the docks as the tide comes in. "Oh," says Adelaide, in a voice so small for a moment you don't recognize it. You turn to look and she's already back on the dock and walking back into the crowd. You're not sure how you feel about this. [[Finish checking over the boat and head back.->Home]]

Somehow you fit seven people onto your boat. You had been worried, but looking out now at everyone, the boat seems less crowded and more just full. You look around and see Samothes overlooking the prow of the ship, staring out at the waves and who knows what else. Chapter and Hadrian stand in conversation. Both are holding food and drink, though it seems Chapter is only miming taking bites and sips. You overhear them talking about the heat and whatever. Somehow Lem, Adelaide, and Adaire ended up in a group. Adelaide and Lem talking about Nacre, Adaire asking an ocassional probing question. It's strangely peaceful, all your friends chatting, eating, drinking, and laughing together. You steer the boat, happy to just watch. Then Adelaide calls you over, over some disagreement about the specifics of her death. Was Fero really a giant bear? You stay out while there's still light. Chapter tries to "catch another fish". Lem shows off some of his Aubade pattern magic, which only ends up starting a small fire. Adelaide and Adaire get along far better than you'd feared. You and Hadrian reminisce over old battles. Even Samothes gets involved, turning his back from the prow to tell stories of what the early days of Hieron were like. There's a moment where you notice Samothes catch sight of his shadow in the middle of a story, his arms miming playing a guitar. He pauses for a moment, smiles sadly to himself, and then continues the story. It's a beautiful night, but eventually it comes to an end. [[Dock the ship and say goodbyes->Complete Ending 2]]

There only ends up being two others waiting for you when you arrive (if: $hadrianComing and not $samothesComing)[When it becomes clear that Samothes isn't coming, Hadrian excuses himself. He spares you one sad glance on his way. Seeing your face fall at this (if: $adaireComing)[Adaire](else-if: $lemComing)[Lem](else-if: $chapterComing)[Chapter](else-if: $adelaideComing)[Adelaide] leaves as well. You're left along at your boat with a mountain of party food and drinks. You end up leaving the whole thing for tomorrow, preferring instead to sleep off the guilt. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]](else-if: $adaireComing and $adelaideComing)[Adaire and Adelaide stand at the boat, chatting with each other as you arrive. Well, it looks more like Adelaide is talking at Adaire, who is only getting in an occasional retort.(if: $toldAdaireAdelaidWouldntBeThere)[ Adaire looks at you sharply as you approach, an accusatory look in her eyes. You can only mouth a 'sorry' before Adelaide speaks.] "Hella!" Adelaide says, noticing your approach. "You've put together quite a lady's night." Adaire groans. "I mean it," Adelaide retorts, dropping the smirk. "It's good to be out here with the two of you." Adaire and you glance at each other, both unsure how to respond. Adelaide sighs, and climbs aboard the boat. You both follow. The rest of the night goes much more smoothly than you'd expected. Adaire and Adelaide end up largely getting along. It seems that Adelaide knows almost all of your and Adaire's least favorite customers. You spend the evening eating, drinking, and complaining. When it gets too dark and you begin the process of maneuvering back into harbor, you feel yourself wishing the night didn't have to end. After goodbyes, Adelaide turns back. She glances between the two of you, a different sort of smirk on her face now. "We should do this again sometime," she says, meaningfully, and leaves. You glance at Adaire, but she just shrugs and shakes her head. You wish her goodnight again, and head home. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]](else-if: $hadrianComing and $samothesComing)[You find Hadrian and Samothes near your boat. You'd expect the two of them to be wrapped up in a conversation about scripture or something, but they're both standing in silence. You begin to worry that you may have made a bad choice. The silence continues as you leave the harbor, and continues even as you lay down anchor. You pass out food and drinks, which Samothes takes politely. But they continue not to speak to one another. You start a discussion with one or the other a couple times, but mostly you stand or sit in silence, listening to the waves. You end up going back in to port earlier than you'd intended. Hadrian gives you a tense smile as he leaves, and Samothes only sighs. Maybe having more of a social buffer for the guy and the god he used to worship would have been good. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]](else:)[You head out, anchoring the boat a good distance off the short of Aubade. Once everythings set you pass out drinks, and do your best to mingle. The night ends up going better than you expected. (if: $adaireComing)[ Adaire shares some samples for new products at Adaire's. You and her share some retail horror stories with (if: $hadrianComing)[Hadrian](else-if: $lemComing)[Lem](else-if: $chapterComing)[Chapter](else-if: $adelaideComing)[Adelaide](else-if: $samothesComing)[Samothes].](if: $hadrianComing)[ Hadrian and you talk about some old scrapes the two of you had been in, and at one notable point you two arm wrestle. You beat him handily and he swears that he's just "out of shape" and that he'll be back for a rematch soon. He seems more lively than you'd seen him in months.](if: $lemComing)[ Lem mostly keeps quiet, serving as a rapt audience for any stories either of the two of you cares to share. But even without his violin he's still a musician and at one point the two of you go quiet as he sings a quiet, old song about the sea.](if: $samothesComing)[ Samothes ends up spending much of the night by himself, but occasionally chimes in to a conversation.](if: $chapterComing)[ Chapter seems to put forward a real effort for the party. They had arrived wearing a party hat, and several times during the night they hand out streamers and noisemakers.](if: $adelaideComing)[ Adelaide ensures she is the center of attention the whole night, telling stories or prompting others for stories of their own. You'd swear she prepared several backhanded compliments for the two of you. But ultimately she seemed genuinely invested in you both having a good time.] At the end of the night you bring the boat back into harbor. After the goodbyes you're left along. You're happy with how the night went, but you can't help but feel that something was missing. You shrug it off, preferring to reflect on how much fun you had. You can always have another boat party. There's a lot of time in Aubade. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]]

