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<center>[[Enter]]</center>
You wake up slowly.
You are lying on the ground with your face against the moss. Confused, you lift your head to look around.
The forest is dark around you. There is a dull ache in your shoulder.
What happened?
[[Stand up]]
The night sky is overcast, only allowing for a sliver of moonlight. You can hardly see a few feet in front of you.
Right now, you are alone.
You remember taking the old road, crossing the woods. And then... something attacked. It came bursting through the trees before you even had time to react. The last thing you remember is being thrown to the ground.
Where are your guildmates?
[[Call out]]
[[Stay silent]]
Your voice rings through the night, bouncing off the trees.
Almost immediately, you hear footsteps crunching through the grass towards you.
Something tells you it is not one of your friends.
[[Run]]
[[Wait]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/Bushes%20rustling.mp3" autoplay>
You decide to stay silent. There is no telling who, or (text-style: "italic")[what], might hear you out here.
Reaching down, you discover that your axe is no longer in your belt. Curses! You must have lost it in the attack. The dagger is still in your wrist pocket, though.
Better than nothing.
[[Start moving]]Frightened, you dash between the trees and start running away.
After a while, you stop and listen. There doesn't seem to be anything following you. Your eyes scan the forest as you catch your breath. It looks the same as from where you came.
Now what?
You pick a direction and start walking.
Up ahead, you can see a large rock. There are paths on either side of it. On the left side, the grass is flattened, as if someone recently passed here. On the right side, the path is just an indent in the foliage, almost overgrown.
[[Go left]]
[[Go right]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/running.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/heavybreath.mp3" autoplay>
You hesitate. Maybe it is one of your guildmates after all?
You pull your dagger from your wrist pocket just in case, hunching down into the undergrowth.
The rustling noise creeps closer.
Suddenly, a shadow appears. A pair of bright yellow eyes fixate on you.
[[Who's there?]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/Bushes%20rustling.mp3" autoplay>This place is not safe. You need to find your way out of here, before the creature that attacked you returns.
You start walking, carefully trying not to make too much noise. You can see a little bit better now, but even so, there is no sign of the road. The forest is dense and old, a maze filled with potential traps.
After a little while, you come upon a small clearing with a lone tree in the middle. The tree is bare and its branches are thick.
Your guildmates should have a torch guiding them through the darkness. If you climb the tree, you might be able to spot them. Or at least, you might be able to see the road from up there.
[[Climb the tree]]
[[Keep moving]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>You climb the tree easily. The branches creak slightly beneath your weight but seem otherwise strong.
As you climb higher, the smaller trees shrink away. Soon, you should be able to see above them.
[[Get to the top]]
[[This is really high up...]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creaking.mp3" autoplay>Better not touch anything unless absolutely necessary. Although it is dark, you should be able to find the road again on foot.
Hopefully.
You tread carefully along the forest floor. There is no path to speak of, no line for the eye to follow. After a while, the trees grow further apart. Soon, you can see a small lake.
You walk up to the shore. There is a wooden bridge crossing the dark water. It seems sturdy enough.
[[Cross the bridge]]
[[Go around the lake]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/lake.mp3" autoplay>
Suddenly, a branch lashes out at you!
The branch you are standing on jerks to life, wrapping itself around your legs.
More branches shoot out, coiling around your limbs like snakes.
[[Struggle]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/whip.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creak2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/gasp.mp3" autoplay>
You force yourself to start climbing down, when...
The branch beneath your feet jerks to life, throwing you off into the darkness.
Head first.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/whip.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/falling2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creak2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/thud.mp3" autoplay>
As you peer down, a wave of vertigo hits you. Maybe this was not such a good idea after all?
You want to go down, but you are paralyzed in fear.
[[Go down]]
You struggle against the branches, but they won't budge. You feel a long, rubbery tendril close around your throat.
You can't (text-style: "fade-in-out")[breathe.]
The world goes dark.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creaking.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creak2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/choking.mp3" autoplay>
You choose the more pronounced path and move along.
Your footsteps resound against the forest itself, humming with strange noises. There is still not much moonlight to guide you, and you begin to think you will be wandering around here forever.
Just then, something catches your eye.
Some distance away, you can see a light bobbing between the trees. The light is warm and soft, like that of a flame. A torch?
This could very well be your guildmates.
[[Follow the light]]
[[Avoid the light]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>You choose the old path. With a little luck, you might be able to move unseen for a while.
The branches hang low here, shrouding you as you move forward. Old tree trunks line the forest floor.
The ache in your shoulder is getting worse. You put your hand to it, and it comes back stained with a few drops of blood. Your surroundings appear far more deadly than this wound, though. You press on.
After some time, you notice a strange, circular formation of trees up ahead. You look back. Behind you, the vegetation seems to have all but swallowed the path you came here on.
Only one thing to do, then.
[[Approach the circle]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>A ragged feline creature approaches you cautiously. The cat is large enough to reach past your knees, but it is quite skinny and its fur is matted with dry leaves and dirt. One of its ears looks like something took a bite out of it. Wetness drips from the corner of its mouth.
It continues to move towards you, yellow eyes staring.
[[Back away]]
[[Here, kitty kitty!]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/creepymeow.mp3" autoplay>You do not like the way the cat is staring at you. Slowly, you start backing away.
