<div class="shadow">
<h3>The Call of</h3>
<h2>CTHULHU</h2>
<h4>THE INTERACTIVE ADVENTURE</h4>
<p style="color: red;">(DEMO version - Project still under development)</p>
<p><mark>Support this project: <a href="https://ko-fi.com/emanuelgomez" target="_blank">Ko-fi</a> - <a href="https://www.patreon.com/emanuelgomez" target="_blank">Patreon</a></mark></p>
<h3><mark>[[PLAY->INTRO]]</mark></h3>
<p>Written by [[Emanuel Gomez->EG-PROFILE]]
Based on <i>The Call of Cthulhu</i> by [[H.P. Lovecraft->LC-PROFILE]]</p>
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</style><h3 style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><mark>EMANUEL J. GOMEZ SANCHEZ</mark></h3>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/CX8knhg.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">A damned soul from Mar del Plata (Argentina).
An aspiring writer and dedicated gamer.
His devotion to Lovecraft's work and passion for narrative design drove him to create this adaptation in order to honor the heritage of the <i>Father of Cosmic Horror</i> and bring his <i>magnus opus</i> to a wider audience.
Your inquiries: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>
Follow me on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/necrogomicon" target="_blank">@necrogomicon</a>
Support this project: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/emanuelgomez" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/emanuelgomez</a></div>
<mark>[[(Go back)->COVER]]</mark>
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</style><h3 style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><mark>HOWARD PHILLIPS LOVECRAFT</mark></h3>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zzoY9Kv.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The man from Providence, inventor of the <i>Cosmic Horror</i> genre.
Author of supernatural terror masterpieces and creator of a existential dread-inducing cosmogony and its pantheon of eldritch monstrosities.
He died under extreme agony, alone and poor at the age of forty six.</div>
<mark>[[(Go back)->COVER]]</mark>
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</style><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">November 1st, 1907 - New Orleans
Deep into the swamp regions of southern Louisiana, the local police received a report regarding the potential kidnappings of women and children from a neighboring community. The squatters there attributed the disappearances to some terrible evil of voodoo origin buried within the heart of the forest, so [[you->PLAYER-PROFILE]] and a messenger were sent to alert the authorities in an effort to bring an end to the soul-chilling chants and screams coming from the dephts of the dark woodland.
Hastily and into the night, a force of twenty policemen lead by [[Inspector Legrasse->LEGRASSE-PROFILE]] was deployed with the order of raiding the area. The frightened messenger acted as a guide during the first section of the path but eventually refused to advance once the chanting became more intense and a diabolic dancing blood-red radiance started to emerge from the shadows of the twisted foliage. You, instead, continued with reckless vigor escorting the expedition with hope of shedding some degree of scientific light over the matter.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->INTRO2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to 1)(set: $death to 1)(set: $progress to 1)(set: $hiding to 1)(set: $note1 to " ")(set: $note2 to " ")(set: $note3 to " ")(set: $note4 to " ")(set: $note5 to " ")(set: $note6 to " ")(set: $note7 to " ")(set: $note8 to " ")(set: $note9 to " ")(set: $note10 to " ")(set: $clue1 to " ")(set: $clue2 to " ")(set: $clue3 to " ")(set: $clue4 to " ")(set: $clue5 to " ")(set: $clue6 to " ")(set: $clue7 to " ")(set: $clue8 to " ")(set: $clue9 to " ")(set: $clue10 to " ")(set: $key1 to " ")(set: $key2 to " ")(set: $key3 to " ")(set: $key4 to " ")(set: $key5 to " ")(set: $key6 to " ")(set: $key7 to " ")(set: $key8 to " ")(set: $key9 to " ")(set: $key10 to " ")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>PROFILE:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>THE PROFESSOR</mark></h3>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/IjMvWOa.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">A notable anthropologist, professor and researcher from the Miskatonic University.
You traveled to the southern swamp regions of Lousiana in an effort to investigate and keep record of the culture and customs of the local communities.
The infamous region is known for its rumours of voodoo practices, human sacrificies and diabolic worshipping, but these were not enough to scare you away from your scientific mission.
Your investigation reached a climax when the horrorized settlers decided to resort to the police to report incidents possibly related to the activities of local cults. After several months of coexistance with the inhabitants of the area, an unusual and interesting opportunity of scientific discovery has arisen.</div>
<mark>[[(Go back)->INTRO]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>PROFILE:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN RAYMOND LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">Hailing from New Orleans and described simply as "a commonplace-looking middle-aged man", Police Inspector John Legrasse is a cunning and inquisitive investigator as well an unrelenting and stubborn enforcer of justice driven by the strongest sense of duty.</div>
[[(Go back)->INTRO]]<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">The expedition arrived to the most obnoxious region of the forest, the nightmarish landscape was composed by a towering agglomeration of misshapen wood, putrid mud, murky branches and tree crowns woven by black threads of endless night.
Due to the harsh terrain, you and everyone else were forced to traverse the marshy hell on foot, and the vehicles were left on the road, several kilometers behind.
This area was shrouded in a veil of mystery. Local legends spoke of an ancient, enormous beast that lied dormant under the waters of a hidden lake, and the bat-winged demons that served and worshipped it. Gazing upon it would only bring death and in dreams it would commune with men and induce terrible visions.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->INTRO3]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Upon running into a natural glade where the suffocative vegetation and its twisted vision-impairing foliage was less intense, the once distant blood-red radiance became now an imponent incandescent flare, revealing before you the sickening spectacle:
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>An abominable horde of savage forestal denizens gathering in some sort of unholy ceremony.</b><p>
These abhorrent subhumans were dancing completely naked, screaming and chanting bathed by the light of a circle of ritual fire, sorrounding a stone monolith. At the same time, the primitive multitude was surrounded by a greater circle composed of precarious wooden structures of which were hanging the <b>mutilated corpses of the missing settlers.</b></div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->INTRO4]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Shocked and horrorized, Legrasse's men observed the profane butchery, some of them nearly passed out, others shuddered and wanted to scream in terror as loud as possible. One of them claimed to have heard the flapping of huge wings in the dark and over the trees.
