,,,,,**You Walk Through the Rain**
By Trinity Plendl
[[Day 1<-Begin]]
(set: $forgetcount to 0)
(set: $choicecount to 0)
(set: $despaircount to 0)
(set: $mask to 0)
(set: $game to 0)
(set: $cat to 0) Make a Twine game!
1) Images
2) Audio
3) Collecting stuff
4) **Nobody** gets very hurt or killed. So, no horror. :/
5) Progression system of some sort. Kinda like a Hero's Journey. You walk through the rain.
[Why?]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[You aren't sure.
[Where am I going?]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[You don't know.
[[It's cold.]] ][[Look up]]
[[Look down]]
[[Look forward]] (set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [ [You look up.]<cl1|]
(click: ?cl1)[ [You see the clouds.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [Wayward puffs of timberwolf, watering the earth with their precious gift.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[They're...beautiful...[aren't they?]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ Your umbrella subsides behind you. [The raindrops trickle down your cheeks.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [It feels nice.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Day 2<-You almost forget to feel ashamed.]] ](set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [You look down.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your rainboots splash with every step.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[Every few strides, a groove in the asphalt comes into view. [You take up the challenge of not stepping on them.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[[It's not fun.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[[You continue your game.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [[Day 2<-Soon, you forget about the rain.]] ](set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You look forward.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You see the path ahead, shrouded in haze.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[Your hands tighten around your umbrella. [You fear that you may get yourself drenched.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You will get there eventually.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [Wherever that is.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [Keep yourself dry.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Day 2<-No one wants to see otherwise.]] ][Day falls to night.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [[The second day dawns.]] ][You walk through the rain.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[You (if: $forgetcount is 1)[were okay, but something happened.] (if: $choicecount is 1)[aren't okay, but maybe that's okay.] (if: $despaircount is 1)[are okay. Of course you are.]
Still, [[you are in this rain.]] ]You look around you, and examine the buildings that loom like elongated shadows.
[[Knock on the doors]]
[[Count the windows]]You run to every door you can, [pounding your fists upon each one.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You yell and scream for someone, anyone.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [But no one answers.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[Your arms begin to grow tired. [You realize that you've held your umbrella over your head all day.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[
[[Keep it up]]
[[Lower it]] ](set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [ [You count the windows.]<cl1|]
(click: ?cl1)[As your feet carry you along the path, [you convert the panes into tallies.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [This one has (random: 15, 100).]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [And that one has (random: 15, 100).]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [(random: 15, 100)...]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [You are bored.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [It was nice while it lasted.]<cl12|]
(click: ?cl12)[As you walk, your foot kicks something across the asphalt.
(if: $forgetcount is 2)[ [[Go to it]] ]
[[Day 3<-You don't care.]] ] (set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You keep it up.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [The rain pelts the plastic like a snare drum.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You decide that this is best for everyone.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [But no one else is here...]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [.....]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [[Day 3<-You continue on your way.]] ](set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You lower it.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[The rain patters against your hood, [until you raise your face to the sky.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[The droplets land upon your forhead and cheeks with ferver, [and leave shiny trails along your skin.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[It's slightly uncomfortable...[but nice.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [[Day 3<-You straighten your stance, and continue on your way.]] ][Day falls to night.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [[The third day dawns.]] ][You walk through the rain.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You've been walking for a while now.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[As you walk, an alley appears to your left. [You really are exhausted.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[Stop in the alley]]
