-- [EVENT] --demon encoun base(0)
[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --water demons(1)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You stand by the water and sense you are not alone. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Investigate.
[OUT]Investigate.
[OUT]Investigate.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Rusalka(2)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You hear a beautiful flute melody and see three women wearing sparse white garments whirling around in a circle.

Their energy and laughter are infectious, and they beckon you to come join them.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Rusalka]Dance with your sisters.
[OUT][Befuddler]Stand aside and try to join in.
[OUT][Vodnik] Join the rusalkas - after all, they are your subjects.
[OUT][Demon]Stay alert for trickery, but join in.
[OUT][Intellect or Nature] Intellect and nature dictate that this may be a trap. Remain cautious but join them.
[OUT]The melody is so sublime, the dancers so exquisite -- go, dance, forget your worries.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
You join in and twist and twirl till your head spins with stars. Your sisters welcome you:

'We feel you are changed, yet not fully estranged, your new path is dry, for this we cry, but we will dance with no backward glance.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Dance away like you did in your youth, and accept any blessings or trickery that may come of it.
[OUT]Dance away like you did in your youth, and accept any blessings or trickery that may come of it.
[OUT]Dance away like you did in your youth, and accept any blessings or trickery that may come of it.
[OUT]You don't need the competition. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
You come closer and clap your hands in rhythm, remembering your childhood games. The rusalkas finally see you and sing:

'A child of ours, a child so wrong, neither pretty nor strong, yet somehow do you belong?'

You know the dance can give powerful gifts, but for you, it can also bring pain.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Focus on remembering the right dance.
[OUT]Answer that you are no longer judged by their harsh ways. The gods give you strength now.
[OUT]Answer that you are no longer judged by their harsh ways. The gods give you strength now.
[OUT]This brings back childhood trauma. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]10
[STORY]
The rusalkas accept you into their circle and you feel their blessings, but then they turn on you and sing: 

'A child of ours once you were, but now another's mark you bear. Begone, wretched fruit of our loins!'

You feel your spirits drain as your kin once more rejects you, but you have also learned a harsh lesson not to trust them again.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]14
[STORY]
The rusalkas turn nasty and sing:

'A child of ours once you were, but now another's mark you bear. Begone, wretched fruit of our loins!'

You feel your spirits drain and your body weaken as your kin once more rejects you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]17
[STORY]
'A sister's pity left your ugly heart beating, but your twisted face is a disgrace. Begone!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]19
[STORY]
'A sister's pity left your ugly heart beating, so let's dance this moment, however fleeting.'

The rusalkas allow you to join them in the dance, and you feel a blessing from it. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]24
[STORY]
You try to join, but the rusalkas stop and glare at you.

'A water master you may be, a lord of lake and even sea, but here we are creatures free, so please, do flee.'
[/STORY]
[OUT][Vodnik]They will not speak to you this way. Intimidate your underlings.
[OUT][Vodnik]It is good to see such free spirits. And that one rusalka, so pretty. Tell her you are in awe of her beauty.
[OUT]This is unacceptable. Attack!
[OUT]Leave them be.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]30
[STORY]
The rusalkas turn nasty and sing:

'A master indeed is what we need? We only ever needed your wet seed and now we'll watch you bleed!'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]This is unacceptable. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]31
[STORY]
'Your words are nice, yet your manhood remains a vice. Out of our breeding time, it will not entice. Be well.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]This is unacceptable. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]32
[STORY]
The rusalkas accept you into their circle, and the one you flattered takes you aside into the waters, whispering,

'It is not yet my time to mate, but your mastery may this rule negate.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Flattery gets you everywhere, it seems, as the rusalka joins your path. Leave together.
[OUT]It seems your meddling with human gods has changed you, and from this union the rusalka brings you an unwanted befuddler child. Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]33
[STORY]
The rusalkas accept you into their circle and you feel its blessings, but then they turn on you and sing: 

'A master indeed is what we need? We only ever needed your wet seed and now we'll watch you bleed!'

These trickster ladies let you win so you'll land in their embrace. You feel your spirit drained.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]This is unacceptable. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]34
[STORY]
You approach the women and the melody becomes more seductive with every step. 

Luckily, you were prepared for such trickery, so the charm has no real hold over you -- for now.

You are aware that if you last through a whole dance, you could be rewarded.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Keep your wits about you and dance with the rusalkas. 
[OUT][Magic user or Mysticism] Use magic to ward you from this charm, then dance with the rusalkas.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Too great a risk. Just leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]43
[STORY]
Were you fighting just now?

The melody is so sweet, the air smells of lilies and fresh water, and the nymphs move like flower petals on the lake...

You dance and dance and dance until your very spirit is drained...
[/STORY]
[OUT]Dancing is great...
[/NODE]

+[NODE]45
[STORY]
The pretty ladies dance so nicely, and the melody is so sweet. But as you dance and dance, you feel something is wrong. Before the demons can siphon your life force, you break free. 

The demonettes are gone, and you even feel you gained something here.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]47
[STORY]
The melody is so sweet, the air smells of lilies and fresh water, and the nymphs move like flower petals on the lake...

You dance and dance and dance until your very spirit is drained...
[/STORY]
[OUT]Dancing is great...
[/NODE]

+[NODE]48
[STORY]
The rusalkas accept you into their circle and you feel its blessings, but then they turn on you and sing: 

'A child of ours once you were, you may now be other, but we do not care as you dance with the water's flair!'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]52
[STORY]
The rusalkas accept you into their circle and you feel empowered by their dance. 

Afterwards they bow to you and apologise for their rudeness. They honour you as the king of the waters. 

[/STORY]
[OUT]One of the rusalkas yields to your dominance and decides to follow your lead. Leave together.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]59
[STORY]
The demons' trickery fails, and you see the real faces of the dancing nymphs. 

They run off, angry, and you feel wiser for surviving this encounter.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]60
[STORY]
You approach the women and the melody becomes more seductive with every step. 

Luckily, you were prepared for such trickery, so the charm has no real hold over you -- for now.

You are aware that if you last through a whole dance, you could be rewarded.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Keep your wits about you and dance with the rusalkas. 
[OUT][Magic user or Mysticism] Use magic to ward you from this charm, then dance with the rusalkas.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Too great a risk. Just leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Vodnik(3)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You find a small, secluded pond surrounded by high grass and weeping willows bowing their sorrowful heads into the silvery surface.

There is a figure sitting on the shore, hunched and clearly deep in thought and concern.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Water demon]Ask if this pond belongs to the vodnik.
[OUT]Approach the man.
[OUT]The man seems suspicious. Attack him!
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
The man turns to you, and you see he is a vodnik, with green hair and fishy eyes. He looks at you with sadness:

'Mine? Yes, yes. But the bear, the bear is all wrong, I don't know what to do...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask if he means the Plough. And why would he say the stars are broken?
[OUT]Offer to help in exchange for a demon deal -- a favour he will be bound to.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
The vodnik points to the surface of the pond and you see the reflection of the Plough, but it is missing one star. 