But this was not the moment to be afraid or superstitious.
Duty was above all, so the police force prepared to advance and assault the filthy coven aided with the power of their firearms.</div>
<mark>[[A) Fall back. You are a scientist, leave the fighting to the specialists.->RETREAT-1]]
[[B) Stay near to assist wounded allies.->ASSIST-1]]
[[C) Defend your position and provide supporting fire.->DEFEND-1]]
[[D) Advance aggressively, capture or kill as many cultists as you can.->ATTACK-1]]</mark>
(set: $note1 to "We found a large group of naked individuals performing some sort of religious ceremony around a bonfire. The missing settlers were found there too, they were all dead.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You hide behind a nearby bush hoping nobody will detect your presence.
In the distance you hear the sounds of a raging confrontation.
After the screams and gunshots cease, you slowly peek out in an attemp to determine if it is safe enough for you to leave your hiding spot.
You observe the battlefield. It was a massacre, the [[dead bodies of cultists->DEAD-CULTISTS]] and police officers are equally lying on the ground.
Inspector Legrasse approaches you - <i>"Professor, glad you're alright. We were already starting to search for your corpse..."</i>
The raid was a complete mess. Several members of the police force were killed or wounded and all the surviving cultists managed to escape.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->RETREAT-2]]</mark>
(set: $hiding to $hiding+1)
(set: $madness to $madness+1)
(set: $note2 to "I let the police do their thing while I took refuge. I was sure my abilities would be of no use for the task of apprehending the group of savages worshipers.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">As you observe how the entire armed squadron advances over the savage horde, you decide that you will be much more helpful by staying behind, ready to assist the wounded police officers to find a safe spot.
You will focus your energies and concentration on saving lives instead of taking them. You direct your attention to a small group of police officers that stayed in the back line, maybe too afraid of advancing with the rest of the force. <i>"You, you and you, with me!"</i> you command the policemen. <i>"Stay near me and help me assist the wounded."</i> They look at you with an expression of surprise and a bit of relief at the same time, as if they thanked you for providing them with another way of helping, a way that didn't require them to confront the terrifying savages.
With the support of your new personal squad, you rescue all the severely wounded and bring them back to safety. Your basic first aid abilities are more than enough to cure potentially lethal lesions, and prevent the injured from bleeding to death or contracting infections.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ASSIST-2]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+2)
(set: $note2 to "I stood behind with a small group of police officers, and we provided first aid assistance for the wounded.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You are a scientist, but you know how to fire a gun and you always carry your pistol when visiting potentially dangerous places.
You don't flee or retreat, but you don't fight in the frontline either. By staying one step behind everyone else, you get a panoramic vision of the chaotic scene. Your shots are precise and you make each one count, saving the lives of many police officers who were about to be flanked by the aggressors.
As the enforcers press the attack, acting as your shock troops, you slowly advance over enemy territory.
Suddenly you spot a fleeing cultist, the savage is within your range of fire, but he's not a menace to anyone. You know you cannot let him escape.</div>
<mark>[[A) Shoot him in the back and kill him.->DEFEND-1-A]]
[[B) Shoot him in a leg to incapacitate him.->DEFEND-1-B]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+1)
(set: $death to $death+1)
(set: $note2 to "I always carry with me my pistol, for personal preservation reasons, just in case a dangerous situation could arise. I assisted the police in the task of capturing, or neutralizing, the savage worshipers, now criminals. I did it from a safe distance, providing supporting fire.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">In all your years of anthropological studies you've never encountered nothing that resembles these violent and disgusting practices.
Studying this social phenomena is your most sacred duty, but sometimes, in the face of such cruel exhibitions of inhuman savagery, your sense of moral and compromise with the civilized world stands above all else and demands you to contribute in the eradication of this plague.
You advance among the rest of the police officers, pistol in hand. Legrasse and his men seem to turn a blind eye on you, as they understand they will require all the possible additional firepower to combat the more than a hundred cultists.
You shoot at will as soon as you are in range, bringing down multiple targets that were frantically charging against your group.
You quickly empty the pistol's drum and are forced to reload your gun. In this fleeting moment you spot how a mob of naked cultists surround several police officers in front of you and brutally stab them to death, puncturing and shredding their chests and guts with primitive knives and pikes.
One of the attackers then looks at you, his face and body are completely bloodbathed. He grabs a gun from the body of one of the dead officers and points it at you. You react as fast as possible and with two shots of your pistol you end with the life of the bloodstained cultist.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ATTACK-2]]</mark>
(set: $death to $death+1)(set: $hiding to $hiding+1)(set: $note2 to "My emotions were stronger than my reasoning. I advanced beside the police officers, shooting to kill. There were too many of them, I had to do my part.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">But then, you feel it. A burning sensation stings your leg, and as you turn down your sight to determinte the origin of the unbearable pain, you touch with your hands a bleeding bullet wound.
Fortunately, the damage is just superficial, the projectile only scraped your skin. You will need medical assistance eventually but it won't stop you now from continuing your pursuit.
Suddenly, you hear a terrifying scream of pain coming from inside the flora patches before you. You rush towards the area and find inspector Legrasse lying on the floor, over a big pool of his own blood. He's alive, but his arm is severely wounded, it looks like he was attacked with some sort of bladed weapon that teared his clothes and flesh alike.</div>
<mark>[[A) Help Legrasse.->HELP-LEGRASSE-1]]
[[B) Press the attack.->CONTINUE-ATTACK-1]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You holster your gun and run to help the inspector, unfortunately, your first aid abilities are not enough to produce any positive effect. The wound is pretty severe and it may became infected easily if not treated quickly.
You carry him over your shoulder and hasten your way into a safe area. <i>"It... it came from the woods, from the dark..."</i> - Legrasse mumbles. <i>"Don't speak, save your energy."</i> - You try to calm him down.
A small group of police officers appears almost immediately after you cry out for help, and rescue you both. <i>"He needs a medic! Fast!"</i> - You alert the officers.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->HELP-LEGRASSE-2]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+1)(set: $note3 to "I found inspector Legrasse lying on the ground, he was injured and bleeding. Fortunately we managed to assist him and save his life.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You can't allow this filth to escape. Legrasse is not in good shape but you know he will survive.