[[Keep walking]] ] [You walk through the rain.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your friend came by today.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[She's so happy to see you. [She insists that she is.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [ (if: $game is 0)[ (if: $choicecount is 2)[You don't really want to talk, but you love your friend.] (if: $despaircount is 2)[You're happy to see her too. As far as she knows anyway.] (if: $forgetcount is 2)[You're happy to see her too. As far as you know anyway.] (if: $forgetcount is 1 or $despaircount is 1)[You should be happy too, but you aren't sure if you are.] ] (if: $game is 1)[You find a way to talk with your friend, and still get further in this new game of yours.] ]<cl4| ]
(click: ?cl4)[An umbrella rests in her hands. [Their grip tapers with every wayward gust.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ (if: $game is 0)[She sees how well you keep yours upheld, [which gives her the motivation to hold hers firmly.]<cl6|]
(if: $game is 1)[She sees your game, and notices the smile upon your face. [She asks if she can play.]<dcl6|] ]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Keep your umbrella up]]
[[Lower your umbrella]]
[[Talk some more]] ] (click: ?dcl6)[ [[Let her play]]
[[Don't let her play]] ] (set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You lower your umbrella.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[The rain drenches your face immediately. [Your friends is thrown off guard.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [Yet it only takes a moment for her to lessen her grip, and follow suit.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [The two of you stand still in the freezing cold, each one looking to the other in embarrassment.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [You embrace one another tightly.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [It feels so nice.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [You barely mind the showers.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [Soon your friend bids you farewell, and walks away through the rain.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [Her umbrella rests at her side.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [[Day 4<-You do the same.]] ](set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1)(set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You keep your umbrella up.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your friends follows suit, as you continue your conversation.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [Your topics tend to revolve around the weather, the street, and the gloom that surmounts.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[All the while, you keep yourselves dry. [You both feel proud.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [Soon, your friend bids you farewell, and walks away through the rain.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[She is out of sight, and you are alone. [You wish to throw your umbella to the asphalt so badly.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Throw down your umbrella]]
[[Keep your umbrella up2<-Keep your umbrella up]] ]
(set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [You talk some more.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You playfully complain about the weather.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [The mention of it makes your friend uncomfortable.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You decide to drop the subject.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [For a while, the two of you converse upon miscellaneous topics.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [It's very awkward.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[Soon, your friend bids farewell, [and walks away through the rain.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[She is out of sight, and you are alone. [You wish to throw your umbella to the asphalt so badly.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [[Throw down your umbrella]]
[[Keep your umbrella up2<-Keep your umbrella up]] ](set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You throw down your umbrella.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Shivers run down your spine as the freezing rain coats your skin.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You close your eyes, and take a deep breath.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [It's over.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[Your eyelids slowly open. [You feel much better now.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [You walk over to your umbrella, and set it back over your head.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Day 4<-It's less of a burden now.]] ](set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You keep your umbrella up.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your skin remains nice and dry, just as before.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You will not admit defeat.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [This rain will cease eventually.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [Surely...]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [[Day 4<-You continue the trek as you were.]] ][Day falls to night.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [[The fourth day dawns.]] ][You stop in the alley.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[Your raincoat crinkles as you seat yourself against the wall beside the boxes. (if: $game is 1)[You continue to play your game.] [The umbrella remains above you.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[Suddenly, you hear a squeak. [It doesn't seem to be that of a rodent.]<cl3|]
(if: $game is 0)[ (click: ?cl3)[You turn to your right and see a pair of eyes, [coming from the carboard box at eye level.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [It's a tabby cat.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [It seems a bit frazzled.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [It's shivering.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [[Hold out your hand]]
[[Leave the cat alone]] ] ] (if: $game is 1)[ (click: ?cl3)[But do you care?