'The star is hiding from me. It won't come. I don't know what to do!'
[/STORY]
[OUT][Light]Offer to call upon the light domain to gain the star's attention.
[OUT]This seems to be pointless. Leave.
[OUT]In the name of Zorya, the stars do as they will. Tell the demon to stop fretting.
[OUT]Ask him to explain where exactly the problem lies.
[OUT]Agree to help with this 'problem.' But ask what you can do.
[OUT][Vodnik]He simply needs to do the star dance properly so the bear star is called and the beast kept at bay. Tell him there is no need to fret and that you are willing to aid him.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]5
[STORY]
'No, no, you don't understand. All the bear's stars must touch the surface of the pond, else a beast will rise from beyond!' 
[/STORY]
[OUT][Turmoil]As turmoil demands it, face this beast!
[OUT][Zorya or Light]Say you will demand that the star show itself to the vodnik.
[OUT]By the will of Zorya, wait for the beast to come!
[OUT]Agree to face the beast that comes.
[OUT]This seems to be pointless. Leave.
[OUT]Agree to help with this 'problem.' But ask what you can do.
[OUT][Vodnik]He simply needs to do the star dance properly so the bear star is called and the beast kept at bay. Tell him there is no need to fret and that you are willing to aid him.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
You wait, ready for battle, and indeed, soon the waters stir and a beast lunges at you!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Fight!
[OUT]Actually, retreat...
[/NODE]

+[NODE]9
[STORY]
You call upon the light in the night sky and the missing star responds. Its gentle yet sharp gaze touches the pond, and the vodnik claps three times with joy. With each clap he leaves a reward for your efforts before he disappears into the waters. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]10
[STORY]
You fail, and the vodnik cries and claps six times:

'Now I must make a sacrifice to keep the beast at bay. Stupid, stupid star. Begone, you!'

He disappears into the waters. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn it. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
'Well, you could try calling the star, I suppose. I couldn't do it on my own. 

We need to hold hands and hop from one star to the other on one leg, with one eye covered, while singing to the stars. Will you do it?'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Hop on the stars?
[OUT]Agree and accept the physical challenge.
[OUT]Decline and leave him be.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]17
[STORY]
'Yes, the stars, on the water, obviously. Worry not, for if you hold my hand, you will not fall into the abyss of the pond. But if you should falter in any way...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Agree and accept the physical challenge.
[OUT]Decline and leave him be.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
'Of course, with your help we can do it!'

You take each other's hands and hop on one leg while closing your right eye and singing to the stars. 

The starlight returns and you feel its blessings upon you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Great! Say your goodbyes and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]23
[STORY]
'Oh, you devious thing. Upon the bear star, I agree, and if I lie it will be the end of me. Happy? Now how will you help?'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Offer to call upon the light domain to gain the star's attention.
[OUT]This seems to be pointless. Leave.
[OUT]In the name of Zorya, the stars do as they will. Tell the demon to stop fretting.
[OUT]'What? Why is it a problem?'
[OUT]Agree to help with this 'problem.' But ask what you can do.
[OUT][Vodnik]He simply needs to do the star dance properly so the bear star is called and the beast kept at bay. Tell him there is no need to fret and that you are willing to aid him.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]25
[STORY]
'Ah, visitors... pray come here and help, for I have a conundrum to solve, and the matter is grave indeed.'

You feel you cannot possibly refuse...
[/STORY]
[OUT]'I feel your unnatural pull on my willpower. Speak now or no help will come to you!'
[OUT]Try to resist this strange pull.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]27
[STORY]
'Bah, you are strong in spirit, and I have no time for games. Alas, the bear up in the sky -- one of its paws is missing!' 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Offer to help in exchange for a demon deal -- a favour he will be bound to.
[OUT]'What? Why is it a problem?'
[OUT]This seems to be pointless. Leave.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]28
[STORY]
Despite the vodnik's silver tongue and magic weaves, you are not fooled. The creature cries out in disappointment and disappears in the waters, but you feel an ominous presence as you too leave the area.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]30
[STORY]
You failed, and you felt compelled to come to the vodnik's aid. First he made you jump and dance, then swim in the pond with no clothes, then sing and clap hands with him, and then he finally left you alone, but you feel utterly drained. 

The vodnik seems pleased as he disappears. 'Yes, yes, tragedy averted, thanks.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]41
[STORY]
You take hold of the vodnik and, for a time, as your bodies lift from the ground, you think he really will take you to the stars. Instead, the strange dance takes place on the pond, where you hop from one star-reflection to the other. 

'Yes, yes, we're doing it!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Keep your concentration.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]42
[STORY]
When you reach the last star-reflection, you look up and see a beautiful rising light shine very brightly on the vodnik. 

The demon smiles and bows first to the star, then to you. 

'Thank you, I must go now and be with my star, but here, your reward!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Wish him well and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]44
[STORY]
You take hold of the vodnik and, for a time, as your bodies lift from the ground, you think he really will take you to the stars. Instead, the strange dance takes place on the pond, where you hop from one star-reflection to the other. 

Alas, it is not as easy as it looks, and you are unable to keep up with the demon.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try to stop and get back to shore.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]45
[STORY]
'It is good you know your weakness, for if you fell or stayed behind, it would be hard for me to help you. Now, leave, please, I must try to finish in peace.'

He takes you back to the shore and, other than feeling exhausted, you're fine.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]49
[STORY]
You take hold of the vodnik and, for a time, as your bodies lift from the ground, you think he really will take you to the stars. Instead, the strange dance takes place on the pond, where you hop from one star-reflection to the other.

Alas, it is not as easy as it looks. You lose your balance and fall behind. The vodnik moves away, and it feels like you are falling!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try to hold on.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]50
[STORY]
The pond swallows you in its black belly, and for a time you think you may be done for. You see a menacing pair of red eyes staring at you from the depths.

Then a light pulls you out and throws you to the shore.

The vodnik is nowhere to be seen, but you do see an extra star in the sky.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave this place.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Utopiec(4)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You come close to the shore of a body of water and spot a group of humanoid creatures with fins, beady eyes, and scales. 

They are huddling over a shipwreck and you see human bodies at their feet.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Utopiec]Greet your kin.
[OUT][Wisdom or demon]Try to identify these creatures. 
[OUT]Attack them!
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
'Friend... you speak the mortal speak... hard it is, unpleasant to the inside hearing.