Suddenly, the cat contorts its face in rage, its jaw falling open in a terrifying hiss that chills you to the bone. Yellow eyes blackened, the cat lunges towards you.
[[Whoa!->Run]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/monsterhiss2.mp3" autoplay>You always had a great fondness for cats, and this guy does not seem too dangerous. You could use a little company.
Crouching, you make soft cooing sounds and extend your hand towards the feline.
The cat comes up to you, reaching for your hand.
[[Pet the cat]]Instead of sniffing your hand, the cat bares its teeth in a blood-curdling snarl and throws itself against you.
You manage to avoid the first swipe, but as soon as you do the creature is upon you again, burying its claws in your thigh.
[[Fight back]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/monsterhiss.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/ouch.mp3" autoplay>
You violently shake your leg to get the cat off, but it won't let go. You start prying it off with your hands, only to have it sink its teeth into your wrist.
Grunting in pain, you swing your dagger against the creatures' head, slicing open its good ear.
Finally, it releases its grip and backs off. Only a short distance, though. Panting, you stare at it. It almost looks like it is waiting for something.
You look down upon the bleeding wound at your wrist. It is coated with whatever was dripping from the creatures' mouth.
You start to feel (text-style: "blur")[dizzy.]
[[Ughh...]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/angrycat.mp3" autoplay>The trees start spinning around you.
You fall to your knees, clutching the wound. A dull, chilling sensation blooms from it, freezing your blood as it travels into your body. Your throat closes.
The last thing you see is a pair of yellow eyes, watching you patiently.
<p class="dead" style="color: #800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/heartbeat.mp3" autoplay>You move towards the light, careful in case it belongs to something other than your friends.
As you come closer, the forest opens up. The trees are taller here, but also wider apart. You can see further now. There is an old, dried up riverbed down ahead.
Two figures are moving along the trench. One of them is holding a lantern, the source of light that drew you here.
[[Move a little closer]]Being in this forest alone is making you question your own senses. You do not dare trust that the light means safety.
Instead of following the light, you make an effort to direct your steps away from it.
You walk aimlessly for a while. Pretty soon, you start to recognize some of the trees, as if you've seen them before.
[[This seems familiar...]]Up ahead, you can see a large rock.
Yes, you have definitely seen this before.
There are paths on either side of the rock. On the left side, the grass is flattened, as if someone recently passed here. On the right side, the path is just an indent in shrubbery, almost overgrown.
[[Go left]]
[[Go right]] You close in on the figures, stopping by a small ledge above the riverbed. Crouching down, you peer at them.
It is not your friends.
Walking slightly in front, holding the lantern, is what you assume to be a man dressed entirely in long dark robes. A wide hood is obscuring his face. He is holding a set of fine chains, connected to the figure behind him.
You let out a small gasp. Behind the man with the lantern walks a young woman in a pure white dress. Her long hair flows in rivulets along her shoulders. She is wearing a golden amulet shaped like the sun. You have never seen anyone as beautiful as her.
Suddenly, she turns her head slowly and looks straight at you. You do not know how, but she can see you.
Her face is calm, but her eyes are full of sorrow.
[[Help her]]
[[Do nothing]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/chains2.mp3" autoplay>Anger builds in your body as you watch the poor woman. You must free her from her cruel captor.
Grasping your dagger, you move swiftly down the ledge into the trench. As you emerge in front of them, the woman and the man in robes stop in their tracks.
"Release her at once!" you shout.
The man in robes says nothing, only tightening his grip around the chains.
[[Charge him]]
You remain on the ledge. You feel bad for the woman, but whatever it is that is going on here, it is not your place to interfere.
You watch silently as the figures pass beneath you. The woman looks away from you for a moment, but as they venture further into the woods, she turns to look at you again. She gives you a delicate smile.
Dumbfounded, you watch them trail away.
This is truly a strange place to be.
You wait until the light from the lantern is barely visible anymore. Then, you descend into the riverbed and start walking.
You take only a few steps before the ground shifts beneath you.
[[Huh..?!]]
Enraged, you charge at the man in robes, dagger lifted.
He stands waiting until you almost reach him. Then, he takes his hood down.
You freeze. The man has no face. Staring back at you is a grinning skull lined with wisps of gray hair.
Before you can recover from the shock, the ghoul rushes towards you.
His bony fist goes through your chest.
You can feel your heart (text-style: "rumble")[stop.]
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/ghost2.mp3" autoplay>
You cross the bridge slowly. It seems to be holding.
The water is a soft black velvet on either side of the rail. You get the feeling that if you look at it too long, you might not be able to resist the urge to go in.
Determined, you fix your eyes on the shore ahead.
Soon, you are all the way across. The woods look the same here as they did from where you came.
[[Continue]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walkingwood.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/lake.mp3" autoplay>The bridge, while looking sturdy from afar, might be old and rotten. You are not keen to find out if that is the case.
You walk along the shore, intending to circumvent the lake. The ground is wet and marsh-like here. Thick mud sticks to your boots, pulling on your feet.
Suddenly, there is movement in front of you. Close to the ground, a figure is thrashing back and forth.
"Help me!"
Your heart skips a beat. You know that voice.