There only ends up being three others waiting for you when you arrive (if: $hadrianComing and not $samothesComing)[When it becomes clear that Samothes isn't coming, Hadrian excuses himself. He spares you one sad glance on his way. Seeing your face fall at this the others leave as well. You're left along at your boat with a mountain of party food and drinks. You end up leaving the whole thing for tomorrow, preferring instead to sleep off the guilt. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]](else:)[You head out, anchoring the boat a good distance off the short of Aubade. Once everythings set you pass out drinks, and do your best to mingle. The night ends up going better than you expected. (if: $adaireComing)[ Adaire shares some samples for new products at Adaire's. You and her share some retail horror stories with the other two.](if: $hadrianComing)[ Hadrian and you talk about some old scrapes the two of you had been in, and at one notable point you two arm wrestle. You beat him handily and he swears that he's just "out of shape" and that he'll be back for a rematch soon. He seems more lively than you'd seen him in months.](if: $lemComing)[ Lem mostly keeps quiet, serving as a rapt audience for any stories anyone cares to share. But even without his violin he's still a musician and at one point the whole boat goes quiet as he sings a quiet, old song about the sea.](if: $samothesComing)[ Samothes ends up spending much of the night by himself, but occasionally chimes in to a conversation.](if: $chapterComing)[ Chapter seems to put forward a real effort for the party. They had arrived wearing a party hat, and several times during the night they hand out streamers and noisemakers.](if: $adelaideComing)[ Adelaide ensures she is the center of attention the whole night, telling stories or prompting others for stories of their own. You'd swear she prepared backhanded compliments for every other person there. But ultimately she seemed genuinely invested in everyone having a good time.] At the end of the night you bring the boat back into harbor. After the goodbyes you're left along. You're happy with how the night went, but you can't help but feel that something was missing. You shrug it off, preferring to reflect on how much fun you had. You can always have another boat party. There's a lot of time in Aubade. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]]

A small ragtag group ends up waiting for you at your boat come sundown. (if: $hadrianComing and not $samothesComing)[When it becomes clear that Samothes isn't coming, Hadrian excuses himself. He spares you one sad glance on his way. Seeing your face fall at this the others leave as well. You're left along at your boat with a mountain of party food and drinks. You end up leaving the whole thing for tomorrow, preferring instead to sleep off the guilt. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]](else:)[You head out, anchoring the boat a good distance off the short of Aubade. Once everythings set you pass out drinks, and do your best to mingle. The night ends up going better than you expected. (if: $adaireComing)[ Adaire shares some samples for new products at Adaire's. You and her share some retail horror stories with the others.](if: $hadrianComing)[ Hadrian and you talk about some old scrapes the two of you had been in, and at one notable point you two arm wrestle. You beat him handily and he swears that he's just "out of shape" and that he'll be back for a rematch soon. He seems more lively than you'd seen him in months.](if: $lemComing)[ Lem mostly keeps quiet, serving as a rapt audience for any stories anyone cares to share. But even without his violin he's still a musician and at one point the whole boat goes quiet as he sings a quiet, old song about the sea.](if: $samothesComing)[ Samothes ends up spending much of the night by himself, but occasionally chimes in to a conversation.](if: $chapterComing)[ Chapter seems to put forward a real effort for the party. They had arrived wearing a party hat, and several times during the night they hand out streamers and noisemakers.](if: $adelaideComing)[ Adelaide ensures she is the center of attention the whole night, telling stories or prompting others for stories of their own. You'd swear she prepared backhanded compliments for every other person there. But ultimately she seemed genuinely invested in everyone having a good time.] At the end of the night you bring the boat back into harbor. After the goodbyes you're left along. You're happy with how the night went, but you can't help but feel that something was missing. You shrug it off, preferring to reflect on how much fun you had. You can always have another boat party. There's a lot of time in Aubade. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]]