Our battle stopped now, we take what is ours. You take not, you are no more water lords.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Confirm that you walk the path of mortal gods now because they serve you all. Convince them of your sincerity.
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[OUT]Kin or not, the loot is yours. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
'No, be off!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Fine, leave.
[OUT]Kin or not, the loot is yours. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]12
[STORY]
These are clearly utopiec demons, lesser water fiends who often serve vodniks and rusalkas. They are very capricious.

Like many demons, they often use games and riddles to play with their potential prey, and this can be used against them.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Offer to play a game with the utopiec for the loot.
[OUT]Attack them!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]14
[STORY]
You win the game! Bound by demon laws, the utopiec leave you the wreckage, but as capricious as they are, they sink it and send small water creatures to bite you as you retrieve the stuff.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Gather the loot and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
You lose the game. According to demon laws, the utopiec should take their wreckage, but because they are capricious, they do not.

'The game good, you play good, you take floating flesh and its stuff.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]19
[STORY]
You lose the game. Bound by demon laws, the utopiec take their wreckage and also leave you with a nasty rash from gods know where.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
'Weak mortals, silly, why so much anger? Good fighting, me thinks... Bye bye.'

The utopiec beat you, and as they stand triumphant, they not only leave you be, but also leave you some of the loot from the wreckage. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]25
[STORY]
'You say truth to us, this is good. Maybe your gods do mean well, as say you. 

Here, we share our loot. Peace with you.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Thank them and gather your share.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]29
[STORY]
'You no friend no more, you traitor scum.'

The utopiec spit at you and depart.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]32
[STORY]
You win the game! Bound by demon laws, the utopiec leave you the wreckage.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Gather the loot and leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --goldfish(5)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You come across a small watering hole. There's nothing particularly special about it, but you see a small grey fish flopping about on the shore, dying. 
[/STORY]
[OUT][Perception] There is something fishy here. Take a closer look. 
[OUT][Demon]You sense the presence of your kin. Take a closer look.
[OUT]Take the fish to eat it.
[OUT]Poor thing. Throw the fish back into the water. 
[OUT]Ignore it. Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
Some of the fish's grey scales have a faint glimmer of gold on them, and it looks like it's trying to whisper to you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Must be a goldfish. Folk tales say throwing it back into the water may grant you wishes. Pick it up.
[OUT]Poor thing. Throw the fish back into the water. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]5
[STORY]
True to your senses, you recognise that this is a minor luck demon, commonly known to mortals as a goldfish. 

You know the best way to get a good deal is to negotiate before helping it, but it appears to be in very bad shape.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Before throwing it into the water, negotiate terms!
[OUT]Poor thing. Throw the fish back into the water. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
You pick up the goldfish, and it speaks to you:
'I... am... dying... throw me into the water, please...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Demand your three wishes first.
[OUT]Poor thing. Throw the fish back into the water. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
You throw the fish back into the water, and within moments, it wriggles back to life. Its grey scales now flicker with a golden shimmer, and its tail extends with a flourish.

'You saved me! Thank you. I am afraid I cannot offer my usual wishes, as you did not negotiate before the rescue -- mean, I know, but what can you do? Rules are rules.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask if another reward is in order.
[OUT]Say it was your pleasure to help out and you require no reward.
[OUT]No wishes? Demand that you are owed some.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
'I cannot say, as this is another rule I am bound by. But see these three water lilies. Choose one, and the reward will await you. Now be well, friends!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Choose one.
[OUT]Choose one.
[OUT]Choose one.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]9
[STORY]
'I am... too... weak...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Stand firm - no wishes, no water.
[OUT]Poor thing. Throw the fish back into the water. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]10
[STORY]
'Oh, fine! I agree. Three minor wishes I will grant to thee!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Why minor?
[OUT]Some resources.
[OUT]Weapons.
[OUT]A resource, a weapon, and a surprise.
[OUT]Riches, wisdom, and strength.
[OUT]Demand her demonic protection, for you know your kin must obey such bonds!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]14
[STORY]
'I am a fish! What do you think I could do? World peace? Kingdoms? Why the fuck would I sit here in a pond if I could do that? Hurry, my arse is dry!

And nothing too fancy, else I will bite you.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Some resources.
[OUT]Weapons.
[OUT]A resource, a weapon, and a surprise.
[OUT]Riches, wisdom, and strength.
[OUT]Demand her demonic protection, for you know your kin must obey such bonds!
[OUT]Screw simple - demand the power of the gods!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
'Ah, shite, there's always one who will go there. As you wish...

Here's the formula I'm supposed to say:
Gods ascend through understanding and the will to become. Thus, by making the wish, you have proven yourself forever unworthy.

And here's one from me: those pompous bastards dislike mortals trying back doors, so any fool who tries gets cursed. I did warn you!' 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn it...
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
'A bargain was made, and thus my oaths are honoured. 

I don't do returns or accept complaints. What you have is it. Bye.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]25
[STORY]
You eat the fish. It is small and bony but surprisingly tasty.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]30
[STORY]
'Hmm, odd mortal. Have it your way, sucker.'

The fish disappears.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]32
[STORY]
'Nope, no wishes for you. Hurry, time's ticking, you only have a choice of two rewards now. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Choose one.
[OUT]Choose one.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --forest demons(6)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You enter an old woodland and feel the presence of more than just wildlife here. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Investigate.
[OUT]Investigate.
[OUT]Investigate.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Leshy(7)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
As you go deeper into the forest, you see it is damaged, and you hear the cries of creatures all around. 
[/STORY]
[OUT][Nature] Nature is your domain, be it by gods or skill. Listen to the forest and hear its woes.
[OUT]Carefully investigate.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
You see the forest has undergone a dramatic change of some sort. There are rocks sticking out of the ground, abruptly broken trees, holes and gaps, and areas of swamp that were not here before, judging from the plant types. 

In one of the swamp patches, you notice a half-submerged tree that you identify as a leshy, an ancient guardian of the forests.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Leshy]Ask your brother what is amiss here.
[OUT]Ask the forest guardian how you can help.
[OUT]Ask him how a leshy got stuck in a swamp?
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leshy wood is good wood. Kill it!
[OUT]This is pointless. Pick up any valuable wood and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]5
[STORY]
'Treefolk, oof soorts, yoou areee, yeees... Hmmm...

Maadness, yoou aask? It aalll begaan...'


[/STORY]
[OUT]Stop him before he goes on, and remind the leshy that he is almost sunk into the swamp.
[OUT]This is pointless. Pick up any valuable wood and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
'Haaste, indeeed, hoow saad. Pleease, doo help... 

And if yoou cannot help mee, aat leaast chaase the fiend whoo did this to my poor foorest. 

He went thaat waaay!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]You are strong enough to pull the leshy out, so do it.
[OUT]Try to pull the leshy out by force.
[OUT]Tell the leshy you are not strong enough to pull him out, but you will seek revenge. Run after whoever did this.
[OUT]Tell the leshy you are not strong enough to pull him out, but you will seek revenge. Run after whoever did this.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
You pull the leshy out of the swamp.