[[Approach]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/mudwalk2.mp3" autoplay>
As you come closer, you see a man submerged in the mud from the waist down, struggling to get out. You recognize the long blue cloak on his back instantly.
It belongs to one of your guildmates, Norvin.
The man turns his head, facing you. His face is streaked with so much mud that only his eyes are clearly visible. He looks frightened.
"Please, help me!" he calls.
[[Help your friend]]
[[Hesitate]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/muddy.mp3" autoplay>Amazed and relieved, you rush forward.
"Norvin, you dimwit! Just like you to get stuck in a muddy mess..." you laugh.
You reach out to grab him.
Before you can do that though, he wraps both of his arms around your legs, pulling you down into the mud.
[[Gaah!]]A sliver of doubt makes you hesitate. You have heard stories of creatures in these woods with the ability to change their appearance in order to lure their victims. They might be able to mimic voices, as well.
The man in the mud keeps flailing, looking confused as to why you won't help. You feel awkward. What if it really is Norvin?
You decide to ask him a question that only he would be able to answer.
[[Hey Norvin, how much money do I owe you?]]The creature, who is definitely not Norvin, is wrestling you into the mud, trying to bite you.
Horrified, you can see that his eyes are now pitch black. His mouth is open to reveal rows and rows of needle-like teeth.
[[Punch him in the face]]
[[Use your dagger]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/zombie.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/fighting.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/muddy.mp3" autoplay>He stares at you dumbly for a moment.
Then, he gives an inhuman roar that sounds like a hundred different voices at once. He quickly rises from the mud and starts shuffling towards you.
His eyes are now a deep black and his mouth is open, revealing rows and rows of needle-like teeth.
[[Get away]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/angryzombie.mp3" autoplay>You turn and start running along the shore with the creature trailing behind you. As you get back into the forest, it is still following you.
Heart pounding, you run even faster. Trees pass by in a dark blur as you dash along the forest floor.
After a while, you slow down. It would seem that you are no longer being chased. Panting, you allow yourself some deep breaths.
You have to keep moving.
Up ahead, you can see a large rock. There are paths on either side of it. On the left side, the grass is flattened, as if someone recently passed here. On the right side, the path is just an indent in the foliage, almost overgrown.
[[Go left]]
[[Go right]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/running.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/heavybreath.mp3" autoplay>Above the lakeshore on this side is a small, sandy bank. You climb it clumsily. The ache in your shoulder is getting worse as you trudge on, but you try your best to ignore it.
With the lake behind you, the forest seems to be opening up. The trees seem younger here and the foliage is not as dense.
As you survey the area, your eyes fall onto something wet on the ground, glistening in the weak moonlight. There are droplets of blood leading away north from where you are standing. There are also imprints of boots going in the same direction. What could this mean?
You look to the east. There is a glade lined with soft grass a small distance away. You could really use some rest.
[[Follow trail of blood]]
[[Go into the glade]]The footprints seem recent. They could very well belong to your guildmates. But if that is the case, so does the blood...
You can feel your own blood turn cold. You have to find them!
You move slowly along the imprints, careful not to miss any. It is difficult to distinguish between them. Every now and then, dabs of blood wets the grass. It seems to increase in volume the further you go.
After a while, you arrive into an area filled with huge, moss-covered boulders. The footprints disappear into a narrow passageway between two rocks. You steady yourself and squeeze through.
At first, you see only a maze of more boulders. The moonlight warps their shapes into hulking monsters. There seems to be some sort of pattern, though. You notice that the boulders form a circle with a clearing in the middle.
A hushed voice floats from the center of the circle.
"Hold (text-style: "italic")[still]! I can't do you any good if you keep writhing like that!"
The voice belongs to your guildmate, Kaya.
[[Go towards the voice]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>The grass is soft as silk beneath your boots as you step into the glade. The moonlight bathes the vegetation in a silvery sheen.
There is a willow tree at the edge of the glade. Its long, thin branches hang low and create a secluded spot. This would be a perfect place to get some respite.
You walk towards the tree, already feeling your body relax at the thought of rest.
Suddenly, something lands on top of you. Some kind of net.
In your confusion, you fail to get the net off before the ropes tighten and a forceful tug makes you lose your balance. You hit the ground with a thud.
You can hear a raspy laugh nearby.
[[What the...?]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>
You gather all your strength and aim for the creatures' face.
It dodges your blow and sinks its teeth into your arm, dragging you down into the mire.
As your face is pulled down, you can feel the creature taking a chunk out of your neck.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/mudchoke.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/muddy.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/zombieeat.mp3" autoplay>You manage to reach the dagger in your wrist pocket. With a well-aimed strike, you stab the creature in its throat. It gargles for a bit, then releases its grip on you.
You crawl out of the mud pit and start running along the shore as fast as your wobbly legs can carry you.
Clearly, nothing in this place is what it appears to be.
[[Get to the other side->Continue]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/monsterdeath.mp3" autoplay>The dirt beneath your boots gives way and you plummet into darkness.
You hit a pile of gravel with a thud. Somehow you avoid hurting yourself, at least badly. With a groan you rise to your feet.
You have fallen into a small cave. In front of you are three faintly burning torches, illuminating smooth rock walls. Each torch is mounted adjacent to an opening in the wall.