You pursue the escaping cultists to what appears to be the entrance of a cave of natural origin. You run into two of them who emerge from the foliage and attack you immediately with sticks and blunt objects, but with incredible reflexes you shoot them at point blank range, the impacts shatter their toraxic cavities, killing them instantly. The blood of the savages gushes and splatters all over the place, staining your outfit.
All of a sudden, you feel a <mark>[[tremendous force that pushes you back and throws you to the ground...->CONTINUE-ATTACK-2]]</mark></div>
(set: $death to $death+1)(set: $madness to $madness+2)(set: $note3 to "I found inspector Legrasse lying on the ground, he was injured and bleeding. Fortunately we managed to assist him and save his life.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You inspect closely one of the bodies of the savage cultists. Then you immediately compare it to the rest of the deceased worshippers. They all seem to be part of the same ethnic group, individuals of mixed-race origin. But they don't share the common features of any of the different ethnicities you have studied in the past, they don't even seem to be akin to the settlers of the region.
Actually, after further inspection, some of their physical traits reminds you of the draft papers of a report you once read from an unfinished investigation regarding a community of fishers located in the ancient seaport of Innsmouth, Massachusetts. In those documents, the researcher described in fine detail a set of anatomic characteristics that all the Innsmouthers seemed to have in common. A strange reading, but apparently of great importance for the investigation.</div>
<mark>[[(Go back)->RETREAT-1]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+1)(set: $note3 to "I inspected the bodies of the deceased cultists. They all seem to belong to an ethnic group similar to that of the inhabitants of Innsmouth.")(set: $key1 to "'Innsmouth'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">The sun appears on the horizon like a glimpse of hope, illuminating the desecrated landscape. The bonfire is almost extinguished, and dozens of captured cultists lie on the ground, handcuffed and sorrounded by Legrasse's men.
The inspector approaches you carrying a small object with him. He hands it to you - <i>"Professor, I know you'd like to take a look at this..."</i>
<i>"Fascinating..."</i> - You take the object with both hands trying to identify the material it's made of. You feel the texture of its surface, your eyes are wide open analizing its design, but you cannot fully comprehend what you have before you.
<i>"Well, Professor... Can you tell me something about it?"</i> - Legrasse asks.
<i>"Hmm... it's a ritual idol, that's for sure, of representative nature."</i> - You assert - <i>"Where did you find it?"</i>
<i>"It was right in the top of the monolith. They were adoring it."</i> - Legrasse answers.
After a brief pause of personal reflection, without taking the look away from the object, you continue - <i>"It seems to represent some kind of deity or mythological creature, but I can't identify the culture to which it belongs. It's something completely new to me, I must take it to the university and show it to my colleages."</i></div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->DEFEND-3]]</mark>(set: $note3 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. I will keep it, it could be useful for my investigation.")(set: $clue1 to "Ritual idol")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You approximate to the monolith in order to get a better look at it. It's a solid granite formation, carved with primitive engravings depicting various scenes with humanoid characters. In its design you spot what seems to be some form of hieroglyphic writing completely unknown to you, along with various symbols possibly representing aquatic motifs.
In the very top of it, there appears to be <mark>[[something else...->RETREAT-3]]</mark></div><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">As a new dawn rises and shines across the humid skies of Louisiana, inspector Legrasse approaches you - <i>"Thank you, professor. Your help has proved invaluable for this operation."</i> - The inspector is carrying a small object with him. He hands it to you - <i>"Professor, I know you'd like to take a look at this..."</i>
<i>"Fascinating..."</i> - You rub your hands against your shirt, trying to wash away all the blood, and then you take the object and observe it, in an effort to identify the material it's made of. You feel the texture of its surface, your eyes are wide open analizing its design, but you cannot fully comprehend what you have before you.
<i>"Well, Professor... Can you tell me something about it?"</i> - Legrasse asks.
<i>"Hmm... it's a ritual idol, that's for sure, of representative nature."</i> - You assert - <i>"Where did you find it?"</i>
<i>"It was right in the top of the monolith. They were adoring it."</i> - Legrasse answers.
After a brief pause of personal reflection, without taking the look away from the object, you continue - <i>"It seems to represent some kind of deity or mythological creature, but I can't identify the culture to which it belongs. It's something completely new to me, I must take it to the university and show it to my colleages."</i></div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ASSIST-3]]</mark>(set: $note3 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. I will keep it, it could be useful for my investigation.")(set: $clue1 to "Ritual idol")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow"><i>"This is police evidence, Professor. It will stay with me for now."</i> - Legrasse says - <i>"But I must continue my investigation on this case. I will need advice from your friends at university in the future."</i>
Both of you, along the rest of the force return to the police station.
The mood is good during the trip, the officers morale is in good shape, the raid ended with acceptable results: there were no police casualties thanks to your actions in combat. You receive compliments from two officers who resulted amazed by your incredible aim. Of twenty men, only six resulted severely wounded, but they will recover after a few weeks of rest and intensive medical attention. Although most of the cultists escaped and a few were killed, the officers still managed to take on enough prisoners.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ASSIST-DEFEND-4]]</mark>(set: $note4 to "The police raid ended quite good: no police officers died, just a few ended up with severe injuries and a large group of cultist was captured.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow"><i>"This is police evidence, Professor. It will stay with me for now."</i> - Legrasse says - <i>"But I must continue my investigation on this case. I will need advice from your friends at university in the future."</i>
Both of you, along the rest of the force return to the police station.
The mood is great during the trip, the officers morale is at its highest, the raid was a complete success: there were no police casualties thanks to your first aid abilities. You overhear a group of officers whispering with admiration about how you led that small group with determination and efficiency. Of twenty men, only eight received wounds, but your immediate assistance prevented them from requiring further treatments, they will fully recover in a few days. Although most of the cultists escaped, the officers still managed to capture eighteen of them.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ASSIST-DEFEND-4]]</mark>(set: $note4 to "The police raid ended well: no police officers died, just a few ended up with lesser wounds and a small group of cultist was captured.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You climb the rocky monolith, supporting yourself on the convex shapes sprouting from the irregular surface. By extending your arm you reach an object situated at the top.