[No.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [You keep playing.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [And you keep playing.]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [[Day 5<-And you keep playing.]] ] ] (set: $walking to 1) [ (set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You keep walking(if: $game is 1)[, game in hand].]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You have to continue.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [Or else you may never get there.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [It may never be over.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[The umbrella remains over your head as thunder rumbles. [[Day 5<-You trudge down the pouring street.]] ] ] (set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [You leave the cat alone.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your eyes wander off and about.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You decide to bide your time by counting the red bricks amidst the opposite wall.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [There are (random: 60, 120).]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [You decide to count the dark brown ones.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [There are (random: 30, 70).]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [This is boring.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [You rise from the ground and walk back into the street.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [You hear a tumble above you.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[You jump at the sound. [[Day 5<-You'd nearly forgotten about the rain.]] ][You hold out your hand.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [At once, the tabby snarls, and strikes your fingers with its claws.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[You retract your hand and look at it. [You've got a nasty few cuts.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[Leave the cat alone]]
[[Try once more]] ] (set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You leave the cat alone.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Your mind mulls upon this irksome encounter.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [That creature has the *nerve* to act that way.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [Sure, you might understand its frustration...]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [But at least *you* know how to control yourself.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[Amidst your irritation, out of the corner of your eye, [you swear that you see something inside the box underneath the tabby's.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [You don't care enough.]<cl7|
(if: $despaircount is 4 or 5)[ [[Look in the box]] ] ] (click-replace: ?cl7)[ [[Day 5<-You raise yourself from the ground and walk back into the street.]] ][You try once more.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You are able to pull away your hand in time, before the tabby takes another swipe at it.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2) [ [You heave a sigh.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[Leave the cat alone2<-Leave the cat alone]]
(if: $choicecount is 4)[ [[Wait]] ] ] [Day falls to night.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [[The fifth day dawns.]] ](set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You wait.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[Because now that you think about it, [you understand.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[You leave your umbrella resting on your lap, [as your head leans back on the wall behind you.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[The raindrops scatters about your face, as if washing away the blemishes that linger even still. [You rest your eyes.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[You aren't sure how much time passes, [before you are hailed with meek cries and prodded awake by gentle paws.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[You open your eyes to find the tabby poised upon your lap underneath your umbrella, [pushing at your raincoat with one paw while yelling for your heed.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[You smile, as you slowly reach a hand for the cat, [and stroke its matted fur.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[It closes its eyes in bliss. [It seems to like you.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [All it had needed was time to let it out.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[Gently you lift the tabby cat and rise from the ground, keeping the umbrella over both of you, [[Day 5<-as you walk back into the street.]] ](set: $cat to 1) [You look in the box.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[The cardboard container has been left on its side, [and nestled inside it is an old mask.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[The white surface is blemished with grime, and spots around the rims have chipped away over time. [The face is expressionless, neither grinning nor scowling.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[Don the mask]]
[[Leave the mask]] ](set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) (set: $mask to 1) [You don the mask.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[It fits like a glove over your face, [and you peer out through the eye holes.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[You've never felt so secluded in your life. Yet, [you aren't so sure that that is a bad thing.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You have the mind to set down your umbrella.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [Not a drop dabbles your face.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [This is exactly what you needed...]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [You raise yourself from the ground and walk back into the street.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [The umbrella rolls about in that alley.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [[Day 5<-Perhaps the tabby will make use of it.]] ][You leave the mask.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[Instead, you raise yourself from the ground and walk back into the street.]<cl2|