You cast a glance upwards. There is no way you will be able to climb back up. It looks like you will have to choose one of the openings.
You walk up to the torches. You can now see that there are symbols carved into the wall above each opening.
Which one will you choose?
[[Tree]]
[[Moon]]
[[Sun]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/thud.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/falling2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/rockfall2.mp3" autoplay>
You choose the opening adorned with the sun symbol. The sun means light, and light means safety. At least, that is what you hope for.
The narrow path grows dark as you leave the torch behind, but you can see a different light ahead. You hurry towards it. The path ends abruptly, and you can feel moss under your boots again.
You are back out in the forest. There is a campfire near where you emerged, casting its warm glow on the surrounding trees. A pleasant crackling resounds from it.
There is a man seated by the campfire. From what you can tell, he seems perfectly ordinary.
[[Greet him]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walkingstone.mp3" autoplay>You choose the opening adorned with the moon symbol and go into the narrow passage.
The light from the torch fades behind you, and for a while, you walk in total darkness. Then, the pale silver of moonlight is back, guiding you out of the cavern and into the forest again.
You find yourself in a small hollow lined with thorny bushes. There is movement at the far end of it. You stifle a gasp.
Three men dressed in rags are standing with their backs against you. Judging by their gestures, they seem to be in the middle of an argument. Their voices are low and hoarse, almost like growls.
[[Sneak away]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walkingstone.mp3" autoplay>
You try sneaking back into the cavern, but there is a dry twig on the ground behind you.
(text-style: "italic")[Snap!]
One of the men, the shorter of the three, whips his head around and stares you down.
"There!" he snarls, pointing at you. "This is the one, he's here!"
The man next to him looks you over, contempt building in his face.
"Him?!" he spits. "This pathetic whelp was the best you could do? He is unworthy."
Before you have time to draw a breath, the man throws himself on all fours, leaping towards you.
[[Flee]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/snap.mp3" autoplay>
You turn and try to run, but the man is upon you instantly, throwing you to the ground.
Somehow there are claws, sharp like daggers digging into your back. Bristly fur rubs against you.
Then, there is teeth.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/eatenwerewolf.mp3" autoplay>
You choose the opening adorned with the tree symbol. Perhaps this leads back out into the forest?
The narrow pathway grows dark around you as you leave the torch behind. Also, the path is leading (text-style: "italic")[downwards], deeper into the ground. You almost turn back. Then, you sense a strange light ahead. It beckons you.
The path ends in a large cavernous room. Its walls are covered with glittering crystals. At the center, there is a lone tree. White, radiant light emits from it.
It is beautiful.
You move towards the tree.
[[Investigate]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/mysterycave.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walkingstone.mp3" autoplay>
As you come closer to the circle of trees, a looming presence sends a chill down your spine. There is something large positioned in the soft grass beneath the trees.
You can hear snoring.
Afraid and mesmerized, you step a little bit closer.
A great reptile creature lies in the grass, massive tail coiled around its body. Its scales reflect the weak moonlight in a muted emerald sheen. Its head rests on the ground, snout hidden behind a row of talons.
You cannot believe your eyes. You have only heard of dragons from faraway travelers.
Fascinating as it may be, you would like to stay alive. Something tells you that disturbing the dragon is not the way to do that. You need to get past it somehow, preferably undetected.
[[Rush past->The dragon speaks]]
[[Sneak past->The dragon speaks]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/snoring.mp3" autoplay>
You take a deep breath in preparation, but you only manage a few steps before something lashes out at you, knocking you to the ground. The dragon has wrapped the tip of its tail around your feet.
Terrified, you look up. A pair of large red eyes are looking back at you.
"Another one..." the dragons speaks. Its voice booms through the forest, making the ground quaver.
The dragon raises its tail, lifting you up and dangling you close to its massive maw.
"Yet again, your number grows too great, too rapidly..." it snorts. It seems more annoyed than enraged.
"Tell your master that the Culling will come sooner than he anticipates."
With this, the dragon drops you to the ground with a thud. You scramble to your feet and back away, shivering like a leaf. The dragon closes its eyes and puts its head on the ground again, as if it already forgot about you.
[[Make yourself scarce]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/dragon.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/whip.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/thud.mp3" autoplay>You hurry away, alive but shaken.
You have no idea what the dragon was talking about. You can hardly wrap your mind around the fact that (text-style: "italic")[a dragon just spoke to you]. You can't wait to tell your guildmates about this.
If you should ever find them, that is.
Your mood sinks as you resume your aimless wandering. The trees are dense again and there are no landmarks to speak of.
However, something is tickling your nose. A sweet, fruity smell is wafting from somewhere close ahead.
Your stomach growls. It has been a while since you last ate.
[[Follow delicious scent]]
[[Ignore delicious scent]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>Your hunger compels you to find the source of the mouth-watering scent. You stumble across fallen branches and dense bushes. The sweet smell grows stronger, and soon you can tell why.
You are standing in front of what seems to be a long-forgotten orchard. You can see the ruins of a stone cottage in the distance. Only the foundation and a partly collapsed wall remain. In front of the cottage, fruit trees are planted in neat rows. The paths between them are overgrown with weeds and tall grass.
The trees are filled with red, luscious apples. The branches are low enough that you can easily pick some.
Their scent is intoxicating.