'Thaank yoou, frieend. I am weak noow and will sleeep. The birds will tell you what happened heere if you wish. If noot, faare thee well, aand have the bodies of my fallen forest as reward.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Stay to listen to the tale.
[OUT]Accept the gifts with thanks and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]10
[STORY]
You track down a lone figure, clad in long robes and carrying a heavy staff. 

The figure sits on a stone and does not seem to notice you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Sneak up and kill them!
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Ask them why they destroyed the forest.
[OUT][Mysticism]Sense what magic they wield, for it is obvious that they wield some.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]12
[STORY]
Alas, you fail to track the culprit.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn it. leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
The leshy's entrapment stopped him from unleashing his full fury, but as you try to collect the wood, you are assailed by birds, squirrels, and even acorns. 

If there were any valuable wood here, it seems to have disappeared under a blanket of moving shrubbery.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
'Hmmm...

Maadness, you aask, it aall begaan... loong ago, likely befoore your birth froom the looks of your fresh skinn...'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask the forest guardian how you can help.
[OUT]This is pointless. Pick up any valuable wood and leave.
[OUT]Leshy wood is good wood. Kill it!
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]18
[STORY]
'Ooh, yoou choose tooo speak the mortaal taalk, hoow ooodd. 

Hmmm... Maadness, you aask, it aall beguun...'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Apologise for the undue haste, but ask if you can aid the leshy, as it looks like he doesn't have much time left.
[OUT]This is pointless. Pick up any valuable wood and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]19
[STORY]
The forest is odd. It has rocks, holes, and random patches of swampy areas. 

In one such area, you spot a large, living tree half submerged in mud, struggling to get free but sinking deeper.
[/STORY]
[OUT]You are strong enough to pull the leshy out, so do it.
[OUT]Try to pull the leshy out by force.
[OUT]Leshy wood is good wood. Kill it!
[OUT]Try to pick up any valuable wood and leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
You pull the leshy out of the swamp.

'Thaank yoou, frieend. I am weak noow and will sleeep. The birds will tell you what happened heere if you wish. If noot, faare thee well, aand have the bodies of my fallen forest as reward.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Stay to listen to the tale.
[OUT]Accept the gifts with thanks and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]22
[STORY]
The leshy falls into slumber. His face disappears in the tree bark, and soon he looks like an old, ordinary oak tree. 

But the birds begin to sing, and you can make out some of the words...
[/STORY]
[OUT]Listen.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]23
[STORY]
'A figure, a monster, a man, a beast... came, flew, wondered, arrived!

Foul smell, noises, ground shaking, skies falling!

Dead, dead birds, dead plants, death and change!'

These words are repeated in various orders. The birds also seem to point in a direction.
[/STORY]
[OUT]No need to get involved with whoever could cause this much change. Leave.
[OUT]Follow the direction.
[OUT]Follow the direction.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]25
[STORY]
You feel the presence of pure turmoil and heavy darkness within this person. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Sneak up and kill them.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Ask them why they destroyed the forest.
[OUT]Perform a ritual of light to destroy the darkness!
[OUT][Shadow elf]Speak to your brethren. Offer a cleansing ritual that will soothe and give greater control over the turmoil within. 
[OUT][Shadow elf]Say that you too were tormented once, but upon joining the path of the cosmic tree, you found balance. Tell them it is possible.
[OUT][Elf]Shadowkin, cursed by darkness long ago, unable to return to light. Offer them your own spirit force to help them achieve balance of light and turmoil, as you achieved when you joined the cosmic path of the gods.
[OUT][Elf]Shadowkin, cursed by darkness long ago, unable to return to light. Offer them your own spirit force to help keep the turmoil at bay.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]27
[STORY]
You sneak up on the figure and strike it down!

The body withers away into dust and a release of strong turmoil magic shakes the ground, but it dissolves safely. The body turns to black ash, although you also discover specks of silver dust in it.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]28
[STORY]
The body withers away into dust and a release of strong turmoil magic shakes the ground, but it dissolves safely. The body turns to black ash, although you also discover specks of silver dust in it.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]31
[STORY]
The figure turns to you. You now see their features as thin -- gaunt, even -- their eyes empty and black, their skin covered in black veins. Despite this damage, you recognise the figure as an elf. They speak in a slow, tired voice:

'I was only trying to rest, to feel the connection... but all I can do is destroy. Leave before I destroy you as well...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]You feel tendrils of dark magic assailing you. Attack with magic!
[OUT]Speak to the elf's elder nature, demanding that they stand tall and face this corruption.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT][Elf]Shadowkin, cursed by darkness long ago, unable to return to light. Offer them your own spirit force to help them achieve balance of light and turmoil, as you achieved when you joined the cosmic path of the gods.
[OUT][Elf]Shadowkin, cursed by darkness long ago, unable to return to light. Offer them your own spirit force to help keep the turmoil at bay.
[OUT][Shadow elf]Speak to your brethren. Offer a cleansing ritual that will soothe and give greater control over the turmoil within. 
[OUT][Shadow elf]Say that you too were tormented once, but upon joining the path of the cosmic tree, you found balance. Tell them it is possible.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]33
[STORY]
'You failed, you failed, WHY! Fools...

You now identify the figure as some sort of elf, although one covered in dark, pulsating veins, with empty, black eyes and a gaunt, nearly lifeless body. The elf walks off, and you feel a heavy curse falling upon you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn it. Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]34
[STORY]
'You thirst for blood, then cower in fear, meek and cowardly...' 

The figure leaves, and the ground beneath you shakes. The air grows icy cold and the skies darken as black mist infects your souls!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Run away!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]40
[STORY]
Your ritual calls upon the threads of magic as well as your connection to the cosmic pantheon. 

A force of pure light strikes the figure, and you sense that they did not resist. In fact, you feel they aided your efforts. 

The light burns the flesh and soul of the creature, leaving only black ash, although you discover specks of silver dust in it.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]42
[STORY]
'Mere words cannot cleanse me, but you have awakened some hope within my heart. I will go where I can do no damage, and I will try for control once more. Perhaps even follow this path of yours... You have my thanks.' 

They leave behind a gift and depart.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]45
[STORY]
The figure does not respond to your words, only looks at you with despair. They move away from you quickly, but you feel their dark energy lingering on your souls. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]48
[STORY]
You use your connection to the gods and your own shadow nature to give your kin balance, though you feel your own spirit wounded from the effort. They rise and bow in your honour:

'You gave me a breath of life that I thought was extinguished. I had always assumed that if I could not be elven, I could be nothing, but this is not true. Thank you.'