(click: ?cl2)[You are a bit disgruntled, [but a sudden rumble makes you jump.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[Day 5<-You walk with unsteady strides.]] ](if: $game is 0)[ [You walk through the rain(if: $cat is 1)[, with a new friend in one arm].]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [The rain has surmounted into a storm overnight.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [The pellets practically beat you into the asphalt.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [But you continue.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [You have to. (if: $cat is 1)[You have precious cargo.] ]<cl5|]
(if: $mask is 0)[(click: ?cl5)[You hold your umbrella so tightly that you feel its pole may snap in two. [You must keep dry.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Then suddenly—]] ] ] ] (if: $mask is 1)[(click: ?cl5)[ [It is not very difficult.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[The raincoat protects your body, its hood keeps your head untouched, [and this mask hides your face from the downpour.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [[Then suddenly—]] ] ]
(if: $game is 1)[ (if: $walking is 0)[ [You sit in the rain.]<cl1| (click: ?cl1)[ [You jolt awake, and find yourself sitting in the alley.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[The umbrella remains above you, [and your gaming device lays upon your lap.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[You are well-rested, so you rise from the ground, [and walk into the pouring street.]<cl4|] ] (if: $walking is 1)[ [You walk through the rain.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [The rain has surmounted into a storm overnight.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [The pellets practically beat you into the asphalt.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [But you don't see it.]<cl4|] ]
(click: ?cl4)[You carry on just as before, the umbrella between your arm and stomach, [and your game beeping and whiring in your hands.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[So entranced are you, that you barely note the raging storm, as it prods at you for your attention. [You don't see it.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [But you don't care.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [At least you think that you don't.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [Your mind touches upon nothing else, in fact.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [[Then suddenly—]] ] ](if: $game is 0)[ (if: $mask is 0)[A forceful gust rips the umbrella from your grasp, [and it flies off ahead of you.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[You start to panic. The rain feels like bullets against your skin. (if: $cat is 1)[The tabby is screaming in your arms.] [You need the umbrella!]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[(if: $cat is 0)[(if: $despaircount>$choicecount and $despaircount>$forgetcount)[ [[Run after it]] ] (if: $forgetcount>$despaircount and $forgetcount>$choicecount)[
[[Hide your face]] ] (if: $choicecount>$despaircount and $choicecount>$forgetcount)[
[[Stay there]] ] (if:$despaircount is 2 and $forgetcount is 2)[
[[Run after it]]
[[Hide your face]] ] (if: $despaircount is 2 and $choicecount is 2)[
[[Run after it]]
[[Stay there]] ] (if: $forgetcount is 2 and $choicecount is 2) [
[[Hide your face]]
[[Stay there]] ] ] (if: $cat is 1)[
[[Stay]] ] ] ] ] (if: $mask is 1)[A forceful gust threatens to tip you forward, to reveal your being to the elements. [But you fight it.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[Your mask will not come off. [You will never reveal yourself again.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You will make sure of it.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [This is what you wanted.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [...]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [.....]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [[Day 6<-This is what you thought you wanted...]] ] ] (if: $game is 1)[A forceful gust tears the umbrella from your arm, [and it flies off ahead of you.]<dcl1|
(click: ?dcl1)[You almost don't notice that either, [until your game fizzles and goes dark.]<dcl2|]
(click: ?dcl2)[ [You stand still.]<dcl3|]
(click: ?dcl3)[ [You don't know what else to do.]<dcl4|]
(click: ?dcl4)[ [You press the A button.]<dcl5|]
(click: ?dcl5)[ [Nothing.]<dcl6|]
(click: ?dcl6)[ [You flip the power switch.]<dcl7|]
(click: ?dcl7)[ [Nothing.]<dcl8|]
(click: ?dcl8)[ [You start to panic.]<dcl9|]
(click: ?dcl9)[It...[It can't be dead.]<dcl10|]
(click: ?dcl10)[It was...[your protection.]<dcl11|]
(click: ?dcl11)[ [It kept you safe.]<dcl12|]
(click: ?dcl12)[ [It kept you sane!]<dcl13|]
(click: ?dcl13)[The space around you goes dark. Even darker than before. [Your world is crumbling over top of you.]<dcl14|]
(click: ?dcl14)[ [You remember the rain.]<dcl15|]
(click: ?dcl15)[ [You've walked through the rain.]<dcl16|]
(click: ?dcl16)[ [*How did I get here?*]<dcl17|]
(click: ?dcl17)[ [*Where am I?*]<dcl18|]
(click: ?dcl18)[ [You don't know.]<dcl19|]
(click: ?dcl19)[ [*...what now?*]<dcl20|]