[[Pick an apple]]You decide not to follow the scent. For all you know, it might be a bait of some sort.
The weak moonlight flickers through the clouds, creating eerie shadowy shapes everywhere you look. You put your head down and keep walking.
If only you could find the road...
After what seems like an eternity, you come upon a glade lined with soft grass. You have been walking for a long time and could really use some rest.
[[Go into the glade]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>You pick an apple and raise it to your mouth eagerly, but you are interrupted by a bloodcurdling screech. You look up.
Something huge is bursting forth from the ruins on the other side of the orchard, rushing towards you in a flurry of long legs. So many legs.
You have only a brief moment to react.
[[Run away]]
[[Throw apple]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/spiderattack.mp3" autoplay>As you get close to the tree, the white light envelopes you, turning you blind. Suddenly, a shivering sensation flows through your body, and the white light fades.
You are back out in the forest.
You are standing in front of what seems to be a long forgotten orchard. The ruins of a stone cottage hulk in the distance. Only the foundation and a half-collapsed wall remain. In front of the ruins, fruit trees are planted in neat rows. The paths between them are overgrown with weeds and tall grass.
The trees are filled with red, luscious apples. The branches are low enough that you can easily pick some.
Confused as you are, you are also hungry. Very much so.
[[Pick an apple]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/teleport2.mp3" autoplay>Cautiously hopeful, you utter a short greeting.
The man by the fire looks up at you. He does not answer, but he gives you a friendly smile. You approach the campfire.
In the warm light, you get a better look at the man. He looks elderly, though his face is somehow youthful amidst all the wrinkles. His clothes appear dated, but though their colors are faded they are in good condition. A wisp of smoke is rising from a beautifully carved pipe in his right hand.
He watches you inquisitively.
[[Do you know the way out of the forest?]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/campfire.mp3" autoplay>
The man's smile broadens.
"The ways of this land are many," he says. His voice is smooth like polished amber. "Far apart they lie, and yet they intertwine in the most peculiar ways."
He raises the pipe to his lips. You wait silently.
"I can give you the answer you seek, but first, I require yours. Solve my riddle, and I will tell you the way."
Stupefied, you watch the man. He sips on his pipe calmly.
(text-style: "italic")[Oh great, some kind of riddler]. You never were the smart one.
[[I do not have time for riddles, can't you just tell me?]]
[[Alright, I will answer your riddle]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/campfire.mp3" autoplay>The riddler gives a soft chuckle.
"Time is an ever flowing river, and you my friend, are drowning. Would you not deem it unwise of a drowning man to refuse an outstretched hand?"
His gaze upon you becomes more intense, though he is still smiling.
It seems there will be no persuading him. Vexing as it might be, playing along is currently your best chance to leave the forest.
[[Alright, I will answer your riddle]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/campfire.mp3" autoplay>The riddler looks pleased. As he begins to speak, all other sounds die down, as if the forest is listening in as well.
"(text-style: "italic")[There is a place where the mountains lay flat to the ground
the seas are dry as bone,
and the sky cannot be seen.
Where is this place?]"
You answer...
[[At the end of times]]
[[Upon the traveler's map]]
[[Within the mind of a mad man]]
The riddler hums softly.
"A good answer." he says. "Truly food for thought. Alas, it is not the correct one."
"Does that mean you will not help me?" you ask.
The riddler does not answer.
"Ah, come on! Can I at least try again? I don't know if you have been out there..."
You look towards the dark trees surrounding you, gesturing wildly.
"But it is (text-style: "italic")[really] not a good place to be lost in...!"
You turn back to the riddler, but he is no longer there. Neither is the campfire. The space where it was is undisturbed, as if it was never there at all. Only a thin sliver of herbal-scented smoke remains.
You stare in disbelief for a few moments. Whatever this was, you learned nothing of importance.
[[Trudge on]]The riddler smiles around his pipe.
"Well, well..." he says. "It would seem like you (text-style: "italic")[are] a smart one after all."
To your elation, the riddler motions towards a large tree a short distance away from the campfire.
"Pass north of the oak ensnared with ivy, and you will soon step into the scorched grounds. From there, the road leads west, away from the forest."
You have heard all you need to hear. You give the riddler a short bow and start walking towards the oak.
"Some friendly advice..." the riddler's voice floats behind you. You stop and turn to listen.
"I would linger in the forest for a while longer, if I were you. The skies are clearing. The moon will be at its brightest soon..."
His expression is as enigmatic as ever, and you cannot make any sense of what he is implying.
"Thank you, old man, but I am finished with this place."
The riddler smiles again and says nothing else. You leave him by the campfire.
[[Go north of the oak tree]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/campfire.mp3" autoplay>The riddler snorts around his pipe.
"How brash of you." he says. "I am afraid that is the wrong answer."
He rises to his feet abruptly. You marvel at just how tall he is.
"I can show you the true insides of such a mind..." the riddler says. His voice is suddenly sinister, and there is a strange yellow glint in his gaze.
Before you have a chance to react, he puffs a large breath towards you, covering you in smoke. You start to cough, but your head is already spinning. A strange itch travels through your body.
As the smoke clears, the riddler is no longer a man. In front of you is a black mass of writhing appendages, littered with piercing, yellow eyes.