The shadowkin bows again, hands you a gift, and then disappears into the dark.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]49
[STORY]
'Mere words cannot cleanse me, but you have awakened some hope within my heart. I will go where I can do no damage, and I will try for control once more. Perhaps even follow this path of yours... You have my thanks.' 

[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]53
[STORY]
Seeing that your own connection to turmoil does not overwhelm your being, the shadowkin bows in acceptance of your gift. 

You connect your spirits and feel your soul draining into theirs.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Continue to heal them.
[OUT]Change your mind. Tell them they must find their own path, and then leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]55
[STORY]
'Your wisdom and sacrifice humble me, brethren. I wish to follow the path that gave my once arrogant and stubborn kin this much balance and freedom.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave together.
[OUT]Refuse them. Say they must learn their own path, and then leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]57
[STORY]
'You gave me a breath of life that I thought was extinguished. It warms my heart to see that my brethren have not yet abandoned us entirely. I thank thee.'

The shadowkin bows again, hands you a gift, and then disappears into the dark.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]58
[STORY]
Seeing that your own connection to turmoil does not overwhelm your being, the shadowkin bows in acceptance of your gift. 

You connect your spirits and feel your soul draining into theirs.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Continue to heal them.
[OUT]Change your mind. Tell them they must find their own path, and then leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]61
[STORY]
Some pineconettes and forest fairies try to defend the old leshy, but you kill them too. 

[/STORY]
[OUT]Gather the wood and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]66
[STORY]
You struggle to pull the leshy out, but your efforts only make it worse. The forest guardian sinks before your eyes, but as he does, he exclaims, 'Yoou diiid...'

If only the leshy had spoken faster. You'll never know if he wanted to say you tried or was angry that you made it worse. Either way, the situation leaves you feeling sad.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Leshy2(8)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You enter the forest and discover a hastily abandoned woodcutter camp. 

There is an overly large chunk of a tree that has been chopped down but not yet fully worked. You see a face, in great pain, staring back at you from the tree trunk!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Speak to it.
[OUT][Forest demon]You look in dismay upon the face of a dying leshy. Compel him to tell you what fiend did this so you may exact revenge!
[OUT][Druid or leshy]Attempt to spark life back into the leshy.
[OUT]A nearly dead tree spirit? Good, leave it to die and gather the wood.
[OUT]It may be nearly dead, but better just let it be. Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]5
[STORY]
'Huumph, hamph... hmmm.... Woords... difficult... aacorn.... plaant... haaastily...'

The tree spits out a tiny acorn. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Take the acorn. Use your forest power to plant it properly and thus allow for the leshy's eventual rebirth.
[OUT]Plant the acorn and hope for the best.
[OUT]Plant the acorn and hope for the best.
[OUT]This seems valuable. Take the acorn.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
'Huumph, hamph... hmmm.... Woords... difficult... aacorn.... plaant... haaastily...'

The tree spits out a tiny acorn. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Take the acorn. Use your forest power to plant it properly and thus allow for the leshy's eventual rebirth.
[OUT]This is valuable -- risky, but valuable. Take the acorn.
[OUT]This is valuable -- risky, but valuable. Take the acorn.
[OUT]Leave the acorn be, and gather whatever wood is left here.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
You plant the acorn and know you did well. Your spirits are lifted and wits renewed.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]9
[STORY]
You take the acorn for yourself, and although it soon dies, its life force lingers and gives you clarity of mind.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
You take the acorn for yourself, and although it soon dies, its life force lingers and makes you weak with disease. However,  the acorn was able to summon a lesser demon to help you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good, leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]13
[STORY]
You plant the acorn and know you did well when tiny roots delve into the ground before the ground swallows the seed. Your spirits are lifted by the deed.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]14
[STORY]
You plant the acorn and know you did well when tiny roots delve into the ground before the ground swallows the seed. Your spirits are lifted and wits renewed, but you also realise the acorn borrowed some of your life force to achieve this.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
You meditate and become one with the forest, singing its song and listening to its heartbeat. In tune with nature, you tug ever so gently on the woodland?s life force and weave it back into the fallen leshy. 

You see tiny roots sprout from under the fallen log, and you know the leshy will rise again someday soon.

You can now gather fallen wood without dishonour.
[/STORY]
[OUT]A pineconette joins you. Leave together.
[OUT]Great. Leave him to rest now.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]18
[STORY]
You meditate and become one with the forest, singing its song and listening to its heartbeat. 

Alas, it is too late for the fallen leshy to ever rise again.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
You gather the precious remains of the leshy and ignore the spirit's cries of pain.

You feel the wind whistle with a sharp sting and the birds sing with a sad scowl. 

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Pineconettes(9)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You walk through the forest and realise that the shrubbery beneath your feet is in turmoil as if it was alive.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Forest demon]Speak to the forest folk and ask what is amiss here.
[OUT]Tread carefully and stay vigilant.
[OUT]Trample whatever is beneath you.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
Various pineconettes -- little sprites of the woodland -- perk up and speak:

'Ah, forest folk.'

'Holly crickets, good you spoke, sorry.'

'What are you sorry for? We didn't do anything.'

'Yeah, we were gonna...'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and ask whether there is any forest news.
[OUT]Nod and ask whether there is any forest news.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
'Oh, yeah, go to that grove yonder. Our elders went to be evergreen, so for a short time, you can have good fortune there.

Just don't pick them! Just kidding, I know you wouldn't.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Thank them and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
'Nothing much, but there's a bad bear lives over yonder. He ate a bunch of us! Kill it, maybe?'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Agree. Go attack the bear.
[OUT]Decline to interfere in the natural affairs of the forest. Leave.
[OUT]Try to tame the bear instead so it will not eat the pineconettes again.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]13
[STORY]
The bear submits to you, and you may now call on its prowess!

The pineconettes are happy:

'Thank you, yay!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
The bear submits to you, and you may now call on its prowess!

The pineconettes are happy:

'Thank you, yay!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
You tamed the bear's nature, and it will now respect the forest folk. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]19
[STORY]
You take a few measured steps and see various small creatures rumbling about in the shrubbery, clearly trying to make a lot of noise.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask if they are okay.
[OUT]Kill the critters!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
'Oh, crap, they saw us!'

'Um, eh... we're in trouble.'

'Yes, trouble. Squirrel trouble.'

'Squirrel? Really.'

'Yeah... nasty things, they eat mushrooms and pinecones and acorns, yeah...'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Agree to kill some squirrels. Ask for directions.
[OUT]Decline.
[OUT]Agree to kill some squirrels. Ask for directions.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
A couple of little creatures similar to pinecones and mushrooms pipe up and show themselves:

'Pineconettes, that's what you call us. And, well, if you catch the squirrels, we'll give you treasure.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Threaten the creatures into giving you the treasure in exchange for their lives.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]23
[STORY]
You stomp around, trying to squash the creatures, but you're not sure if you got them or just trampled some shrubbery. Still, at least it is quiet now.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]24
[STORY]
The creatures point you to where the evil squirrels live. 