As you gaze upon your new finding with awe, and before any possible reaction, you suddenly slide from your support and fall to the ground.
The fall is rought but nothing you can't endure. Just a pain in the back, nothing broken. You grasp firmly the retrieved object and observe it in detail. It looks to be ancient, and it's made of a dark greenish material with the consistence of stone.
It's a figurine, a small statue of a ritual idol, representing some kind of mythological winged monster. It also possesses the combined traits of a human being, an octopus and a dragon.
Legrasse appears, and immediately helps you get up. You quickly hide the figurine under your jacket - <i>"Careful there, professor! Have you hurt yourself?"</i></div>
<mark>[[A) Tell Legrasse about the figurine.->TELL-1]]
[[B) Don't speak about the figurine.->DONT-TELL-1]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow"><i>"I found this."</i> - You show Legrasse the stone idol while he helps you get up.
<i>"Any idea of what is it?"</i> - Legrasse inquires.
<i>"It's a ritual idol, that's for sure, of representative nature."</i> - You answer - <i>"It seems to represent some kind of deity or mythological creature, but I can't identify the culture to which it belongs. It's something completely new to me, I must take it to the university and show it to my colleages."</i>
<i>"This is police evidence, Professor. It will stay with me for now."</i> - Legrasse says - <i>"But I must continue my investigation on this case. I will need advice from your friends at university in the future."</i>
The figurine is a solid piece of physical evidence, and a glimpse of hope for the inspector, he lost too many men today, but at least there's something that can be traced, something that could bring them to a potential culprit to punish him and make justice prevail at last. <i>"I will need to take a look around to gather all possible scientific evidence for my studies."</i> - You inform Legrasse with an authoritative tone.
Legrasse looks at you with an expression of discomfort - <i>"Go ahead professor. Do whatever you need to do."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->RETREAT-4]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+1)(set: $legrasse2 to "[[2)Ask about his opinion on the next steps to follow.->LEGRASSE2B]]")(set: $legrasse4 to "[[3) Ask Legrasse to return you the stone figurine.->LEGRASSE-4]]")(set: $note4 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. The police will keep it as evidence.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow"><i>"I'm alright inspector, just a few scratches."</i> - You answer while Legrasse helps you get up.
<i>"Inspector, what happened here today was indeed terrible and strange."</i> - You express with a tone of concern - <i>"I hope you understand I will need to take a look around and gather all possible scientific evidence."</i>
<i>"I've lost too many men today. This operation was a failure and a mistake. I'm afraid I won't be able to conduct a proper investigation without enough physical evidence or detainees to interrogate."</i> - Legrasse answers with a voice almost devoid of emotion and strenght - <i>"Go ahead professor. Do whatever you need to do."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->RETREAT-4]]</mark>
(set: $hiding to $hiding+1)(set: $legrasse2 to "[[2)Ask about his opinion on the next steps to follow.->LEGRASSE2]]")(set: $legrasse4 to " ")(set: $note4 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. I will keep it, it could be useful for my investigation.")(set: $clue1 to "Ritual idol")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">As you arrive to the police station, the officers proceed to jail the prisoners. With help of some of his men, Legrasse interrogates the few cultists that seem to be sane enough to speak coherently.
After a few hours, the only information extracted from the interrogees results in pure supersticious nonsense.
You ask Legrasse for a chance of interrogating the prisoners yourself with scientific purposes, in order to register the testimonies in a document for posterior studies at the university.
The inspector agrees and then takes you with one of the captives who seems to play a leading role in the ranks of the cult, an extremely old man named Castro.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->ASSIST-5]]</mark>(set: $note5 to "I will interrogate a man named Castro, he seems to be a leading figure inside the cult ranks. I will try to take note of every useful <b>clue</b> or <b>keyword</b>.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Legrasse explains to you that this man is the most willing to speak and the one most well versed in the hideous matters and beliefs of the loathsome organization.
You arrive to his cell, but Legrasse stays behind you, standing near the prison door with another policeman.
You approach the man named Castro, he is handcuffed and sitting, so you sit right in front of him.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO-MAIN]]</mark>
(set: $castro1 to "[[1) Ask about the beliefs and practices of the cult.->CASTRO1]]")
(set: $castro2 to "[[2) Ask about the murdered people.->CASTRO2]]")
(set: $castro3 to "[[3) Ask about the stone figurine.->CASTRO3]]")
(set: $castro4 to "[[4) Ask about the chanting.->CASTRO4]]")
(set: $castro5 to " ")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The ragged old man looks you up and down, then looks you straight in the eye. He doesn't utter a single word.
You introduce yourself and tell him about your scientific research and the reason why you want him to answer your questions.