A peal of horrifying laughter echoes from all around.
[[Ahh!]]
You turn and start to run, but you are promptly snared with strands of sticky spider web. As you fall to the ground, more strands cover your eyes and mouth.
In the darkness, you can feel the spider's legs twisting you around, wrapping you completely in rubbery silk.
There is no room to (text-style: "fade-in-out")[breathe.]
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/mudchoke.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/netted.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/webb.mp3" autoplay>
With an exasperated grunt, you throw the apple as hard as you can against the approaching spider.
(text-style: "italic")[Thud!]
You hit the spider straight between its glimmering mass of eyes. It stops dead in its tracks, twitches a bit and then slumps down into the grass. You wait, heart caught in your throat, but the spider is no longer moving.
A dorky grin spreads across your face. How about that?
You pick another apple and take a huge bite. It tastes as delicious as it smells. You gather a few more and stuff them in your pockets. Humming cheerfully, you leave the orchard behind.
[[Move along]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/spiderhit2.mp3" autoplay>
With your hunger sated, you are able to pick up your pace. The trees seem to grow further apart here, and the ground is smoother. You are filled with a renewed sense of hope.
You circle a pile of mossy rocks and suddenly, there it is.
You have found the road.
[[Go to the road]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>You step out into the road. It stretches north, away from the forest. You can see a faint glimmer of lights in the distance. Could they belong to Aberforth, the town you were heading towards when you decided to take the road through the forest?
Above you, the night sky has started to brighten. The dawn is not far away.
As you walk, you strain your eyes and ears, but there is no sign of another living creature either behind you or in front of you.
You are relieved to have found the road, but you still have no clue as to what happened to your guildmates. Are they alright?
Did they leave you behind?
[[Keep walking]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walkingdirt.mp3" autoplay>Through the net, you can see two pairs of scrawny, green legs. A small face peeks down to look at you, flashing a mischievous grin.
(text-style: "italic")[Imps!]
You have dealt with their kind before. Although small, they have a vicious nature and can be surprisingly crafty.
You look towards the willow tree. Now that you are on the ground, you can see a pile of items tucked away beneath it. You can distinguish a velvet hat, a long golden necklace and a small leather bag among other things. Thrown in front of the pile is a hand axe. (text-style: "italic")[Your] axe, the one you thought was lost in the first attack.
The imps are trying to tighten the net around you, but seem to be struggling. There is a gap on your right side and you still have one arm free.
Your axe is very close.
[[Distract them]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/goblinlaugh1.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/goblinlaugh2mod.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/ropestruggle.mp3" autoplay>Quickly, you reach into your pocket and grab one of your few remaining gold coins. You stretch through the gap and toss the coin as far as you can.
Your memory serves you right - the imps cannot resist the glint of gold and leap toward it, chattering wildly. As soon as they do, you wriggle out of the net and crawl towards the axe.
As you grab the axe and rise to your feet, the imps close in towards you again. They look angry now, baring their pointy teeth. They do not seem keen on letting you go.
[[Intimidate imps]]
[[Charge imps]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/cointoss.mp3" autoplay>
You let out a mighty roar and rush towards the imps, axe raised high. Their eyes widen and they scurry away from you like frightened chickens.
You watch as they dash through the glade into the forest. When you can no longer see them, you put your trusted axe back in your belt where it belongs. Sometimes, the best defense is a good offence, although your guildmates would tend to disagree.
You cast a glance at the pile of items beneath the willow tree. Best to not linger here for long, if the imps should decide to return to their treasure trove.
[[Leave the glade]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/chargeimps.mp3" autoplay>
You walk up towards the imps, waving your axe menacingly. They seem unimpressed. In fact, one of them starts snickering at you.
Anger seethes in your chest. (text-style: "italic")[Annoying little...]
You move towards the snickering imp, raising your axe. It keeps laughing.
Suddenly, the sound of something flying through the air makes you whip around. You had forgotten about the other imp.
The last thing you see is a large rock hurtling towards your face.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/stonethrow2.mp3" autoplay>You leave the glade behind and keep moving through the forest. Although you did not get to rest, you feel invigorated by your successful escape.
You stride on with your eyes and ears on tenterhooks. After a while, you detect something strange.
(text-style: "italic")[Music].
You stop in your tracks to listen. There is definitely music coming from somewhere close ahead. You follow the muffled notes carefully. Before long, you can see a warm light shimmering between the tree branches.
The music is coming from there.
[[Move closer]]
[[Move away]]You go towards the music. You soon discover its source.
Tucked beneath the trees in front of you is a quaint building. Warm light emits from its windows. Smoke drifts gently from a chimney protruding through the thatched roof. A sign above the door reads:
(text-style: "bold")[The Inn Between]
You can hear the sounds of people rejoicing in tune with the music being played.
You stare in surprise. A tavern, in the middle of the woods like this? Strange, but not unheard of. This would be an ideal place to wait for your guildmates to find you. Perhaps they are here already, sipping mead and slouching off?
You wouldn't put it past them.
[[Go into the tavern]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/tavernmusic.mp3" autoplay>
You enter the tavern. It appears much larger on the inside.
The entrance connects with a large room lit by lanterns. There are many people inside, of different ages, all dancing.