The way leads through an ever-darker grove with tall, dry pine trees towering above and an eerie air of stillness, broken suddenly by a loud crunch!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Duck down.
[OUT]Duck down.
[OUT]Duck down.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]26
[STORY]
You're very agile, so you duck out of the way and see that you were about to be bombarded with blueberry juice bombs, spiderweb balls, and honey darts. It would have made a right mess of your clothes.

You hear snickering from the shrubbery, but you also find a gift with a 'Thanks for playing' message.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]27
[STORY]
You duck out of the way and see that you were about to be bombarded with blueberry juice bombs, spiderweb balls, and honey darts. It would have made a right mess of your clothes.

You hear snickering from the shrubbery, but you also find a gift with a 'Thanks for playing' message.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]28
[STORY]
You fail to duck in time as a barrage of blueberry juice bombs, spiderweb balls, and honey darts flies your way. It makes a right mess of your clothes, and some of it makes you sick.

You hear snickering from the shrubbery, but you also find a gift with a 'Thanks for playing' message.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]30
[STORY]
'Okay, okay, joke's over, here -- have some of our treasure. Now please leave.'

'Yeah, yeah, go, scary person, go.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Say that was a good choice. Take the stuff and leave.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]31
[STORY]
You stomp around, trying to squash the creatures, but you're not sure if you got them or just trampled some shrubbery. Still, at least it is quiet now.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Good. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]33
[STORY]
You soon realise that you're talking to yourself, as the forest is quiet and the shrubbery motionless.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]35
[STORY]
'Yeah, yeah, kill them!'
'What, no? They're forest folk.'
'Shush, you, they eat us!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Agree to go kill the squirrels.
[OUT]Agree to go kill the squirrels.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]36
[STORY]
You follow the path to where the evil squirrels should be, but all you find is a terrified hairy critter with big yellow eyes, greenish fur, bird's wings, and a god-awful stench. Before you can react, the creature flings a stink bomb at you, then runs off. You hear laughter underneath your feet.
[/STORY]
[OUT]?
[/NODE]

+[NODE]37
[STORY]
'Yaya, you chased it away, good large person you are!'

'Ha ha, it stink-bombed them, ha ha!'

'Shh, they're big, they may eat us.'

The little creatures scurry off into their forest home.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn the little tricksters. Leave.
[OUT]Try to stomp out these creatures!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]38
[STORY]
You find the offending rodents and discover they are actually rabid squirrels. 

You manage to kill them quickly, but you get a few bites that could become infected.

The little creatures that 'hired' you are nowhere to be found, but you find a good stash of supplies waiting for you.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Damn the little tricksters. Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]41
[STORY]
The bear is a beast of the wild and cannot be tamed. Exhausted from the attempt, you are forced to flee.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]42
[STORY]
The bear is defeated. The pineconettes are happy:

'Thank you, yay!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Shroom circle(10)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
Among a small grouping of trees, you discover a circle of multicoloured mushrooms that emit a subtle yellow glow. 
[/STORY]
[OUT][Forest folk] You sense the power of forest sprites within. Go closer to ask for good fortune.
[OUT]Go in closer to investigate.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
As a creature of the woodland, you know the circle will give you blessings. 

But you could also try a more challenging path known as a greenwalk: entering the spiritual path of the forest and becoming one with it through this place of power. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try the greenwalk.
[OUT]Take only the blessings. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
You come closer and feel the yellow glow surround you. For those akin to nature, the glow is pleasant, but for others it may bring harm.

When you try to step forwards, you feel a physical resistance, testing your spiritual resolve.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Attempt the trial.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]22
[STORY]
Your spirit proved strong and you feel the warm glow embrace you, kindly. Whatever test this may have been, you clearly passed.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Swamp demons(11)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You enter the swamps, where the air is thick with lingering darkness.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Continue onwards.
[OUT]Continue onwards.
[OUT]Continue onwards.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --hohlicks(12)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
A low-hanging mist obscures the eerie swamps before you. 

It is dark, and you can barely see your path, but there seems to be a light flickering in the distance -- a campsite, perhaps?
[/STORY]
[OUT]Follow the lights.
[OUT]Stay on your path.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
You walk towards the flickering light, deeper and deeper into the swamps. Yet you seem to get no closer to the source.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Consider what this may be.
[OUT]Keep going.
[OUT]Try to turn around.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]5
[STORY]
Now that you think about it, these must be hochlicks or their cousins, jack-o-lanterns, tricky little things that like to lure folk into all sorts of trouble with their lantern-like butts.

They have been known to hoard loot from unfortunates who fall to their trickery.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Play dead and wait for them to come and investigate.
[OUT]Try to turn around.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
You pretend to fall into the swamp and scream your dying words. Silence falls, and soon, the lights flicker ever closer. 

A swarm of tiny lights arrives, accompanied by a few larger hochlicks.

'Dead, dead, is it dead?'
'Why, oh why!'
'No fun, this no fun. Does it have shiny gold?'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Intimidate them.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
The challenge proved to be in catching the buggers, but once caught, they are easy enough to kill.

You find some odd things they carried, but no real treasure.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
'No, scary big folk, no kill us!'

The creatures scatter in a panic and drop whatever they carried to appease your anger.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]12
[STORY]
Your efforts prove futile and exhausting. Not only did you not deal with the hochlicks, but it took hours to find your way back to a safe path. You are cold, weak, and tired.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
Hours go by. The swamp gets darker and colder, the lights disappear, and you find yourself sinking in quicksand!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try to climb out before it sucks you in too deep.
[OUT]Stay calm and find a safe way to get out.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]17
[STORY]
You pull yourself out of the bog before it sucks you in completely. 

You hear laughter and see the flickering lights disappear. But you also discover the remains of a less fortunate soul, and you were able to retrieve them too.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
Eventually, you make it out of the bog, but it was a draining ordeal, and you feel exhausted. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]25
[STORY]
The path you thought you came in on is sunken, the mist obscures your sight, and mosquitoes bug you at every step. You walk in circles for hours and feel mentally exhausted, but eventually you discover not only a way back, but also a sunken chest of goods thrown ashore by the shifts of the earth.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Gather what you can and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]26
[STORY]
The path you thought you came in on is sunken, the mist obscures your sight, and mosquitoes bug you at every step. You walk in circles for hours and feel mentally exhausted.

Eventually, you find the way out.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Cmuch(13)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
As you walk carefully through the muddy swamps, you hear a rustling nearby.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Investigate.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
In a puddle of mud, you see an overgrown toad-like creature with large warts, big yellow eyes, and a gaping wound on its hind leg.