Castro doesn't answer. But a calm look in his face tells you he will cooperate with you.</div>
<mark>$castro1
$castro2
$castro3
$castro4
$castro5</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The man shows a disturbing grin before telling you his tale -
<i>"We are Their humble servants, and Their chosen sons and daughters. We follow the only True Faith, the one that praises the <b>Great Old Ones</b>, Who lived ages before humanity, and Who came from the sky to our young world. They do not live anymore but neither have died. Inside the earth and under the sea They are now, dreaming forever. Their secrets were revealed through holy visions to the first humans, who formed the faith which had always existed and always will."</i></div>
<mark>[[A) Ask about the 'Great Old Ones'.->CASTRO1-2]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $castro1 to "<strike>1) Ask about the beliefs and practices of the cult.</strike>")(set: $castro5 to "<mark>[[5) You already have all the information you need. Finish the interrogation.->DEMO-END]]</mark>")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"The Great Old Ones demand blood as proof of our faithfulness. The life essence of sentient beigns, the blood of the innocent. The ceremony is a representation of the coming age, when the Great Old Ones shall finally walk among us. The offered souls were sacrificed not by us, but by the <b>Black Winged Ones</b> who dwell in the depths of the forest caves and caverns, and have a stronger bonding with Great Cthulhu."</i></div>
<mark>[[A) The 'Black Winged Ones'?->CASTRO2-1]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $castro2 to "<strike>2) Ask about the murdered people.</strike>")
(set: $castro5 to "<mark>[[5) You already have all the information you need. Finish the interrogation.->DEMO-END]]</mark>")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"When the <b>Great Old Ones</b> arrived, They brought Their images with Them, small sacred statues made of materials taken from Their World, and commanded the first faithful to adore them. The one you stole from our Holy Temple in the woods is a representation of the <b>High Priest</b>, Great <b>Cthulhu</b>, sitting in His throne of stone, in His dark house in the mighty city of <b>R’lyeh</b> under the waters, from where He shall rise, and once again become Lord and Master of the world. Some day He will call, when the stars are right, and we will answer."</i></div>
<mark>[[A) Ask about Cthulhu.->CASTRO3-1]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $castro3 to "<strike>3) Ask about the stone figurine.</strike>")
(set: $castro5 to "<mark>[[5) You already have all the information you need. Finish the interrogation.->DEMO-END]]</mark>")(set: $key3 to "'Cthulhu'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"No one can read the old writings. The chantings, the rituals, have been passed down through the generations as oral tradition.
<b>PH’NGLUI MGLW’NAFH CTHULHU R’LYEH WGAH’NAGL FHTAGN</b>
In his house at R’lyeh dead Cthulhu waits dreaming.”</i></div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $castro4 to "<strike>4) Ask about the chanting.</strike>")
(set: $castro5 to "<mark>[[5) You already have all the information you need. Finish the interrogation.->DEMO-END]]</mark>")(set: $key6 to "'R’lyeh'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"They came from the sky, from the stars. They speak in dreams and They cannot die. Their true names are not to be uttered by any mortal being, so They, in Their immense wisdom, presented Themselves to us with names our minds can comprehend and pronounce, and adore. Their shapes and forms are many, but Their size is that of a mountain, so Their faithful servants and followers shall rejoice in Their Mighty Presence no matter the distance. Once They return, They shall teach us the Way of the Great Old Ones, in a new era where we shall become like Them: free and wild and beyond good and evil. All Their sons and daughters shouting and killing and revelling in joy. They shall teach us the way of true freedom."</i></div>
<mark>[[A) Ask about the origin of the cult.->CASTRO1-3]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)(set: $key1 to "'Great Old Ones'")<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INVESTIGATION NOTES</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px;padding:0px;font-size:15px;"><mark>(Press the arrow button to return)</mark></p><div class="shadow"><mark>CLUES:</mark> $clue1 - $clue2 - $clue3 - $clue4 - $clue5 - $clue6 - $clue7 - $clue8 - $clue9 - $clue10
<mark>KEYWORDS:</mark> $key1 - $key2 - $key3 - $key4 - $key5 - $key6 - $key7 - $key8 - $key9 - $key10
</div>
<div class="shadow"><i>After months of coexistence with the squatters of the southern swamp and lagoon country, good-natured individuals whose bloodlines can be traced back to pirate Jean Lafitte's crewmembers, my investigation seemed about to reach its conclusion. But the peaceful lifestyle of the inhabitants of this region has been suddenly interrupted by a series of disturbing events, specifically the mysterious dissapeareances of some of the community members, possibly linked to dangerous religious practices. Few days have passed since this happened, so I'm heading my way along with a messenger to the nearest New Orleans police station to carry out the proper report.
(if: (history:) contains "LEGRASSE-PROFILE" and "INTRO2")[I met Police Inspector [[John Legrasse->LEGRASSE-NOTES]]. A good man it seems, he immediately offered his help and prepared his men for an expedition the moment we reported the potential crimes. It was like if he suspected about something strange going on in the forest depths and this was his opportunity to investigate.]
(if: (history:) contains "INTRO4")[I participated in the police raid. There was a high possibility of danger and threat involved but, in the name of science, I had to take the risk.]
$note1
$note2
$note3
$note4
$note5
$note6
$note7
$note8
$note9
$note10
</i>
</div>
<style>
tw-sidebar
{
display: block;
color: white;
background: black;
}
</style><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You feel dizzy and your vision is dim. The night still envelops the forest in blinding darkness. Yet, as you lift up your gaze, you manage to see with your own eyes the origin of the devastating force that has incapacitated you.
<p style="padding:0px;margin:0px;color:red;text-align:center;"><b>Before you, a hulking humanoid shadow rises, of two or more meters high. You can't distinguish any notable feature in what you suppose are its body and head. From the haunting silhouette sprouts what appears to be two massive, membranous black wings.</b></p>
In a blink of an eye and with an impetuous impulse, the shadow elevates to the air and dissappears from your range of vision. A cold, fetid breeze overwhelms you. A strange shriek is heard, fading in the distance.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CONTINUE-ATTACK-3]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Sunlight appears over the forest as a new dawn rises. The situation finally calms down and the once turbulent scenario becomes now a placid and still landscape.
You observe the stone monolith and it wakes up your scientific curiosity. You get closer in order to get a better look over it. It's a solid granite formation, carved with primitive engravings depicting various scenes with humanoid characters. In its design you spot what seems to be some form of hieroglyphic writing completely unknown to you, along with various symbols possibly representing aquatic motifs.
In the very top of it, there appears to be <mark>[[something else...->HELP-LEGRASSE-3]]</mark></div><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You climb the rocky monolith, supporting yourself on the convex shapes sprouting from the irregular surface. By extending your arm you reach an object situated at the top.
You gaze upon your new finding with awe, you grasp it firmly and analize it in detail. It looks to be ancient, and it's made of a dark greenish material with the consistence of stone.
It's a figurine, a small statue of a ritual idol, representing some kind of mythological winged monster. It also possesses the combined traits of a human being, an octopus and a dragon.