As you enter, a young woman in a white dress approaches you. Her hair is long and she is wearing an amulet shaped like the sun. You have never seen anyone as beautiful as her. She beams at you and offers her arm. You take it gladly. She leads you into the dancing crowd.
You cannot believe your luck. You are safe and sound, surrounded by friendly faces and with a beautiful woman at your side.
But, there is something nagging at your mind.
You couldn't hear it from the outside, but you can hear it now. A dry, rattling sound.
[[Look down]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/tavernmusic.mp3" autoplay>The music sounds eerie and out of place to your ears. You pick another direction and soon, you cannot hear the music anymore.
The forest surrounds you on all sides. You begin to feel like you have seen these same trees before. But somehow, everything is turning (text-style: "italic")[brighter]. A strange fog is rising from the moss, rolling along the ground. It envelopes everything it touches.
You spin around, but the fog is behind you as well. The moonlight irradiates it, turning your world white.
And what is worse... there are whispers coming from the mist.
[[Find a way out]]You spin around frantically, searching for somewhere to go, but the fog is everywhere. The trees are just vague shapes now. The strange whispers seem to come from all around, chilling you to your core.
Suddenly, there is a voice much closer. Right behind you.
"It is too late..."
You jerk around.
There is a man standing there. His clothes are in tatters and his eyes are large and fearful. His mouth is smeared with blood. You look down and see that his hands and arms are drenched in it as well.
"Too late... they are dead. All of them. I could not help it..."
Your heart freezes in your chest. You cannot comprehend what you are seeing.
The man in the mist is (text-style: "italic")[you].
You watch in terror as your double starts moving towards you.
[[Escape]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/whispers1.mp3" autoplay>You rush into the fog to get away. Everything is white.
Suddenly, your body comes to a violent halt as you collide with something. A sharp pain penetrates your throat.
You manage to remove the jagged tree branch, but blood flows quickly from the wound, coating your hands. You stumble to the ground.
The dobbelganger walks into your fading vision. He looks saddened.
"Dead... all of them. I killed them..."
You exhale one final time.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/whispers2.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/runningimpact.mp3" autoplay>You look down, towards the people's feet. Only to discover that they do not have any.
Horror grips you as you realise that the crowd around you are dancing on nothing but bare bones, dragging the skeletal remains of their feet against the floor in a maddening rhythm.
Panicking, you turn towards the door. But the crowd has closed in behind you, blocking the way. They are all looking at you now. Smiling.
They want you to dance.
The girl on your arm gives you a soft tug, and as you look at her, all your fear melts away. She is so beautiful.
And the music... it is mesmerizing.
You can already feel your body responding to it.
[[Dance]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/bonerattle.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/tavernmusic.mp3" autoplay>(text-style: "italic")[This is the end of your adventure.
Or is it?
You could always] [[go back->Title]] (text-style: "italic")[into the forest, to see what else it holds...]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/outro.mp3" autoplay>
You keep moving through the forest, trying your best to keep your hopes up. You continue to search for any signs of your guildmates, to no avail.
After a while, you hear something.
(text-style: "italic")[Music].
You stop in your tracks to listen. There is definitely music coming from somewhere close ahead. You follow the muffled notes carefully. Before long, you can see a warm light shimmering between the tree branches.
The music is coming from there.
[[Move closer]]
[[Move away]] You flee in a wild craze, but there is nowhere to go. Everywhere you turn there are eyes staring at you. The shadows of the forest are moving, reaching towards you with jagged claws.
You stumble across rocks and debris as panic narrows your vision.
Suddenly, there is a wound in the ground in front of you. A ravine.
You can hear twigs snapping and heavy breathing right behind you.
You have no choice.
[[Jump]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/hallucination.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/heavybreath.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/running.mp3" autoplay>You try to jump across the ravine, but it is much too wide.
There are no eyes or shadows down here, only the darkness rushing towards you.
You are almost thankful.
<p style="color:#800000">(text-style: "smear")[YOU ARE DEAD]</p>
[[Try again->Enter]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/hallucination.mp3" autoplay>
The oak is all but smothered with ivy, just as the riddler described. Your steps are light as you pass it. The pain in your shoulder is a pulsing ache now, but you have a distinct feeling of being on the right path.
The forest opens up. Through the dispersing clouds, the moon illuminates an area ravaged by fire. The few trees still standing are only singed skeletons of their former glory. The earth is black with moist ash. Rocks on the ground look strangely smooth, almost melted.
You survey the area. Everything seems still at first, but then... You notice movement. Three figures are moving carefully along the edge of the scorched grounds.
Your guildmates!
There is no mistaking it. Kaya in the lead, with Norvin and Trent close behind. They do not have a torch with them, but you can see them clearly. The stark blue of Norvin's cloak catches the moonlight as it sways behind him.
[[Call for your friends]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/walking.mp3" autoplay>You call out to your friends, stumbling over your own feet in your efforts to get closer to them. They stop in their tracks.
"Gard! By the gods, you're alive...!" Norvin gasps. He seems bewildered.
Kaya, the newest member of the guild, watches you closely as you walk towards the group. Her eyes are wide.
"Are you hurt in any way?" she asks.
"My shoulder is bleeding a bit, but it should-"
"Wait!"