(click: ?dcl20)[ [[Day 6<-You don't know.]] ] ] (set: $despaircount to $despaircount + 1) [You run after it.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [Raindrops pelt your face as you sprint across the street.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[You reach it, [but it flies farther.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[Frustrated and frantic, you keep running. [And the wind takes it yet again.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[So you run, and run, and run, smacking the river below you with your rainboots, [even still out of reach of your precious umbrella.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [Until you slip.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [And fall to the ground.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [Now you are soaked, head to toe.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [You crane your neck, and cannot find the umbrella anymore.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [So you lay there, and let the rain drench you further.]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [You don't have the strength anymore.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [*How could you let this happen?*]<cl12|]
(click: ?cl12)[ [You're *weak*!]<cl13|]
(click: ?cl13)[ [[Day 6<-You know.]] ] (set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [You hide your face.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You did it without thinking honestly.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[In a flash of lightening you fall to your knees and cover your face in desperation. [You can't risk getting wet.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[(if: $cat is 1)[The tabby cat squeals as it is exposed to the elements. In fear it bolts away from you. But you don't seem to pay it any attention.](set: $cat to 0) [You crouch there on the asphalt.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[Your head feels like it's burning. You imagine for every window of every building around you, there stands multitudes, [casting millions of disapproving glares upon your balled-up figure.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [You cannot take this.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [You cannot take this!]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [It hurts!]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [*It hurts so bad!*]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [*Make it stop!*]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [You strike your skull with the ball of your hand.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [*Make it stop!*]<cl12|]
(click: ?cl12)[ [You strike it again.]<cl13|]
(click: ?cl13)[ [*Make it stop!*]<cl14|]
(click: ?cl14)[ [And again.]<cl15|]
(click: ?cl15)[ [*Make it stop!*]<cl16|]
(click: ?cl16)[ [And again.]<cl17|]
(click: ?cl17)[ [*Make it stop!*]<cl18|]
(click: ?cl18)[ [*Make it STOP!*]<cl19|]
(click: ?cl19)[ [*MAKE IT STOP!*]<cl20|]
(click: ?cl20)[ [And again]<cl21|]
(click: ?cl21)[ [And again]<cl22|]
(click: ?cl22)[ [[Day 6<-And again.]] ] (set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You stand there.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You are unsure why.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You pull back your hood, and raise your face to the murky sky.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[The rain coats you at once, [massaging your scalp and soaking into your clothing underneath the raincoat.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[You feel...[rejuvinated]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[In this moment, [you cannot help...but smile.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[Look at you. [You've come so far.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [You're a mess.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [But that's okay.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [Perhaps that's just what you needed.]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [You realize that now.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [You only wish you had known it sooner.]<cl12|]
(click: ?cl12)[Eventually, you face back forward, and walk toward your umbrella. [It is only a few yards away.]<cl13|]
(click: ?cl13)[And before you commence your journey, you lift it back over your head. [[Day 6<-You almost don't want to.]] ](set: $choicecount to $choicecount + 1) [You need the umbrella.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [*You* need the umbrella.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [The tabby does not.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [It only needs a shade.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[You fall to your knees and hold the feline to your chest. [You squeeze your eyes shut to keep the downpour from blinding them.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[You unzip your raincoat and conceal the tabby inside. [In time you stand back up.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[You are now soaked thoroughly, and your leaking raincoat is assisting in the process. [But the tabby is dry.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [You creep forward amidst the plummeting raindrops, closer toward the umbrella.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [It feels as though hours have passed.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[Yet eventually, you make it to your tossing umbrella. [You reach for the handle and bring it back up over the two of you.]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[The pressure leaves your head and shoulders. You are coated in water. [Yet, it's kind of refreshing.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [[Day 6<-You commence your travel, as your new friend falls fast asleep in your coat.]] ][Day falls to night.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [[The sixth day dawns.]] ][You go to it.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[As you stand over it, you see that it is a box. [You take it in your hands]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[Under the protection of your umbrella you open the box, [and find inside a portable gaming device.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[The screen is a bit smudged and the outer layer has been battered. [You flick the power switch.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[The screen beams with life, now boasting the title screen to a game: [the sort of game you enjoy the most.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [[Play the game]]