You secure the figurine under your jacket and slowly start to descend from the monolith.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->HELP-LEGRASSE-4]]</mark>(set: $note4 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. I will keep it, it could be useful for my investigation.")(set: $clue1 to "Ritual idol")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">A bunch of policemen hastily arrives to your position. You get up from the ground, staggering. <i>"Professor! Are you alright?"</i> - One of the officers exclaims with a tone of concern.
<i>"I will be fine..."</i> - You answer. <i>"Legrasse... he... he's been injured. He needs assistance!"</i>
<i>"Professor. The inspector was found in a very severe feverish state... His wounds were infected. He is dead, we couldn't do much, we arrived too late."</i> - Thunderstruck, you observe the officers as they advance to inspect the terrain ahead. You return to the forest glade, feeling defeated.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CONTINUE-ATTACK-4]]</mark>(set: $note3 to "Legrasse is dead. I could have helped him but I chose to pursuit a group of fleeing cultists.")(set: $note4 to "I found something strange near a cave entrance in the forest. It attacked me, I couldn't see it well, but it had massive wings. My knowledge in the fields of veterinary medicine and biology is nil, so my conclusion may not be reliable, but I could presume that I came across some kind of wild animal species not yet discovered by science.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Sunlight appears over the forest as a new dawn rises. The situation finally calms down and the once turbulent scenario becomes now a placid and still landscape.
You observe the stone monolith and it wakes up your scientific curiosity. You get closer in order to get a better look over it. It's a solid granite formation, carved with primitive engravings depicting various scenes with humanoid characters. In its design you spot what seems to be some form of hieroglyphic writing completely unknown to you, along with various symbols possibly representing aquatic motifs.
In the very top of it, there appears to be <mark>[[something else...->CONTINUE-ATTACK-5]]</mark></div><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You climb the rocky monolith, supporting yourself on the convex shapes sprouting from the irregular surface. By extending your arm you reach an object situated at the top.
You gaze upon your new finding with awe, you grasp it firmly and analize it in detail. It looks to be ancient, and it's made of a dark greenish material with the consistence of stone.
It's a figurine, a small statue of a ritual idol, representing some kind of mythological winged monster. It also possesses the combined traits of a human being, an octopus and a dragon.
You secure the figurine under your jacket and slowly start to descend from the monolith.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CONTINUE-ATTACK-6]]</mark>(set: $note5 to "I found a strange stone figurine, some sort of ritual idol. I will keep it, it could be useful for my investigation.")(set: $clue1 to "Ritual idol")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You gather with the surviving members of the police force, they have captured a small group of cultists. You and the rest direct towards the vehicles and prepare to leave that obnoxious place of nightmare, heading your way to the police station, taking the prisoners with you.
The mood is bad during the trip, the officers morale is low. The raid ended with deplorable results: of more than a hundred cultists, the lawmen managed to capture only nine. The rest were killed during the confrontation and judging by the body count, only a tiny group escaped. Many officers died on the line of duty today, and some of them received severe injuries. Inspector Legrasse was brutally attacked and passed away due to the wounds. You overhear a group of officers whispering with a fearful tone about your tendency towards a risky and violent behaviour when conflict arises.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CONTINUE-ATTACK-7]]</mark>(set: $note6 to "The police raid ended bad: some police officers died, including inspector Legrasse, and other ended up with severe injuries. A very small group of cultists were captured and the majority were killed in the confrontation.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">As you arrive to the police station, the officers proceed to jail the prisoners. There appears to be no one fit to carry out the interrogation: Legrasse is dead and the rest of the policemen seem to be under a post-traumatic stress state due to the results of the recent events.
So you offer yourself to interrogate the prisoners.
You are taken with one of the captives who plays a leading role in the ranks of the cult, an extremely old man named Castro. This man seems to be the only one sane enough to speak with, and the one most well versed in the hideous matters and beliefs of the loathsome organization.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CONTINUE-ATTACK-8]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Two officers escort you where the infamous cultist leader is being held. As you enter the cell the policemen look at you with a look of complicity. They have lost too many respected and beloved partners and friends at the hands of this cult. They are furious and want them to pay no matter what. The guards leave you alone with the prisoner, they don't care anymore about this subhuman scum and all this hell.
You approach the man named Castro, he is handcuffed and sitting, so you sit right in front of him.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK]]</mark>
(set: $castro1 to "[[1) Ask about the beliefs and practices of the cult.->CASTRO1]]")
(set: $castro2 to "[[2) Ask about the murdered people.->CASTRO2]]")
(set: $castro3 to "[[3) Ask about the stone figurine.->CASTRO3]]")
(set: $castro4 to "[[4) Ask about the chanting.->CASTRO4]]")
(set: $castro5 to " ")(set: $note7 to "Once we arrive to the police headquarters, I will proceed to interrogate the captured cultists. I will try to take note of every useful <b>clue</b> or <b>keyword</b>.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The ragged old man looks you up and down, then looks you straight in the eye. He doesn't utter a single word.
You introduce yourself and tell him about your scientific research and the reason why you want him to answer your questions.
Castro doesn't answer.</div>
<mark>[[A) Beat him.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK-1]]
[[B) Try to ask him a question.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK-2]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><b>You strike the old man in the face with the butt of your gun.</b>
Castro spits some blood, then raises his head while wickedly laughing...</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO-BEAT]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">Castro looks at you with indifference.</div>
<mark>[[1) Ask about the beliefs and practices of the cult.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK3-1]]
[[2) Ask about the murdered people.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK3-2]]
[[3) Ask about the stone figurine.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK3-3]]
[[4) Ask about the chanting.->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK3-4]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You gather with the surviving members of the police force, they have captured a small group of cultists. You and the rest direct towards the vehicles and prepare to leave that obnoxious place of nightmare, heading your way to the police station, taking the prisoners with you.