Kaya interrupts you. You are taken aback by the urgency in her voice. She reaches into her satchel, and then throws something at you. You catch it. It is a small glass vial filled with some sort of liquid.
"Gard, you have to drink it! Hurry!" Kaya shouts.
You shift your gaze towards Norvin and Trent. They look nervous.
[[Ask about the potion]]
[[Drink the potion]]"What is this, booze?" you ask playfully. "I could sure use some after tonight."
You inspect the vial. The moonlight makes its contents shimmer.
The moon...
You look up. There are no clouds in the sky anymore. The moon is full and beaming. As soon as you fix your gaze upon it, something starts to happen.
Pain hits you like a stroke of lightning. You drop the vial and fall to your knees, writhing. Terror grips you as you realize that your body is changing shape. Flesh and bones burst forth where there were none before, ripping your clothing apart. Your fingers curl, turning to claws. You yell out in pain, but it sounds more like a growl. You can feel your mind slipping away...
When you look up again, the humans have gone.
You put your snout to the wind and sniff.
Their scent is strong and close by.
[[Hunt them]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/transforming2.mp3" autoplay>
You do not understand what the potion is for, but Kaya is a healer. Best to do as she asks. You pop the lid of the vial and down the liquid in one big gulp.
Almost instantly, your insides start to burn. You fall to your knees, clutching your stomach in pain. It feels like the potion is somehow travelling towards the wound in your shoulder, tearing your body to shreds in the process.
Your vision grows (text-style: "blur")[hazy]. You catch a glimpse of the full moon above you, completely visible now that the clouds have lifted.
Then, you faint.
[[...]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/poisoned.mp3" autoplay>
You gasp for air.
The world returns to your vision. Your guildmates are standing above you with concerned looks on their faces. They help you to your feet. You feel a little shaky, but otherwise fine. The pain in your shoulder is gone.
"Are you good?" Kaya asks, studying your face.
"As good as." you mutter. "What was (text-style: "italic")[in] that?"
"An antidote for lycanthropy." Kaya replies.
"You mean... that thing that attacked us...?" you mumble. Realization hits you hard. "You mean that (text-style: "italic")[I] was turning into a...?"
"Yes." Kaya says. "It dragged you into the forest quicker than we could follow. We thought we had lost you. But you found us, just in time."
Silence falls between you all for a few moments. Trent, the rogue, is the one to break it.
"Can we just get the hell out of here, please?"
You all agree with him. He takes the lead along with Norvin, the bard. You trail behind them with Kaya's support. Norvin shoots his trademark look of disdain over his shoulder.
"This is the last time we let you choose the route!"
[[Smile]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/gasping.mp3" autoplay>
(text-style: "italic")[This is the end of your adventure.
Or is it?
You could always] [[go back->Title]] (text-style: "italic")[into the forest, to see what else it holds...]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/outro.mp3" autoplay>
(text-style: "italic")[This is the end of your adventure.
Or is it?
You could always] [[go back->Title]] (text-style: "italic")[into the forest, to see what else it holds...]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/outro.mp3" autoplay>
You run through the moonlit forest in a mad blur.
Blood is dripping from your snout and claws.
They never had a chance.
You feel stronger than you have ever felt before.
You are brute force.
Fearless.
You are (text-style: "italic")[alive].
Somewhere in the distance, there is howling. Not wolves, but something far more sinister.
Your ears perk up and a grunt escapes you.
You have to go to them!
[[Respond]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/wolfrun.mp3" autoplay>
(text-style: "italic")[This is the end of your adventure.
Or is it?
You could always] [[go back->Title]] (text-style: "italic")[into the forest, to see what else it holds...]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/outro.mp3" autoplay>
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/howling.mp3" autoplay>
You move quickly towards Kaya's voice. You enter the clearing, and there they are. Kaya, Norvin and Trent. They have taken refuge beneath a protruding rock at the edge of the circle. Norvin's leg is bleeding and Kaya is doing her best to dress his wound.
"Hey guys!" you proclaim happily.
Your guildmates look up in awe.
"Gard... you're alive..!" Norvin gasps. He looks bewildered.
"As far as I can tell." you grin.
[[Join your guildmates]]
You walk into the clearing. Your guildmates are on the other side. The moonlight turns their faces a pale white.
The moon...
You look up. There are no clouds in the sky anymore. The moon is full and beaming. As soon as you fix your gaze upon it, something starts to happen.
Pain hits you like a stroke of lightning. You fall to your knees, writhing. Terror grips you as you realize that your body is changing shape. Flesh and bones burst forth where there were none before, ripping your clothing apart. Your fingers curl, turning to claws. You yell out in pain, but it sounds more like a growl. You can feel your mind slipping away...
When you look up again, everything is different.
The humans are shouting something.
Their words are meaningless.
They make you angry.
[[Attack]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/transforming2.mp3" autoplay>You run through the moonlit forest in a mad blur.
Blood is dripping from your snout and claws.
They never had a chance.
You feel stronger than you have ever felt before.
You are brute force.
Fearless.
You are (text-style: "italic")[alive].
Somewhere in the distance, there is howling. Not wolves, but something far more sinister.
Your ears perk up and a grunt escapes you.
You have to go to them!
[[Respond]]
<audio src="https://bellastwine.yolasite.com/resources/wolfrun.mp3" autoplay>