It cries in pain, but upon seeing you, it tries, unsuccessfully, to run away.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try to help it.
[OUT]Kill it. 
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
As a healer, you're used to all sorts of strange creatures in need, so you are able to patch up this one with no trouble.

The patient still looks scared of you, but it nods in thanks as its leg feels better. 

Some of its blood spilled on you, and while it stings and burns, it also heals any wounds you may have.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Patch it up as best you can and leave it in peace. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
As a wise one, you have heard of the cmuch, a shy swamp demon with a bad reputation for poisoning. 

Its real nature is more complex. Although it is true that the cmuch is attracted by weak, wounded folk and that its touch may kill such a person, it may also heal and strengthen.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Patch it up as best you can and leave it in peace. 
[OUT]Stay away -- it may poison you.
[OUT]Kill it.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
It looks like a toad, but it is likely a swamp demon known as a cmuch. They kill folk who are wounded or weak. Or at least that's what you heard.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Help it anyway.
[OUT]Kill it.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]13
[STORY]
The creature dies, and from its spores explodes a toxic green slime. It stings and burns where it lands on you, but it also heals any open wounds you have.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
The creature dies, and from its spores explodes a toxic green slime. It stings and burns badly.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Lone befuddler(14)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
As you wander through some swamps, you come across a small pond and spot a young man half submerged in the water.

He does not see you yet and seems deep in thought.
[/STORY]
[OUT][Befuddler]Greet your brother.
[OUT][Water demon]A befuddler, a failed child of the rusalka. Shameful thing. Speak to him.
[OUT]Approach him and talk.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
He turns and smiles, a sad, forlorn kind of smile:

'Brother. It is rare to meet one such as us. I suppose I may drop the pretence now.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask what he is doing here.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
'What we always do: try to impress the mothers.

You know -- lure some females to reproduce with, or males to bedazzle, anything to show I am useful.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod with understanding and ask how it's been going.
[OUT]Say that this is not the only way to live, that he doesn't have to impress the mothers but can just live his own life.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
He looks down into the water and sheds a tear:

'Most die... some run away...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Say that this is not the only way to live, that he doesn't have to impress the mothers but can just live his own life.
[OUT]He cannot be allowed to continue. Attack!
[OUT]Tell him practise makes perfect and wish him good fortune.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]7
[STORY]
'Thank you, brother, I will keep trying. Would you like to trade? I have gathered some things from those who... you know...'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Yes, trade.
[OUT]No, say your farewells and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]9
[STORY]
'I must go now. I feel a maiden approach on the other side of the pond. Farewell, brother!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Wave goodbye and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]14
[STORY]
'Beautiful stranger, how your presence gladdens my lonely heart.'

You sense an enchantment weaved into every sweet word that the boy utters. But you are strong, so you can talk to him without ill effects -- at least for now.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Tell him you sense his trickery and that he'd best stop it now.
[OUT]He cannot be allowed to continue. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
'Oh, I see. So, you walk another path, away from the judgement of the mothers? How wonderful! Yes, I will try it too. Thank you! Please accept this gift.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Thank it and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
'I am sorry, I was only trying to prove myself to the mothers. They left me to die, they said I was wrong, a male, neither of the father's kin nor truly of the mothers.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask more about this custom and the mothers.
[OUT]Nod, but say it is none of your business. You just don't take kindly to trickery.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]17
[STORY]
'Yes, I am sorry. Here, you took the time to talk, not fight. It is kind, so have this gift as my thanks.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Thank it and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]18
[STORY]
'The rusalka are beautiful and kind, but they can be cold and mean too. Only females turn into nymphs. Males turn into the father's kin, die, or very rarely, they become like me, a befuddler.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and wait for more.
[OUT]Nod, but say it is none of your business. You just don't take kindly to trickery.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]19
[STORY]
'We have some of our mother's charm, but it goes wrong. We lure females, but the children or the mates themselves die horribly. We are broken. But I am practising, and maybe I can do better.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod, but say it is none of your business. You just don't take kindly to trickery.
[OUT]He cannot be allowed to continue. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
'Beautiful stranger, how your presence gladdens my lonely heart.'

His sweet words and melodic whispers are so enticing, you feel like joining him in the pond.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Yes, join him. Why not?
[OUT]Try to resist.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]24
[STORY]
'That's nice for you, but I want mothers to like me... I feel a maiden approach on the other side of the pond. Farewell, brother!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]26
[STORY]
You talk and talk, and before you realise it, you find yourself swept away by the boy's pure charm.

Your spirit is drained and your body weakened before you manage to wrestle free and escape.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]27
[STORY]
A long time after the offending encounter, you walk past a pond and see a reflection of yourself with a child. 

The child then walks out of the pond and you know instinctively it is yours, somehow...
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave together.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]28
[STORY]
You talk and talk, and before you realise it, you find yourself swept away by the boy's pure charm.

By the time you come to your senses, the young man is gone. You feel your spirit drained, but other than that, you had a great time.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]30
[STORY]
'Beautiful stranger, how your presence gladdens my lonely heart.'

His sweet words and melodic whispers are so enticing, you feel like joining him in the pond.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Yes, join him. Why not?
[OUT]Try to resist.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]31
[STORY]
'Beautiful stranger, how your presence gladdens my lonely heart.'

His sweet words and melodic whispers are enticing but also slightly over the top. The young man looks sad:

'You're not coming in? It didn't work?'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask him what he means.
[OUT]He clearly meant to trick you. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]32
[STORY]
'I am sorry, I was only trying to prove myself to the mothers. They left me to die, they said I was wrong, a male, neither of the father's kin nor truly of the mothers.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod, but say it is none of your business. You just don't take kindly to trickery.
[OUT]He clearly meant to trick you. Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]33
[STORY]
'Yes, I am sorry. Here, you took the time to talk, not fight. It is kind, so have this gift as my thanks.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Thank it and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]34
[STORY]
He turns and looks at you cautiously, then smiles in resignation:

'It is rare to meet one such as me, although I suppose you do not see me as kin. Still, we are both water folk. I suppose I may drop the pretence now.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask what he is doing here.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]35
[STORY]
The creature is dead and its few belongings are now yours.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]37
[STORY]
The demon beats you badly and forces you to flee.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --vily(15)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
You see before you some young saplings of elven wood. 

However, as you look up at the tree crowns, you see several bird-like figures sleeping, huddled together in a circle. 

Tiny swirls of wind dance around them, so you believe they must be the vily, wind demonettes and often forest guardians.
[/STORY]
[OUT]It is said that the bodies of dead vily turn into dryad wood. Attack the creatures!
[OUT]Try to sneak past the vily to get to the elven wood.
[OUT][Vily]Speak to your sisters and ask them for free passage.
[OUT]Whisper the greensong to appease the guardians and take only a little of the wood, so as not to destroy the forest's balance.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]10
[STORY]
The vily wake with a fury, wanting to punish you, but the greensong appeases them in the end, leaving you free to take the spoils. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
The vily wake with a fury and swoop down, wanting to punish you for trespassing!