The mood is not bad during the trip, but also is not the best. The officers morale is just okay. The raid can't be considered a defeat nor a victory: of more than a hundred cultists, the lawmen managed to capture only nine. The rest were killed during the confrontation and judging by the body count, only a tiny group escaped. Many officers died on the line of duty today, and some of them received severe wounds. Inspector Legrasse was heavily injured but he will recover, maybe in a few weeks. You overhear a group of officers whispering about your tendency towards a risky behaviour when conflict arises. They seem to admire your courage at some degree despite the trouble you could have caused with your boldness.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->HELP-LEGRASSE-5]]</mark>(set: $note5 to "The police raid ended not so bad: despite some police officers casualties, and a large group of severely injured ones, most of the cultists were killed or captured.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">As you arrive to the police station, the officers proceed to jail the prisoners. There appears to be no one fit to carry out the interrogation: Legrasse is in the infirmary being patched up and the rest of the policemen don't possess the required authority to carry out the process.
You request permission to interrogate the prisoners with the excuse of documenting the testimonies for your investigation.
You are taken with one of the captives who plays a leading role in the ranks of the cult, an extremely old man named Castro. This man seems to be the only one sane enough to speak with, and the one most well versed in the hideous matters and beliefs of the loathsome organization.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->HELP-LEGRASSE-6]]</mark>(set: $note6 to "Once we arrive to the police headquarters, I will proceed to interrogate the captured cultists. I will try to take note of every useful <b>clue</b> or <b>keyword</b>.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Two officers escort you where the infamous cultist leader is being held.
You arrive to his cell, but they stay behind you, standing near the prison door.
You approach the man named Castro, he is handcuffed and sitting, so you sit right in front of him.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO-MAIN-ATTACK]]</mark>
(set: $castro1 to "[[1) Ask about the beliefs and practices of the cult.->CASTRO1]]")
(set: $castro2 to "[[2) Ask about the murdered people.->CASTRO2]]")
(set: $castro3 to "[[3) Ask about the stone figurine.->CASTRO3]]")
(set: $castro4 to "[[4) Ask about the chanting.->CASTRO4]]")
(set: $castro5 to " ")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"The Faith has always existed, since the beginning of humanity. Ancient, undying ones, blessed with Their Touch still live and breathe among us, our millenary leaders and prophets, who guide our steps from the mountains of old China. I have travelled the world, sailed to distant ports, spoke to them, and they have showed me the teachings of the Great Old Ones, as well the way to transmit and carry out these teachings."</i>
Just when you thought he had finished with his blasphemous monologue, [[he continues with his story...->CASTRO1-4]]</div>
<mark>[[B) (Interrupt Castro. Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"...You must also know that we, humans, are not alone among the conscious things of the world, for Their <b>Servitors</b> come out of the shadow to aid us the faithful, in our tasks. The Servitors also are of many shapes and forms, and they speak with their minds and bring with them the Holy Images of the Great Old Ones. Some live in our world, and some come from other places."</i></div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"They come only in the dark of the night, flying with majestic bat-like wings. They are His Servitors and instruct us in the ways and traditions that please the Great Old Ones and the High Priest. His Holy Image was brought to us by them."</i></div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)(set: $key2 to "'Black Winged Ones'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"Great Cthulhu, High Priest of the Great Old Ones. With mighty spells He guards and preserves Them, during Their long dream beneath the dark chambers of the great city of R’lyeh. They await the Great Resurrection, the time when They shall rule again...
Our undying prophets had taught me the forgotten verses found in the lost pages of the <b>Al-Azif</b>, <mark>[[I clearly recall those, despite my age...->CASTRO3-2]]</mark>"</i></div>
<mark>[[B) (Interrupt Castro. Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)(set: $key4 to "'Al-Azif'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"The stars shall mark the time of His coming, and when the spheres intersect: HE SHALL RISE. Great Cthulhu shall return, and armed with vengeful talons He shall smite the Elder Lords and rend the soul of Man. The earth shall know the night without cease.
The Seal They have set against Him shall not prevail forever. The folly of mankind shall shatter the Seal: HE SHALL RISE.
Yog-Sothoth knoweth the Gate through which the Old Ones shall return. When the stars have faded and the moon shines no more, when only dark suns rise and set: Great Cthulhu shall awaken and call from the deep with the voice of a thousand thunders, and the Gate shall be cast open: THEY SHALL RETURN."</i></div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->CASTRO-MAIN2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)(set: $key5 to "'Yog-Sothot'")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow"><h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">THIS IS THE END OF THE DEMO</h3>
<h2 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">THANKS FOR PLAYING!</h2>
<p style="margin-top:-20px;padding:0px;font-size:25px;">(Remember to check out the Investigation Notes to have a look at the information you have collected)</p>
<h3><mark>[[PLAY AGAIN!->COVER]]</mark></h3>
<h3>Support this project:
● <a href="https://www.patreon.com/emanuelgomez" target="_blank">Patreon</a>
● <a href="https://ko-fi.com/emanuelgomez" target="_blank">Ko-fi</a></h3>
Contact me:
E-mail: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/necrogomicon" target="_blank">@necrogomicon</a></div><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You shoot the bastard in the back, it's what this scum deserves after the atrocities they have committed.
The savage collapses to the ground, his body lies inert as blood begins to spread.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->DEFEND-2]]</mark>
(set: $madness to $madness+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">With incredibly precise aim you shoot the fleeing cultist in one of his legs. Cold blooded killing is not your style after all, specially not from the back, and also the police could use another prisoner for interrogation.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->DEFEND-2]]</mark>
(set: $progress to $progress+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">Castro appears to be enjoying the conversation in a twisted and unpleasant way.</div>
<mark>$castro1
$castro2
$castro3
$castro4
$castro5</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">With a smile full of dripping blood, Castro is finally paying attention to you...</div>
<mark>$castro1
$castro2
$castro3
$castro4
$castro5</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The old man smiles with a certain level of malevolence, and proceeds to answer your question...</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO1]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The old man smiles with a certain level of malevolence, and proceeds to answer your question...</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO2]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The old man smiles with a certain level of malevolence, and proceeds to answer your question...</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO3]]</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERROGATING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>CASTRO</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">CULTIST LEADER</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Tcxbp0u.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The old man smiles with a certain level of malevolence, and proceeds to answer your question...</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->CASTRO4]]</mark><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>PROFILE:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN RAYMOND LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">Hailing from New Orleans and described simply as "a commonplace-looking middle-aged man", Police Inspector John Legrasse is a cunning and inquisitive investigator as well an unrelenting and stubborn enforcer of justice driven by the strongest sense of duty.</div>
<p style="margin-top:-40px;padding:0px;font-size:15px;"><mark>(Press the arrow button at the top left to return)</mark></p>
<style>
tw-sidebar
{
display: block;
color: white;
background: black;
}
</style><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">You explore the glade in search for clues but there isn't much from where to obtain them. Your first guess is the monolith. You pull out from your bag a set of empty papersheets and a pencil. You carefully sketch all the forms and primitive pictograms carved on the rock and try to replicate all the hieroglyphics with the appropiate level of detail.