[[Leave the device]] ] (set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) (set: $game to 1) [You play the game.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[You nestle the pole of your umbrella in between your arm and abdomen, [so that you have both of your hands free.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You have so much fun with your new game, as you walk along the street.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You actually smile.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [[Day 3<-You forget about the rain.]] ][[Day 3<-You decide to leave the device on the ground, and walk away.]][You let your friend play.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You make sure that it doesn't get wet as you pass it to her.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[Once she begins to play, [her face goes bright with joy.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You haven't seen her this happy for a long time.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [As if she has forgotten this path she travels.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [The path you are beginning to remember.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[You peer up at the achromatic wash that looks down upon you, [and catch the rhythm of its raindrops as they strike the pavement.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[You snap into reality just in time, [before you'd nearly lowered your umbrella.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [You ask your friend for the game back, to which she reluctantly concedes.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [Her happiness has disappeared.]<cl10|]
(click: ?cl10)[ [You can't stand to see this reversion.]<cl11|]
(click: ?cl11)[ [So you play your game instead.]<cl12|]
(click: ?cl12) [ [Soon your friend bids you farewell, and walks away through the rain.]<cl13|]
(click: ?cl13)[ [You do the same.]<cl14|]
(click: ?cl14)[ [[Day 4<-Playing your game.]] ] (set: $forgetcount to $forgetcount + 1) [You don't let her play.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You can't bear to part with your game even for a minute.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [Or else you might remember.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [*Remember what?*]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [You don't care.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [*Look at your friend.*]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [You can't.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [She's upset.]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [Your friend bids you farewell, and walks away through the rain.]<cl9|]
(click: ?cl9)[ [[Day 4<-You don't see it.]] ] [You walk through the rain.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [At least you had been.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [It's been five days.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [[And much has occurred.]] ](if: $mask is 1)[You now have this mask.
This pale, featureless mold that encases your face.
You'd believed that this was an answer to prayer.
No rain can touch you again.
No one will every see you drenched.
No one.
Ever.
You wanted this.
But...
...[[End<-You miss the rain.]] ] (if: $game is 1)[You'd once had a game.
It kept you from reality.
Distracted you from the downpour and gloom.
You loved it.
You depended on it.
And without it...
...[[End<-You feel lost.]] ] (if: $cat is 1)[You've learned to embrace the rain.
It isn't really all that bad, to be honest.
You can take the cold.
It actually feels quite nice.
And now, you have a friend.
Your tabby is not yet ready to experience the rain.
But it will.
[[End<-When it's ready.]] ] (if: $game is 0 and $mask is 0 and $cat is 0)[(if: $choicecount>$despaircount and $choicecount>$forgetcount)[You've learned to embrace the rain.
It isn't really all that bad, to be honest.
You can take the cold.
It actually feels quite nice.
Now the world around you doesn't feel so bleak.
Perhaps you've changed your point of view.
[[End<-Of maybe it's you, yourself, that's changed.]] ] (if: $forgetcount>$choicecount and $forgetcount>$despaircount)[You tried so very hard to forget the weather.
You did everything that you could to advert your gaze.
And you find that it was in vain.
You could not forget that rain you'd trespassed.
You realize that now.
You've never hated the rain, but...
[[End<-You just wish that you didn't have to get wet.]] ] (if: $despaircount>$choicecount and $despaircount>$forgetcount)[You tried so very hard to stay dry.
That umbrella was your haven.
You clung to it wholeheartedly.
And even still you are wet.
You hate the feel of it.
Now everyone will see you, covered in rain.
What will they think?
You must never do this again.
Ever.
Don't be so weak.
Stay dry.
From now on.
You say this to yourself, but...
For a moment...
...[[End<-it had felt nice.]] ] ] [So, you drop to your knees.]<cl1|
(click: ?cl1)[ [You've walked through the rain for so very long.]<cl2|]
(click: ?cl2)[ [You don't care if anyone's watching.]<cl3|]
(click: ?cl3)[ [You.]<cl4|]
(click: ?cl4)[ [Just.]<cl5|]
(click: ?cl5)[ [Don't.]<cl6|]
(click: ?cl6)[ [Care.]<cl7|]
(click: ?cl7)[ [You look to the cerulean sky(if: $mask is 1)[, tear off your mask—]—]<cl8|]
(click: ?cl8)[ [[And cry.]] ]THE END
*~Thank you for playing.*