You find Hadrian alone inside, as he often is these days, slumped and watching the walls. The room itself gives you the creeps. The walls don't seem really there, they shift and shimmer in the corner of your eye. You swear if you tried to punch one you'd never quite touch it, it would just bend out of your reach. On the walls are shadows. No, that isn't quite right. They're like shadows made of light, glowing figures that leave trails through the air as they move. Vague, human-like shapes, impossible to decipher. Then there are the whispers. Words only just too quiet to hear, no matter how hard you strained. You hate this room. "Hella?" says Hadrian, "You okay?" You shake your head, holding back a shiver. "Yeah! Yeah, I'm good. How are you?" "Oh fine- I'm fine," says Hadrian. He scratches at the scruffy beard that had sprouted and grown untamed in the last few months. "Can I do something for you?" [[Explain about the picnic.->Hadrian 2]]

"Hella," says Samothes, interrupting your reverie, "You wanted to see me?" "Oh right yes." You say, turning from the parapet, and silver and white banners to face the lone god of this world. Samothes stands before you, wearing a gentle smile on his face and a loose, billowing white robe on the rest of him. You never feel comfortable around him, even now. But he is important to Hadrian, so you play nice when you have to. [[Tell him about the boat party/picnic.->Samothes 2]]

This game was made for Secret Samol 2019 by Matthew Guzdial. All Hieron characters belong to the Friends at the Table podcast. Aubade map based on a map by Austin Walker. Aubade map textures by Jon Gibbons. Thanks for playing! [[Try again?->Intro]]

As you pull the ship back into the dock and everyone goes their separate ways, you can't help but feel a bit empty. You spent all this time getting everyone onto the ship, but it didn't fix anything. Hadrian is still sad, Adaire is still distant, and Lem is still obsessed. You don't think you could even fathom fixing the problems of Samothes or Chapter. Adelaide is another story entirely. You look out at the dark night and the waves reflecting in the dock lights. Maybe that's okay though. A night like this doesn't have to fix anything. It's still good. Maybe that's enough. You smile, and head back home. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

Somehow when you make it down to the boat, there's only Samothes waiting there for you. He seems somewhat suprised by this, a bemused smile on his face. "Hella," he asks, as you approach. "I thought the plan was for Hadrian to be here?" "Yeah," you say, embarassed, "I'm not really sure what happened." Samothes laughs. He walks forward to stand at the edge of the dock, looking out at the sea. "Early on in what I would later realize was our courtship," Samothes says, seemingly talking to no one at all, "My husband did something similar. He informed me that our father and he would be meeting me on a small island off the coast. But when I arrived there was only Samot there to greet me." He smiles to himself, looking at a past only he can see, before turning back towards you. "I thank you for reminding me of that. I hadn't thought of those days in quite some time." He nods at you, and leaves. All you can do is think about how you're not sure what to do with all this food and drink... **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

When you reach the boat, it's only Chapter there to meet you. "Hello Hella," says Chapter, "I am ready for the party." They're wearing what you can only describe as a party hat, a cone covered in abstract stars. You can't help but laugh gently to yourself. "Well let's get out there then," you say, leading Chapter aboard. The evening is strange, but nice. You teach Chapter how to actually fish, how to open a bottle, and later on, how to deal with a fish once caught. When it grows too dark, they create a sphere of glowing starstuff to light your way back to harbor. Chapter pauses after disembarking, turning to face you. "Hella Veral I would like to thank you for this party." They say, holding out a hand to shake. You take it without thinking. But as you grasp it, you're surprised that you're able to hold it without feeling like all the air has left your body. Chapter ignores your look, pressing on. "I have been thinking about a big decision, and it has been difficult. This has been a distraction." Chapter reacts this time when you make a face. "No, no! A good distraction. It has been a blessing to spend this time with you." Chapter nods, having clearly reached the end of what they meant to say. They wave, and then turn back towards the castle. You smile as you watch them go, uncertain but happy. **The End.** [[Credits->Credits]]

You're covered in dust, exhausted, and already keenly aware of how much more time you've spent here than you meant to. "Oh Hella thanks so much!" says Lem, taking the books from you. "Really thank you, this is a huge help this is-". Lem stops, looking down at the books. "What?" You ask. "Oh well..." says Lem. "What?" You ask, with dawning horror. "Well I asked you to get 'Musings on Beans', but really I should have asked for 'Brewings of Beans'. I'm sorry about that!" Lem looks up at you, a sheepish smile on his face. You feel like you're going to scream, but you just end up sneezing from the dust. [[Collect yourself and find the book, it can't take that much longer!->Lem 7 Help]] [[Inform Lem King about exactly how you feel.->Lem 7 Explode]] [[Give up, cut your losses. Go home.->Home]]