No thoughts come to your mind when trying to recall designs from other paleolithic structures with shared similarities. This seems to be a one of a kind piece.
You are almost certain that some eminence at the Miskatonic University will eventually have a look at your sketches and notes and will use their distinguished knowledge of the linguistics or archaelogical fields of study to point you in the right direction.
</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->RETREAT-5]]</mark>
(set: $clue2 to "Sketch of the monolith carvings")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">After a thorough analysis of the area you determine that there is nothing of interest left. You prepare to depart with the rest of the expedition.
The mood during the trip is the worst possible, the officers morale is low. The raid ended with pathetic results: not a single cultist was captured. A few were killed during the confrontation, the majority escaped. Many officers died on the line of duty today, and some of them received severe injuries. You overhear a group of officers whispering about how useless your presence was during the raid, but you know they aren't intelligent enough to comprehend the importance of your investigation and the preservation of your life for the scientific community.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->RETREAT-6]]</mark>(set: $note5 to "The police raid ended really bad: too many police officers died, and some of them ended up with severe wounds. All the cultists escaped.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><div class="shadow">Upon arriving to the police headquarters you know there's not much to do. The raid was a failure and the missing settlers were found all dead. No prisoners, and the evidence is not stronger enough. The police has very little means of advancing with the investigation on the matter.
You approach inspector Legrasse and ask him for a brief interview. This has been his jurisdiction for years after all, maybe the recent events will refresh his memory so he can contribute with additional information regarding the strange practices of this cult.</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>
(set: $legrasse1 to "[[1) Ask about similar previous experiences.->LEGRASSE1]]")(set: $legrasse3 to " ")
(set: $note6 to "I asked Inspector Legrasse for a quick interview in an effort to obtain additional information. I will try to take note of every useful <b>clue</b> or <b>keyword</b>.")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow">The inspector doesn't seem to take it very well but he will collaborate anyway - <i>"Make it quick, professor."</i>
</div>
<mark>$legrasse1
$legrasse2
$legrasse4
$legrasse3
</mark><div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"Nothing like this. The region is filled with rumours and tales to scare visitors and authorities away, that's true. But I can't order a raid everytime a frightened squatter comes with some supersticious gossip. This, however, was different. People were kidnapped and murdered."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[(Continue)->LEGRASSE1-2]]</mark>
(set: $legrasse1 to "<strike>1) Ask about similar previous experiences.</strike>")(set: $legrasse3 to "[[You already have all the information you need. Finish the interview.->DEMO-END]]")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"But now that you mention it... this whole situation reminded me of a talk I had with an old friend of mine who lived in Cranston at the moment. The thing never fully got out of my mind because of the strange nature of the conversation. He spoke to me about how the police encountered a farmhouse near Pawtuxet Village with a library full of books related to eccentric practices, you know what I mean, sorcery and all those insanities."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>(set: $clue3 to "Occultist library in Pawtuxet Village")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"Next steps? There's no next steps really. What I would do is attemp to compare and connect this case with other investigations in order to find patterns, similarities. But this will mean entire days exploring and reading long-time buried police files with no clear justification, only following your gut, and it really doesn't make any sense from a methodic viewpoint."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[A) Any particular case comes to your mind?->LEGRASSE1-2-1]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>(set: $legrasse2 to "<strike>2)Ask about his opinion on the next steps to follow.</strike>")(set: $legrasse3 to "[[You already have all the information you need. Finish the interview.->DEMO-END]]")(set: $hiding to $hiding+1)<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"I already told you I can't do that right now. This may be my only clue to investigate this case.
Take me with your colleagues at the university and let me show it to them, then it's all yours."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[(Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>
(set: $legrasse4 to "<strike>4) Ask Legrasse to return you the stone figurine.</strike>")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"Not really. Just a bunch of similar rumours, mere coincidences. Cases without resolution regarding missing people in locations like Dunwich and Kingsport. Legends about cults, diabolic rituals and all that bullshit. Nonsense maybe originated from the days of the Salem trials. But we are talking about small, secluded towns, I think it's pretty common to have this kind of superstition in places like those."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>(set: $hiding to $hiding+1)(set: $key2 to "Dunwich")(set: $key3 to "Kingsport")<div class="notes">[[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NeCUnDi.png"></img>->NOTES]]</div><h4 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>INTERVIEWING:</mark></h4>
<h3 style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"><mark>JOHN LEGRASSE</mark></h3>
<p style="margin-top:-40px; margin-bottom:0px; padding:0px;font-size:20px;"><mark style="color:dimgray">POLICE INSPECTOR</mark></p>
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zxrzJ6D.jpg" style="box-shadow:12px 12px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.8);"></img>
<div class="shadow"><i>"Our next big step is showing the ritual idol to someone who could give us any useful information about it. That's were I'll need your help. Other than that, there's really no solid trace to follow. What I would do is attemp to compare and connect this case with other investigations in order to find patterns, similarities. But this will mean entire days exploring and reading long-time buried police files with no clear justification, only following your gut, and it really doesn't make any sense from a methodic viewpoint."</i>
</div>
<mark>[[A) Any particular case comes to your mind?->LEGRASSE1-2-1]]
[[B) (Go back and don't ask again about the matter.)->LEGRASSE-MAIN]]</mark>
(set: $legrasse2 to "<strike>2)Ask about his opinion on the next steps to follow.</strike>")
(set: $legrasse3 to "[[You already have all the information you need. Finish the interview.->DEMO-END]]")