You have a chance to escape, but not without a price. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Run away!
[OUT]Stay and fight them!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
The vily do not reply, and you know they are in a state of frenzy that cannot be easily calmed. But they let you pass and even collect some of the elven wood.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]20
[STORY]
The vily wake with a fury and swoop down, wanting to punish you for trespassing. You barely escape with your lives.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
You sneak past the sleeping forest guardians and gather the elven wood.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --swamper attack(16)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
As you travel through the swamps, you fall into a small bog. Within seconds you are swarmed by a mass of bulky, mud-like creatures that spit toxic goo at you!
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try to run away.
[OUT]Remain calm and look for a way out.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]6
[STORY]
You run away, and although you got some nasty stings, you feel invigorated too.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
These are clearly swampers -- the younglings of mud trolls. They can be very dangerous in a swarm, but they are quite meek and typically friendly unless provoked.

You stand still and take a few hits but make no threatening moves. The swampers stop bombarding you and scatter.

Surprisingly, the swamper spit cured any wounds you may have had.

[/STORY]
[OUT]You also spot the remains of their troll parent. Gather the loot and leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]13
[STORY]
The small mud creatures beat you, then scatter. To your dismay, you see the silhouettes of two mud trolls moving your way!

You have to drop some bags to escape.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Drop the bags and run.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
These are clearly swampers -- the younglings of mud trolls. They can be very dangerous in a swarm, but they are quite meek and typically friendly unless provoked.

You try to stay calm and still, but the little creatures are terrified of you. They bombard you with a lot of their toxic mud before running away.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --Dwarven bandits(17)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
A band of dwarven bandits stands in your way:

'Halt! This bit of road here is ours, but you're in luck -- all we need today's your food. 

Drop it and yer free to go.'
[/STORY]
[OUT][Dwarf]Say that you will give up your food if they win a drinking contest.
[OUT]Assert your kinship with the dwarves through the lord of light.
[OUT]Assert your kinship with the dwarves through the lord of light.
[OUT]In the name of light and turmoil, attack the dishonourable dwarves.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]They don't seem too committed to this. Try talking them out of it.
[OUT][Bandit]Question their bandit ways if all they take is food.
[OUT]Give up the food.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]4
[STORY]
'Aye, I see the mark of the great blacksmith upon you. Shite land on my head if I care for that shit. 

You give us the food, laddies, or get a beatin', Svarog or no Svarog.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT][Bandit]Question their bandit ways if all they take is food.
[OUT]Give up the food.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]8
[STORY]
'Haugh... yes, you are one tough son of the stone!'

The other bandits nod in agreement, pat you on the back, and let you be on your way.

[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]9
[STORY]
'Bah, ya drink well, but not well enough, eh? Ha!

Deal's a deal, so we'll have some of that food before ya be on your way, laddies.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave the food and go.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]15
[STORY]
You kill the bandits and take their loot. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]16
[STORY]
The bandits beat you badly and take your food and equipment, but at least they leave you breathing.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]21
[STORY]
'Aye, ya got us. We ain't cut out to be beatin' folk for no reason.

We're banished, but we still have our honour. Thank ya for reminding us.

If you like, we'll trade with ya, eh?'

The dwarves also leave a small gift in thanks.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Agree to trade.
[OUT]Talk, drink, and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]22
[STORY]
'Enough talkin' -- we're takin the food, now!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Give up the food.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]33
[STORY]
'Hold on there, laddie, what in the bearded sage's sake gives you the right to judge? We do our banditin' as we bloody well like!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Assert that it is certainly not the right way and that you can in fact school them, for a fee.
[OUT]Attack!
[OUT]Give up the food.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]34
[STORY]
'Aye, I see the mark of the great blacksmith upon you. Shite. We'd rather eat dirt than dishonour one human who knows his smithing.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Say that Svarog is the god of fires and light, not a human.
[OUT]Say that you will give them some food.
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]35
[STORY]
'Oi, don't get yer undies in a twist, story goes that he was once human, that's all I am sayin'.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Say that you will give them some food.
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]36
[STORY]
'Ah, the shame of it all! I spit on those blasted light-wraiths five times over for taking our homes and forcin' us into a life like this.'

They accept your gift with humility and leave a small token of their thanks in exchange.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask more about the light-wraiths.
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]37
[STORY]
'No idea, laddies, no idea. Came when the sun was as bright as ever and scorched our small hamlet, that they did. Took some of our kin, put a strange kind of spell on them. Others just burned from inside and died when the wraiths touched them.

Nasty business, I tell ya. So we ran, and we're banished now.'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Ask them where their hamlet used to be. Maybe you'll investigate one day.
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]43
[STORY]
'Ya make a bloody good point there, laddie. We ain't used to this. We were honest folk till our homes got burnt and, well, we are banished now, and banditry's our lot. 

Here, take this payment, and teach us to do it right!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and teach them the ways of assertiveness, intimidation, and brutality.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]44
[STORY]
'Yeah, yeah, right you are, too soft -- that's what we've been! 

The food, now!'
[/STORY]
[OUT]Give up the food.
[OUT]Attack!
[/NODE]

+[NODE]47
[STORY]
'Nothin left of it now, but be wary -- you may come across those light-wraiths if you go that way.'

[/STORY]
[OUT]Nod and leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --DemonBaseDiff1(18)
[/EVENT]

-- [EVENT] --__Shroom circle(19)
+[NODE]2
[STORY]
Among a small grouping of trees, you discover a circle of multicoloured mushrooms that emit a subtle yellow glow. 
[/STORY]
[OUT][Forest folk] You sense the power of forest sprites within. Go closer to ask for good fortune.
[OUT]Go in closer to investigate.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]3
[STORY]
As a creature of the woodland, you know the circle will give you blessings. 

But you could also try a more challenging path known as a greenwalk: entering the spiritual path of the forest and becoming one with it through this place of power. 
[/STORY]
[OUT]Try the greenwalk.
[OUT]Take only the blessings. 
[/NODE]

+[NODE]11
[STORY]
You come closer and feel the yellow glow surround you. For those akin to nature, the glow is pleasant, but for others it may bring harm.

When you try to step forwards, you feel a physical resistance, testing your spiritual resolve.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Attempt the trial.
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

+[NODE]22
[STORY]
Your spirit proved strong and you feel the warm glow embrace you, kindly. Whatever test this may have been, you clearly passed.
[/STORY]
[OUT]Leave.
[/NODE]

[/EVENT]

